Oarai - Discovering Japan

Travelling to Oarai

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Oarai, a pretty good destination in Japan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Oarai and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Oarai, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Japan, here's everything to know about Oarai for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Oarai

Oarai is a popular seaside town located in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its beautiful beaches and abundant seafood. Oarai is a popular destination for vacationers looking for a natural and peaceful atmosphere. The town has several tourist attractions, including the Oarai Sun Beach, a popular destination for beachgoers, and the Oarai Isosaki Shrine, a historic spot that draws many visitors for its scenic views. Oarai is easily accessible from Tokyo and can be reached by car or train in about two hours.

What to visit in Oarai

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Oarai, Japan: 1. Oarai Isosaki Shrine: It is a Shinto shrine that has been standing for over a thousand years. It is located on the east coast of Oarai and is dedicated to the deity Amaterasu. The shrine has a beautiful traditional architecture and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Oarai.
2. Aqua World Ibaraki Prefectural Oarai Aquarium: This is one of the largest aquariums in Japan and is home to thousands of marine animals, including dolphins, sea lions, and penguins. Visitors can watch these animals perform tricks and enjoy a variety of exhibits showcasing different marine ecosystems.
3. Ushio Chaya Tea House: A traditional tea house run by a tea master who serves only premium quality Japanese green tea and sweets. Visitors get to sit on tatami mats and enjoy the peaceful and serene ambiance while sipping some tea.
4. Oarai Sun Beach: A beautiful white sand beach located near the Oarai Isosaki Shrine. It is an ideal spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. Visitors can rent beach umbrellas and relax for the day.
5. Kashima Jingu Shrine: Located about 30 minutes from Oarai, Kashima Jingu Shrine is one of the oldest and most important shrines in Japan. It is dedicated to the god of martial arts and is believed to have powers of protection and victory.
6. The Museum of Oarai: This museum showcases the history and culture of Oarai in an interactive and engaging manner. Visitors can learn about the region's rich maritime heritage and see a variety of exhibits ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary art.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that Oarai has to offer. Visitors are sure to find something that suits their interests and preferences.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Japan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Oarai

The best time to visit Oarai is during the spring or autumn season. In the spring, from March to May, you can enjoy perfect weather with cherry blossom festivals around the area. During autumn, from September to November, the weather is mild, and you can experience the beautiful fall colors of the trees. However, it's essential to note that Oarai is a popular summer destination because of its beach, but it can be crowded during this season.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Oarai

Oarai is a city located in the Ibaraki prefecture of Japan. There are a few ways to get to Oarai depending on where you are coming from: From Tokyo: 1. By Train: Take the JR Joban line from Ueno station and get off at Oarai station. The journey takes around 80-90 minutes and costs around 3,000 yen.
2. By Car: Oarai is approximately a 2 hour drive from Tokyo.
From Narita Airport: 1. By Train: Take the Narita Express to Tokyo station, then transfer to the JR Joban line and get off at Oarai station. The journey takes around 2.5-3 hours and costs around 5,000 yen.
2. By Car: Oarai is approximately a 2 hour drive from Narita airport.
From Osaka: 1. By Train: Take the Shinkansen and transfer to the JR Joban line at Ueno station and get off at Oarai station. The journey takes around 3.5-4 hours and costs around 15,000 yen.
2. By Car: Oarai is approximately a 6 hour drive from Osaka. I hope this information helps. Let me know if you have any further questions!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Oarai, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Oarai

Oarai is a town located in the Ibaraki Prefecture of Japan. Below are some of the typical foods of Oarai with a short description for each of them: 1. Ankou Nabe: It is a hot pot dish made from Angler fish. The fish is cooked with vegetables and served with Japanese broth.
2. Mochi: Mochi is a rice cake made from sticky rice. It is often served as a dessert, often filled with sweet azuki bean paste.
3. Kaki Fry: It is a breaded and deep-fried oyster dish that is served with a Japanese mayo and a wedge of lemon.
4. Iwashi-Don: A rice bowl topped with sardines that have been cooked in a soy sauce-based broth.
5. Hitachi Wagyu Beef: It is a high-quality beef that comes from the Hitachi area of Ibaraki Prefecture. It is typically served in shabu-shabu or sukiyaki dishes.
6. Ibaraki Prefecture Showa No Megumi Udon: It is a local specialty Udon dish with pork, bamboo shoots, green onions, and eggs.
7. Natto: Natto is a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans. It is often served for breakfast and is known for its slimy texture.
8. Takoyaki: It is a popular street food in Japan, which is ball-shaped and filled with diced octopus and a savory batter.
9. Tamago Kake Gohan: It is a simple dish made from rice, raw eggs, and soy sauce. It is typically eaten for breakfast.
10. Soba: Soba is a type of Japanese noodle made from buckwheat flour. It can be served hot or cold and is often paired with a dipping sauce or added to soups.
You can find general info about typical foods in Japan here.

Is Oarai an expensive destination for tourists?

Oarai in Japan is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches and marine life. Prices can vary depending on the season and accommodation options you choose. However, Oarai is generally considered to be a mid-range to high-end destination, so prices tend to be higher than other places in Japan.
Accommodation in Oarai can be expensive, especially during peak season, but there are budget options available if you are willing to stay in a hostel or a capsule hotel. Restaurants and food options in Oarai can be reasonably priced to high, depending on where you choose to eat.
Overall, Oarai is definitely on the pricier side compared to other destinations in Japan, but with proper planning and budgeting, it can be an incredible and unforgettable experience.

Where to find accomodation in Oarai

In Oarai, it is best to find accommodation near the seaside areas as they are close to the major tourist attractions like Oarai Isosaki Shrine, Oarai Sun Beach, and the Oarai Aquarium. Some recommended areas to stay are Oarai Sun Village, Oarai Marine Tower, and Oarai Wakuwaku Museum. Additionally, Oarai Station offers convenient access to the Ibaraki Prefectural Transportation bus and train routes, making it another great area to consider for accommodations.
You can check hotel prices at Oarai here:
Booking.com

Is Oarai a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Oarai is considered a safe place for tourists. Japan is known for its low crime rate and Oarai is a small town that is relatively unaffected by crime. However, visitors should still exercise caution and take normal safety precautions such as being aware of their surroundings and keeping an eye on their belongings.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Japan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Oarai.

What type of travelers will enjoy Oarai the most?

Oarai is a place that will be enjoyed by everyone. It is a coastal city in Japan that has something for everyone, be it couples, young people looking for fun or families.
Couples will enjoy the scenic beauty of the beaches and the romantic atmosphere of the city. The Oarai Isosaki Shrine is also a popular spot among couples for its beautiful sunsets and picturesque views.
Young people looking for fun can engage in various water sports activities such as surfing, windsurfing, and Jet Ski. The famous Oarai Sun Beach is an excellent destination for them as it offers a wide range of water activities.
Families can enjoy the beautiful beaches and the nearby attractions such as the Aqua World Oarai Aquarium and the Oarai Prefectural Natural Park. The park offers fantastic hiking and cycling trails, and the aquarium has various marine life displays that support the education and conservation of the area.
Overall, Oarai is a great place for all types of travelers who are looking for a relaxing and enjoyable trip.

How to get around Oarai

The most common ways to move around Oarai are by car, bicycle or on foot. There are also buses and taxis available for those who prefer not to drive or cycle.

What to see around Oarai

Here are some nice places to visit as a day trip from Oarai in Japan: 1. Hitachi Seaside Park: This beautiful park is located in Hitachinaka, just a short drive away from Oarai. It features stunning seasonal flowers, a Ferris wheel, and other attractions.
2. Mito: Mito is known for its beautiful parks and gardens, including the Kairakuen Garden, with its many plum trees. You can also visit the Mito Shrine and Tokiwa Shrine.
3. Kashima Jingu Shrine: This historic shrine is located in Kashima, a short drive from Oarai. It is one of the oldest shrines in Japan and is dedicated to the god of soccer and martial arts.
4. Tsukuba: Tsukuba is known for its many science and research facilities, including the Tsukuba Space Center and the Tsukuba Botanical Garden.
5. Ushiku Daibutsu: The Ushiku Daibutsu is one of the tallest statues in the world, standing at 120 meters tall. It is located in Ushiku, which is about a 40-minute drive from Oarai.
These are just a few examples, but there are many other beautiful places to visit as a day trip from Oarai in Japan!
For every travel information about Japan you can click here.

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