Sightseeing
Discover the unique attractions that only Tsukuba has to offer.
Tourist Spot
Mount Tsukuba
Mount Tsukuba, one of Japan's 100 famous mountains, is known as 'Fuji in the West, Tsukuba in the East.' Located in the Kanto Plain, it features two peaks, Nantai-san and Nyotai-san, accessible by cable car and ropeway. With panoramic views and easy access from Tokyo via the Tsukuba Express, it’s a popular and easily accessible destination.
Ushiku Daibutsu (Ushiku City)
At approximately 120 meters tall, the Ushiku Daibutsu is one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world. Visitors can take an elevator up to 85 meters for impressive views. Its enormous scale, recognized by the Guinness World Records, is truly awe-inspiring.
Lake Kasumigaura (Tsuchiura City)
The lake stretches from southeastern Ibaraki Prefecture to northeastern Chiba Prefecture and is the second-largest lake in Japan by surface area, after Lake Biwa. In summer, sightseeing sailboats operate on the lake, and in winter, many migratory birds visit. The area is rich in historic shrines and temples, is popular for fishing, and has recently gained international recognition as a cycling route.
JAXA | Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency
JAXA is Japan’s premier space engineering research facility. Visitors can explore various satellite test models, rocket engines used in combustion tests, a full-scale model of the ISS Japanese Experiment Module 'Kibo,' and a massive pool for astronaut training, simulating zero gravity. Real astronaut food is also available for purchase. Reservations are required for tours.
Geological Museum
The Geological Museum specializes in earth sciences, offering exhibits not only on geology and specimens but also on the broader fields of earth sciences. It presents the Earth's history, mechanisms, and the relationship between Earth and humanity through four themed sections.
Dōhō Park
Dōhō Park, centered around the large Dōhō Pond, is Tsukuba City's largest park, featuring lush natural surroundings and extensive sports facilities. It includes jogging and walking trails, a field athletics area, a heated pool, gymnasium, sand-filled artificial turf tennis courts with night lighting, and a baseball field.
Tsukuba Botanical Garden
The Tsukuba Botanical Garden showcases a wide variety of plants across its expansive grounds, serving both as a place for public enjoyment and for research and education. Visitors can enjoy seasonal blooms, as well as unique tropical plants and cacti in the greenhouse, which are rarely seen elsewhere.
Tsukuba Science Square
Tsukuba Science Square is a facility where you can experience the latest in scientific technology. Visitors can engage with cutting-edge research and technological innovations, feeling the allure of science firsthand. It's especially recommended for those interested in science, offering a fun and engaging environment to learn through experiments and exhibits.
Tsukuba Expo Center
With a 50-meter life-sized H-II rocket model as its landmark, Tsukuba Expo Center features one of the world’s largest planetariums, filling its 25.6-meter dome with stunning visuals of the night sky. Monthly science shows, workshops, and stargazing events provide fresh experiences, while interactive exhibits on space, deep sea, and energy offer fun, hands-on learning for all ages.
Shopping Spot
Iias Tsukuba
Iias Tsukuba is one of the largest shopping malls in Tsukuba City, featuring a wide variety of stores and events for fashion, gourmet dining, and entertainment, making it a perfect spot for fun moments with family and friends. It's an ideal destination for a full day of enjoyment with loved ones.
Tonarie Tsukuba Square
Tonarie Tsukuba Square is a new urban commercial facility directly connected to Tsukuba Station, offering shopping, gourmet dining, and relaxation. With excellent transportation access, it's a convenient place to visit with family and friends.
Costco Wholesale Tsukuba Warehouse
Costco Wholesale Tsukuba is a membership-based large supermarket located in Tsukuba City. It offers a wide range of products, from groceries to electronics and clothing. With bulk items convenient for family shopping and an affordable food court, it provides a satisfying shopping experience for everyone.
WonderGOO PLUS＋ Tsukuba Store
This shopping spot features a large bookstore alongside entertainment facilities. It offers a wide selection of books, CDs, DVDs, and video games, as well as a café and event space.
