Mito/Hitachinaka

Exiting the south exit of Mito Station, you'll see neon-lit buildings. Along the streets where local office workers and tourists pass, signs for hostess bars and girls bars line up, showing a small but lively night face.

Mito is the capital of Ibaraki Prefecture, adjacent to Hitachinaka City. The nightlife centers are around Mito Station's south and north exits, and in front of Katsuta Station in Hitachinaka. The two areas are about 20 minutes apart by car, accessible by taxi or bus.

Around Mito Station, there are about 30 hostess bars and 20 girls bars. Prices are reasonable compared to Tokyo: hostess bars cost 5,000–8,000 yen per hour, girls bars 3,000–5,000 yen. There are also many snack bars, bustling with local regulars.

In front of Katsuta Station in Hitachinaka, there is a small entertainment district with about 10 hostess bars and snack bars. It's less flashy than Mito but has a homey atmosphere. A few concept cafes and lounges cater to younger crowds.

Access: From Tokyo, take the limited express Hitachi to Mito (about 1 hour 10 minutes). From Mito Station to Hitachinaka, it's 10 minutes on the Joban Line. For nightlife, Friday and Saturday nights are best. Many places are closed on Sundays.

When entering hostess bars or girls bars, English menus are rare, but a translation app on your smartphone works fine. First-timers should grab a map at the station information center.