Ibaraki’s most worthwhile tours focus on authentic Japanese experiences you won’t find in Tokyo or Kyoto. The standout offerings include fascinating sake brewery visits where you’ll learn traditional production methods, and impressive stops at Japan’s tallest Buddha statue. We especially love the hands-on cultural workshops in Mito, where you’ll make traditional paper lanterns alongside local craftspeople. The soy sauce factory tours are another winner, showing you time-honored fermentation processes still used today. Most tours come with reliable English guides and easy access from major stations.
Let’s explore the best tour options Ibaraki has to offer.
Key Points
-
The Sake Brewery Tour offers an authentic Japanese experience with tastings and temple visits for just $27.16 per person.
-
Ushiku Daibutsu Great Buddha walking tour provides access to one of Japan’s most impressive Buddhist statues for $125 per group.
-
The century-old Soy Sauce Brewery tour includes traditional lunch and offers unique insights into Japanese condiment production.
-
Samurai culture enthusiasts can experience lantern making and historical sites in Mito with a comprehensive guided tour from Tokyo.
-
Traditional umeshu tasting combined with samurai history creates a premium cultural experience in the Mito region.
Private Sake Brewery Tour and Shinran Temple Visit
Located in Ibaraki Prefecture, this private sake brewery tour combines traditional Japanese alcohol production with spiritual heritage.
Starting at Inada Station, visitors aged 20 and older can explore the sake-making process while enjoying tastings. The tour also includes a visit to Shinran Temple, creating a perfect blend of cultural experiences.
At $27.16 per person, this wheelchair-accessible tour operates Thursday through Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM.
While it requires moderate physical fitness, the experience includes bottled water and expert guidance.
With a perfect 5-star rating, it’s ideal for small groups seeking an authentic Japanese cultural experience.
Read our full review: Private Sake Brewery Tour and Shinran Temple Visit Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Soy Sauce Brewery Tour at Century Old Factory in Ibaraki
Nestled in Hitachinaka, this private soy sauce brewery tour offers visitors an authentic glimpse into traditional Japanese condiment production.
Located at a century-old factory marked by the signs 黒澤醤油店 and 醤油醸造元, the experience includes an in-depth look at the soy sauce making process and lunch.
At $95.04 per person, the tour starts at 11:00 am and welcomes groups of all sizes.
It’s wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for most travelers.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time and a Reserve Now, Pay Later option, booking is flexible and stress-free.
Read our full review: Private Soy Sauce Brewery Tour at Century Old Factory in Ibaraki Review
Book now: Check availability
The Tallest Great Buddha Spot Walking Tour
Towering at an impressive height, the Ushiku Daibutsu Great Buddha stands as the centerpiece of this private walking tour in Ibaraki Prefecture.
This intimate experience accommodates up to five participants, starting at the ticket gate of Ushiku Daibutsu at 10:00 AM.
For $125 per group, visitors get an English-speaking guide and entrance fees covered.
The tour’s meeting point is easily accessible by public transport, though it isn’t wheelchair friendly.
Travelers can book with confidence, as there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start time.
The tour has earned a perfect 5.0 rating from previous participants.
Read our full review: The Tallest Great Buddha Spot Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Samurai Private Tour With Lantern Making in Mito
Moving from Ibaraki’s tallest Buddha to its samurai heritage, this private tour combines culture with hands-on crafting in the historic city of Mito.
Departing from Tokyo Station at 8:15 AM, visitors travel by air-conditioned vehicle to explore samurai culture and create traditional lanterns.
The tour includes lunch, coffee breaks at Kairakuen Garden, and all entrance fees.
It’s designed for small private groups and requires moderate fitness levels.
While it’s conveniently located near public transport, the experience isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.
Tour confirmations arrive within 48 hours, but bookings are non-refundable.
Read our full review: Samurai Private Tour With Lantern Making in Mito Review
Book now: Check availability
Samurai Private Tour With Umeshu Tasting in Mito
While exploring Mito’s rich samurai heritage, this private tour adds a unique twist by including traditional umeshu (plum wine) tasting.
The tour starts at Tokyo Station at 8:15 am and includes a visit to the scenic Kairakuen Garden, where guests can enjoy a relaxing coffee break.
At $492.19 per person, this exclusive experience includes an air-conditioned vehicle, lunch, and all fees.
It’s ideal for those with moderate fitness levels, though it’s not suitable for pregnant travelers or those with medical conditions.
The umeshu tasting is limited to guests 20 and older, and bookings receive confirmation within 48 hours.
Read our full review: Samurai Private Tour With Umeshu Tasting in Mito Review
Book now: Check availability
Sum Up
These Ibaraki tours showcase Japan’s rich cultural heritage through hands-on experiences. Visitors can explore traditional sake and soy sauce production, marvel at the Great Buddha statue, and enjoy samurai history. Whether it’s crafting lanterns or tasting umeshu plum wine, each tour offers authentic insights into local customs. Ibaraki’s guided experiences make it easy for travelers to discover the prefecture’s unique traditions.