Mito is the capital of Ibaraki Prefecture, 125 kilometres north of Tokyo on the eastern side of Honshu. It is best known for Kairakuen, one of Japan's three great gardens, which is spectacular during the plum blossom season in February and March — over 3,000 plum trees of 100 varieties bloom across the hillside, followed by cherry blossoms in April.
The city has a pleasant mix of old and new. The Art Tower Mito, a spiralling titanium monument designed by Arata Isozaki, is a striking piece of modern architecture that anchors a contemporary arts complex. The Kodokan, one of the best-preserved feudal domain schools in Japan, and the ruins of Mito Castle anchor the historical side. Tokiwa Shrine honours the two greatest Tokugawa lords of the Mito domain, whose intellectual traditions shaped Japanese nationalism in the 19th century.
Mito is also famous for nattō — fermented soybeans with a pungent smell and sticky texture that is something of an acquired taste, though the locals eat it with gusto. The city's own brand is considered among the best in Japan, and most restaurants around Mito Station will serve it without hesitation. Combine a visit with Lake Senba and Kobuntei Villa for a full day in the garden district.