Savor the Spirit of Ibaraki at Hitachi-Omiya Kawa Plaza
Nestled along the pristine banks of the Kuchi River, one of Kanto’s most celebrated clear streams, Hitachi-Omiya Kawa Plaza is a vibrant roadside station where nature, culture, and local flavor converge. Surrounded by lush greenery and fresh mountain air, this destination offers travelers a peaceful retreat rich in regional charm and authentic experiences.
Home to a bustling farmers’ market, seasonal specialty events like the New Rice Festival featuring Ibaraki beef grilled over charcoal, and a variety of dining options—from hearty ramen at Menya Genki to gourmet grilled beef at CowCow—this roadside station celebrates the best of Ibaraki’s agriculture and craftsmanship. With picnic areas, a barbecue facility, and a gelato and smoothie stand, it’s a perfect stop for families and food lovers alike.
Why Visit
Hitachi-Omiya Kawa Plaza stands out as the only roadside station in the region where you can savor freshly grilled ayu fish straight from the pristine Kuzi River, a tradition celebrated during its seasonal ayu grilling events. Visitors can also taste the rare local specialty: handcrafted milk ice cream made from Jersey cows raised in nearby pastures, a flavor found nowhere else. With its riverside location and unique culinary offerings, it offers an authentic, one-of-a-kind experience in Ibaraki Prefecture.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh local flavors at Hitachi-Omiya Kawa Plaza, where seasonal ingredients meet traditional recipes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Hitachi-Omiya Kawa Plaza Restaurant
レストラン常陸亭
Specialty
Traditional Ibaraki cuisine with a focus on local ingredients
A cozy restaurant offering authentic Ibaraki-style dishes, emphasizing seasonal and regional produce in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Menya Genki
麺屋げんき
Specialty
Handmade ramen with local broth and fresh noodles
A casual food stall serving rich, flavorful ramen made with locally sourced ingredients and freshly prepared noodles in a relaxed, energetic setting.
Suiho Ushi Kitchen COWCOW
瑞穂牛キッチンCOWCOW
Specialty
Premium beef dishes using Suiho cattle
A specialty dining spot dedicated to serving high-quality beef from Suiho cattle, known for its tenderness and rich flavor, in a modern and inviting environment.
Gelato & Smoothie
Gelato＆Smoothie
Specialty
Artisan gelato and fresh smoothies
A refreshing café offering handcrafted gelato and smoothies made with natural ingredients, perfect for a sweet treat in a light and airy space.
Shopping Highlights
Discover locally crafted goods and regional specialties at Hitachi-Omiya Kawa Plaza’s vibrant roadside station market.
Farmers Market
直売所
A fresh produce market offering seasonal fruits, vegetables, and local agricultural products directly from regional farmers.
Products
Must-Try Item
Ibaraki-grown grapes
Ibaraki Cattle Meat Shop
常陸牛販売
A dedicated shop selling premium Ibaraki beef, including cuts for grilling and cooking at home.
Products
Must-Try Item
Ibaraki beef steak
Local Dairy Shop
乳製品販売
A shop specializing in locally produced dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt.
Products
Must-Try Item
Ibaraki milk
Craft and Souvenir Shop
工芸品販売
A shop offering handmade crafts and souvenirs made by local artisans, ideal for unique gifts and mementos.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local pottery
Alcohol and Beverage Shop
酒類販売
A shop selling a variety of alcoholic beverages, including local sake, wine, and specialty drinks.
Products
Must-Try Item
Ibaraki sake
Featured Products
Sample signature items like fresh local grapes, apples, and premium Ibaraki beef, proudly sourced from the region.
Ibaraki-grown grapes
常陸産ぶどう
Fresh, sweet grapes harvested from local farms in Ibaraki, known for their exceptional flavor and quality.
Ibaraki apples
常陸産りんご
Crisp and juicy apples grown in the fertile soil of Ibaraki, offering a naturally sweet taste.
Ibaraki beef jerky
常陸牛のスモークチーズ
Premium beef jerky made from Ibaraki beef, smoked and seasoned to perfection for a savory, long-lasting snack.
Ibaraki milk
常陸牛乳
Fresh, locally produced milk from Ibaraki cattle, known for its rich taste and high quality.
Ibaraki sake
常陸の酒
Authentic Ibaraki sake crafted using traditional methods and local water, offering a smooth and refined taste.
Local pottery
地元陶器
Handcrafted pottery made by local artisans, featuring traditional designs and durable quality.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including spacious parking, restrooms, and a relaxed space for relaxation and connection.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a parking facility with 130 small car spaces, 18 large vehicle spaces, 4 disabled-accessible spaces, and 2 EV charging stations.
Near the main entrance and information center
Restroom
Public restrooms are available for visitors at the roadside station.
Near the main entrance and information center
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors throughout the roadside station.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
The information center provides local information, tourism guidance, and assistance to visitors.
Near the main entrance
Play Area
A children's play area is available for families visiting the roadside station.
In the park area
EV Charging Station
Two electric vehicle charging stations are available for visitors with EVs.
Near the parking lot
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors to withdraw cash.
Near the information center
Pet Area
A designated area for pets is available for visitors with animals.
Near the park and entrance
Insider Tips
Plan visits during off-peak hours and check seasonal offerings for limited-time treats and special events.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 11:00 AM on September 27–28 to secure a spot for the limited 200-portion New Rice Fair, featuring Ibaraki beef grilled over charcoal and pork soup, as portions sell out quickly
- Hidden Gems: Visit the farm stand between October 27–30 to sample Ibaraki-produced grapes and apples, which are newly available and featured in seasonal promotions
- Weekend Special: On weekends, head to the BBQ facility between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, as this is when the facility is most active and staff are available to assist with setup and usage
- Best Food Counter: Order the Ibaraki beef charcoal-grilled skewers at the Rifu Niku Kitchen COWCOW counter between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM, when the first batch of grilled skewers is ready and served fresh
- Peak Season Timing: Visit the restaurant Ryokutei between 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM on weekdays to enjoy the limited-time seasonal menu featuring local ingredients, as it is less crowded than weekend lunch hours
- Avoid Disruption: If visiting during the August 13–17 Obon period, use the temporary parking area only between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, as the main parking lot may be restricted due to helicopter traffic from the nearby helipad
- Seasonal Product Tip: Check the direct sales counter during early November for the limited-time Ibaraki-style sweet potato grilled fish (Yamagi Yaki) special, offered only on specific dates announced in the news section
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market in early spring; canola flowers bloom in late April.
Summer (June-August): Peak season for summer events and barbecue use; the river offers cool relief during hot months.
Autumn (September-November): New rice festival in late September; local grapes and apples harvested and sold.
Winter (December-February): Limited seasonal activities; no specific events mentioned for this period.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a playground, picnic areas, and multiple kid-friendly food options. Stroller-accessible paths and restrooms are available. Educational elements include seasonal farming displays and local product demonstrations.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse dining options including local specialties like Ibaraki beef and freshwater fish. Fresh produce from on-site farms and regional products are available. Quality and variety are strong, with seasonal events like the rice festival enhancing the experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms, vending machines, and a designated BBQ area. Parking is ample with EV charging stations. While not designed for overnight stays, the area is quiet during off-peak hours and suitable for short stops.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located along the scenic Kuzu River with lush greenery and seasonal views. Offers excellent photo spots by the riverbank and in the surrounding park. Natural beauty is enhanced by changing foliage and well-maintained pathways.