Tsukuba Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Tsukuba, Japan with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, food and drink scene, where to stay and more.


Introduction to Tsukuba

Tsukuba is a city located in the Ibaraki Prefecture of Japan, approximately 60 kilometers northeast of Tokyo. The city is known for its science and research since it is home to the Tsukuba Science City, which is one of the largest research centers in the country. Apart from that, the city has a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for tourists who want to experience modern Japan while also exploring its traditions.

List of Places to Visit in Tsukuba

Here is a list of must-visit places in Tsukuba.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tsukuba Space Center
  • Tsukuba Expo Center
  • Tsukuba Botanical Garden
  • Kasama Inari Shrine
  • Tsukuba Museum of Art

Natural Attractions of Tsukuba: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Tsukuba
  • Tsukuba Wanwan Land (amusement park with a petting zoo)
  • Tsuchiura City
  • Sakura City
  • Ryujin Bridge

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tsukuba

Tsukuba has many great hiking and biking routes, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the popular ones include:

  • Tsukuba Nature Trail
  • Tsukuba Skyline Drive
  • Mount Nantai Loop
  • Shizen Kyuyogaoka Course

Best Things to Do in Tsukuba: Activities and Tours

  • Tsukuba Space Center tour
  • Tsukuba Train Tour
  • Hot air balloon ride over Mount Tsukuba
  • Bungee jumping off Ryujin Bridge

Week-Long Itinerary for Tsukuba

Day 1-2: Explore cultural attractions like Tsukuba Space Center, Tsukuba Expo Center, and the Tsukuba Museum of Art.

Day 3: Take a hiking or biking tour of Mount Tsukuba.

Day 4-5: Visit local attractions including Tsukuba Botanical Garden, Kasama Inari Shrine, and Tsukuba Wanwan Land.

Day 6: Enjoy an adventure-oriented activity such as hot air ballooning or bungee jumping off Ryujin Bridge.

Day 7: Enjoy local cuisine at one of the many popular restaurants in the city or shopping for souvenirs at a local market.

Food and Drink Scene of Tsukuba

Tsukuba offers a diverse culinary experience, including both traditional and modern cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tsukuba Natto – a traditional Japanese dish made from fermented soybeans
  • Butajiru – a pork and vegetable soup
  • Tsukuba Pudding – a popular dessert made with local fresh cream

Local Beverages

  • Mito Komachi Sake – a traditional Japanese rice wine
  • Mito Kairakuen Plum Wine – a sweet wine made from plums

Where to Stay in Tsukuba: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Tsukuba has a variety of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. Here are our top picks:

  • Tsukuba Daiichi Hotel – a modern hotel with excellent amenities
  • Hotel Bestland – a budget-friendly hotel with clean and comfortable rooms
  • Hotel New Takahashi – a traditional Japanese-style hotel with a hot spring bath

What to Buy in Tsukuba: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Tsukuba, don’t forget to shop for these local products:

  • Traditional Japanese crafts and ceramics
  • Tsukuba Natto
  • Mito Komachi Sake

Local Culture and Customs of Tsukuba

Tsukuba has a rich cultural heritage, and the locals take pride in their traditions. Visitors are expected to show respect for local customs, such as removing shoes before entering certain establishments, and dressing conservatively when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Tsukuba

The best time to visit Tsukuba is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the city enjoys the beautiful scenic views.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tsukuba

Do:

  • Show respect for local customs and traditions
  • Visit local attractions and experience Japanese culture
  • Sample local cuisine and shop for souvenirs

Don’t:

  • Ignore local customs and traditions
  • Litter or disrespect the local environment
  • Be loud and disruptive in quiet areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tsukuba

Tsukuba is a safe city, and visitors are advised to take general safety precautions like they would in any urban area. Ensure that you keep your valuables safe, and always lock up your accommodation.

Health in Tsukuba

Tsukuba has excellent medical facilities. However, visitors are recommended to keep travel insurance in case of any medical emergencies.

Getting to Tsukuba: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Tsukuba

The closest domestic airport is Ibaraki Airport, which is approximately 45 kilometers away from Tsukuba. The best way to travel from the airport to the city is by bus or taxi.

Bus Stations Near Tsukuba

Tsukuba Station is the primary bus hub for the city, with regular buses connecting to Tokyo and other nearby cities.

Other Options

Aside from the bus, the transportation options in Tsukuba include taxis and rental cars. However, most of the major attractions are within walking distance from the station, making it easy to explore the city on foot.

How to Get Around in Tsukuba

The best way to get around Tsukuba is by bus or train. The Tsukuba Express is a local train that connects Tsukuba with Tokyo, making it easier for tourists to travel between the two cities.

Where to Go Next from Tsukuba: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions for visitors who want to explore beyond Tsukuba:

  • Tokyo
  • Nikko
  • Hitachi Seaside Park
  • Mount Fuji

Conclusion

Tsukuba is a unique city that showcases both the traditional and modern side of Japan. This comprehensive guide includes everything you need to plan your trip to Tsukuba, from must-visit attractions and outdoor adventures to local cuisine, accommodations, and transportation options. Whether you’re a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast, Tsukuba has something to offer for everyone.

Tsukuba Center and Mt.Tsukuba Tsukuba Center and Mt.Tsukuba