Top Attractions in Oarai for Sightseeing
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Oarai, a seaside town in Ibaraki Prefecture, offers a refreshing blend of coastal beauty, rich tradition, and local flavors. Just under two hours from Tokyo by train, it’s an easy getaway for those looking to experience authentic Japan away from the crowds. One of the top things to do in Oarai is visiting Oarai Isosaki Shrine, known for its picturesque “Kamiiso no Torii” gate standing on a rocky outcrop, especially stunning during sunrise. Nature lovers will enjoy the Oarai Sun Beach, a popular summer spot for swimming and sunbathing. In spring and autumn, the coast is perfect for peaceful walks and ocean views. Fans of anime might recognize the town as the setting for Girls und Panzer, with local shops and events celebrating the series. When it comes to Oarai food, fresh seafood is a highlight. Don’t miss the local specialty—anglerfish hotpot (ankō nabe), best enjoyed in winter. You can sample this and more at the Oarai Seafood Market, where stalls brim with seasonal catch. With its mix of cultural landmarks, scenic coastline, and tasty local specialties, Oarai travel offers a memorable slice of Japanese life perfect for day trips or weekend escapes.
Recommended Local Products and Traditional Crafts in Oarai
Dried Young Sardines
Along the scenic coastline of Oarai in Ibaraki Prefecture, dried young sardines—known locally as shirasu-boshi—have long been a cherished part of the town’s culinary culture. These tiny, silvery fish are gently boiled and then sun-dried, creating a light, savory flavor that’s both delicate and umami-rich. Their crisp texture and mild saltiness make them perfect as a topping for rice, mixed into pasta, or added to Japanese-style salads. Oarai’s location on the Pacific coast ensures a steady supply of fresh sardines, making the town a hub for this traditional seafood. The drying process, passed down through generations, reflects the region’s connection to the sea and its time-honored fishing culture. During spring and early summer, the peak harvest season, markets and local shops brim with freshly processed shirasu-boshi, making it a great time for visitors to experience this seasonal Ibaraki food firsthand. If you’re exploring local specialties in Ibaraki or planning your Oarai travel itinerary, sampling dried young sardines is a flavorful way to discover the region’s coastal charm and culinary heritage.
Explore Oarai: Top Spots and Must-Know Topic
Oarai Isosaki Shrine
Perched on the Pacific coast, Oarai Isosaki Shrine is one of Oarai’s most iconic sights. Its standout feature is the Kamiiso-no-Torii, a torii gate dramatically standing on a rocky outcrop in the ocean. This scenic spot is especially popular at sunrise, when the gate is silhouetted against the rising sun—a view that has become a symbol of spiritual renewal. Founded over 1,000 years ago, the shrine offers a peaceful escape with deep cultural roots. Easily reachable from Oarai Station, it’s a must-visit for travelers seeking history and nature in Ibaraki. It’s a spiritual highlight among things to do in Oarai.
Aqua World Ibaraki Prefectural Oarai Aquarium
Aqua World Oarai is a modern, family-friendly aquarium located near the beach in Oarai. Home to over 580 species, it’s one of Japan’s largest aquariums and particularly famous for its extensive shark exhibits and daily sea lion and dolphin shows. Seasonal events and themed displays make each visit unique, whether you come in summer or winter. Interactive experiences and hands-on exhibits are great for kids and adults alike. Conveniently located near other coastal attractions, it’s a perfect stop for anyone exploring Oarai or looking for fun things to do in Ibaraki beyond the ordinary.
Oarai Sun Beach
Oarai Sun Beach is one of the most accessible and spacious beaches in the Kanto region. Its shallow waters and wide sandy shore make it ideal for swimming, beach sports, or simply soaking up the sun. The summer season brings vibrant beach festivals and food stalls, drawing both locals and visitors. It’s also known for stunning sunsets over the Pacific, especially during late summer. Located just a short walk from the main town area and Oarai Station, this beach is a great option for travelers wanting to balance sightseeing with seaside relaxation in Ibaraki.
Oarai Marine Tower
Rising 60 meters above sea level, the Oarai Marine Tower offers sweeping views of the coastline, the Pacific Ocean, and even Mount Fuji on clear days. The observation deck provides a peaceful spot to take in the surrounding landscape, especially at sunset. Inside, you’ll also find a café and local information center, making it a convenient place to rest and plan your next stop. Located near the ferry terminal and other Oarai attractions, the tower is easy to reach and worth visiting as part of your Ibaraki travel itinerary. It’s an excellent photo spot for visitors of all ages.
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Oarai Port Ferry Terminal
The Oarai Port Ferry Terminal connects mainland Japan to Tomakomai in Hokkaido via overnight ferries, offering travelers a unique way to explore Japan’s northern island. The terminal itself is clean and modern, with amenities including restaurants, shops, and waiting lounges. While functional, the terminal also holds a touch of charm—watching large ferries arrive and depart against the coastal backdrop can be surprisingly scenic. Whether you’re setting sail to continue your Hokkaido travel or simply visiting for the seaside atmosphere, the terminal is a key part of Oarai’s maritime identity.
Mentai Park Oarai
Mentai Park Oarai is a fun and educational stop dedicated to mentaiko, or spicy pollock roe—a popular Japanese delicacy. Located just a short walk from Oarai Station, the facility features a small factory tour where visitors can see how mentaiko is made, along with interactive exhibits and free tastings. The park also has a shop and casual food corner where you can try unique mentaiko-themed dishes like rice balls and soft-serve ice cream. It’s a great rainy-day option and family-friendly too. If you’re looking for unique things to do in Ibaraki, Mentai Park adds a flavorful twist to your trip.
Ōarai Art Museum
Ōarai Art Museum is a distinctive museum located along the coastline of Ōarai Town in Ibaraki Prefecture. Its most striking feature is the “Landscape Window Painting,” a large window approximately three meters wide that frames the Pacific Ocean like a work of art. Through this window, visitors can appreciate the ever-changing sea and sky as if they were a single living painting—an experience found nowhere else and one of the highlights of Ōarai. This unique concept was inspired in the 1970s, when renowned Japanese painter Kaii Higashiyama visited the area and was deeply moved by the ocean scenery before him. Inside the museum, visitors can also view Meiji-period watercolor paintings and traditional crafts such as Mito oshie, offering insight into both art and local culture. It is highly recommended as a unique sightseeing spot that offers a different way to experience Ōarai Town.
Museum of the Bakumatsu and Meiji Restoration
The Museum of the Bakumatsu and Meiji Restoration in Oarai offers a focused look at one of Japan’s most dramatic historical eras. This small but insightful museum showcases the political and social transformations that shaped modern Japan, using life-size dioramas, historical documents, and multimedia displays. While many visitors explore Tokyo or Kyoto for history, this museum provides a quieter, more intimate perspective on the country’s 19th-century revolution. It’s a great stop for travelers interested in Japanese history beyond the usual tourist path, and an ideal complement to other cultural things to do in Ibaraki.
Girls und Panzer Pilgrimage
Ōarai Town is widely known as the setting of the anime Girls und Panzer (commonly known as Garupan), and even years after the series first aired, it continues to be cherished as an anime pilgrimage destination where interaction with fans remains active. Throughout the town, character panels and themed decorations can be found, seamlessly blending the world of the anime into everyday scenery.
Collaboration with local shopping streets and facilities continues today, and special events attract many visitors. Fans who come to Ōarai because of the series often go on to explore the town’s seaside views, local cuisine, and historical sites, a pattern that has become well established. Girls und Panzer has become one of the cultural contents supporting Ōarai tourism, making this a recommended sightseeing spot not only for anime fans, but also for those interested in the unique relationship between a community and its creative works.
Ōarai Campground
Nestled near the coastline, Ōarai Campground is a peaceful outdoor retreat for those looking to experience nature during their Japan travels. The site offers tent and cabin options surrounded by pine trees, with easy access to beaches, biking trails, and scenic ocean views. It’s especially popular in summer and early autumn, when the weather is mild and perfect for stargazing. With nearby attractions like Mentai Park and the Oarai Marine Tower, the campground makes a great base for relaxed exploration. If you’re seeking outdoor things to do in Ibaraki, this spot offers a refreshing coastal escape.
List of Local Products and Traditional Crafts from Oarai
Monkfish Hot Pot (Ankou Nabe)
Ankou Nabe, or monkfish hot pot, is a beloved winter dish in Oarai, Ibaraki, known for its rich, warming flavors. Monkfish from the cold waters off the coast is prized for its firm, lean meat and collagen-rich skin. The dish is traditionally cooked in a miso or soy-based broth with seasonal vegetables, creating a hearty meal perfect for chilly days. Ankou Nabe has long been associated with local fishing culture, and the town even hosts a seasonal festival celebrating this unique seafood. If you’re visiting Oarai in winter, this comforting dish is a key part of the local culinary scene.
Clams from Oarai
The coastline of Oarai is home to an abundance of fresh clams, particularly during spring and early summer. Locals often dig for them along the beach during low tide—a tradition called “shiohigari.” These clams are known for their sweet, delicate flavor and are typically steamed, grilled, or used in miso soup. Their freshness reflects the clean waters and rich tidal flats of the area. For travelers interested in seasonal foods and local customs, clam harvesting in Oarai offers a hands-on way to connect with the coastal lifestyle and enjoy a lesser-known aspect of Ibaraki’s food culture.
Local Sake from Oarai
Local sake from Oarai is brewed using pure groundwater from the region and carefully selected rice, resulting in smooth, clean flavors that pair naturally with local seafood. With a climate that supports rice farming and access to pristine water sources, Oarai has quietly built a reputation for quality sake production. Many breweries here follow traditional methods, and some have been operating for generations. Visiting Oarai offers a chance to learn how sake is crafted and how it’s enjoyed alongside regional dishes. It’s a meaningful addition to any trip through Ibaraki for those curious about Japan’s drink traditions.