【Driving Route】Drive along the coast from Kitauura in Ibaraki Prefecture to Kashima! A torii gate on the water, beautiful coastline, and Jimny

Touring the famous spots along the coastline from the lake "Kitaura," located next to Kasumigaura in Ibaraki Prefecture. The route is packed with abundant nature and attractions, making it a highlight. This is a unique route in Ibaraki where you can explore both the lake and the sea in a short time, resulting in a fun drive.

From Kitapura, driving along the Pacific coast to Otake Coast

A route that runs from Kitapura along the Pacific coast, aiming for Otake Coast between Kashima City and Hokota City. It's a luxurious drive unique to Ibaraki, where you can enjoy both the lake and the sea in a short time, surrounded by abundant nature.

The two torii gates of Kashima Shrine are check points

On a clear day, we first headed toward the starting point on the waters of Kitapura, aiming for the first torii gate of Kashima Shrine. The Kashima Bridge has lakesides spreading out on both sides, creating a very beautiful landscape. This drive in Ibaraki already feels great right from the start.

Arrived at the western first torii gate standing in Kitapura. This torii gate is one of the largest water torii gates in Japan and is actually one of four torii gates that are located in the east, west, south, and north, centered around Kashima Shrine. The contrast of the red torii gate against the bright blue sky is beautiful.

When you change your perspective, you can see that the torii gate stands firmly above the water. Also, compared to Kasumigaura on the map, Kitauwa seems small, but when you actually visit, it is very large.

By the way, there are many sightseeing spots in this area within a narrow range, and no matter how much time you have, it won't be enough.

As I drove towards the coast, I came across a stadium. The J-League started during my childhood as a soccer boy, and I have the image of the Kashima Antlers, led by Zico, being a strong team. While reminiscing about my childhood memories, the car progresses towards the next torii gate.

We arrived at the eastern Ichinotori in Akashi Coast. This wooden torii gate towering against the sea is also popular as a spot for the first sunrise of the year. Additionally, the coastline in this area has become a popular surf spot, and we were able to see many surfers on this day.

Even though we are driving along the coast, geographically it seems difficult to drive while seeing the sea. I want to somehow capture a shot of the Jimny with the coast, so I move towards the next spot.

We arrived at the hidden beach, Otake Coast, with no tourists around.

I arrived at Ohtake Coast in Hokota City from Kashima City. Here, there are not only surfers but also many anglers. Perhaps because the swimming season is over, there are almost no tourists, and the local atmosphere is very nice. I was able to take the long-awaited photos of the coast and my Jimny here.

I was satisfied this time as I could drive while looking at the sea, even just a little. Ibaraki has rich nature, and as I head north, I should be able to see many more beaches, so next time I want to explore the coastline more extensively.

While I was gazing at the coast, surf fishing with a rod cast toward the sea seemed enjoyable. I would like to camp and cook some grilled fish like flounder or whiting someday. As the season for snow is approaching, the relatively warm coastal area might be good for driving.

I will go find more attractive driving routes.

Coverage and text by Kazuma Tanaka

Search 2025 Latest Dashcam on Amazon