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

In Takasago City, the top choice for families is Takasago Tokyu Hotel, located near Takasago Station and close to Ibaraki Prefectural Art Museum. The hotel offers spacious family rooms, kid-friendly amenities like toy corners and baby cots, and a garden-view terrace perfect for quiet afternoons. It's also just a 15-minute drive from the annual Mito Kōkō Matsuri, making it ideal for cultural exploration with children. Nearby attractions include Takasago Park and the scenic Yamato River Trail, perfect for strolls or bike rides.

The Takasago Station area is the most convenient neighborhood for lodging in Takasago City. It’s well-connected via the Jōban Line, offering direct access to Tokyo Station (40 minutes), Mito Station (25 minutes), and Tsuchiura Station (15 minutes). The district features shopping centers, supermarkets, restaurants, and easy access to Takasago Civic Center and Takasago Central Library. It’s also close to Takasago Sports Arena and Ibaraki Prefectural Gymnasium, ideal for sports fans attending local events.

A must-try cultural experience in Takasago City is the annual Mito Kōkō Matsuri, held every summer in honor of the legendary Mito Kōkō (a revered historical figure). The festival features traditional lion dances, taiko drumming, and elaborate processions in period costumes. Visitors can enjoy street food like Ibaraki Natto and Mito Furin Sweets at stalls around Takasago Park and along the Yamato River. Don’t miss the historic sculptures at Takasago City Hall Square, which depict local legends from the Edo era.

For photographers, the Yamato River Trail is a prime location—especially during cherry blossom season in spring and autumn foliage in November. The winding path lined with trees creates stunning reflections in the water. Takasago Park’s pond and walking bridges offer serene compositions, while the Takasago Station Front Plaza provides dynamic urban shots of morning commuters against modern architecture. The Ibaraki Prefectural Art Museum’s glass façade and geometric design make it a standout subject for architectural photography.

Must-try dishes in Takasago City include Ibaraki Natto, a famous fermented soybean dish known for its bold flavor and health benefits—available fresh at Takasago Market. Another highlight is Mito Furin Sweets, a traditional wagashi made with red bean paste and matcha, often sold during festivals. Don’t miss Takasago Ramen, a rich broth made from kelp and chicken bones, served with thin noodles and tender chashu. Some hotels, like Takasago Tokyu Hotel, even offer breakfast sets featuring these regional specialties.

The Yamato River Trail is perfect for a peaceful escape. Stretching about 3 km, this shaded path runs alongside the river, with dedicated bike lanes and scenic viewing platforms. In spring, cherry blossoms frame the water; in autumn, vibrant maple trees paint the landscape. Picnic areas and rest shelters are scattered along the route. Nearby, Takasago Park’s artificial lake and fishing zones provide tranquil settings, while fireflies appear in late summer—ideal for evening walks under the stars.

Yes, Takasago City is highly accessible. Takasago Station lies on the Jōban Line, connecting directly to Tokyo Station in 40 minutes, Mito Station in 25 minutes, and Tsuchiura Station in 15 minutes. The East Kanto Expressway passes through the city, making car travel to Chiba or Tochigi under one hour. Local buses link major sites like the Ibaraki Prefectural Art Museum and Takasago Sports Arena. International travelers can reach Takasago from Narita Airport or Haneda Airport via train in about 1.5 hours.

While Takasago City has no natural hot springs, nearby options offer excellent relaxation. Mito Onsen Center, just 25 minutes away, features Japanese-style baths, saunas, and therapeutic massages in a peaceful setting. Takasago Tokyu Hotel also includes a wellness club with an indoor pool, fitness center, and relaxation lounge. Some suites offer "Forest Therapy" themes with aromatherapy and meditation guides, allowing guests to unwind amid urban life.

The Ibaraki Prefectural Art Museum is a must-visit for art lovers, housing a rich collection of modern Japanese paintings and rotating exhibitions. Its striking glass-roofed architecture and natural lighting create a dynamic visual experience. The Takasago Civic Center hosts indie concerts, poetry readings, and photography shows. The open-air theater in Takasago Park occasionally stages live performances. For hands-on creativity, join local craft workshops in pottery or washi paper-making, immersing yourself in traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

Winter visitors should attend the Takasago Snow Lantern Festival, usually held in December. Over a thousand handcrafted lanterns illuminate Takasago Park and the Yamato River, creating a magical atmosphere. Lantern designs range from mythical creatures to local symbols. The event includes warm food stalls serving roasted sweet potatoes and hot cocoa. The Takasago Sports Arena also hosts ice skating competitions and ski displays. For cozy stays, book a "Winter Warm Room" suite at Takasago Tokyu Hotel, complete with heated floors and fluffy blankets.