Tsukuba

Tsukuba is widely recognised as Japan’s science center. Just a short 45 minutes away from Tokyo, Tsukuba houses many research institutes such as the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency and the Geographical Survey Institute, and many of these places come with their own planetariums and museums for visitors.

An estimated 19,000 out of Tsukuba’s 223,000 citizens are researchers.

Tsukuba has sprawling parks like Kenkyugakuen Eki-mae Koen, Doho Park, and Matsumi Park that are perfect for strolls or picnics. But a great way to explore the city would be by bicycle, and these can be rented at the tourist information office at Tsukuba Station for 500 yen a day.

If you’re up for a hike or a spectacular view, Mount Tsukuba’s twin peaks await you. You may choose to embark on an hour to 90-minute climb to either peak or pay a small fee and take a cable car to the top for a panorama of the Kanto region.