Kitaibaraki(Japan) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For beach enthusiasts, stay at Oarai Seaside Inn, located just steps from Oarai Beach and facing the Pacific Ocean. This seaside hotel offers ocean-view rooms, private balconies, and direct access to the sandy shore. Guests can enjoy sunrise walks, sea kayaking, or simply unwind with a view of the waves. The property also features a traditional Japanese garden and seasonal seafood menus featuring local catches like mackerel roe (mejiboshi) and sea urchin.

The Oarai Shrine District is the heart of cultural exploration in Kitakatsura City. Visit Oarai Jinja Shrine, a historic Shinto shrine with vibrant festivals and sacred rituals. Nearby, the Kitakatsura City Museum houses artifacts from the Jōmon period and exhibits on ancient ironworking techniques. Don’t miss the annual Oarai Fishing Festival, where locals perform traditional dances and light fireworks over the harbor—perfect for immersive cultural immersion.

Yes, Sakuragiku Ryokan is a renowned traditional inn offering private onsen baths with views of the sea and surrounding forest. This century-old establishment provides authentic tatami rooms, kaiseki dining, and personalized service. Guests can soak in natural mineral-rich waters while enjoying panoramic views of the Pacific. It’s especially popular among couples seeking romantic getaways and wellness-focused travelers.

Must-try dishes include mejiboshi (spicy fermented mackerel roe), katsuobushi (dried bonito flakes), and uni donburi (sea urchin rice bowl). Head to Oarai Port Market for fresh daily catch and live cooking stations. Many hotels, such as Oarai Seaside Inn, offer special dinner packages featuring these regional delicacies, allowing visitors to savor the true taste of Ibaraki Prefecture's coastal cuisine.

The best times to visit Kitakatsura City are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). Spring brings cherry blossoms at Oarai Park, while autumn offers crisp days perfect for hiking along the coast. Summer (July–August) hosts lively events like the Fishing Festival, though it can be humid; winter is mild but less active, making spring and autumn ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Yes, Oarai Seaside Inn is just a 5-minute walk from Oarai Shrine, making it ideal for temple-hopping and cultural visits. The hotel provides free shuttle services to nearby attractions like Kitakatsura City Museum and Oarai Beach. Its central location ensures easy access to public transport and local markets, combining convenience with scenic views of the Pacific Ocean.

Tourists can enjoy whale-watching tours (seasonal), nighttime stargazing on the open coastline, and traditional fishing boat rides during festivals. The Oarai Fishermen's Dance and fireworks over the harbor are unforgettable highlights. Additionally, many hotels offer hands-on workshops in local crafts like dried fish preparation and lacquerware, providing deep cultural engagement beyond sightseeing.

Kitakatsura City Hotel features a dedicated kids’ activity room with board games, art supplies, and themed events during holidays. The hotel is near Oarai Beach and offers family suites with extra beds. Parents can relax at the ocean-view lounge while children enjoy supervised play sessions. Free breakfast and a kids’ menu ensure a stress-free stay for families exploring the region.

Absolutely. Sakuragiku Ryokan and Oarai Seaside Inn both offer rooms with unobstructed Pacific Ocean views, including private balconies and large windows. These accommodations are designed to maximize natural light and scenic vistas, perfect for watching sunrises over the water. Some rooms even feature private onsen tubs facing the sea—ideal for tranquil, memorable stays.

Opt for budget guesthouses near Oarai Station, which offer clean, compact rooms starting under ¥6,000 per night. Use the Ibaraki Rail Pass for unlimited train travel within the prefecture. Visit free attractions like Oarai Beach, Oarai Park, and Kitakatsura City Museum (free entry on certain days). Enjoy affordable street food at Oarai Port Market, making it possible to experience the city’s charm without overspending.