Carefully Selected Sightseeing Spots in Hokota, Ibaraki! Recommended Spots on Both Sea and Land

Hokota City in Ibaraki Prefecture faces the Pacific Ocean to the east, while the inland area consists of flat plateaus. Because of this, there are many seaside leisure facilities, attracting numerous tourists from both inside and outside Ibaraki, especially during summer. However, Hokota’s appeal goes beyond that. Blessed with historical buildings, rich agricultural products, and hot springs, it is a perfect destination for refreshing both body and mind. Here, we will introduce six must-visit sightseeing spots in Hokota City.

1. Itsukushima Shrine

A small shrine surrounded by a forest near the Kashima Highway. When one hears of Itsukushima Shrine, most people think of Hiroshima Prefecture. Hokota’s Itsukushima Shrine is said to have received a divided spirit from Hiroshima’s Itsukushima Shrine in 1265 (Bunei 2). The main hall and worship hall are surrounded by a small pond, resembling the Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima.
It enshrines Ichikishimahime-no-Mikoto, the goddess of safe childbirth, and is affectionately known as “Konaji no Benten-sama.”
The bright red railings around the shrine stand out beautifully against the surrounding greenery. The front pillars are adorned with intricate dragon carvings that never fail to impress. The shrine is also designated as a prefectural cultural property. Though small overall, it is a compact yet strikingly beautiful structure.

2. Prefectural Kashimanada Seaside Park

Kashimanada Seaside Park is located alongside National Route 51. Visitors can walk directly to the Kashimanada coast, and from the approximately 3km-long boardwalk along the shoreline, enjoy the vast natural scenery of Kashimanada. The park is filled with attractions suitable for all ages, including colorful playgrounds and an observation deck offering spectacular sunset views.
The park also has shops and restaurants, making it a good place to spend an entire day. Meals featuring Hokota’s local ingredients, fresh clams, and local souvenirs are also available here!

3. Daigi-ji Temple

Daigi-ji Temple was originally destroyed by a major fire in 1712 (Shotoku 2), but it was later restored by Zen Master Buccho. Buccho was the Zen teacher of haiku poet Matsuo Basho, and it is said that Basho visited this temple during his moon-viewing journey to the Kashima area of Hitachi Province. Within the temple grounds, there are 179 haiku monuments, including one by Basho himself.
These were contributed by poets from all over Japan, and it is said to be rare for one place to have so many haiku monuments. In 1989 (Heisei 1), the temple grounds were recognized as one of Ibaraki’s “100 Selected Natural Spots” under the name “Daigi-ji Temple Grounds Haiku Village.” Even today, the temple remains closely connected to haiku, with haiku gatherings held every spring and autumn.

4. Kenko Tasshaka Village Fukasaku Farm

Hokota City is famous for melon cultivation, thanks to its well-drained soil and warm climate. A place where visitors can experience this blessing of Hokota is Kenko Tasshaka Village Fukasaku Farm. Its main feature is the use of EM natural farming methods, which are friendly to both the environment and people, starting from soil preparation.
With strict temperature and irrigation management, a one-plant-one-fruit policy, and bee pollination, the melons grown here are known for their rich flavor and sweetness. Strawberry picking is so popular that long lines form, and the fruits are praised for their juiciness and perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. Popular items often sell out by morning, so it’s best to visit early.

5. Top Sante Taiyo

Top Sante Taiyo is a multi-purpose facility equipped with a training gym, heated pool, pottery studio, hot spring baths, and lodging. The 25m heated pool is an open, sunlit space used not only for casual swimming but also for swimming lessons, aqua exercise, and water walking classes.
In the pottery studio, the painting experience, where you can create your own original plates, is especially popular. Expert instructors guide you, so even beginners can join with ease. The open-air bath overlooks the Pacific Ocean, providing both physical and mental relaxation. Ending a Hokota sightseeing trip here to unwind is a great idea.

◎ Summary

Hokota City is a place where you can experience nature’s blessings, history, and culture. Fruit picking, the sea, and greenery offer different pleasures depending on the season, making it worth visiting often. Exploring historical sites and literary connections also adds depth and charm to sightseeing. Be sure to plan a trip to Hokota!