5 Famous Foods You’ll Find in Ibaraki

Feb 16, 2026 - 15:03

Famous Foods You'll Find in Ibaraki

Ibaraki does not always get the spotlight when people talk about travelling in Japan, but it is home to some truly classic Japanese foods. Located just northeast of Tokyo, it is an easy side trip from the capital. With mountains, farmland and the Pacific coast, the region is famous for its fresh produce, seafood and its famous love-it-or-hate-it natto. Here are some famous foods you’ll find in Ibaraki that you should absolutely try.

1. Natto

Famous Foods You'll Find in Ibaraki — Head to Mito, the natto capital of Japan

If you know one food from Ibaraki, it is probably natto. The prefecture is Japan’s top producer, with Mito often called the natto capital of Japan. Local legend says natto was discovered here when boiled soybeans were accidentally wrapped in rice straw and left to ferment while a samurai general was staying in the area. Today, natto is a big part of everyday food culture in Ibaraki.

2. Anko Nabe

Anko nabe is one of Ibaraki’s most famous winter dishes, especially along the coast, where monkfish has long been part of local cooking. The fish might not look very appealing at first glance, but the flavour is rich and surprisingly delicious. It is simmered in a hot pot with vegetables and a miso-based broth. In anko nabe, every part of the fish is used, a tradition that comes from making the most of what the sea provides.

3. Hitachi Beef

Hitachi beef is Ibaraki’s answer to Japan’s famous wagyu brands, often compared to names like Kobe beef. It’s famous for its fine marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Raised on Ibaraki’s open farmland, the cattle are given time and care and it really shows in both flavour and tenderness. You will find Hitachi beef served in many forms, from thick-cut steak and smoky yakiniku to delicate shabu-shabu. If you are travelling through Ibaraki and want to splurge on one memorable meal, Hitachi beef is an easy choice.

4. Ibaraki Melon

Ibaraki is Japan’s largest producer of melons. From late spring through summer, roadside stands, markets and dessert shops are packed with this popular fruit. You will find melon served fresh, in parfaits and sweets, or beautifully boxed as gifts. One standout local variety is Ibaraking, developed in Ibaraki and known as “the taste of spring” for its extra juiciness and sweetness. Hokota City is one of the best places to try it fresh.

5. Kasama Inari Sushi

Kasama Inari Sushi comes from the town of Kasama, known for its famous shrine and long connection to inari sushi. The dish uses seasoned rice tucked inside sweet tofu pockets, but what really sets Kasama’s version apart is the variety. During festivals and around the shrine, you will see rows of different inari on display.

Got any other suggestions for famous foods you’ll find in Ibaraki? Or do you want to know more about regional foods in Japan? Explore the rest of our Famous Foods in Japan series.