Mito, the capital of Ibaraki prefecture, is home to one of Japan’s three great gardens, Kairaku-en Garden. The centerpiece of Mito, Kairaku-en Garden is famous for its plum blossoms in shades of red, white, and pink. With a 32-acre space and 100 varieties of plum trees and other plants, Kairaku-en Garden is a must-see in Mito.

Farther up Kairaku-en is Art Tower Mito, a cultural center that includes a concert hall, theater, and a contemporary art gallery. Furnished with a 100-metre tall tower, you will not miss it as you travel around the city.

Mito, with around 271,000 citizens, is also famous for natto, a fermented soybean dish that is popular in Japan but an acquired taste for most foreigners.