Ibaraki City Guide

Good local Japanese eateries with Osaka specialties. More international options found in Osaka. Vegan and vegetarian options are improving. Food spots open late, especially izakayas and ramen shops.

Nightlife in Ibaraki is low-key with local bars and izakayas. For more variety, Osaka city is a short train ride away.

Local cafes in Ibaraki serve good coffee, but more variety and specialty shops are in Osaka. Traditional kissaten exist.

Tipping is not expected in Japan and can be seen as confusing or rude.

SIMs can be bought at airports and electronics stores. Main providers are NTT Docomo, au, and SoftBank. eSIM options exist but require ID registration.

Ibaraki is very clean with efficient waste sorting and rare sanitation issues.

Convenience stores are 24/7 and widespread. Night clinics are limited. Some drugstores have extended hours.

Supermarkets like Aeon, Life, and Summit offer varied goods. Local fresh markets are smaller. Hours usually 9-21, open Sundays. Bargaining is not common.

Credit cards and IC transport cards work well in major places, but cash is still needed in small shops and markets.

Best ATMs are at 7-Eleven, Japan Post Bank, and Aeon Bank. They accept international cards but may charge 110-220 JPY per withdrawal plus fees from your bank.

International schools exist mainly in wider Osaka area. Local schools teach in Japanese. Early application is recommended.

Small nomad community locally. More active groups and co-living spaces in central Osaka.

Good access to green spaces like Expo '70 Commemorative Park. Shaded paths and parks support outdoor activities.

Good running routes in parks like Expo '70 Park and along the Ai River. Running is safe and popular.

Several gyms offer good fitness options in the city.

Public tennis courts available at the Ibaraki City Sports Center, generally require advance booking.

Padel courts are rare in Japan and not available locally.

Local yoga studios offer various classes. English-speaking instructors are rare but may be found in Osaka.

Dojo options for Judo, Karate, Kendo, and Aikido in Ibaraki. More styles and English-speaking instructors found in Osaka.

No local ski resorts. Nearest are 1-2 hours away in Shiga or Hyogo. Season from December to March with rentals available.

Some kayaking and paddleboarding possible in wider Kansai, but not directly in Ibaraki.

No surfing locally. Nearest surf spots are a few hours away on the Pacific coast of Wakayama or Mie Prefecture.

No diving sites in Ibaraki. Coastal dive centers several hours away offer certification and rentals.

Good quality healthcare with some English-speaking staff in larger hospitals. Pharmacies are common with OTC meds available.

Tap water is safe to drink in Ibaraki and all of Japan.

Good parks and playgrounds. Access to big attractions in Osaka like Universal Studios. Baby supplies are easy to find.

LGBTQ+ friendliness is improving, mostly in Osaka city. Safe for tourists but Japan remains conservative overall.

Moderate pet friendliness. Some pet-friendly parks and veterinary services available. Accommodation options vary.