Things To Do
in Koga
Koga is a riverside city in Ibaraki Prefecture, tucked along the Tone River and accessible from Tokyo by rail. It blends a genteel, small-town atmosphere with reminders of its historic past through park ruins and traditional streets. The flat terrain and scenic riverfront make it ideal for easy cycling, long strolls, and relaxed café visits.
In every season, Koga offers tranquil scenery, friendly locals, and a welcoming gateway to the wider Ibaraki countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Koga Castle ruins, where you can stroll through the picturesque gardens and enjoy the serene atmosphere. As you explore the remnants of this once-majestic fortress, take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Afterward, head to the nearby Koga History Museum to learn about the local culture and heritage.
Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch at a local eatery, where you can savor fresh sushi or seasonal soba noodles. Post-lunch, wander through the charming streets of Koga, stopping by artisan shops that showcase handmade crafts and local delicacies. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the historic Koga Shrine, dedicated to the region's patron deity.
As the sun sets, find a cozy izakaya for dinner, where you can indulge in grilled skewers and local sake. Engage with the friendly locals and fellow travelers while sharing stories over a delicious meal. Finish your evening with a leisurely walk along the banks of the Koga River, taking in the beautiful night scenery.
Begin your day with a refreshing stroll through Koga's picturesque Koga Park, where cherry blossoms bloom in spring and vibrant foliage colors the landscape in autumn. Enjoy the tranquility of nature as you listen to the chirping birds and the rustle of leaves. Take some time to relax by the pond, watching the koi fish glide through the water.
After a peaceful morning, head to the nearby Oiso Beach for a picnic lunch surrounded by stunning coastal views. Spend your afternoon unwinding on the sandy beach, swimming in the clear waters, or trying your hand at beach volleyball with locals. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a kayak and explore the coastline from the water.
As the day comes to an end, find a seaside restaurant to enjoy fresh seafood dishes while watching the sun dip below the horizon. Relish the flavors of the region, such as grilled fish and local rice, paired with refreshing beverages. Conclude your evening with a leisurely stroll along the beach, taking in the calming sound of waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-6 |
| 🚆Public transit fare (single ride) | $1-5 |
| 🏨One night in a budget hotel | $60-90 |
| 🥗Groceries for two | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact and walkable city center
- Beautiful river scenery and parks
- Friendly locals and relaxed pace
- Good base for exploring the Ibaraki region
- Limited nightlife compared to big cities
- Fewer high-end dining options
- Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers in some spots
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "すみません" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "トイレはどこですか" - Where is the bathroom?
- "これをお願いします" - I'll have this, please
- "いくらですか" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Koga
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic ruins with stone walls and seasonal blossoms, great for atmospheric photos.
Open river views with bridges and boats; especially photogenic at sunrise or sunset.
Wooden storefronts and traditional façades ideal for street photography.
Quiet spaces with soft morning light and incense vibes.
Food in Koga
Koga Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional staple of fermented soybeans served over hot rice with soy sauce.
Must-Try!
Buckwheat noodles served hot in broth or cold with dipping sauce.
Seasonal river fish prepared with salt and served with rice.
Dishes featuring fresh local vegetables and tofu as the main components.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market by the river with fresh produce, pickles, and small snacks.
Yakitori, taiyaki, and other light bites often found near market days and at casual stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Bow when greeting, remove shoes when asked, and keep voices low in public spaces.
Ask permission before photographing people; avoid photographing sacred spaces without consent.
Public bins are limited; carry out trash and follow local recycling guidelines.
Safety
Tipping in Koga
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; polite service is included in the price. Offer a tip only if explicitly requested.
Cash remains widely used; many shops accept credit cards. IC cards (Suica, PASMO) work for transit and are increasingly accepted at retailers; mobile payments are growing in popularity.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry blossoms along the Tone River and mild temperatures; perfect for walks and photography.
Hot and humid with occasional rain; visit early mornings or evenings and stay hydrated.
Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage along riverside paths and parks.
Cool to cold with possible frost; many shops stay cozy and there are fewer crowds.
Koga at Night
Hiking in Koga
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular day hike offering scenic viewpoints and varying routes; accessible from the Ibaraki region.
Extensive, flat trails along the river suitable for easy hikes and photography outings.
Airports
How to reach Koga by plane.
Located in Omitama, Ibaraki, IBR serves domestic flights and some international routes; typically reachable by car or rail from Koga within about 1–1.5 hours.
Major international hub; easy rail and road connections to Tokyo and surrounding areas; frequent flights to domestic destinations.
Large international hub; rail and bus connections to the Ibaraki region are available; travel to Koga typically longer than from Haneda but serves many international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A family-friendly city with safe neighborhoods and good local schools.
An aging population common in regional Japan, with active community centers.
People travel to nearby Mito or Tokyo for work or study.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and communities; local games and tournaments are common.
Community clubs and school leagues provide regular matches and pickup games.
Flat countryside makes cycling popular for commuting and recreational riding.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Koga.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetable-focused dishes or tofu; mention no meat or fish and check for dashi stocks in soups.