What is Hitachi Seaside Park (National), a popular spot in Ibaraki Prefecture?
Located in Hitachinaka City, Ibaraki Prefecture, Hitachi Seaside Park (National) is a vast natural park covering about 350 hectares. It’s a popular destination where visitors can enjoy seasonal flowers and a wide range of activities.
In spring, blue nemophila carpet the fields, and in autumn, kochia bushes turn bright red, creating landscapes that look like paintings.
The park also offers many activities suitable for families and couples, creating unforgettable memories for visitors.
This article explains the park’s highlights, how to get there, and useful information to know before you visit.
Highlights of Hitachi Seaside Park
Scenic spot: Nemophila on Miharashi Hill
Spring (late April–mid May) is not to be missed if you visit the park—especially the vast nemophila flower fields on "Miharashi Hill."
About 5.3 million blue flowers bloom across the hill, creating a magical view where the blue of the flowers seems to merge with the sky and sea.
Because the nemophila season attracts many visitors, it’s best to arrive early.
Autumn spectacle: Kochia turning red
Autumn (around mid-October) brings kochia bushes that turn bright red and color Miharashi Hill.
The kochia start as vivid green and gradually change to red, so visiting from late September to early October is also recommended to enjoy the transition.
There are many great photo spots around the kochia hill, making it popular on social media.
Seasonal flowers
In addition to nemophila and kochia, the park features a variety of seasonal flowers throughout the year.
- Spring: The "Tamago no Mori Flower Garden" where about 250 varieties of tulips bloom.
- Summer: Sunflower fields and brightly colored zinnias.
- Autumn: Fields of cosmos swaying in the breeze.
- Winter: Pansies and violas brighten the park.
Pleasure Garden and activities
Inside the park is the amusement area called the "Pleasure Garden," which offers attractions such as a Ferris wheel and roller coaster that can be enjoyed by children and adults alike.
Popular activities include:
- Cycling: Over 11 km of cycling paths are maintained, and rental bicycles are available.
- Barbecue: A reservation-only BBQ area lets you enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
- Nature walks: Strolling through the expansive grounds at a relaxed pace is highly recommended.
Access to Hitachi Seaside Park
By train
- Get off at Katsuta Station on the JR Joban Line.
- From the east exit of Katsuta Station, take the bus bound for the "Seaside Park West Entrance" and ride about 15 minutes.
By car
- Accessible via the Kita-Kantō Expressway and Hitachinaka toll road—exit at the Hitachi Seaside Park IC. If using the Jōban Expressway, the nearest interchange is Hitachi-Minamiota IC.
- The park has large parking lots that accommodate regular cars and tour buses.
From the airport
- About a 2-hour drive from Narita Airport.
- By public transport, you can reach the park via the Joban Line.
Useful information for travelers
Opening hours and fees
- Hours: 9:30–17:00 (varies by season)
- Closed: Tuesdays (if a national holiday, closed the following day), and year-end/New Year. (There are also periods when the park is open every day.)
- Admission: Adults (high school and older): ¥450 / Elementary and junior high school students: Free — additional seasonal charges may apply.
Food options inside the park
There are cafes and restaurants throughout the park where you can enjoy dishes made with local ingredients.
Picnic areas are available, and you may bring your own bento (lunch) to eat there.
Nearby attractions
- Nakaminato Fish Market: A market where you can enjoy fresh seafood.
- Ajigaura Beach: A beautiful beach perfect for swimming or strolling.
Frequently asked questions about visiting Hitachi Seaside Park
Q. When is the best season to visit?
A. Spring (late April–mid May) for the nemophila and autumn (October) for the kochia are especially recommended.
Q. Can I bring my own bicycle?
A. Yes. You can also rent bicycles inside the park.
Q. Can I enjoy the park on rainy days?
A. You can still enjoy the flowers on rainy days, but some activities may be limited. Bring rain gear.
Q. Are there foreign-language guides?
A. Brochures are available in English, Chinese, and Korean. Some signs are multilingual as well.
Conclusion
Hitachi Seaside Park is a destination beloved for its seasonal flowers and expansive natural landscapes.
In particular, spring nemophila and autumn kochia draw high popularity from visitors both inside and outside Japan.
This park offers plenty of opportunities to connect with nature and spend special time with family and friends, making it well worth a visit.
If you visit Ibaraki Prefecture, be sure to stop by Hitachi Seaside Park!
