Excursions & Local Highlights

Located in the heart of Ibaraki, Tsukuba offers a perfect starting point to explore both local treasures and some of Japan’s most famous landmarks. Whether you’re drawn to mountains, culture, or adventure, the region has something for everyone.

Mt. Tsukuba (Local Icon) 

Tsukuba-mountain

One of Japan’s most celebrated mountains, Mt. Tsukuba is known for its twin peaks (877 m and 871 m) and deep cultural significance. Visitors can hike to the summit or take an 8-minute cable car for a quicker ascent. Highlights include the historic Tsukubasan Shrine and sweeping panoramic views—on clear days, you can even see Tokyo and Mt. Fuji.

Mt. Fuji (Cultural Icon) 

Mount fuji at Lake kawaguchiko with cherry blossom in Yamanashi near Tokyo, Japan

Japan’s tallest mountain and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Mt. Fuji is within reach of Tsukuba. Perfect for a day trip, the journey takes about 3 hours by car or around 4 hours by train and bus via Tokyo. Visitors can enjoy climbing during the summer months, or explore the scenic Fuji Five Lakes and Kawaguchiko area year-round.

Scuba Diving at Mikomoto Island

or thrill-seekers, Mikomoto Island off the Izu Peninsula offers some of Japan’s most exciting diving. Reached in about 3.5 hours by car or train plus a ferry, the site is world-famous for schools of hammerhead sharks (best seen June–October), along with rays, sunfish, and even whale sharks. Local operators such as Mikomoto Hammers and Mikomoto Divers provide guided trips (recommended for experienced divers due to strong currents).

Cultural & Traditional Experiences

  • Tsukuba Science City: Visit leading research institutes, including JAXA (Japan’s NASA) and the National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES).
  • Hot Springs on Mt. Tsukuba: Relax in traditional Japanese onsen with stunning mountain views.
  • Tokyo Day Trip: Just 45 minutes away by train, offering shopping, museums, and nightlife.
  • Nikkō National Park: Explore UNESCO heritage temples, waterfalls, and natural beauty in about 2 hours.
  • Ama Pearl Divers: Discover the centuries-old tradition of women free-divers on coastal Japan, such as at Mikimoto Pearl Island.