English / 英語
IBARAKI,
a Feast of Food & Culture
Ibaraki
Ibaraki,
the secret to Japan’s exquisite gourmet
Even though not many people are familiar with
The secret to Japan’s large, beautiful and tasty
Ibaraki Prefecture, countless people around the
crops is the picturesque environment and the
world know and love Japanese cuisine. At its
love that the farmers put into their work. Explore
essence, Japanese cuisine brings out the inherent
Ibaraki’s bountiful mountains, forests and waters
flavors of its ingredients which is why the quality
and meet the people who are behind the flavors
of each ingredient is crucial. Ibaraki Prefecture is
of Japan.
one of the top prefectures for natural produce,
Traveling in Ibaraki is not just sightseeing.
making it a backbone working behind the scenes
It is a journey to uncover the secrets of Japan’s
of Japanese cuisine.
flavors.
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07 - 10
Traverse through the Pacific coast by local trains and discover Ibraraki's gourmet foods Indulge in the history, crafts and delicious food of Ibaraki
Japan
Experience traditional farm villages at the base of Mt. Tsukuba, the symbol of Ibaraki
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Special Products
20 Accomodations / Halal in Ibaraki
22 Isohara Sta. 33 Hitachiota Sta. 44 Hitachi Sta.
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11 11 Koga Sta. 12 12 Shimotsuma Sta.
Ibaraki Airport
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13 13 Ishioka Sta.
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16 Kasumigaura
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77 Katsuta Sta. 99 Shimodate Sta.
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Mt. Tsukuba
66 Mito Sta. 88 Yuki Sta.
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Ibaraki
17, 1 8 Sightseeing and farming activities. The Japanese countryside is within reach of Narita Airport 19
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55 Kasama Sta.
1 1 , 12 Valleys, waterfalls, protected secrets and bounty from the mountains 13 - 16
11 Hitachi-Daigo Sta.
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15 15 Tsukuba Sta.
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16 16 Tsuchiura Sta. 17 17 Taiyo Sta. 18 18 Kashima Jingu Sta. 19 19 Ryugasaki Sta. 20 20 Oyama Sta.
Tokyo JR Mito Line JR Joban Line Joso Line JR Suigun Line
21 21 Tomobe Sta.
Narita Airport Minato Line JR Narita Line Ryugasaki Line Oarai Kashima Line
22 22 Ushiku Sta. Tsukuba Express JR Tohoku Main Line
Photo by Etsuro Takihara
Traverse through the Pacific coast by local trains and discover Ibaraki's gourmet foods Traverse Ibaraki's Pacific Coast Kashima Rinkai Railway is a local line connecting Mito City and Kashima City along the Pacific coast of Ibaraki. The southern section of the railway line runs parallel to the long and narrow Lake Kitaura, which provides an important habitat to a variety of species.
Day 1
A Theme Park with Agricultural Experiences for All Ages A closed-down primary school is reborn as an agriculture theme park where exhibitions and activities revolve around sweet potatoes. While Japanese sweet potatoes may not attract much attention compared to fancy fruits such as strawberries and melons, paying a visit to Namegata Farmers Village will change your perception of sweet potatoes as you learn the ins-and-outs of the vegetable in the yakiimo (baked sweet potato) factory museum. Best of all, admission into the museum includes a tasting of the best quality sweet potatoes either baked or fried with syrup.
Day 1
Itako Station
Namegata Itako Kashima Taiyo Fukasaku Taiyo Oarai Oarai Farmers Station Jingu Grand Station Farm Station fishing Station 40-min by bus Village 40-min by bus 25-min by train Shrine 25-min by train 10-min by taxi 10-min by taxi 40-min by train 10-min by bus harbor 5-min by taxi
Eat & Stay
An Ideal Accommodation : Superb Seaview and Seafood Situated right along the coast, Oarai Hotel offers accommodations with beautiful views of the ocean and Japanese cuisine made from local Ibaraki produce. If you visit during winter and early spring, don’t miss out on trying the anko (anglerfish) hotpot and watching the chef dismantle an anglerfish.
d Oarai Hotel
Hours: 10am – 6pm (varies by facilities), Closed Mon. Admission: free (800 yen admission fee for the Yakiimo Factory Museum) Address: 1561 Uzaki, Namegata-shi Access: 40-min from Itako Station (Oarai Kashima Line) by bus
One of Kanto's Three Great Shrines The oldest and one of the most venerable shrines in the Kanto region is the Kashima Jingu Grand Shrine, where the God of Thunder, Takemikazuchi-no-Okami, is enshrined and worshipped as the God of War. Walk through the beautiful tower gates and view Japan's oldest straight sword which is designated as a national cultural treasure.
Strawberries
Kaki (Persimmons)
Ibaraki's strawberry season lasts from November to May. Being unique to this p re fe c t u re , t h e " I b a ra Kiss" is characteristic of its longish, oval shape with a balance of acidity in the sweetness. They have a beautiful red glow and are very resilient, resulting in a bountiful harvest during winter.
Ibaraki boasts a variety of persimmons such as the large “Shimotsuma Tanasaibai Taishu”, which on average weigh an impressive 400 grams, and the “Fuyuu” persimmon from Ishioka-shi’s Yasato area, which have been presented to the Imperial Family for the past 60 years.
b The Kashima Jingu Grand Shrine
Satsuma-Imo (Sweet Potato)
Hours: 24hrs open througout the year Address: 2306-1 Kyuchu, Kashima-shi Access: 7-min from Kashima Jingu Station (JR Kashima Line & Oarai Kashima Line) on foot
Ibaraki prefecture produces the most sweet potatoes in all of Japan. The main hubs with the best conditions for cultivating this delicacy are Namegatashi, Hitachinaka-shi and Naka-shi. In addition, the farmers make special efforts to select the right soil and adopt advanced agricultural techniques - a true reflection of their professionalism. After the harvest, the sweet potatoes undergo a curing process which converts the starch into sugar, resulting in a moist and sweet pleasant taste.
Among the variety of fruits produced in Ibaraki, melons and strawberries are like the jewels in a crown. Here at Fukasaku Farm, melons and strawberries are carefully grown by dedicated farmers for guests to enjoy fruit picking, along with a great selection of cakes and sweets made with farm-grown melons and strawberries. In addition to “Farm Patisserie Le Fukasaku”, the farm operates “Farmkuchen Fukasaku”, which is the first farmer baumkuchen specialty shop in Japan.
c Fukasaku Farm Hours: 8:30am – 5:30pm Address: 361 Dainigorisawa, Hokota-shi Access: 10-min from Shin-Hokota Station (Oarai Kashima Line) by car 01
Price: from 11,880 yen per night including 2 meals
Address: 6881 Isohama-cho, Oarai-machi, Higashi-Ibaraki-gun Access: 5-min from Oarai Station (Oarai Kashima Line) by car
a Namegata Farmers Village
A perfect Duet of Melon and Strawberry
Oarai Hotel /Stay
Melons Known as the "Kingdom of Melons", Ibaraki tops the nation in both its melon cultivation area and volume of production. Hokota-shi and Kashima-shi are the two main production areas of Ibaraki, as the excellent irrigation systems and huge day-night temperature difference make them highly suitable for growing melons.
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Day 2 Day 2
Oarai Hotel
Japan's Most Beautiful Plum Garden This spot with more than 3,000 plum trees, is famous as one of Japan’s top-three most beautiful gardens. It was completed in 1842 under the order of Nariaki Tokugawa, then ruler of the Mito Domain, and was meant for the public. Kairakuen Garden (Mito-shi)
Oarai Hitachi Katsuta Ogame Michi no Eki Ogame MITO City Mito Station Isosaki Seaside Station (JR Station (JR - Hitachi Fish Station (JR Sightseeing (JR Mito line) 7-min on foot Jinja 20-min by taxi Park 10-min by taxi Joban line) 40-min by train Joban line) 15-min by bus Market 15-min by bus Joban line) 20-min by train 5-20-min on foot Shrine
Oarai Oarai is Ibaraki’s representative fishing harbor with many different kinds of fresh seafood such as anko, often called the taste of winter. The city also boasts an aquarium that is considered top-class nationwide, pilgrimage spots for anime and popular surfing areas. Anko can also be enjoyed at markets near the harbor. For an even more memorable stay, get up early and take a short walk to the coast to admire the sun rising from the ocean with the Kamiiso Torii Gate of Isosaki Jinja Shrine in sight.
Seafood rice bowl
Pickled and Ready to Eat Plums are directly connected with Mito, as the city boasts one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens, featuring over 3,000 plum trees. All plums are pickled by hand using the same recipe since the Tokugawa Period. Taste a piece of history and bring home some delicious Mito plums or other pickled goods!
Anko (Anglerfish) The appearance of anko may not be attractive, but the meat is surprisingly sweet and full of collagen. During the period from N ove m b e r t o M a rc h , w h e n t h e s e a w a t e r temperature plunges, their livers enlarge and are exceptionally delicious.
g Nemoto Tsukemono
Age-old Tradition in a Bottle Stop by this shop for some of the most authentic umeshu available in Japan. Bessyun-kan started making umeshu in 1960, but has been brewing sake since 1850. Their extensive knowledge of shochu (one of the main ingredients of umeshu), and the local plums make for a delicious drink. They have a broad variety of umeshu catering to different tastes, from full-bodied to light and easy to drink.
Fish and seafood unloaded fresh from nearby fishing ports are available here at amazingly low prices. At Akatsu Fishing Center, choose your favorite toppings from a great selection of local produces to create your own seafood rice bowl, or try the authentic hamayaki-style seafood barbeque. When it comes to seafood, Ibaraki has something for everyone!
5779-24 Minato-cho, Hitachi-shi
Hours: 9am - 6pm (vary by shop)
Address:
Access: 12-min from Omika Station (JR Joban Line) by BRT bus
g Museum of Umeshu and Sake, Bessyun-kan Address: 327 Motoyoshida-cho, Mito-shi
A Must-See Spot for All Ages
Standing 60 meters tall, Oarai Marine Tower is the symbol of the town and offers panoramic views from the observatory deck. For anime fans on a pilgrimage, there is a café on the second floor that features the popular anime series “Girls und Panzer”.
AQUA WORLD
Mentai Park Oarai
AQUA WORLD Oarai, one of the top-class aquariums in Japan, houses not only sea creatures that live off the coast of Ibaraki, but also marine animals inhibit seas across the world.
The giant object on the roof might make you wonder! Mentaiko is a popular Japanese side dish made with seasoned pollock roe. After observing the mentaikomaking process and sampling fresh mentaiko produced onsite, anyone may become a big fan of this gourmet red hot chili dish.
Ibaraki Prefectural Oarai Aquarium
Hours: 9:30am - 5pm (Mar. - Jul. 20 & Sep .- Oct.), 9:30am - 6pm (Jul. 21 - Aug.), 9:30am - 4:30pm (Nov. - Feb.),
Closed on Mon. from Nov. - Mar. 25, Jun. - Jul. 20 & Sep. Access: 15-min from Katsuta Station (JR Joban Line) by bus
Access: 20-min from Mito Station (JR Joban Line & JR Suigun Line) on foot
About 120 years ago, the ume youkan (plum jelly) made its first appearance in Mito. During that time, the snack was considered modern and only consumed by the wealthy. Ikuma sells this traditional sweet and many more ume delicacies in their lovely shop, which has been in Mito since 1890.
Oarai Marine Tower
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Hours: 9:30am - 4:30pm (Open daily from Feb. - Mar.), Closed Mon.
Discover the Sweetness of Plums
Be captivated by the gorgeous sea of blue nemophila in spring and red kochia bushes in autumn at this popular hill on the seaside, which attracts throngs of visitors all year round. Also, check out the amusement park with over 25 attractions, walk through Dune Garden or even rent a bike to explore this huge park, spanning across 350 hectares.
f Hitachi Seaside Park
Address: 1800 Watari-cho, Mito-shi
Access: 11-min from Mito Station (JR Joban Line & JR Suigun Line) by car
Limitless Ways to Feast on Seafood
e Michi no Eki - Hitachi Fish Market
Hours: 9am – 5pm, Closed on weekend
Admission: 410 yen
Address: 605-4 Onuma, Mawatari-aza, Hitachinaka-shi
g Ikuma Sohonke
Hours: 10am - 6pm
Address: 3-3-48 Minami-machi, Mito-shi
Access: 13-min from Mito Station (JR Joban Line & JR Suigun Line) on foot
A Japanese Staple A staple of the Japanese kitchen, natto is made from fermented soybeans, which pack a lot of vitamins and have health-improving properties. Mito’s natto is generally made from small soybeans as opposed to larger ones. This difference has made the natto made in Mito quite famous and now Ibaraki is the top producer of natto in Japan. Daruma Foods Corporation has been making natto since 1948, and continues to offer the original flavor.
g DARUMA FOODS CORPORATION Hours: 9am - 5pm Address: 1-7-8 Yanagi-machi, Mito-shi Access: 5-min from Mito Station (JR Joban Line & JR Suigun Line) by car
More to discover!
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Hokota A Taste of Sweet Melons
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Blessed with an ideal climate and high-nutrient soil, Ibaraki produces the nation's highest number of melons and boasts the highest quality among Japanese melons. Pick your own, enjoy them on the spot and taste some of the country’s best fruit at Melon-no-Mori. Melons aren't just for the rich!
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Hours: 9am – 6pm (May – early Jul. & Sep. – Oct.) Address: 1623-1 Anbo, Hokota-shi Access: 5-min from Shin-Hokota Station (Oarai Kashima Line) by car
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Hitachi Seaside Dining with a View
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Dine and Shop with Gorgeous Ocean Views Situated at a great location to view the Pacific Ocean, Kashimanada Seaside Park has a market selling local seafood and farm produce, as well as a restaurant serving unique shijimi (freshwater clams) ramen. Using the freshest catch of shijimi from Lake Hinuma, this ramen is a must-try, as it can only be found in Ibaraki, which boasts the largest hauls of shijimi in Japan.
Hours: 9am – 6pm, Closed Wed. (market and restaurant)
Access: 10-min from
Shin-Hokota Station (Oarai Kashima Line) by car
Hitachi
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j Mizukinosho
Hours: 10am – 6pm, Closed Thu. Address: 1-12-16 Mizuki-cho, Hitachi-shi Access: 15-min from Omika Station (JR Joban Line) on foot
Daimaru-ya is a well-known local producer of hoshiimo (dried sweet potatoes), with the tamayutaka breed being the most famous because its high water content makes it softer and sweeter than the rest. High in nutrition and without any added preservatives, hoshiimo makes an ideal healthy snack for the entire family.
Oarai
Oarai
Japan's first ume (plum) cafe is opened by Yoshida-ya, a dried pickles shop established in 1830 and famous for umeboshi (sour pickled plum, usually eaten with cooked rice). From ochazuke to roll cake, enjoy all kinds of food made with ume and shop for ume souvenirs before heading home.
After visiting the Isosaki Shrine in Oarai, make a detour to Oarai Berry's where you can hunt for some sweet and juicy strawberries. The strawberries grown here are typically petite in size, with a pleasant balance between sweetness and acidity. Strawberry jams, cupcakes, cookies and more are also available here.
Enjoy Strawberry Picking in Ibaraki
m Oarai Berry`s
Hours: 7am – 10pm Address: 1-3-20 Asahi-cho, Hitachi-shi Access: 1-min from Hitachi Station (JR Joban Line) on foot
JR Mito Line
Minato Line
JR Joban Line
Hours: 9am – 4pm (Jan. – May) Address: 2054 Kamiyama-cho, Oarai-machi, Higashiibaraki-gun Access: 20-min from Oarai Station (Oarai Kashima Line) on foot
Union of Art and Nature
Oarai Kashima Line
These beautiful wooden crafts bring a piece of Ibaraki’s nature into your home. Craftsmen turn Japanese wood into everyday objects of art. Join one of the many wood crafting workshops and add your own creative touch under the guidance of professionals.
JR Suigun Line
o Tanatsuru Kobo
Takahagi-shi
Hours: 10am – 6pm
Eat and Shop for Fresh Seafood At Yousolo Wholesale Market, visitors can directly purchase processed fish products and fresh seafood caught in the waters off Otsu Port in northern Ibaraki. They can also be enjoyed fresh at reasonable prices at the canteen next door. In addition, the exhibition hall offers an interesting collection of local fishery tools and objects.
q Yousolo Wholesale Market
Takahagi
Oarai Sta. Shin-Hokota Sta. Taiyo Sta. Kashima Jingu Sta. Tomobe Sta.
A Healthy and Sweet Snack for All
Fermented food such as miso has played an essential role in Japanese food culture. Mizukinosho is a miso specialty shop that has breathed new life into the Japanese culinary staple by marrying miso with sweets and cookies. Enjoy a variety of miso sweets at the café or bring home some freeze-dried miso soup as souvenirs.
Hours: 10am – 6pm, Closed Wed. Address: 624 Isohama-cho, Oaraimachi, Higashiibaraki-gun Access: 20-min from Oarai Station (Oarai Kashima Line) on foot
Isohara Sta. Hitachiota Sta. Hitachi Sta. Mito Sta. Katsuta Sta.
Hitachi-naka
When Miso Meets sweets
First Plum Cafe in Japan
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i Kashimanada Seaside Park Address: 390 Otake, Hokota-shi
n Sea Birds Cafe 19 18
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Kitaibaraki
Whether you're grabbing a quick coffee, or having lunch or dinner, Sea Birds Cafe is the place to go, as its floor-to-ceiling windows provide breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. It received the Good Design Award in 2012 and you feel as if you were dining in the air right above the ocean.
Ibaraki Airport
Hokota
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Hours: 9am – 5pm, Closed Wed. Address: 789-2 Niida, Sekinami-cho, Kitaibaraki-shi Access: 5-min from Otsuko Station (JR Joban Line) by car
Address: 189-3 Arakawa,
Access: 5-min from Takahagi Station (JR Joban Line) by car
Takahagi The taste of "umami"
k Daimaru-ya
Hours: 10am – 5pm (Mon. – Sat.) / 9am – 5pm (Sun.) Address: 1838 Shaka-machi, Hitachinaka-shi Access: 3-min from Nakaminato Station (Hitachinaka Seaside Railway) on foot
Miso is a thick paste made by fermenting soybeans and is the iconic “umami” flavor of Japan. Tatsugo started making miso more than 150 years ago in a traditional house surrounded by a beautiful garden. You can take a guided tour of the miso production process and even try making some yourself.
p Tatsugo Miso
Hours: 8am – 5pm
r Izura Rokkakudo A symbol of Japan's Modern Cultural Heritage
Admission: free, but a reservation
is required. Address: 75 Kamitetsuna, Takahagi-shi Takahagi Station (JR Joban Line) by car
Access: 15-min from
Overlooking the sea along the Izura coast in Kitaibaraki is Rokkakudo, a hexagonal wooden building designed in 1905 by philosopher and artist Tenshin Okakura as a place for deep contemplation. It was rebuilt and reopened in 2012, after the March 11, 2011 tsunami.
Naka
Over 190 Years of Brewing History
Seldom do you have a chance to taste Japanese sake and Japanese craft beer at a single place, which is why Kiuchi Brewery is worth a visit for anyone interested in Japanese brewing culture. Established in 1823 as a sake producer, the brewery is known not only for its Kikusakari line of sake, but also enjoys worldwide reputation with its award-winning Hitachino Nest Beer. Here you can learn the story behind the historic brewer by joining a guided brewery tour, or simply unwind in the atmospheric tasting bar for a sake and beer adventure, where every sip is a revelation.
s Kiuchi Brewery
Hours: 9am - 7pm (Mon - Fri), 9am - 6:30pm (Sat & Sun). Brewery tours available 9am – 5pm (Mon. - Sat.). (Reservation required) Address: 1257 Kounosu , Naka-shi Access: 5-min from Hitachi-Kounosu Station (JR Suigun Line) on foot
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Indulge in the history, crafts and delicious food of Ibaraki
JR Mito Line JR Joban Line
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Joso Line JR Tohoku Main Line Minato Line Oarai Kashima Line
Ibaraki not only has agricultural products but also produces typical Japanese traditional
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crafts. Just like they put love and care into their produce, the people of Ibaraki spare no effort
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to make fabric and ceramics in the traditional way. When you walk through the cities filled with historical buildings you will encounter traditional crafts unique to Ibaraki Prefecture.
Ibaraki's North: The Hub for Soba Noodles
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The type of buckwheat used to make this soba has a unique and refined taste that can’t be found anywhere else. Besides being delicious, soba flowers are beautiful to behold in summer. The buckwheat gets harvested in fall, making it the best season to enjoy soba.
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Hitachi Sta. Kasama Sta. Mito Sta. Katsuta Sta. Yuki Sta. Shimodate Sta. Oarai Sta. Koga Sta. Shimotsuma Sta. Ishioka Sta. Shin-Hokota Sta. Tsukuba Sta. Tsuchiura Sta. Taiyo Sta. Oyama Sta. Tomobe Sta.
d Ibaraki’s specialty: Soba
Koga City b Farm to Table At Mori Farm they grow rice, vegetables and soba using organic methods. The food prepared at “Yururi no Mori” uses only the freshest ingredients grown on the premises. Enjoy the seasonal cuisine while gazing at the idyllic Japanese countryside. Try your hand at one of the many agricultural experiences, such as rice planting, soba noodle making, potato digging or flower picking. Hours: 9am - 6pm (Restaurant 11am - 4pm), (Closed on Thursday) Yururi no Mori & Mori Farm Address: 1224-2 Kamikatata, Koga-shi Access: 15 min from Nogi Station (JR Tohoku Main Line) by car
Take a stroll through old streets lined by old walled samurai residences. Get lost on the winding roads and admire the small gardens and traditional houses. Stop for a visit at the Takami Senseki Memorial Museum, a top ranking official of the Koga samurai domain invested in Western studies.
The Best Silk in Japan The Yuki Tsumugi fabric is known as the best silk in all of Japan and is even listed as a UNESCO Cultural Property. Soft to the touch and warm during colder seasons, the kimono woven from this fabric are said to adapt to their owners and has reached its final form after three generations. The delicate process can be done only by hand, as the silk is carefully spun into threads and the patterns are dyed before the weaving process begins. Every piece of Yuki Tsumugi is a product of true craftsmanship.
The owner of Kashikian has been making soba from scratch for 40 years while his wife prepares delicious dishes in the kitchen. This teamwork shows in the quality and beautiful presentation of the soba. A highlight of the restaurant is the Japanese-style garden with beautiful colors every season. Eat a leisurely lunch while relaxing in the garden with a cup of sake.
j Kasama Inari Jinja With a history dating back more than 1,300 years, this Kasama Inari Jinja, dedicated to Inari, stands firm in Kasama city. Inari is the main kami (deity) for harvest with foxes as messengers, and you can find these cute critters as statues or souvenirs all over the shrine grounds.
Soba Dokoro Kashikian Hours: 11:30am - 2pm (Closed Mon. Tue.) Address: 542 Otsu, Chikusei-shi Access: 11-min from Shimodate Station (JR Mito Line) on foot
q Delicious Tofu Pouches Inari sushi is rice stuffed in aburaage (fried tofu skin) pouches and is said to be favored by foxes, Inari's messengers. Because Kasama Inari Jinja is dedicated to Inari, many inari sushi shops can be found in the direct vicinity of the shrine but also in all parts of Kasama. Feel free to try all the different varieties. Inari Kobo ISAGO
Kasama-shi
Hours: 11am - 6:30pm Address: 4-5-45 Higashidaira, Access: 11-min from Shimodate Station (JR Mito Line) on foot
l Kuri Mont Blanc Try the delicious kuri (chestnut) mont blanc at Cafe Rounge. Situated on the same grounds as Kasama Craft Hills, this cafe serves cakes right from Gruyeres, a famous patisserie in front of Kasama Station. The head chef took inspiration from Kasama’s famous chestnuts to make this mont blanc with chestnut cream and a candied chestnut in the center.
l Crafthills Kasama g Yuki Tsumugi Museum
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Get a closer look at the famous yuki tsumugi in this museum. Discover the history of silk, admire original kimono and see why this piece of art is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage. After visiting the museum and gift shop, why not stop by the nearby café for lunch or tea with some traditional Japanese sweets?
Tsumugi no Yakata Gallery & Café Ichi no Kura Hours: 9:30am - 5pm (Café 10am - 6pm), Closed Tue. Admission: free Address: 12-2 Yuki , Yuki-shi Access: 16-min from Yuki Station (JR Mito Line) on foot
Kasama is famous for pottery and the craft dates back to the 18th century. Traditional techniques are still used today and you can learn them at any of the pottery classes at Kasama Craft Hills. Besides making your own pottery, you can purchase creations by some in-house craftsmen, including both old and new talent. Don’t forget to visit the museum to see some truly unique pieces. The outdoor museum park surrounding the area is beautiful, featuring stone statues and other objects. Hours: 10am - 5pm, Closed Mon. Crafthills Kasama Address: 2388-1 Kasama, Kasama-shi Access: 15-min from Kasama station(JR Mito line) by bus
Cross-section of a homemade Kuri Mont Blanc
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f Clear Edo Period
Sake This sake store was founded in Yuki at the end of the Edo Period. In order to develop a unique taste for their special sake, rice from all over Japan is used. The brewery is characterized by its use of traditional methods, and small groups of guests (ten or less) are welcome for a tasting and a visit (for a small fee). Buyu
Hours: 9am – 5pm, Closed Sat. & Sun. / May - Aug. only Sun. Address: 144 Yuki, Yuki-shi Access: 10-min from JR Yuki Station (JR Mito Line) on foot
a Fresh from the Farm
Five generations of tea masters bring you the best tea and tea-inspired food to awaken all five senses. Try the omotenashi course that changes every season, or their famous matcha anmitsu, which has been a success since 1874. If you don’t have the time for a gourmet tea meal, you can also buy many of their tea desserts in the shop.
Celebrating the bountiful wealth of the land is characteristic of Ibaraki Prefecture. Michi no Eki Koga gathers fresh produce from selected fields and serves them as souvenirs and at their food court to savor on the spot. Here you can find everything from fruit and vegetables to bread and tea.
Chataro’s Café Yamano
Hours: 9am – 8pm Address: 2623 Owada, Koga-shi Station (JR Tohoku Main Line) by car
o Soba and Crafts
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In the lush nature of Ibaraki Prefecture you can find Kirakuan, a quiet retreat where you can learn the art of soba noodles and pottery. After making your own noodles, you can take them home or eat them at the restaurant. If you’re not interested in making your own soba, you can try freshly-made noodles at the restaurant.
Yoshino farm is very proud of its vegetables, especially its unique breed of tomato. Nicknamed Kan-chan, this tomato has a sweet taste and can be grown all year long due to its seasonal insensitivity. Enjoy Yoshino’s produce at the veggie café, where all ingredients are from local soil.
Kirakuan
Yoshino Farm’s Market & Veggie Café
Hours: 10am – 5pm Closed Wed. Address: 1144 Sakai-machi, Sashima-gun Access: 36min from Tobu-Dobutsu-Koen Station (Tobu Skytree Line, Tobu Nikko Line, Tobu Isesaki Line) by bus
Kuri (Chestnuts) Ibaraki produces the most chestnuts of any prefecture in Japan. In particular, the Kasama area is well known for its delicious chestnuts. T h e s e d e l i c i o u s f r u i t s of fall can be enjoyed roasted, but are also used to make a variety of sweets such as cakes and traditional Japanese confectionery. During harvest season, there are various chestnut picking events in the Kasama area.
c Matcha Heaven
Access: 20-min from Koga
n Ibaraki Chestnut Producer Odakishouten sells various types of chestnuts such as processed, unprocessed and chestnut snacks to producers. For chestnut lovers, they also sell some unique products such as "Iwama chestnut ice cream", "Iwama chestnut gyu" (a type of souffle), sweet bean soup with chestnut and "kuriya kinton" (a type of chestnut paste dessert). There truly are endless delicious possibilities to bring out the ultimate flavor of chestnuts. Iwama no Kuri-ya Odakishouten
Hours: 9am – 5pm Address: 185-1 Yoshioka, Kasama-shi from Iwama Station (JR Joban Line) on foot
Access: 15-min
Hours: 10am – 5pm Address: 1405 Hatori, Makabe-cho, Sakuragawa-shi Access: 25-min from Niihari Station (JR Mito Line) by car
m Ibaraki's Master Potter
e Try your Hands at Luxury
Itaya Hazan was born in 1872 and left his artistic mark on the world of pottery. His works are recognized as masterpieces, using a special type of glaze only he could produce. He became the first potter to be instated in the Order of Culture, and you can admire his craftsmanship at the Hazan Itaya Memorial Hall.
The ways of the luxurious Yuki Tsumugi fabric are yours to learn at Tsumugi no Sato. Weave your own coaster, placemat or shawl on the traditional looms and try your hand at indigo-dyeing. Visit the showroom to see some antique creations, and shop for original Yuki Tsumugi items at the shop.
Hazan Itaya Memorial Hall
Tsumugi no Sato
Hours: 10am - 6pm (last entry at 5:30pm) Admission: 200 yen Address: 866-1 Ko, Chikusei-shi Access: 10-min from Shimodate Station (JR Mito Line) on foot
Michi no Eki-Makuraga no Sato Koga
Hours: 9:30am - 5pm (Mon. - Fri. ),10am - 5pm ( Sat & Sun), Closed national holidays and the 1st Sun of the month. Address: 2515 Yuki, Yuki-shi Access: 20-min from Yuki Station (JR Mito Line) on foot
Vegetables right at your Table
Hours: 9am – 7pm (Market), 2:30pm - 5pm (Cafe) Address: 1270-1107 Tamado, Chikusei-shi Access: 15-min from Otago Station (Kanto Railway Joso Line) on foot
p Escape from City Life For city dwellers who would like to experience
farm life, Kasama Klein Garten provides a relaxing
second home. Here you can enjoy seasonal events,
such as fruit picking and farming workshops. Be sure to try the fresh soba and udon served at the nearby restaurant, Sobadokoro.
Kasama Klein Garten
Hours: 11am – 4pm Address: 4258 Motodo, Kasama-shi Access: 11-min from Kasama Station (JR Mito Line) by car
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Valleys, waterfalls, protected secrets and bounty from the mountains Northern Ibaraki is protected by mountains. Here you can enjoy different landscapes from those in the rest of the prefecture, such as remarkable rock formations, rivers streaming between cliffs, magnificent waterfalls and other marvels of natural beauty. Many of the foods enjoyed during the old days by people living in the mountains are now considered Japanese soul foods.
k Blend of Local Beans and Western Tastes The Hitachi Oguro is a special type of bean grown in Ibaraki. It is highly nutritious and works deliciously well in both Japanese and Western confections. You can enjoy the refined harmony of flavors and textures in the Hitachi Oguro confections offered in Maroudo, and even see how they are being made. Maroudo
Hours: 9am – 6:30pm (Factory 9am – 3pm) Admission: free Address: 728 Ikeda, Daigo-machi, Kuji-gun Access: 5-min from Hitachi-Daigo Station (JR Suigun Line) by car
c Dreamily Nostalgic Cafe
a Apple Paradise
An old, traditional Japanese house repurposed as a fashionably retro eatery, daigo cafe is gaining popularity as the new art and social hub of the local community. Try their poetically named dessert, Yumemiru Ringo (Dreaming Apple), made from a fine balance of locally grown apples and sweet potatos with a hint of cream cheese.
For over 70 years, Kuroda Ringo-en has provided delicious, crisp apples for picking. The owner’s love and care is reflected in the big and beautiful apples grown on his trees. Come and visit during apple season to see them for yourself and fill your basket. Don’t forget to take home some apple juice or apple jam! daigo cafe Kuji-gun
Hours: 11am – 6pm, Closed Wed. Address: 688 Daigo, Daigo-machi, Access: 3-min from Hitachi-Daigo Station (JR Suigun Line) on foot
e Tea Lover’s Paradise Daigo Town is where a highly fragrant, deep-tasting tea called OkuKuji Cha is made. This park has a vast tea field where you can go tea picking from late May to early June. They also have other enjoyable workshops, such as temomi (tea hand-rolling), matcha tea ceremonies and sencha brewing. Oku-Kuji Cha no Sato Park
Hours: 9am – 5pm, Closed Wed. Admission: free Address: 1920 Sanuki, Daigo-machi, Kuji-gun Access: 15-min from HitachiDaigo Station (JR Suigun Line) by car
b The Taste of Kanasago Kuroda Ringo-en Hours: 9am – 5pm (Sep. - Dec 10.) Admission: 350 yen (adults) / 250 yen (children) for apple picking. Address: 4445 Konamase, Daigo-machi, Kuji-gun Access: 14-min from Fukuroda Station (JR Suigun Line) by car
h Tree-to-Oven Apple Pie Located a short drive away from Fukuroda Falls, Daigo-machi is well-known for its delicious apple pie. Made from apples picked fresh from the tree, the pie is baked to fluffy perfection with just the right amount of cinnamon, and the apples are kept juicy. Honen Mansaku’s apple pies are famous in this top-class category of baked sweets. Be sure to grab them while they're in stock! Honen Mansaku
Hours: 8am - until the pies are sold out Address: 169-3 Fukuroda, Daigo-machi Access: 6-min from Fukuroda Station (JR Suigun Line) by car
Starting as a soba workshop center, this restaurant quickly garnered fame for its exquisite tasting soba. The secret is in its freshness, with a limited amount of noodles made every day by hand. The interior is traditional, with a "homy" atmosphere. Nishikanasa Sobanosato & Sobakoubou Hours: 10am - 3pm, Closed Wed. /Sep. – Oct. only Sat. & Sun. Address: 2408 Akatsuchicho, Hitachiota-shi Access: 20-min from Hitachi-Ota Station (JR Suigun Line) by car
f Yuba Specialty Shop Oku-Kuji Yuba no Sato takes pride in its yuba (dried bean curd). Considered a delicacy by many people, the yuba here is made using high-quality soybeans produced in Ibaraki, and comes in different varieties and textures. You can even make a reservation to experience yuba-making youself. Oku-Kuji Yuba no Sato
Hours: 10am – 5pm, Closed Tue. Address: 734 Hanawa , Daigo-machi, Kuji-gun Access: 10-min from Hitachi-Daigo Station (JR Suigun Line) by car
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Yana is a traditional Japanese method of catching fish by lining the river with wood or bamboo. Here, using the yana that is specially set up on the Kuji River for visitors, you can try catching river fish by hand. In the wading area, you can even catch your own ayu (sweetfish), have it grilled shioyaki-style (grilled with salt), and eat it right away!
Blessed with an abundance of clear running water and kozo (paper mulberry), the plant used in making washi (Japanese paper), Nishinouchi area has been renowned for paper-making since the Edo Period. Visit this museum to see traditional paper-making tools and a variety of washi, or try creating your own paper art using traditional techniques.
Oku-Kuji Daigo Kanko Yana
Kami no Sato Washi Museum
d Hand-Caught, Fresh River Fish
Hours: 10am – 4pm (open daily between Apr. 29 – May 7 & Jul. 15 - Aug. 31 / open only on weekends from Jun. – Oct.) Address: 1899 Daigo, Daigo-machi, Kuji-gun Access: 13-min from Hitachi-Daigo Station (JR Suigun Line) on foot
Hours: 9am – 5pm, Closed Wed. Admission: free Address: 90 Funyu, Hitachiomiya-shi Access: 5-min from Naka-Funyu Station (JR Suigun Line) on foot
g Fukuroda Falls
i Ryujin Big Suspension Bridge
N a m e d o n e o f t h e t h re e m o s t beautiful waterfalls in Japan, the view of Fukuroda Falls is pictureperfect throughout the year. This waterfall is not only beautiful as it eventually joins the Kuji River; it also creates a rich environment for river fish to thrive while providing mineralrich water to the farmlands.
Spanning a length of 375meters (longer than the height of Tokyo Tower), the Ryujin suspension bridge is a must-visi spot in Honshu for anyone who love amazing landscape. It is a popular destination for both bungee jumping and fall foliage viewing.
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Experience traditional farm villages at the base of Mt. Tsukuba, the symbol of Ibaraki Nashi (Pears)
For the people of Ibaraki, Mt. Tsukuba is like Mt. Fuji. Not only locals admire it from afar, but pilgrims also climb it for worship. The foot of the mountain is known as a blessed land of riches and appears in the book of songs written by “Man'yoshu” more than 1,000 years ago. e Mt. Tsukuba
I b a ra k i p re fe c t u re h a s b e e n growing pears since the Edo period, so it's no wonder people there have developed some of the best growing techniques. The main varieties in Ibaraki are called “Kosui” and “Hosui”. Passeddown methods to manipulate the pear trees result in a big fruit with a sweet and juicy crunch
Mt. Tsukuba (877 meters) consists of two peaks, Mt. Nyotai and Mt. Nantai.The slopes of Mt. Tsukuba house several interesting spots, including Tsukuba-san Shrine, one of the oldest and most sacred shrines in Japan. The Tsukubasan Cable Car connects Tsukuba-san Shrine and the top of Mt. Nantai. There is also a ropeway departing from Tsutsujigaoka directly to Mt. Nyotai, taking you over the hiking trails featuring breathtaking views of the Kanto plain.
k An Onsen with a View
Tsukuba-san Shrine
Address: 1 Tsukuba, Tsukuba-shi Access: 40-min from Tsukuba Station (Tsukuba Express Line) by bus
Yasato Onsen Yuri no Sato
Hours: 10am – 10pm, Closed 2nd & 4th Mon. of the month Admission: Mon. - Fri. 800 yen (adults), 400 yen (children) / weekend 1,000 yen (adults), 500 yen (children) Address: 1416 Obata, Ishioka-shi Access: 30 min from Ishioka station (JR Joban Line) by car
Miyoko no Shichimi Made from the dried skin of the Fukure mandarin oranges that grow at Mt. Tsukuba, then mixed with a blend of spices, this condiment is popular for its distinctive flavor, and goes well with anything, from pickles to udon and miso soup. Available in souvenir shops around Mt. Tsukuba.
Enjoy the scenery of mountains and trees from the open-air bath and finish with a sauna session. Yasato Onsen includes a fresh food market with local produce and a restaurant. During strawberry season, you can enjoy strawberry picking at a nearby farm.
m Grown with Love, Care and Effort
g Unique Rice Ice Cream The Hojo Fureai-kan holds events to promote interaction between residents and visitors. The old, beautiful building also serves as a shop selling locally produced goods. Try the famous Hojo Maisucream (rice ice-cream) made from Hojo grown rice. With a chewy texture and a mildly sweet flavor, it is one of the must-try treats of Ibaraki.
The pears at Adachi Orchard are the product of many years of carefully manipulating branches, producing only the juiciest and biggest of pears. Admire this technique yourself during fruit picking season or when visiting to buy pears to discover what this taste is all about. The main variety of Asian pears grown here are Hosui and Kosui. Adachi Orchard
Hours: depends on the season Address: 2836-2 Koya, Ishioka-shi Access: 23-min from Hatori Station (JR Joban Line) by car
Hojo Fureai-kan
Hours: 10am – 4pm, (Weekends and holidays only ) Address: 39 Hojo, Tsukuba-shi Access: 30-min from Tsukuba Station (Tsukuba Express Line) by bus
Fukure Mikan (Fukure Mandarin Orange) a Ibaraki Brings the Beef The best selection of Ibaraki’s Hitachi beef can be found at Hitachino. This cozy restaurant in the mountains serves a lovely blend between Western and Japanese cuisine in an architectural setting similar to Japan's World Heritage site "Shirakawa Go". Enjoy a variety of high-quality meat cooked right at your table, sukiyaki-or yakiniku-style, on a charcoal grill. Tsukuba Hitachino
Hours: 10:30am-8:30pm Address: 2103-5 Usui, Tsukuba-shi Access: 40-min from Tsukuba Station (Tsukuba Express Line) by car
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This special type of mandarin orange is smaller than the regular kind, but it does not lose in taste. They’re yellow, like lemons but have the same sweetness of a regular mikan and a hint of sourness that makes them unique. Harvested around the Tsukuba area, Fukure Mikan are quite a rare find.
b Farm and Table unite as One Toreta proves that a tight friendship between farmer and restaurant creates delicious results. The chef, who studied French and Japanese cooking, uses only seasonal ingredients from local farms to whip up his creations. Everything, right down to the condiments, is made here with ingredients from Ibaraki only. Try their delicious pork and seasonal salad before visiting the nearby Flower Park where you can admire different flowers every month. Yasato de Toreta Market & Restaurant
Hours: market 9am - 6pm, Closed Mon. / restaurant 11am - 5pm (Tue.-Fri.) & 11am - 8pm (Weekend), Closed Mon. Address: 200 Shimoaoyagi, Ishioka-shi Access: 25-min from Ishioka Station (JR Joban Line) by car
Ibaraki Flower Park
Hours: 9am - 5pm (Feb. - Nov.) / 9am - 4pm (Dec. - Jan.), Closed Mon. Admission: 740 yen adults , 370 yen children (Apr. - Nov.) / 370 yen adults, 190 yen children (Dec. - Mar. & Aug.) Address: 200 Shimoaoyagi, Ishioka-shi Access: 25-min from Ishioka Station (JR Joban Line) by car
Lake Kasumigaura Hobikisen sailboats were used in Kasumigaura during the Meiji Era (1868-1912) for fishing, supporting the livelihood of the people of the area. This traditional fishing method stopped in 1965, but it was then revived as a tourist attraction. Visitors can feel the wind on their faces as they sail the beautiful landscapes of Kasumigaura bay.
Tsuchiura City The old castle town of Tsuchiura is home to a group of old storehouses built during the end of the Edo Period (1603-1868) to house grains and other products. The four storehouses, named the Tsuchiura Machikado Kura Daitoku, have since been renovated and turned into a sightseeing information center and cafe, where tourists can rent bicycles and learn about the area.
j Authentic Satoyama Experience
i Fall Fruits Galore
This facility, which stopped being an elementary school over ten years ago, provides visitors with an opportunity to engage in activities related to rural life, such as harvesting local vegetables, fruit picking, and the building and conservation of thatched cottages, along with all sorts of other experiences related to living in nature.
Pears, grapes, chestnuts and persimmon are available in abundance at the Yasuda Orchard. Besides fruit picking, their barbeque events are also very popular. The orchard has a beautiful Japanese wall and traditional buildings to admire as well. Enjoy gathering your own harvest from the trees and see for yourself just how tasty Japanese fall food can be.
Asahi Satoyama Elementary School
Hours: 9am – 4pm, Closed Mon. Address: 630 Shibauchi, Ishioka-shi Access: 20-min from Ishioka Station (JR Joban Line) by car
Yasuda Orchard
Hours: 9am - 5pm (middle of Aug. - Nov.) Address: 708 Shimosaya, Kasumigaura-shi Access: 24-min from Tsuchiura Station (JR Joban Line) by bus
Renkon (Lotus Roots) This curious vegetable with holes is actually a water plant. Besides the holes looking nice on a plate, they are said to give you the opportunity to “look into the future” and are a staple during New Year’s. Whether it’s boiled or fried for tempura, renkon always has an enjoyable crunchy taste, similar to a potato. JR Joban Line
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Be surprised by the taste of renkon in Relish on Renkon the form of a sweet cookie. The shape is cute, like a cut renkon. If sweets are not your thing, try the Japanese-style curry with renkon. Besides being tasty, it is also known to be a very healthy vegetable.
l Tasty Renkon Ramen This Chinese food restaurant in Tsuchiura is famous for its renkon ramen, a noodle soup with deep fried lotus root, an important product harvested in the area that has come to define the local cuisine. Fukuraiken
Hours: 11am – 8pm Closed Sun. Address: 1-12-23 Chuo, Tsuchiura-shi Access: 11-min from Tsuchiura Station (JR Joban Line) on foot
h Exploration of the Universe
f Real Handmade Ham
Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) develops and operates Japan’s satellites, acquires data, provides astronauts training and conducts experiments and research. The Tsukuba Space Center offers tours of its facility and exhibitions for a better understanding of its work. At the exhibition hall "Space Dome", you can look at real rocket engines, satellite models and even a replica of the "KIBO", the Japanese Experiment Module for the International Space Station.
Tsukuba ham is a delicacy made with locally-produced pork. This delicious roast ham is made by pickling fresh raw meat in salt, then leaving it to cure for more than 20 days. After that, the ham is dried on an open charcoal fire and smoked with cherry tree firewood. Visitors to the shop (located in Tsukuba city) can buy products, visit the factory or even participate in a hammaking workshop (reservation required).
JAXA Tsukuba Space Center
Hours: 10am – 5pm Closed Mon., and can also be closed any other day due to irregular maintenance work Admission: free Address: 2-1-1 Sengen, Tsukuba-shi Access: 10-min from Tsukuba Station (Tsukuba Express Line) by car
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Tsukuba Ham Shop and Factory
Hours: 10am – 6pm, Closed Tue. Address: 383 Shimohiratsuka, Tsukuba-shi Access: 25-min from Kenkyugakuen Station (Tsukuba Express Line) on foot
n Japanese-Style Bakery and Cafe o The Ultimate Fruit-Picking Hub Created in 2004 to research and improve cultivation methods in the region as well as to promote the local products, this association is integrated with several fruit farms in the area which allow visitors to pick a great variety of fruits such as pears, grapes, persimmons and chestnuts. The plantations have rest areas as well as places to buy the locally-produced rice, and special delicacies such as chestnut and pear ice cream.
Located in a renovated storehouse, this cafe offers delicious, freshbaked bread and cakes made from scratch using natural yeast. Its famous Deli Plate Lunch is made using only locally-grown vegetables and fruits. Wa no Bakery & Cafe KURABIYORI
Hours: 10am – 6pm, Closed Mon. Address: 38-1 Konda , Tsukuba-shi Access: 15-min from Tsukuba Station (Tsukuba Express Line) by bus
Kasumigaura Leisure Noenkai (Farming Association)
Hours: 9am – 5pm (vary with the seasons) Address: 2060 Kamisaya, Kasumigaura-shi Access: 20-min from Tsuchiura Station (JR Joban Line) to Chiyoda area by car
d Local Beer and Fun Workshops
c Locally-Made Bread Beloved by the people of Ishioka, this bakery uses natural yeast to produce a delicious array of Japan’s bakery staples as well as special and unique breads using local vegetables and fruits. Pan Kobo Bread
Hours: 9am – 7:30pm Address: 2357-2 Kakioka, Ishioka-shi Access: 20-min from Ishioka Station (JR Joban Line) by bus
Created by municipal authorities in partnership with the agricultural community of Shimotsuma City to revitalize the area, Beerspark is a leisure center where you can enjoy three types of local beer, relax at the hot springs or have a barbecue. When in a group, you can participate in workshops to make ice-cream, sausages, cakes or pear jam. Beerspark Shimotsuma
Hours: 10am – 10pm, Closed 2nd Tue. of the month Workshop fee: 820 yen - 7,200 yen (reservation required) Address: 70-3 Nagatsuka, Shimotsuma-shi Access: 10-min from Shimotsuma Station (Kanto Railway Joso Line) by car
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-Sightseeing and farming activitiesThe Japanese countryside is within reach of Narita Airport
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Ibaraki Prefecture's southern region is located just a stone's throw away from Narita
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International Airport, which allows for a quick visit before heading to central Tokyo. It's
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the perfect stopover before or after a long flight, offering visitors the chance to admire
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breathtaking landscapes and buy specialty goods to take back home. This is the perfect
JR Mito St.
opportunity to experience the Japanese countryside in a short amount of time. a Back to Basics Get a taste of the real Japanese farming life while staying at a beautiful traditional home. Not only do travelers stay here, but wedding parties are attracted to the decor as well. Experience working on the field, hiking in the surrounding area and then drinking a nice cup of tea on the porch. Farming life can't get any better than this! Nogyo Taiken Minshuku "Hanbei"
(Agricultural Experience Lodge) Price: One night with meals 6,000 yen / one night without a meal 3,000 yen Address: 1705 Itabashi-machi, Ryugasakishi Access: 17 min from Ryugasaki Station (Kanto Railway Ryugasaki Line) by bus
f History and Wine
Mt. Tsukuba
for an Elegant Afternoon Located in a former winery built over a 100 years ago and resembling a fantastic French-style mansion, Chateau Kamiya is a leisure park where you can enjoy walking in the flower garden, and bamboo groves, as well as savoring delicious food with wine and craft beer. Visitors can stroll around the grape plantations, while admiring the flowers and bamboo. Chateau Kamiya has also a microbrewery where they produce excellent pilsners, and it houses a museum about the history of the place.
and softens down the longer it stays on the branch. Ibaraki has many blueberry farms where you can enjoy all-you-caneat picking events during its harvesting season from June to
Mitsukaido Asunaronosato Park
Hours: 8:30am – 5pm, Closed Mon. (Open on national holiday) Admission: 400 yen (adult and high school students) 200 yen (elementary and junior high school students) 100 yen (4 years old or older) Address: 310 Otsukato-machi, Jososhi Access: 20-min from Moriya Station (Tsukuba Express Line) by car
their vitamin content.
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Great Buddha
Fresher is Better
This 120-meter Buddha statue is registered in the Guinness World Records as the tallest bronze Buddhist statue in the world. It was built in 1993 and weighs over 4,000 tons. Go inside and admire the 3,400 gold statues on the third floor, or take the elevator up to the 85 meter high observation gallery and admire the breathtaking view of the surrounding area. On sunny days, you can see both Mt. Fuji and the Tokyo Skytree from the observation area.
Be greeted with warm food and a friendly smile. Tsukuba no Sato is a farm restaurant, meaning that all the ingredients used come from local farms. The concept aims to bring fresher ingredients to the table so farmers can let more people easily enjoy the taste of their harvest. The menu has a wide variety and you'll be satisfied with any dish of your choice. Farm Restaurant Shokuji Dokoro Tsukuba no Sato Hours: Hours: 11am - 2pm & 5pm - 9pm Address: 170 Handamachi , Ryugasaki-shi Access: 17-min from Ryugasaki Station (Kanto Railway Ryugasaki Line) by car
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a high sugar content at its peak
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Hours: 10am – 5pm (shops and restaurants close later) Admission: free Address: 3-20-1 Chuo, Ushiku-shi Access: 8-min from Ushiku Station (JR Joban Line) on foot
This small, delicious berry has
not only eat these berries for
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Chateau Kamiya
Blueberries
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g Idyllic Day on the Hill Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and seek refuge in this small farm that cultivates blueberries in a natural environment. Vi s i t o r s c a n s t ro l l a ro u n d t h e plantations and pick blueberries to enjoy at the site or purchase some to take back home. There is a small picnic kiosk where visitors can relax and enjoy the surrounding nature.
Surrounded by beautiful nature, this area provides visitors, in particular children of all ages, the opportunity to come into contact with plants and animals, as well as joining different workshops like digging for potatoes and sweet potatoes and making your own udon, soba, pizza, or mochi rice cake with local ingredients. The park even has a camp ground and sports facilities such as tennis courts and a pool; a cafeteria and dormitories.
August. The people of Ibaraki
Ibaraki Airport
Ami Premium Outlets ®
Hours: 10am – 8pm, Closed on the 3rd Thursday of February Address: 4-1-1 Yoshiwara, Ami-machi, Inashiki-gun Access: 20-min from Arakawaoki Station (JR Joban Line) by bus
Take a break from farms and orchards with this world-class shopping outlet in Ami-machi. This spot features renowned b r a n d s a n d o ff e r s v i s i t o r s a wide variety of fashion, cosmetics, sportswear, shoes and other products at affordable prices. It also provides a food court, a playground area, ATMs, lockers and everything else you might need to enjoy a full day of shopping.
Kana’s Blueberry Hill
Hours: 9am – 12:30pm (Jul. - Sep.) Address: 279-2 Jojo, Ami-machi, Inashiki gun Arakawaoki Station (JR Joban Line) by car
Access: 23-min from
h Treasure Trove of
Tomatoes and Produce A local vendor based in Moriya has been providing the freshest vegetables and fruits in the region for more than 40 years. The supplier is particularly famous for its wide variety of tomatoes, some of which have high sugar content and a beautiful marbling pattern visible when cut in half. The farm also sells juices and jams made from their fruits and vegetables. Kosuge Farm
Hours: 10:30am – 6pm, Closed Wed. Address: 1110-1 Oogashiwa, Moriya-shi Access: 15-min from Moriya Station (Tsukuba Express Line) on foot
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Special ProductS Bok-choy
This leafy vegetable has plenty of minerals, such as calcium and iron, as well as lots of vitamins like vitamin c and β-Carotene. In recent years, breeds are being especially cultivated to be consumed raw in salads.
Ibaraki has more delicious produce to discover than we could possibly highlight. Every season brings new flavors to the table and joy to the farmers. Be sure not to skip any of these on your gourmet tour.
Chinese Cabbage
This original type of soft Chinese cabbage, called naomi, and available only during autumn and winter, is characterized by its sweet, yellow marrow. In spring, the Chinese cabbage has become juicy, and is best served raw in salads.
Bell Peppers
Glossy, with a dark green color, these peppers have a soft flesh and a slightly bitter taste. Producers are particular about controlling plagues with their natural predators, not relying on chemical insecticides and using only organic fertilizers instead.
Accomodations While traveling in Ibaraki, take this opportunity to choose a type of accommodation that you can’t find anywhere else. Be it at the ocean, in the mountains or in picturesque towns, each location has its own charming hospitality.
Satoyama Hotel Tokiwaji is a perfect example of an accomodation in Ibaraki Feel one with nature as you experience the charms of farm life. This is more than just a hotel: It’s an opportunity to relax and enjoy quiet times with plenty of activities while surrounded by beautiful nature. After your outdoor experience, relax in the bath with an outdoor view or treat your taste buds to the delectable hotel cuisine.
Hozuki (ground cherry)
This orange fruit is delicately wrapped in leaves that look similar to traditional Japanese paper. Its taste can be described as sweet and sour at the same time, and it is commonly eaten "as is" or made into jam. This fruit is quite rare in Japan and is harvested in northern Ibaraki (Takahagi ) from August until November.
Nanakai No Sato Koshihikari rice
First-place winner at Japan's Best Rice Contest in Shizuoka in 2011, this brand of rice is cultivated in beautiful woodlands and prioritizes flavor over crop yields.
Lettuce
Lettuce grown in a huge crop gets the highest marks for freshness, flavor and quality. This lettuce has been praised for its pleasant crunch, its juiciness and its sweet flavor. It is refrigerated immediately after harvest to preserve its freshness.
Mito Plaza Hotel
Tsukubasan Edoya
2078-1 Senba-cho, Mito-shi, Ibaraki 310-0851
Tel: 029-305-8111
President Hotel Mito 2-2-2 Jonan, Mito-shi, Ibaraki 310-0803
Tel: 029-273-7711
Okura Frontier Hotel Tsukuba
It’s possible to eat these raw with some miso and, unlike common Japanese leeks, they are easy to digest and don’t have a strong salty flavor. The stem can be enjoyed in tempura or in raw spring rolls.
Even though it’s known as a crop plant from the Kyoto region, Ibaraki Prefecture is in fact Japan’s largest producer of mizuna. Because it’s harvested when the turnip is still young, its consistency is soft, making it easy to digest and thus perfect for salads.
With a vibrant poultry industry, Ibaraki Prefecture is Japan's number one producer of eggs. Tasty, fresh Ibaraki eggs are laid by healthy hens and are tremendously popular in the market.
Tel: 029-852-1112
Hotel Marroad Tsukuba 2-24 Johoku-machi, Tsuchiura-shi, Ibaraki 300-0042 Tel: 029-822-3000
Satoyama Hotel Tokiwaji 1800 Mashii-cho, Hitachiota-shi, Ibaraki 313-0008
Tel: 0294-72-4141
Mito Keisei Hotel 1-4-73 Sannomaru, Mito-shi, Ibaraki 310-0011
Tel: 0299-62-3130
1050-1 Tsukuba, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 300-4352
Tel: 029-866-1111
Oarai Hotel
1-1364-1 Azuma, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki,305-0031
Eggs
1-10-7 Ayame, Itako-shi, Ibaraki 311-2425
Tsukuba Grand Hotel
1-22-1 Odaira, Hitachinaka-shi, Ibaraki 312-0023
Mizuna
Tel: 029-866-0321
Itako Hotel Tel: 029-300-1100
Hotel Crystal Palace
Shallots
728 Tsukuba, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 300-4352
6881 Isohama-cho, Oarai-machi, Higashiibaraki-shi, Ibaraki 311-1301 Tel: 029-267-2151
Aokiya Hotel 753-1 Tsukuba, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 300-4352
Tel: 029-866-0311
Kashima Central Hotel 4-7-11 Onohara, Kamisu-shi, Ibaraki 314-0144
Tel: 0299-95-5511
Tel: 029-226-3111
Halal in Ibaraki
JA Hitachi, the agricultural union in Ibaraki Prefecture, has received a halal certificate for four of Ibaraki’s products; Kome Hakkou Ice, Chestnut jam, Satomi ranch drinking yoghurt and Specially-cultivated rice "Koshihikari". Thanks to these efforts, Muslims and non-Muslims alike can enjoy the delicious creations and harvest of Ibaraki Prefecture.
Chub Mackerel
This fish offers plenty of umami-packed, high quality, thick fillets. One of its great advantages is that it doesn’t have a lot of bones and it’s easy to prepare in multiple ways, which allows you to enjoy different kinds of textures and flavors.
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Hamaguri Clams
Big and tender on the inside! The appeal of “Kashimanada Hamaguri” brand, the pride of Ibaraki, comes from their overwhelmingly large size. Firm and packed with more flavor than other clams, their texture cannot be ignored.
Japanese Sardines
With lots of calcium, iron and other vitamins, Japanese sardines, caught especially between June and November, have an irresistible tender texture when eaten as sashimi. Because they have a strong umami flavor, it is also possible to make them into niboshi (dried sardines).
Chestnut Jam
Kome Hakkou Ice
Satomi Ranch Drinking Yoghurt
As a major producer of chestnuts, Kasama creates a variety of ingenious chestnut delights. This chesnut jam is very smooth and pairs perfectly with bread, yoghurt and ice-cream-and almost everything else.
This particular ice cream is made from Koshihikari rice that has been fermented. In order to lessen the animal-based components, soymilk is used instead of regular milk, so even people with allergies can enjoy it.
Satomi ranch’s “Lilia” brand of drinking yoghurt contains lactic acid bacteria H61, said to halt the aging process. They use a minimal amount of fat, meaning the yoghurt is perfect for your physical health.
ACCESS Train Station Expressway Interchange JR Mito Line JR Joban Line Joso Line JR Suigun Line Minato Line JR Narita Line Ryugasaki Line Oarai Kashima Line Tsukuba Express JR Tohoku Main Line Expressway
Hitachi-Daigo Sta.
Kasama Tomobe Sta. Sta.
Iwase Sta.
IC
IC
Iwama IC
Chiyoda Ishioka IC
Tsukuba JCT
to Tokyo
Naka IC
Katsuta Sta. Mito Sta. Ajigaura Sta.
Mito-Oarai IC
Oarai Sta.
Ibarakimachi JCT
Ibaraki Airport
Ishioka Sta.
Taiyo Sta.
Ushiku Sta.
Kashima-Jingu Sta.
Inashiki IC
Toride Sta.
Itako IC
Sanuki Sta. Ryugasaki Sta.
to Tokyo
Higashi-Kanto Expressway
Shinagawa Sta.
Tokyo to Mito Tokyo Sta. ⬇︎ 75min (by Super Hitachi Limited Express) JR Joban Line ⬇︎ Mito Sta. Change to JR Mito Line, JR Suigun Line, Kashima Rinkai Tetsudo Oarai Kashima Line
Akihabara Sta. (Tokyo) ⬇︎ 45min Tsukuba Express ⬇︎ Tsukuba Sta. Tokyo to Shimodate
Narita Airport Akihabara Sta. Tokyo Sta.
Train
Akihabara to Tsukuba
Sakura Tsuchiura IC Ushiku-Ami IC
Moriya Sta.
Narita Airport (Shin-kuko IC) ⬇︎ 75 min by car on an expressway ⬇︎ Mito IC
▼
Shin-Hokota Sta.
Tsuchiura-Kita IC
Narita to Mito
Hitachi-Minamiota IC
Tokai Sta.
Tsuchiura Sta.
Mitsukaido Sta.
Joban Expressway
Hitachi Sta.
Ibarakikuko-Kita IC
Mt. Tsukuba Tsukuba- Tsukuba Chuo IC Sta.
to Tokyo
Mito IC
Takahagi Sta.
Hitachi-Kita IC
Hitachiota Sta.
Hitachiomiya Sta.
IC
Shimotsuma Sta.
Takahagi IC
Hitachi-Chuo IC
Shimodate Tomobe Yuki Sta. Sakuragawa- KasamaJCT Sta. Tomobe Chikusei Nishi
Sakaikoga IC
Metropolitan Inter-City Expressway
Fukuroda Sta. Mt. Nantai
Kita-Kanto Expressway
Koga Sta.
Isohara Sta.
to Utsunomiya
Oyama Sta.
Car
Kita-Ibaraki IC
Haneda Airport
Tokyo Sta. ⬇︎ 45min JR Tohoku Shinkansen ⬇︎ Oyama Sta. ⬇︎ 23min JR Mito Line ⬇︎ Shimodate Sta.
Highway Bus
Tsukuba Tourist Information Center Phone: 029-879-5298 Hours: 8:30am-6:30pm
NEXCO East Pasar Moriya Information (Outbound) Phone: 0297-48-6167 Hours: 7:00am-7:00pm
Tsuchiura Machikado Kura Daitoku Sightseeing Information Center Phone: 029-824-2810 Hours: 9:00am-6:00pm
NEXCO East Pasar Moriya Information (Inbound) Phone: 0296-48-6168 Hours: 8:00am-8:00pm
Tsuchiura City Tourist Information Center Phone: 029-821-4166 Hours: 9:00am-6:00pm
Mito Tourist Information Phone: 029-221-6456 Hours: 9:00am-7:00pm
NEXCO East Tomobe Service Area Information (Outbound) Phone: 0296-77-5217 Hours: 7:30am-6:00pm
H.I.S. Mito Tourist Information Center Phone: 055-225-1411 Hours: 11:00am-6:00pm
NEXCO East Tomobe Service Area Information (Inbound) Phone: 0296-77-0716 Hours: 8:30am-7:00pm
Ryugasaki City Tourist Information Center Phone: 0297-94-1093 Hours: 10:00am - 6:00pm (Tue. - Fri.) 10:00am - 5:00pm (Sat, Sun. and Holidays) Closed: Mon. and Jan.1-3
Ibaraki Prefectural Government, International Tourism Division, Bureau of Tourism 978-6 Kasahara-cho, Mito-shi, Ibaraki 310-0852, Japan. Phone: +81-29-301-3616 http://english.ibarakiguide.jp/
Tokyo to Mito Tokyo Sta. ⬇︎ 1h45min by Mitogo ⬇︎ Mito Sta. Narita to Hitachi Narita Airport ⬇︎ 1h44min ⬇︎ Mito Sta. ⬇︎ 1h14min ⬇ Hitachi Sta. Ibaraki Airport to Mito Ibaraki Airport ⬇ 40min ⬇ Mito Sta.