Introduction
“When I went to Hitachi Seaside Park most of Nemofila flowers had already withered.
Still, I managed to find a cluster that was blooming together.”
Hitachinaka City in Ibaraki Prefecture is more than just the gateway to the famous Hitachi Seaside Park.
With its roots as a fishing town and its reputation for producing Japan’s best dried sweet potatoes, the city is full of local flavors waiting to be discovered.
From hearty seafood dishes to casual comfort food, Hitachinaka’s dining scene reflects its unique mix of sea, farmland, and everyday life.
In this article, we’ll introduce five local restaurants loved by residents.
After strolling through endless fields of nemophila in spring or fiery red kochia in autumn, sit down at one of these spots and enjoy a taste of Hitachinaka like a local.
“Early in the morning. The locals are still in the dream.”
Seafood
Hitachinaka is famous for its coastal location, and fresh seafood is at the heart of the city’s food culture.
Whether you want to try sushi, sashimi, or something unique, there are plenty of options to enjoy the taste of the Pacific.
Nakaminato Fish Market
Nakaminato Fish Market is one of the liveliest seafood spots in Ibaraki.
Here you can walk past stalls selling freshly caught fish and shellfish, then enjoy sushi or kaisendon (seafood rice bowls) right on the spot.
It’s a must-visit for anyone who loves seafood and wants to experience the local atmosphere.
Access
It’s about a 15-minute walk from Nakaminato Station on the Hitachinaka Seaside Railway.
However, driving is generally recommended for easier access, especially if you’re exploring other nearby spots before or after your visit.
Horizoe Seafood by the Ocean
If you’d rather relax with a meal overlooking the water, there are small local restaurants along the coast.
They serve grilled fish, clams, and other specialties in a casual setting.
Dining here feels like eating right at the source, with the ocean just steps away.
Recommended
Assorted sashimi set meal and the chef’s daily specials.
Access
It’s about a 20-minute walk from Hiraiso Station on the Hitachinaka Seaside Railway.
However, driving is generally recommended for easier access, especially if you’re exploring other nearby spots before or after your visit.
Stamina Ramen
Hitachinaka is also known for a unique local dish called “Stamina Ramen.”
This hearty noodle soup is packed with stir-fried vegetables, garlic, and liver, giving it a rich, energizing flavor.
Locals often enjoy it during cold seasons, but it’s available year-round.
Daishin
Daishin is the birthplace of stamina ramen. Located near JR Katsuta Station on the Joban Line, it’s an easy stop for international travelers—but be prepared to wait, as it’s a popular local spot.
Recommended
Stamina Ramen, Yakiniku Hiyashi (especially good in summer!)
Access
It’s about a 4-minute walk from Katsuta Station on the JR Joban Line.
Foods beloved by locals
Not all of Hitachinaka’s food is traditional—some places are quirky, unexpected, and beloved by locals.
Seafood Restaurant Mehiko
Despite the name sounds like Mexico, Seafood Restaurant Mehiko is not Mexican food.
It’s a long-established local chain famous for “kani pilaf” (crab pilaf), served with generous chunks of crab meat.
The retro interior and family-friendly vibe make it a fun stop for travelers.
The reason why Mehico is so famous among locals is that some of its restaurants keep live flamingos.
The Mito branch introduced here has flamingos on-site.
“My son didn’t get excited to see flamingos since he had a stomachache.”
Tables facing the flamingo area are highly sought after and require advance reservation.
However, since reservations can only be made by phone, it can be a bit challenging for international visitors.
Recommended
Crab pilaf (signature dish), sea urchin pilaf
“My family ate crab pilaf and paella”
Access
Located right next to the Edagawa bus stop (available Monday–Saturday via Ibaraki Kotsu) or best reached by car.
Hoshiimo Gelato
Hitachinaka is one of Japan’s top producers of dried sweet potatoes, known locally as hoshiimo.
At Daimaruya, you can try our sweet potato gelato, where the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes blends with gelato.
It’s a unique flavor you won’t find elsewhere.
Access
It’s about a 5-minute walk from Nakaminato Station on the Hitachinaka Seaside Railway.
However, driving is generally recommended for easier access, especially if you’re exploring other nearby spots before or after your visit.
Saza Coffee
Saza Coffee is a specialty coffee shop that originated in Hitachinaka.
It’s so popular that many locals say it’s even more beloved than Starbucks in Ibaraki Prefecture.
The flagship store, about a 10-minute walk from Katsuta Station, features a lush garden courtyard where you can relax and enjoy high-quality specialty coffee.
Recommended
Saza Special Blend and cake.
Access
About a 10-minute walk from Katsuta Station (JR Joban Line / Hitachinaka Seaside Railway), or take the Ibaraki Kotsu bus bound for Katsuta Depot and get off at Kyoei-cho, then walk 1 minute.
Practical Travel Tips for Hitachinaka
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April–May): Combine a food trip with the breathtaking nemophila season at Hitachi Seaside Park.
- Autumn (October–November): Kochia turning bright red makes for a colorful backdrop to your food adventures.
Travel Tips
- Many local restaurants may not accept credit cards, so it’s smart to carry some cash.
- English menus are not always available, but pointing at photos or saying “osusume” (recommendation) usually works well.
- Popular spots like Daishin (for stamina ramen) or Mehiko can get crowded on weekends — try to visit on weekdays if possible.
How to Get to Hitachinaka
🚅From Tokyo by Train
Take the JR Joban Line from Shinagawa Station → Katsuta Station (80–90 min by limited express).
From Katsuta, buses or taxis reach Hitachi Seaside Park in 15 min.
🚗By Car or Rental Car – Perfect for a Coastal Drive
Driving from Tokyo takes about 1.5 hours via Joban Expressway.
A rental car gives you flexibility to explore Ajigaura Coastline, Nakaminato Market, and even Kitaibaraki in the same trip.
Conclusion
Whether you come for the fresh seafood at Nakaminato, the hearty kick of stamina ramen, or the unique taste of dried sweet potato turned into gelato, Hitachinaka’s local food scene offers flavors you won’t find anywhere else.
Add in a quirky restaurant like Mehiko or a smooth cup of specialty coffee at Saza, and your trip goes far beyond sightseeing at Hitachi Seaside Park.
Exploring these local favorites is more than just eating — it’s a way to experience the everyday life of Hitachinaka’s people.
If you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, be sure to bring your appetite and let the city surprise you.
Related Articles You Might Like
Planning more time in Ibaraki? Check out these guides to help shape your trip:
- Hitachinaka Travel Guide – Discover top attractions, seasonal highlights, and practical tips for exploring the city beyond its food.
- [Scenic Drive in Hitachinaka] – A perfect coastal route with ocean views, local seafood stops, and hidden spots along the way.
- Tokai Village Travel Guide – Just next door to Hitachinaka, Tokai offers unique cultural sites, research history, and excellent local dining.
- Hitachi City Travel Guide – Known for stunning cherry blossoms, lush hiking trails, and fresh seafood markets, Hitachi makes a great day trip option.
Each article is written for international travelers, with easy tips to help you enjoy Ibaraki like a local.