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

In Koga City, the top family-friendly hotel is Koga Daijingu Mae Hotel, located just steps from the historic Koga Daijingu Shrine. The hotel offers spacious family rooms, a kids’ play area, and complimentary breakfast with local flavors. Its proximity to Koga Botanical Garden and Ibaraki Prefectural Museum of Art makes it ideal for parents seeking both cultural and outdoor activities.

Another excellent choice is Green Palace Hotel Koga, featuring modern amenities, accessible facilities for strollers, and direct access to public transport. With a short 40-minute train ride to Tokyo Disneyland, it’s a convenient base for families visiting the resort. Overall, Koga City provides safe, quiet, and well-connected accommodations perfect for family vacations in the Kanto region.

The best area for accommodation in Koga City is around Koga Station, where major transportation links meet. This central hub connects directly to Asakusa and Omiya via the Tobu Railway, allowing easy access to Tokyo and surrounding areas within 30 minutes.

Hotels like Hotel New Urban Koga and APA Hotel & Resort Koga offer reliable service, safety, and walkable access to restaurants, shops, and local attractions. Nearby, you’ll find Koga Shrine, Koga Botanical Garden, and Koga Town Folk Museum, making this district ideal for both convenience and cultural immersion.

For travelers seeking tranquility, consider the Omiya district, known for its green spaces and lower population density. However, for most visitors, Koga Station remains the optimal choice due to its balance of accessibility, safety, and tourist appeal.

Visitors to Koga City must experience the Koga Daijingu Shrine, a sacred site established in 708 CE dedicated to Ōkuninushi, a key deity in Japanese mythology. The annual Koga Daijingu Festival features traditional dance, mikoshi (portable shrine) processions, and ceremonial rituals, offering deep insight into local spiritual life.

Don’t miss the Ibaraki Prefectural Museum of Art, which showcases works by prominent Japanese artists and hosts rotating exhibitions on regional heritage. For a hands-on experience, join a guided tour at the Koga Local History Museum, where you can explore ancient farming tools, rice cultivation techniques, and folk crafts unique to the region.

These experiences blend history, spirituality, and community tradition, giving travelers a profound connection to Koga’s enduring cultural identity.

Koga City is a paradise for families, starting with Koga Botanical Garden, home to themed flower zones, a children’s discovery greenhouse, and a mini zoo with interactive animal encounters. Seasonal events like spring cherry blossom festivals and autumn chrysanthemum displays make it a year-round destination.

Just a short train ride away, Tokyo Disneyland (40 minutes) offers world-class entertainment for kids and adults alike. For indoor fun, visit Koga City Library, which hosts regular storytime sessions and children’s workshops in a cozy, inviting space.

Other highlights include the Koga Street Food Market, where kids can enjoy local snacks like namerou (eel stew) and kinpira gobou (braised burdock root). With safe streets, friendly locals, and abundant green spaces, Koga City is an ideal family-friendly escape near Tokyo.

The most photogenic landmark in Koga City is the Koga Daijingu Shrine, especially its vibrant red torii gate and stone lanterns lining the approach path. Early morning or late afternoon light casts a golden glow over the ancient wood and vermilion structures, creating stunning contrast against the surrounding forest.

The Roses Garden at Koga Botanical Garden blooms in vivid hues during spring and summer, framed by fountains and arched bridges—perfect for romantic or whimsical shots. At night, the garden’s lighting display transforms the landscape into a magical scene.

Also worth capturing is the modern glass façade of the Ibaraki Prefectural Museum of Art, reflecting sky and trees, set against a serene courtyard. And don’t overlook the Koga Station Front Plaza, where quirky vending machines and local sculptures create a playful urban backdrop. These spots offer diverse visual storytelling opportunities.

In Koga City, be sure to try Koga Soba, a hand-made cold buckwheat noodle dish served with a savory soy-based broth and fresh mountain greens. It’s a local specialty available at street-side stalls like Koga Ekimae Shokudō.

Another must-try is Inari-yaki, a sweet rice cake wrapped in fried tofu pouches, often enjoyed at festivals and temple markets. You’ll also find Namerou, a rich eel stew simmered with miso and vegetables, traditionally prepared using locally caught fish.

For a taste of rural flavor, sample Hijiki no Tsukudani, a preserved seaweed dish with a subtle sweetness, commonly served at family-run restaurants like Kyōdo Ryōriya Miyabi. These dishes reflect the region’s agricultural roots and seasonal cooking traditions, offering a delicious window into Ibaraki’s culinary culture.

Couples visiting Koga City should visit the Koga Botanical Garden’s Night Light-Up Zone, where illuminated pathways, glowing flowers, and tranquil ponds create a dreamy atmosphere perfect for quiet walks and intimate photos.

A romantic evening can begin at Koga Daijingu Shrine, where the red torii gate glows softly under moonlight, accompanied by distant temple bells and rustling leaves—a moment of serenity and connection.

For privacy, book a Deluxe Suite Room at Hotel New Urban Koga, many of which feature private balconies and hot tubs overlooking the city skyline. Alternatively, enjoy a quiet drink at Café Toul, a cozy café with art installations and soft lighting, ideal for post-dinner conversation.

These experiences blend nature, culture, and intimacy, making Koga City a hidden gem for couples seeking a peaceful yet meaningful getaway.

Yes, Koga City is highly convenient for car travelers. The Jōban Expressway runs through the city, providing fast access to Tokyo Disneyland (40 minutes), Ueno Park, and Mito City.

Parking is ample at major hotels like Green Palace Hotel Koga and APA Hotel & Resort Koga, with free valet and electric vehicle charging stations. The city center has clear signage, and even remote neighborhoods are well-marked.

For those preferring non-motorized travel, Koga City Hall offers free electric bicycles for rent, ideal for exploring nearby parks and temples. With excellent road infrastructure, scenic routes, and minimal traffic congestion, Koga City is an excellent choice for self-drive trips in the Kanto region.

For solo travelers, APA Hotel & Resort Koga stands out with its well-designed single rooms, high-speed Wi-Fi, 24-hour front desk, and secure access control. Located right beside Koga Station, it ensures easy movement and safety.

Another great option is Green Palace Hotel Koga, which offers compact but comfortable single rooms and a capsule-style room type at budget-friendly rates. Many guests appreciate the quiet floors and soundproofed walls, ideal for rest and reflection.

For a more personalized stay, consider private homestays (HopeGoo) in residential areas, where hosts often share local tips and welcome guests with homemade snacks. Evening visits to Café Toul or Koga Station Front Street Market allow solo travelers to mingle casually and enjoy the city’s laid-back vibe.

With low crime rates, clean streets, and welcoming locals, Koga City is one of the safest and most accessible destinations for independent travelers.

Koga City is ideal for:

• Families: Close to Tokyo Disneyland, with child-friendly parks and affordable, safe accommodations.

• Culture seekers: Home to Koga Daijingu Shrine, Ibaraki Prefectural Museum of Art, and local history museums offering immersive experiences.

• Solo travelers: Quiet streets, reliable public transport, and welcoming cafes make it perfect for introspective journeys.

• Weekend explorers: Just 30 minutes from Tokyo, it’s an excellent short-break destination with a relaxed pace.

• Photographers: From glowing shrines to blooming gardens and modern architecture, every corner offers visual inspiration.

With its blend of tradition, nature, and accessibility, Koga City serves as a versatile, underrated gem in the Kanto region—ideal for anyone seeking authenticity without the crowds.