5 Cultural Events in Mito That You Shouldn't Miss

Held in the Kodokan building and the Kairaku-en gardens, famed for their ume plum blossoms, this festival is a traditional sign of spring in Mito. Kairaku-en features over 3,000 plum trees in 100 varieties, with each species blossoming at different times for a long-lasting time for blossom viewing. A variety of events are held at the festival, including open-air tea ceremonies, a photography festival, and hina-nagashi doll boats. In the event known as "Yoru, Ume, Matsuri," the entire park is illuminated by candlelight, creating an unearthly atmosphere. The fireworks are also a high point.

This 3-day summer festival is held every year on the first Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in August. There are separate venues in the Uwaichi area to the northwest of the Mito Station and the Shimoichi area to the southeast, and there is a Mito Komon parade starring entertainers, a portable shrine procession, and stage events with singing and dancing. There is also a fireworks display during the event, with more than 4,500 fireworks launched over Senba Lake. It is highlighted by unique fireworks with creative designs and extra-large star mines.

This event is held in venues along National Route 40 from Mito Chuo Post Office to Daikumachi and in the area around Mito Station. It offers many highlights, including sales of recommended products from stores in the shopping district and local produce direct from vendors, as well as an open-air market with food and beverage carts. Stages set up around the venues host stage events with music and dancing. There is also an art exhibition corner, and the Fall Street Culture Festival is exhibited around town.

This festival is held at Kairakuen, Senba Park, and Mito City Forest Park from late April to early May to coincide with the blooming of the azaleas. The blossoms of 380 varieties of azaleas, such as Kirishima azaleas and white ekianthus, cover Kairakuen's grounds in shades of red and pink. At Mito City Forest Park, there are more than 10,000 mountain azaleas and kurume azaleas in full bloom, creating a colorful, spring-like atmosphere. There are various events held during the festival, including open-air tea ceremonies.