Mito Day (Mito no Hi)

What Is Mito Day?

Every year on March 10th, Japan observes "Mito Day" (Mito no Hi), named after Mito, the capital of Ibaraki Prefecture. The date comes from a number wordplay: "mi (3) - to (10)" sounds like "Mito." Who established the day is unclear, but various events are held in Mito around this date every year. It is a day to enjoy the city's history linked to Lord Mitsukuni Tokugawa (the beloved "Mito Komon"), its early-spring plum blossom festival, and its famous Mito natto.

A City Where History and Nature Live On

Many historic sites connected with the Mito Tokugawa family remain in the city.

• Kairakuen and its plum blossoms: Opened in 1842 by the 9th lord of the Mito domain, Tokugawa Nariaki, Kairakuen is one of Japan's three most celebrated gardens. It is home to about 3,000 plum trees of roughly 100 varieties, and it draws crowds during the Mito Plum Festival held from February into March.
• Kodokan, the hall of learning: Founded by Tokugawa Nariaki, Kodokan is known as Japan's largest domain school, where both scholarship and martial arts were taught.

Fascinating Facts About Mito

• Mitsukuni and ramen: Lord Mitsukuni Tokugawa was long said to be the first person in Japan to eat ramen, but in 2017 a Muromachi-period record more than 200 years older was found describing a noodle dish regarded as ramen's ancestor.
• The calm of Lake Senba: Next to Kairakuen, Lake Senba, about 3 km around, is a favorite spot for walks and jogging.
• The "three -ppoi" of Mito: A local saying describes Mito people as "ikari-ppoi" (quick to anger), "rikutsu-ppoi" (argumentative), and "hone-ppoi" (strong-willed) — known as the "three -ppoi of Mito."
• Modern architectural beauty: The 100-meter spiral tower of Art Tower Mito was built to commemorate the city's 100th anniversary and is a local landmark.
• The name "Mito" and Othello: The name "Mito" is said to come from the city's role as a river port ("water door") on the Naka River. Mito is also known as the birthplace of the board game Othello.
• A natto town: Natto production flourished from the Meiji era, and "Mito natto" became famous; a "Mito Natto Speed-Eating World Championship" has also been held around this time of year.

Walk Forward with the Scent of Early Spring and a Resolute Heart

Mito Day is a day to learn the strength symbolized by the plum blossom — "nobility" and "perseverance" — blooming beautifully after overcoming the harshness of winter. The breeze blowing through the historic streets carries hope for a new season. On March 10th, why not connect with Mito's culture and food, and reconfirm the inner strength within you? Taking steady steps forward, your life too can blossom with fragrant success.

Tips for Enjoying Mito Day

• Try Mito's famous "straw-wrapped natto"
• Look at photos of Kairakuen and Kodokan and reflect on traditional Japanese aesthetics and history
• Revisit the story of "Mito Komon" and think about justice and integrity through its satisfying tales of good triumphing over evil
• Enjoy Mito's signature sweets, "Yoshiwara Denchu" and "Mito no Ume," for an elegant, heartwarming tea time

Persistent Passion Calls In a Brilliant Spring

March 10th is a day when a "sticky, persistent" attitude — like natto itself — produces the best results. Just as plum blossoms quietly but powerfully announce the arrival of spring, your efforts are also having a wonderful effect on those around you. May today be a bright and clear day for you.