Located in the northern part of the Kanto region along the Pacific Ocean, Ibaraki Prefecture is rich in both nature and culture. Kairaku-en in Mito City (one of Japan's Three Great Gardens) is famous for its plum blossoms. Mount Tsukuba is known as the 'Fuji of Kanto,' and Tsukuba Science City is Japan's research hub. The Oarai Coast offers spectacular ocean views, with the torii gate of Oarai Isosaki Shrine standing in the sea. Fukuroda Falls (one of Japan's Three Great Waterfalls) flows continuously throughout the four seasons. Local delicacies include Mito natto, Hitachi beef, Pacific seafood (Pacific saury, sea bream, scallops), plum-based dishes, Tsukuba ramen, and sweet Ibaraki strawberries.