2025 Ikeda Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

When I first saw it, I wondered if I was really in Japan. It was such a wonderful place 🥺✨ It reminded me of Bali 🥺🥺🏕 At "Tree Picnic Adventure IKEDA" in Fukui, you can stay in a tent on a deck set up above the trees 🏕 #FreeSpot #Fukui #ThemePark #Nature #AmazingNature #BreathtakingView

#summervacay Perched dramatically on the rocky coast of Ibaraki Prefecture, **Ōarai Isosaki Shrine** is a spiritual oasis where crashing waves, salt-kissed breezes, and the iconic **"Kamiiso-no-Torii"** gate create an unforgettable summer experience. Just a 2-hour trip from Tokyo, it’s perfect for a refreshing day trip. --- ### **Why Visit in Summer?** ✔ **Epenic Torii Gate Views**: The ocean-framed red gate looks surreal at **sunrise** or during **high tide** (waves crash dramatically around it!). ✔ **Cool Coastal Vibe**: Escape the inland heat with the shrine’s natural ocean breeze. ✔ **Summer Festivals**: July’s **Ōarai Tennō Matsuri** features mikoshi (portable shrine) processions and fireworks. ✔ **Anime Pilgrimage**: A key location in *Girls und Panzer*—spot themed *ema* (prayer plaques) and souvenirs. --- ### **Must-Do Summer Activities** 1. **Sunrise Ritual**: Arrive at 4:30 AM to see the torii gate bathed in golden light (fewer crowds!). 2. **Purify with Saltwater**: Wash hands at the sacred **rock basin** fed by ocean spray. 3. **Explore Hidden Coves**: Follow the coastal path behind the shrine for secret ocean vistas. 4. **Seafood Feast**: Try **Ibaraki’s fresh *ankimo* (monkfish liver)** or *uni* (sea urchin) at nearby **Ōarai Fish Market**. --- ### **Visitor Tips** - **Access**: From Tokyo, take the **Hitachi Express** to Ōarai Station (~2 hrs), then a 10-min taxi ride. - **Tide Check**: High tide = best photos (check tide tables in advance). - **Footwear**: Wear sturdy shoes—the rocks near the torii are slippery. - **Combine With**: **Ōarai Beach** (for a swim) or **Aqua World Ibaraki** (aquarium). --- ### **Hidden Gems** - **Shrine Cats**: Friendly strays often lounge around the grounds. - **Night Illumination**: In August, the torii is lit up after sunset. - **Local Sake**: Sample Ibaraki brews like *Namura no Hana* at nearby shops. --- **Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)** Ōarai Isosaki Shrine is summer magic—where Shinto tradition and nature’s power collide. Whether you’re a photographer, anime fan, or spiritual seeker, this coastal sanctuary will leave you awestruck. *Pro Tip: Visit **Ōarai Sun Beach** afterward for a seaside picnic!* Have you been? Share your torii gate photos below! 📸🌅

#summervacay As the summer sun glistens over the Pacific, **Ōarai Isosaki Shrine (大洗磯前神社)** emerges as one of Japan’s most stunning spiritual retreats. Famous for its dramatic **torii gate perched on rugged coastal rocks**, this shrine blends Shinto serenity with breathtaking natural beauty—perfect for a refreshing summer visit. ### **Highlights of a Summer Visit** 🌊⛩️ ✔ **Iconic "Kamiiso-no-Torii" Gate** – The shrine’s most photographed spot, where the sacred red gate stands defiantly against crashing waves. Visit at **sunrise** for an ethereal glow or during **high tide** for dramatic waves. ✔ **Cool Ocean Breeze** – Unlike inland shrines, Ōarai’s coastal location offers natural relief from summer heat. The sound of waves creates a meditative atmosphere. ✔ **Anime Pilgrimage Spot** – Fans of *Girls und Panzer* will recognize this shrine, with dedicated **ema (prayer plaques)** and souvenirs featuring the anime’s tanks. ✔ **Summer Festivals** – If timed right, you might catch **lantern-lit evening ceremonies** or local matsuri (festivals) with food stalls. ✔ **Nearby Beach & Seafood** – After praying, cool off at **Ōarai Beach** or feast on fresh **Ibaraki seafood** like *ankimo* (monkfish liver) at nearby restaurants. ### **Best Summer Experiences** - **Sunrise Rituals**: Arrive early to see priests perform morning rites with the torii as a backdrop. - **Purification at the Rock Basin**: Wash hands with saltwater from a sacred stone basin. - **Stroll the Coastal Path**: Follow the trail behind the shrine for hidden ocean vistas. ### **Visitor Tips for Summer** ☀️ - **Wear a hat & sunscreen** – The coastal sun is strong. - **Check tide times** – High tide makes the torii gate even more photogenic. - **Hydrate** – Bring water; shrine paths involve stairs and rocks. - **Combine with Ōarai Aquarium** – Great for families on hot days. - **Access**: 10-min taxi ride from Ōarai Station (JR Joban Line from Tokyo). ### **Final Verdict** **Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)** Ōarai Isosaki Shrine transforms into a summer paradise where spirituality meets nature’s power. The torii gate against blue skies and foaming waves is unforgettable—a must-see for photographers, anime fans, and travelers seeking Japan’s coastal mystique. *Pro Tip: Visit nearby *Ōarai Sun Beach* afterward for a swim!* Have you been here in summer? Share your experience below! 🌅🐚

[A trip to Ryusogataki that will cleanse your soul] Negative ions at full throttle in a hidden area of ​​Fukui 🌿💧 Ryusogataki, located in Ikeda-cho, Fukui Prefecture, is the only famous waterfall in the prefecture that has been selected as one of Japan's top 100 waterfalls ✨ The water that flows down from a height of 60m is very impressive, and when you stand near the waterfall basin, your whole body is enveloped in negative ions 💧 The area is surrounded by deep greenery, and it feels like a sacred space in the forest. The silence and the sound of the water will soothe your soul 🍃 When you actually visit, you will be moved by the power and beauty of nature, and it is a place that makes you want to take a deep breath. It is great for spending quiet time with your partner or refreshing yourself alone 💑🧍♂️ [Access] About 50 minutes by car from JR Takefu Station 🚗 There are few public transportation options, so a rental car is recommended Domestic travel #couple trip #solo trip #absolutely free trip #Fukui trip #Ryusogataki #top 100 waterfalls #healing trip #negative ions #power of nature #hidden spot

The "Kamiiso Torii" at Oarai Isosaki Shrine is truly a "sea trip moment" to be experienced with all five senses. As you descend the cliff and the sound of rough waves fills your ears, the torii, floating alone on the reef, swaying in the sea breeze, is simply mystical. As the sun rises, the crimson light shines on the torii, and the moment when the crests of the waves reflect off of it is breathtaking. The horizon of the Pacific Ocean opens up beyond the torii. Every time the white water breaks and hits the rocks, the sound of the waves and the scent of the sea rush in at the same time, making you feel the breath of the sea deep inside your body. This magnificent moment sweeps away the everyday and invites you to the inner tranquility of simply "watching this scene now." In the dim light before dawn, the moonlight casts a shadow on the torii, and its divinity trembles in your heart. The poetic sentiment of Tokugawa Mitsukuni, who also composed waka poems here, reaches us as a voice from long ago, and the time spent surrounded by the breath of history and nature leaves a quiet lingering impression in the heart. As the sun rises, the torii gate becomes a light source, merging with the horizon and eventually coming to life. By "simply being there", it is a sacred signal that unites the waves, the sky, and yourself. This is where a trip moment can be found - the torii gate standing on the sea at Oarai is a place that gives you a "moment of prayer" where you can deeply connect with yourself in an extraordinary setting. #AbsolutelyFreeTravel

Hitachi Seaside Park: One-day trip from Tokyo to Ibaraki. Flower Viewing Information & Guide March-April: Plum blossoms/Rape blossoms/Daffodils April-May: Nemophila/Rape blossoms/Tulips/Daffodils May-June: Roses/Poppies/Snapdragons July-August: Kochia/Sunflowers/Zinnia September-October: Kochia/Pampas grass/Roses/Cosmos December-January: Ice Tulips Address: 605-4 Onuma-Aza, Mawatari, Hitachinaka-shi, Ibaraki 312-0012, Japan Suggested Itinerary: Depart from Tokyo Oarai Isosaki Shrine Nakaminato Fish Market Hitachi Seaside Park Return to Tokyo

#tripDomesticTravel I went to Oarai Isosaki Shrine, a spectacular spot in Ibaraki Prefecture 🥰❤️It was founded in 856! It is a historic shrine that enshrines Oonamuchi-no-Mikoto, the Japanese god of the sea ✨️ 🌅 The best part is the "Kamiiso no Torii"! The torii gate standing on the rocks on the coast overlaps with the morning sun at sunrise, creating a fantastic sight ✨ 🔹 What are the benefits? Oonamuchi-no-Mikoto is the god of matchmaking, prosperity in business, and safety at sea. It is especially popular as a "power spot for good relationships and good fortune"! 📸 Tips for taking photos✔ Aim for the morning glow (especially beautiful from December to February)✔ You can take a dramatic photo even on a day with high waves!✔ Using a tripod will help you take a clear photo In addition to the "Kamiiso no Torii" floating in the mysterious sea, don't forget to climb the stairs and worship! You can also get a goshuin stamp✨️ Spot information━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━📍Oarai Isosaki Shrine 🗺Address: 6890 Isohama-cho, Oarai-machi, Higashiibaraki-gun, Ibaraki Prefecture 311-1301🚗Access: 15 minutes by car from Mito-Oarai IC on the Higashi-Mito Road⏰Opening hours: Free to visit #Oarai Isosaki Shrine #Kamiiso no Torii #Power spot #Amazing view #Goshuin tour

Kazura Bridge, Fukui Prefecture A suspension bridge over the lush Asuwa River valley 💫 This is a rare vine suspension bridge with a total length of 44m, width of 1.8m, and height of 12m! The unique swaying makes it extremely thrilling😂😂 It's scarier than I thought🥹🥹 There are so many gaps that you might drop your phone through the gap😂😂 It is said that if you pledge your love on this bridge, you will be happy forever💗💗 At the waterwheel square near the Kazura Bridge, Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms bloom in mid-April, "Goi-ko" in early May, and the town flower "Rhododendron" in mid-May💐 Also, from late October to early November, you can enjoy the beautiful autumn leaves in the valley🍁🍂 Fee: Adults 300 yen 📍Location: 14-7-1 Doai Sarao, Ikeda-cho, Imadate-gun, Fukui Prefecture (inside the waterwheel square next to Soba Dojo) 🕰️Opening hours: 9:00-17:00 (April-early December) #0 yen travel autumn #Fukui trip #Fukui sightseeing #Fukui tourist spots

A suspension bridge located right next to Tree Picnic Adventure Ikeda, famous for its tree tents suspended between trees. It's about a 10-minute walk from Tree Picnic Adventure Ikeda, so you can walk there, but we're sloths, so we went by car 🦥 It's photogenic, but it's not well known yet, so there was no one there ✌🏻 In fact, there was no one at the counter to pay the toll 😂 . . . 📍Kazura Bridge in Fukui 🗺️Fukui, Japan 🕑9:00-17:00 💰¥300 #FuriTabi #HokurikuTrip #AmazingView

At a campsite in Fukui Prefecture, there is a tent that you can stay in that is suspended between trees, and it's very photogenic. The first photo shows the sun, and the second and third photos show cloudy skies. They look completely different, don't they👀 One of the attractions is that you can stay empty-handed, as sleeping bags and mats are provided. The toilets are shared, but clean. There is a BBQ facility for meals, so you can go there or drive to a nearby restaurant. All the restaurants close at 7pm, so make sure to get one early. For showers, you can drive to a day spa nearby♨️ By the way, this is serious camping, so if you're not used to it, don't underestimate it. It gets cold on the mountain even in summer, so make sure to dress warmly. We were so new to camping that we couldn't sleep at all lol . . . 📍Tree Picnic Adventure Ikeda 📸Tree tent 🗺️Fukui, Japan 🕑Check in 14:00/Check out 9:30 💰¥20000 #Furitabi #camping #Hokuriku trip

Oarai Isosaki Shrine is an old and venerable shrine founded in the Heian period. The deity worshipped is Okuninushi-no-Mikoto, the god of matchmaking, and it is said to bring good luck in love, matchmaking, household safety, protection from misfortune, and good fortune☺️ It is a very rare shrine where you can see the ocean from the torii gate⛩️ The thatched ring is passed through to pray for the removal of sins and impurities and for the purification of mind and body! As soon as you go down the stairs from the shrine and cross the road, you will find the Kamiiso torii gate! It is said to be the place where Okuninushi-no-Mikoto, the main deity of the shrine, descended, and it is a very mystical place✨ Oarai Isosaki Shrine 📍Location: 6890 Isohama-cho, Oarai-machi, Higashiibaraki-gun, Ibaraki Prefecture 15 minutes from Oarai Station on the Oarai Kashima Line by circular bus Kaiyu-go (get off at Oarai Isosaki Shrine Shita bus stop) 15 minutes by car from Mito Oarai IC on the Higashi Mito Road 🕰️Opening hours: 6:00-17:00 #Ibaraki #IbarakiTourism #OaraiIsosakiShrine #FuriTabi

I went on a 3-day, 2-night trip to Ibaraki. On the first day, I took the Nakaminato Kaihin Railway to a place called Ajigaura. There, I went to a restaurant called Kurosei Sushi, and the lunch there was very cheap, and the ingredients were fresh and delicious. By the way, the photo is of the 1,400 yen lunch. After that, I went to a place called Isosaki Shrine, and was impressed by the torii gate with the sea in the background. After that, I went to the Hoshiimo Shrine, and moved to Nakaminato. In Nakaminato, I ate potato gelato at a hoshiimo specialty store, which was so delicious that it felt like I was eating the potato itself. On the second day, I went to the Aeon Mall at Uchihara Station, and enjoyed the all-you-can-eat fruit, pizza, and dolce at Pizzeria Marino. After that, I went to a place called Izumi Shrine, and was fascinated by the fantastic pond there. On the third day, I went to Isosaki Shrine in Oarai, and was overwhelmed by the torii gate in the sea. The sea was particularly rough, so it was impressive. It was a very good trip. #100TravelStyles #trip #familytrip

📍Kazura Bridge A traditional suspension bridge located near Hakusan Shrine✨ This bridge is woven using the vine "Kazura", and the texture of the natural material is attractive! This bridge, which is 44 meters long and 12 meters high, seems to have been used as a part of daily life in the past✨ It is especially recommended in the autumn foliage season, when you can enjoy the vivid scenery! 🍁 Ikeda Town is blessed with a rich natural environment, and there are campsites and hot spring facilities around Kazura Bridge! There are also plenty of outdoor activities! There is also Totoro and the Cat Bus on the way to Kazura Bridge, so check them out as well✅ Please go! 【INFORMATION】 Kazura Bridge 📮14-5 Doai Sarao, Ikeda-cho, Imadate-gun, Fukui Prefecture 💰Adults 300 yen, children 200 yen #0 yen trip

Kazurabashi Bridge in Fukui Prefecture is a lovely suspension bridge surrounded by nature in Ikeda Town☺️This bridge is 44 meters long and crosses the Asuwa River, and one of its charms is its traditional structure made of vines☝🏻 I visited on a holiday and was a bit surprised at how many people there were🤣If you want to visit when there aren't many people, it might be better to go early in the morning🥹 But the view of the river and forest from the bridge is really soothing♡ The bridge was surprisingly short, but it was good that you could feel nature up close♡? There is a wooden waterwheel and a beautiful garden around the bridge, making it the perfect spot to spend some relaxing time in nature♡ 📍 **Location** 14-7-1 Doai Sarao, Ikeda Town, Fukui Prefecture 🗺 **Access** About 35 minutes by car from Takefu IC or Sabae IC on the Hokuriku Expressway. About 40 minutes from Fukui IC on the Hokuriku Expressway. 🕰 **Business hours** 9:00-17:00 The road is closed in winter (December-March) and during bad weather. 💸 **Prices** - Adults: 300 yen - Elementary and junior high school students: 200 yen - Infants: Free *There is also a discount for groups of 20 or more (20% off) Kazurabashi Bridge in Fukui Prefecture is a wonderful place to be healed by nature, so be sure to visit it🚗💨 #FukuiTourism #FukuiTrip #Fukui #IkedaTown #KazuraBridge #Nature #DomesticTrip #0YenTrip

I went to Kazura Bridge at the Asuwa River Gorge in Echizen Ikeda. There is a path nearby that leads down to the riverside promenade. You can walk along the promenade to a nearby park. The promenade is well maintained, so I recommend taking a stroll there when you go out. If you like plants or photography, you will enjoy it even more. There is a toll of 300 yen for adults to use the bridge. You can cross it multiple times. There were quite a few people crossing the bridge during the Golden Week holidays, but everyone was holding on to the handrail and crossing slowly 😁 Maybe it would be good to go with your partner? #powerspot #summervacation

I went to "Kazura Bridge" in #Ikeda Town, #Fukui Prefecture (((((((っ･ω･)っ Length 44m, height 12m. It is said that if you pledge your love to each other on the bridge, you will be happy forever♡Kyaa (∀〃(〃∀)Kyaa♡ Maybe because it is made of vines, it sways quite a bit ((( '-' ))) The gaps between the steps are wide, so if you don't look down and walk carefully, your feet will get stuck lol There is no net underneath, so if you drop your smartphone, it's over (இ﹏இ｡) You can enjoy a thrilling aerial walk｡｡｡"8-(*o･ω･)oTekuteku 🏍Kazura Bridge🏍 Address: 14-5 Doai Sarao, Ikeda Town, Imadate District, Fukui Prefecture Opening hours: 9:00-17:00 Closed: Winter (December-March) In bad weather Toll: Adults 300 yen Elementary and junior high school students 200 yen Infants free #I want to connect with people who like bikes #I want to connect with people who like sightseeing #I want to connect with people who like traveling #Fukui trip #Fukui tourist spots #Fukui sightseeing #Ikeda town trip #Ikeda town tourist spots #Ikeda town sightseeing #Fukui touring #tourism #tourist spots #tourist destination #tourist attractions #tourist spots touring #kanko #shinobi-chan #Kazura Bridge is too scary #suspension bridge #suspension bridge tour #suspension bridge lover #besttrip2023

It was shaking + the footing was unstable + the wooden boards were spaced apart 😱 I was nervous as I crossed with my child. Those who had time enjoyed watching the stream from the bridge. (I put my cell phone in my bag so I wouldn't drop it, and I held on tightly to the handrail as I crossed without having time to enjoy the view.) It seemed to be the flowering season, and many yellow-green cherry blossoms, "Goikou", were in bloom. The idyllic scenery spread out before me, and I felt refreshed as I strolled while looking at the cherry blossoms. [Kazura Bridge] Opening hours: 9:00-17:00 Toll: 300 yen for adults, 200 yen for children, free for infants (Apparently you can cross as many times as you like) 📍Doai Sarao, Ikeda-cho, Imadate-gun, Fukui Prefecture 🚗Free parking available #Domestic travel#Tourism

A farmer's storehouse cafe. We only open on weekends because we have work on the farm during the weekdays. Our specialty coffee ☕️ We also recommend our sandwiches and homemade cakes ☝🏻 The coffee is really good. The countryside scenery is also soothing. ✈︎ーーーーーーーーーーーーーー✈︎ We are a couple living in Kansai who love to travel 👫💕 We are looking for spots to introduce on our travels! Tag us with #travels! We will share them with you!! If you have any recommended places, please let us know in the comments 🙋‍♂️🙋‍♀️ #couplestrip #fukuitrip #travel #anniversarytrip #couplestrip #fukuiprefecturetrip #fukuitrip #datespot #fukuidate #fukui #fukuiprefecture #recommendedfordates #recommendedforrainydays #Quintessacampaign