Hitachiota is a rural city in northern Ibaraki Prefecture, around two hours from Tokyo, where forested hills, farmland and small communities replace the dense urban landscapes of the capital. The area is well suited to travellers looking for a quieter side of Japan, with walking and cycling routes through the countryside and opportunities to experience local food and traditional crafts. One of its best-known landmarks is the Ryujin Suspension Bridge, which stretches across the Ryujin Gorge and is particularly popular during the autumn colours. More adventurous visitors can also try bungee jumping from the bridge, while those who prefer a slower pace can explore the surrounding trails and viewpoints.
Further north, the landscape becomes increasingly mountainous, with small hot-spring communities including Yokokawa Onsen providing a base for walking and relaxing in local ryokan. Hitachiota is also known for Hitachi Aki Soba, a highly regarded variety of buckwheat grown in the region, and visitors can find restaurants serving handmade soba using locally grown grain. Historic sites such as Seizanso, the secluded retirement residence of the influential Mito-domain lord Tokugawa Mitsukuni, add another dimension for travellers interested in Edo-period history. With countryside, onsen, regional food and outdoor activities relatively close together, Hitachiota suits travellers who want to spend time in rural Japan without travelling far from Tokyo.