Discover Moriya

In the municipality of Moriya, you can choose among different travel interests, including cultural history, nature trails, and parkland. When looking for hotels in Moriya, you can first consider whether you are more interested in a castle site, walking trails, or a park with views and irises. Each offers something different: at the castle, preserved traces in the terrain and historical interpretations shape the site; on the trails, their layout and use are relevant; and Shiki no Sato brings together views, play equipment, and irises.

Moriya Castle: Ruins and Traditions

The ruins of Moriya Castle are located in Honchō and have been developed as a castle park. Information boards and cleared vegetation reveal preserved dry moats—moats that are not filled with water. The castle is attributed to the Sōma clan; another tradition identifies it as the residence of Taira no Masakado.

On November 10, 2024, a wooden boardwalk approximately 320 meters long was completed in the lower section of the wetland course, directly connecting the existing boardwalk with the ruins of Moriya Castle.

Nature Trails: Course Types and Use

The Moriya Bird Path is 4.8 kilometers long in total and includes five forest courses on dirt paths and one wetland course on a wooden boardwalk. The north entrance is about a 15-minute walk from the Yasaka exit of Moriya Station. This walking time is an estimate; route conditions may affect it, and the route may change over time. Check both before setting out. The path passes through nature and invites you to take in bird calls and Moriya’s natural surroundings.

Another option is Kōfuku no Michi, which runs from Minami-Moriya Station to Matsugaoka and is a little over 2 kilometers long. It is reserved exclusively for pedestrians and bicycles; cars do not use it. It is suitable for jogging, walking dogs, and morning walks. The path is also considered safe for young children when accompanied. The distances can be compared directly: the Bird Path is 4.8 kilometers long in total, while Kōfuku no Michi is a little over 2 kilometers. The trails also differ in course types, surfaces, and usage restrictions.

Views and Blooms at Shiki no Sato Park

Near the middle of the pond at Shiki no Sato Park is a lookout point with a good view of the park. Children’s play equipment includes a slide and swings, among other things. About 38,800 Hanashōbu and Ayame irises also grow there. Blooming is seasonal and can vary. If you are planning a visit to see the irises, check their current bloom status beforehand.

Event in Moriya

Moriya City’s commercial festival, “きらめき守谷夢彩都フェスタ,” features Yosakoi Sōran dancing and other performances. Dates and program details are subject to change; check the latest information if you would like to include the festival in your travel plans.

Discover more travel destinations: Koga, Shimotsuma, Bandō, Mito, Naka, Toride, Miho, Hokota

For the broader travel overview: Ibaraki Prefecture.