2026 Ushiku Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in August)

Everyone goes to the same places, and I completely understand why—they're beautiful, iconic, and truly worth visiting. But Japan is so vast that you can almost always find a place with a similar vibe, but without the thousands of people around ✨ In this post, I've compiled my favorite alternatives: ⛩️ Instead of Fushimi Inari, there's Kifune Shrine. Same red torii, but the atmosphere is much calmer. ⛩️ As an alternative to Hie Shrine in Tokyo and Ukiha Inari in Fukuoka Prefecture, the torii literally descend from the hill overlooking the valley! 🎨 Instead of the Benesse Museum on Naoshima, there's the Teshima Art Museum on the neighboring island. Honestly, that's the one that impressed me the most. 🦍 Instead of Godzilla in Shinjuku, there's the huge King Kong in Shimokitazawa. Unexpected, but very photogenic. 🦌 Instead of Nara's deer, there are Miyajima's deer. They're much calmer, and the surrounding area boasts one of Japan's most beautiful views. 🗿 Instead of Kamakura's Buddha, there's the 120-meter Ushiku Daibutsu, just two hours from Tokyo. 🏯 Instead of Osaka Castle, there's Himeji Castle. The original 17th-century castle has been preserved here, not a post-war reconstruction. 🗻 Instead of Lake Kawaguchiko, there's Lake Motosu. This very view of Mount Fuji is depicted on the 1,000 yen bill. Of course, this doesn't mean popular places are bad. On the contrary, most of them have become famous for a reason. But if you want to see Japan from a deeper perspective and sometimes avoid the crowds, these alternatives may be even more interesting ❤️ What other places in Japan with similar vibes do you know? 👀

Ushiku Daibutsu, Ibaraki🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 Ushiku Daibutsu (Great Buddha) Ushiku City, Ibaraki Prefecture is the tallest standing Buddha statue in Japan and the tallest bronze standing Buddha statue in the world. It was recorded by the Guinness Book of World Records in 1995.

it was really amazing views 😘 it’s 5 floors building . we use elevator😁An elevator takes visitors up 85 m (279 ft) to an observation floor. The statue depicts Amitabha Buddha and is made of bronze. #bucketlistreboot

Address: 2083 Kuno-cho, Ushiku City, Ibaraki Prefecture Atmosphere/Facilities: If the view from inside the Great Buddha is good, you can see Tokyo Skytree and Mt. Fuji! There are souvenir shops and guides for tourists to enjoy! Recommended points: Kyoho ice cream is very delicious✨ Average price: Under 1000 yen Budget per person: 1000 yen Rating: 100#Amazing view #Couple trip #Summer trip #Support tourism

In Ushiku! The symbol of Ibaraki, the Ushiku Daibutsu You may have seen it from afar, but not many people have actually been inside, right? I didn't have high expectations either, but... I was surprised when I went inside! It was so gorgeous✨It was a very impressive facility. The top floor has an observation deck, a floor lined with Kannon statues, a floor where you can experience copying sutras, and much more! It's a recommended spot not only from the outside, but also inside😆🌟 📍2083 Kuno-cho, Ushiku City, Ibaraki Prefecture #GuinnessCertified #GreatBuddha #IbarakiTourism #trip2022

Have you seen this building somewhere before? It's actually a spot that has been used as a location for many popular dramas 🎥 "Ushiku Chateau" was certified as a Japanese Heritage Site in June 2020 as the oldest authentic winery in Japan. Although wine is not currently being brewed, you can visit the historic wine barrels and storage warehouses that have been used for many years 🍷 The restaurant attached to the building was remodeled from an old wine storage warehouse and is very stylish ♪ You can enjoy delicious food and wine 😊 📍3-20-1 Chuo, Ushiku City, Ibaraki Prefecture #winelover #location #Ibarakitourism #trip2022

#trip2022 I visited Ushiku with my family on the weekend. The weather was nice, so I was able to take some great photos of the blue sky and the Ushiku Daibutsu. The Buddha is so big that it takes some ingenuity to take a good photo. After seeing the Buddha, I stayed at a friend's house and experienced country life. We had a relaxing weekend.

#summervacation

The fourth tallest statue in the world 😍 #aopsoh #japan #ushiku

🎈 The Ushiku Daibutsu is located in Ushiku City, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan. 🎈 Key highlights include: World-Class Height: As one of the tallest Buddha statues in the world, it stands at an impressive 120 meters (including the base)—about three times the height of the Statue of Liberty. 🎈 Observation Deck Inside the Statue: Visitors can enter the statue and take an elevator up to the 5th floor (approximately 85 meters high). This observation deck offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. On a clear day, you might even spot Mount Fuji and the Tokyo Skytree! 🎈 Seasonal Flower Gardens: The sprawling grounds surrounding the statue (as seen in image 83677.jpg) feature breathtaking seasonal blooms. Expect cherry blossoms and pink moss (Shibazakura) in the spring, and beautiful cosmos flowers in the fall. 🧨 The Buddhist World Inside: The interior is magnificently decorated and divided into several levels. For instance, the "World of Infinite Glory" enshrines over 3,400 small golden Buddha statues. 🧨 Petting Zoo: The temple grounds also feature a small petting zoo where kids can feed rabbits and watch monkey shows. It's an absolutely perfect spot for a family trip! 🎈 Cute, great to visit, lovely 2025 2026, must-buy 🇯🇵 summer, heartwarming, must-go, must-visit, autumn leaves, slow life, spiritual journey.

🚗 Took a detour from Tokyo and landed in Ushiku — where Japan’s massive Buddha statue steals the show and local eats surprise you! 🗿✨ Top Spots to Visit in Ushiku: 1. Ushiku Daibutsu (2083 Kunocho, Ushiku, Ibaraki; open daily 9:30–17:00): Seriously, this 120-meter statue is jaw-dropping — not just for the sheer scale but you can actually go inside! Head up to the observatory deck for panoramic views and on clearer days you might spot Mt. Fuji. It's also surrounded by peaceful gardens and a petting zoo, so it's way more than just a photo stop. 2. Ushiku-Jidaiya Ushiku: Pop into this cozy eatery near the station for legit local vibes and real Japanese homestyle cooking. The tempura here is super crispy and people were friendly — perfect for refueling after all that sightseeing. Efficiency Hack: Skip the taxi and grab a local bus from Ushiku Station to the Daibutsu. It's cheap, reliable, and drops you right at the entrance. I recommend buying a round-trip ticket at the station counter to save time and a few yen. Food Tips: Bring snacks or grab takeout at Ushiku-Jidaiya for the journey, especially if you’re hopping around with kids. Getting Around: JR Joban Line gets you to Ushiku from Tokyo in under an hour. The local bus covers the rest; no need for a rental or rideshare. Useful Reminders: Cash is king in most local spots, so keep some yen handy. Dress in layers — the gardens have lots of open space and it can get windy! #UshikuDaibutsu #JapanTravel #HiddenGems #Tripcom

It was a wonderful feeling to see the clear blue sky and fresh air of Japan and experience the beauty of nature. What I liked most was the culture and the great spirit of the people. #naturalwonders #travel #culture

Japan’s mix of modern city life and traditional culture is what makes it so unique. You can see temples, shrines, and modern buildings all in one place. #Tokyo #JapanTravel #TripMoments #TokyoFood #Ramen #TravelJapan #TokyoLife

🔅 Ushiku Daibutsu, located in Ushiku City, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, was completed in 1993. It stands at a total height of 120 meters, including the base (the statue itself is 100 meters tall, and the lotus pedestal is 20 meters). It has been recorded by the Guinness World Records as the tallest standing bronze Buddha statue in the world, equivalent to a 38-story building. 🔅 The interior of the statue is divided into five floors, with an elevator allowing visitors to enjoy panoramic views through glass windows on all four sides. Exhibitions and miniature Buddha statues are displayed inside, offering fascinating insights. 🔅 Surrounding the statue is a large garden featuring flower gardens and a small zoo. The pond area is home to various aquatic animals, and visitors can purchase food to feed them—it's incredibly charming. 🔅 On your way back, don't forget to pick up some local souvenirs. The sweet potatoes from Ibaraki are truly delicious and can be purchased at shops near the entrance and exit. ✅ Admission fees: There are two options: 🔺 (Garden + interior access to the statue): Adults 800 yen / Children (4-12 years old) 400 yen 🔺 Garden access only: Adults 500 yen / Children under 4 years old: Free ⏰ Opening hours: Open daily from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM (closing earlier during winter). 📸 Trip dates: October 15, 2023 - October 21, 2023

Ready for a day trip that feels like you’ve walked into an epic anime scene? 🚄 Ushiku Daibutsu, just 35 km from Narita Airport, is basically a must-see if you’re hanging out near Tokyo! The sheer scale will blow your mind – this statue ranks among the tallest in the world and offers a serene escape from the usual city rush. Top Spot to Visit: 🏞️ Ushiku Daibutsu Address: 2083 Kunocho, Ushiku, Ibaraki 300-1288, Japan Opening hours: Mar 1–Sep 30: 09:30–17:00 (Mon–Fri); Oct 1–Feb 28: 09:30–16:30 It’s so close to Narita Airport – perfect for a quick getaway before/after your flight. Don’t skip the inside tour where you get panoramic views from the statue itself and wander around the pretty gardens with their lotus ponds and friendly swans. Insider tip: Plan your visit around the opening hours (they change seasonally!), and check the gardens for seasonal flowers; the vibe shifts with the time of year. If you’re in transit, you’ll love the easy access – use local trains or taxis from Narita for a hassle-free ride. How to get around: The easiest way is by train from Narita to Ushiku Station, then a local bus or taxi directly to Ushiku Daibutsu. Save your phone battery for photos – portable chargers are lifesavers! Food recs: Try local bento boxes from convenience stores at Ushiku Station for a quick, tasty snack before heading back. Key tips: No visa stress for most short-term visitors (but double-check!). The weather is mild but bring an umbrella just in case. #JapanTravel #UshikuDaibutsu #NaritaLayover #TokyoDayTrip

#Get discounts without relying on luck

Convenient transportation, easy-to-use eSIM internet signal, easy accommodation booking. #TokyoTravel #GetDiscountsWithoutRelyingOnLuck

Good morning~✨ Here comes the latest real-shot red leaf spectacular from November! Today, let's check in at the hidden red leaf paradise in Omihachiman, Shiga💫 This little-known secret spot in Kansai is perfect for an autumn pilgrimage! 🎋【Kyōrinbō】Detailed Guide: 📍Address: 1145 Ishidera, Azuchi-cho, Omihachiman City, Shiga Prefecture 521-1331 🕘Opening Hours: Year-round 09:30-16:30 💴Admission: Adults 500 yen / Children 300 yen 📆Best Viewing Period: 11.1-12.21, 2025 ✨Night Illumination: 11.15-12.7 (18:00-20:30) 🌟Top 5 Must-Visit Spots: 1️⃣ "Giant Stone Moss Garden" designed by Enshu Kobori🌱 (Every snap is a masterpiece of Japanese Zen!) 2️⃣ "Hanging Scroll Garden" in front of the thatched-roof study📜 (A scenery like a painted scroll, recommended to wear a kimono for photos!) 3️⃣ Red Maple Tunnel made of 300 maple trees🍂 (The path is about 200m, rivaling Kyoto’s Arashiyama!) 4️⃣ Prince Shōtoku’s Missionary Sacred Site⛩️ (Come feel the weight of over 1300 years of history~) 5️⃣ Super effective "Second Prayer Kannon"🙏 (It’s said that difficult wishes come true only after praying twice here) 📸Photography Tips: ✔️Recommended shooting time: 8-10 AM (Soft morning light + red leaf shadows = stunning beauty!) ✔️Bring a telephoto lens (Capture perfect compositions of architecture and maple leaves) ✔️Suggested to wear Hanfu or Kimono (Chinese-style architecture background makes photos stand out~) 🏯【History Lesson】: Kyōrinbō was built in 605 Its name comes from the legend of Prince Shōtoku preaching in this forest🍃 The autumn scene where moss garden and red maples intertwine Perfectly embodies the phrase "One leaf knows autumn"🍁 🚗Nearby Recommendation: "Ushiku Daibutsu" about 1.5 hours by car 📍Address: 2083 Kuno-cho, Ushiku City, Ibaraki Prefecture 300-1288 🕙Opening Hours: 9:30-17:00 (Weekdays Mar-Sep) 9:30-17:30 (Weekends Mar-Sep) 9:30-16:30 (Oct-Feb) ✨Highlights: The world’s third tallest Buddha statue + autumn ginkgo avenue 💡Travel Tips: 1️⃣Remember to download the "Weathernews" app (Check real-time red leaf viewing conditions) 2️⃣Recommended one-day itinerary: Morning at Kyōrinbō → Afternoon at Ushiku Daibutsu 3️⃣Azuchi Castle Ruins are also worth visiting (15 minutes by car from Kyōrinbō) The red maples and ancient temple here Every frame looks like a Japanese drama scene! Quickly save this guide Get ready to start your autumn story~📮

📅 Itinerary Day1: Day2: Day3: 🏨 Accommodation 🍴 Food Recommendations 📌 Tips

Ready to be wowed? The highlight of my Ushiku trip was the iconic Ushiku Daibutsu — one of the world’s biggest Gautam Buddha statues, right here in Ibaraki! 🌏🤩 If you thought impressive Buddhist sites were only in Nepal or Thailand, think again. The statue commemorates Gautam Buddha’s birth in Lumbini, Nepal, and the grassy grounds with blue skies make for epic photos (clouds and sunshine both look fab)! 📸 Must-See Spot: Ushiku Buddha — 2083 Kunocho, Ushiku, Ibaraki 300-1288, Japan. Open Mar–Sep: 09:30–17:00 weekdays / 09:30–17:30 weekends. Oct–Feb: 09:30–14:30. Personal tip: Don’t skip the inside exhibition area, and try for a clear day! The lawns and gardens around the Buddha are perfect for strolling — even drizzle makes the statue feel mystical and serene. Where you can see the tokyo sky tree from top floor of statue and also you can see the mount fuji. Getting There: From Tsukuba, hop the Joban Line train to Ushiku Station, then grab a local bus or taxi straight to Ushiku Buddha (about 20 minutes). Food: Head to nearby local restaurants for casual soba or tempura; most spots are family-run and super welcoming. Extra Tips: Carry some coins for snacks at on-site vending machines, and check weather forecasts — blue-sky days make your photos pop! Tickets are easiest to buy at the gate, and English info is available. #UshikuBuddha #IbarakiTrip #JapanAdventure #SpiritOfNepal #TravelWithtrip

Visiting the Ushiku Daibutsu is an experience that truly lives up to the word "awe-inspiring." As the tallest bronze Buddha statue in the world, its scale is almost impossible to comprehend until you're standing at its base, looking up at the 120-meter-tall figure towering against the sky. What could feel like a simple tourist stop, however, quickly reveals itself to be a deeply peaceful and fascinating destination. Unlike many large monuments that you can only observe from the outside, the real magic of the Ushiku Daibutsu is that you can journey inside it. The visit begins in a serene, dimly-lit hall at the statue's base, which sets a contemplative tone. From there, an elevator takes you up to an observation deck located in the Buddha's chest. The view from this height is simply breathtaking, offering a unique panorama of the surrounding countryside. As you make your way down through the other floors, the statue transforms into a quiet and informative museum. You'll find yourself surrounded by thousands of smaller, golden Buddha images and exhibits that detail the history and construction of this incredible feat of engineering. It’s a surprisingly moving and educational experience that gives you a real appreciation for the artistry involved. The surrounding parkland is beautifully maintained, with lush gardens and ponds that make for a perfect, tranquil stroll after your visit inside the statue. While it can attract visitors, the grounds are so vast that it rarely feels crowded, allowing you to enjoy the sense of peace. For anyone looking for a unique and memorable day trip that combines grandeur with a sense of calm, the Ushiku Daibutsu is an excellent choice. It’s a place that manages to be both monumental and intimate, leaving a lasting impression long after you've left.

#hellohalloween Founded in 1903, Ushiku Chateau (牛久シャトー) is Japan’s first authentic wine brewery, established by the visionary entrepreneur Denbei Kamiya, who also founded Tokyo’s famous Kamiya Bar in Asakusa. The chateau represents the dawn of Japan’s modern winemaking history and remains a cultural heritage site that beautifully blends European architecture with Meiji-era innovation. Descending into the museum’s underground cellar feels like stepping back in time — it’s dark, cool, and filled with the rich aroma of aging wine. The atmosphere is serene, almost sacred, as if time has stood still for more than a century. The estate also features a renovated wine cellar turned restaurant, where guests can enjoy refined French-style dining. I had the Lunch Course B (¥4,500) — a beautifully presented meal that perfectly complemented the elegant setting. Surrounded by history, fine food, and the scent of wine, it was a truly memorable experience. 📍 Ushiku Chateau, Ibaraki, Japan #japanheritage #ushikuchateau #winelovers #ibaraki #japantravel #historicplaces #frenchcuisine #winetourism

[Ushiku Daibutsu] 📍Address: 2083 Kuno-cho, Ushiku City, Ibaraki Prefecture 《Access》 Ushiku Daibutsu Bus Stop / Approximately 9-minute walk from the Kanto Railway bus Ushiku Joen Bus Stop / Approximately 10-minute walk from the Kanto Railway bus Shimoyoshiwara Bus Stop / Approximately 10-minute walk from the Kanto Railway bus 🕰️Business Hours: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM ✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲ The world's largest bronze Buddha statue, standing at 120 meters tall. Its impressive appearance can often be seen from afar... The interior is divided into five floors, including a world of light, and you can take an elevator up to 85 meters above ground to explore. At the base of the Buddha, a flower garden filled with seasonal flowers spreads, and in autumn, cosmos blooms... You can even pick cosmos flowers. There's also a monkey performance. #Ibaraki #Ushiku #UshikuDaibatsu #Cosmos #Let's Travel with Pochikatsu

[Kamiya Denbei Memorial Museum] 📍Location: 3-20-1 Chuo, Ushiku City, Ibaraki Prefecture Inside Ushiku Chateau 🕰️Business Hours: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM ✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲ Ushiku Chateau: Japan's first full-scale winery The Ushiku Winery remains intact to this day. The office, fermentation room, and storage building are designated as Important Cultural Properties by the national government for their valuable historical value. As the building was once a wine fermentation room, you can experience the passion that ran through the Meiji and Taisho periods. Introducing the history of founder Denbei Kamiya #TravelWithPochiKatsu #UshikuChateau #Ushiku #Wine #ImportantCulturalProperty #Ibaraki

[Ushiku Chateau Restaurant] 📍Location: Ushiku Chateau, 3-20-1 Chuo, Ushiku City, Ibaraki Prefecture 《Access》 Approximately 11 minutes walk from the East Exit of Ushiku Station Approximately 48 minutes walk from the West Exit of Hitachino-Ushiku Station 🕰️Business Hours: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM ✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲ A restaurant located inside Ushiku Chateau. This restaurant is housed in a renovated brick wine cellar boasting over 100 years of history. Enjoy dining in a stylish setting. Choose from three lunch options. This is also apparently a filming location for "Love Live!" "To You in Full Bloom." #Let's Travel with Pochikatsu #Ibaraki #FilmingLocation #Ushiku #UshikuChateau

📍Ajiwai Soba Daimyo Address: 576-3 Yoshiwara, Ami-machi, Inashiki-gun, Ibaraki Prefecture 300-1155 On my way back from visiting the Ushiku Daibutsu in Ibaraki Prefecture, I found this nearby restaurant and stopped by. It was so delicious, I wanted to share it with you! 🧚 They have a wide variety of soba and udon set meals, from hot to cold, and most are just a little over ¥1,000, making them very reasonably priced. I wanted to try both soba and udon, so I ordered the "Ten-tsuki Fufu Soroi" (Fufu Soroi) menu, which included both. The udon had a firm texture and was just the right firmness for my liking, so it was amazing! #TravelWithPochiKatsu

Niujiu Buddha

Blue sky Beautiful actress