Savor the Sea, Discover the Soul of Ibaraki
Nestled along the scenic coastline of Hitachi City, Hitachi Osakana Center is more than a roadside station—it’s a celebration of Japan’s rich maritime heritage. Located just minutes from the bustling port and surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Pacific Ocean, this vibrant hub invites travelers to connect with local culture, cuisine, and community. Open daily except January 1st, it offers a welcoming space where visitors can rest, explore, and taste the freshest catch of the day.
What sets Hitachi Osakana Center apart is its focus on seasonal seafood, with daily offerings from local fishermen and a dynamic lineup of events like the popular "Seasonal Fishing Festival." From savory seafood rice bowls to sizzling seaside grills, every bite tells a story of the sea. With rotating food trucks, local crafts, and easy access to nearby attractions like Kamine Park, it’s a must-visit destination for food lovers and curious travelers alike.
Why Visit
Visit Hitachi Osakana Center to experience the region’s only roadside station dedicated entirely to fresh, locally caught seafood, where you can enjoy the famous Kaiyō Hama-yaki—grilled fish served on a traditional wooden board with sea salt and citrus. The station also hosts the annual Seasonal Fishing Festival, offering rare opportunities to taste freshly harvested sardines and mackerel straight from the morning catch.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh seafood and local flavors at Hitachi Osakana Center roadside station.
Seafood Bowl & Grilled Seafood
味勝手丼・海鮮浜焼き
Specialty
Fresh seafood bowls and grilled seafood
A casual food stall offering delicious seafood bowls and grilled fish dishes, perfect for enjoying the taste of the sea.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local crafts and seasonal treats at Hitachi Osakana Center roadside station.
Local Fish Market
日立おさかなセンター市場
A market specializing in fresh, locally caught fish and seafood from the Hitachi region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh Local Sea Bream
Seafood Specialty Store
海鮮専門店
A specialty store offering a wide range of seafood products, including processed and preserved items.
Products
Must-Try Item
Salted Mackerel
Local Craft & Souvenir Shop
地元工芸品とおみやげ店
A shop featuring handmade crafts and souvenirs from the Hitachi region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hitachi Seafood-themed Keychain
Featured Products
Taste signature seafood specialties and regional treasures at Hitachi Osakana Center roadside station.
Fresh Local Sea Bream
日立産シロギス
Freshly caught sea bream from the Hitachi coast, known for its delicate flavor and firm texture.
Salted Mackerel
塩辛いタラバ
Traditional salted mackerel, carefully prepared using local methods for a rich, savory taste.
Hitachi Seafood-themed Keychain
日立海鮮キーホルダー
A charming keychain featuring a miniature design of local seafood, perfect as a souvenir.
Canned Local Seafood Mix
地元海鮮詰め合わせ缶
A premium canned mix of local seafood, ideal for snacks or meals.
Dried Sea Bream Fillet
シロギスの干物
Dried fillets of sea bream, preserved for long shelf life with a rich umami flavor.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities and welcoming services at Hitachi Osakana Center roadside station.
Information Center
The roadside station features an information center providing visitors with local tourism information, event updates, and assistance with directions and services.
Main entrance area
Parking
Ample parking space is available for visitors, including designated spots for large vehicles and accessible parking for people with disabilities.
Front of the roadside station
Restroom
Clean and well-maintained restrooms are available for visitors, including accessible facilities for people with disabilities.
Near the main entrance and inside the facility
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the roadside station for visitors to use during their stay.
Throughout the premises
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available for visitors using electric cars, supporting sustainable travel.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available on-site for visitors to withdraw cash conveniently.
Near the entrance
Nursing Room
A private nursing room is provided for mothers to care for infants, equipped with necessary facilities.
Inside the facility, near restrooms
Play Area
A children's play area is available for kids to enjoy, featuring safe and age-appropriate equipment.
Near the outdoor plaza
Pet Area
A designated pet-friendly area is available for visitors to walk and relax with their pets.
Outside the main building, near the entrance
Activities & Experiences
Participate in hands-on workshops and seasonal events at Hitachi Osakana Center roadside station.
Seasonal Fishing Festival
旬漁祭
Participants can enjoy fresh seasonal seafood, local fishing demonstrations, and interactive activities celebrating the region's marine harvest.
Duration
360 min
Outdoor event; check weather conditions before attending.
Insider Tips
Gain local insights and practical advice for the best experience at Hitachi Osakana Center roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on Sundays to secure a seat at the Seafood Grilling Counter before it fills up during the “Seasonal Fishing Festival” (10:00 AM–4:00 PM on October 26, 2025)
- Hidden Gems: Stop by the deli counter near the entrance between 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM on weekdays to pick up the day’s fresh batch of local tuna rice balls, which are only available in limited quantities and often sell out by noon
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the kitchen truck tent area between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to sample the exclusive “Hitachi Seafood Ramen” offered by the rotating vendor team
- Seasonal Product Alert: Check the fish market display on the west side of the center daily between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to see the fresh catch of the day, especially during the “Seasonal Fishing Festival” when rare varieties like sea bream and mackerel are featured
- Specialty Purchase Tip: Buy the “Hitachi OsaKana Center Original Sake” from the gift shop before 3:00 PM on weekdays, as it is only restocked once per week and often sells out by early afternoon
- Parking Strategy: Use the west-side parking lot, located directly behind the main entrance, as it provides the shortest walking route to the seafood grilling area and is less crowded than the east-side lot during peak hours
- Event Access: Arrive at the event hall by 9:45 AM on October 26, 2025, to participate in the first 30-minute “Catch of the Day” live fish demonstration, which starts at 10:00 AM and is limited to 50 guests
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots and early-season seafood available; peak canola flower viewing in late April.
Summer (June-August): Seafood festivals and beachside dining highlight summer; summer catch includes mackerel and sea bream.
Autumn (September-November): "Kuninami Fishing Festival" held on October 26; seasonal seafood and local produce at peak.
Winter (December-February): Limited seasonal events; focus on indoor dining and preserved seafood specialties.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a variety of family facilities, including play areas and kid-friendly food options. Stroller-accessible paths and safe, spacious parking enhance accessibility. Interactive seafood exhibits provide educational value for children.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse dining options with high-quality local seafood. Specialties like seasonal fish dishes and unique seafood bowls stand out. Fresh produce from local farmers markets and artisanal food products enhance the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides clean restrooms and vending machines for basic needs. The area is relatively quiet with ample parking. Overnight stays are permitted, though no formal camping facilities or designated camping zones are specified.
Scenic Beauty Review
Offers scenic views of the coastal landscape with beautiful ocean vistas. Well-placed viewpoints and photo spots enhance visual appeal. Seasonal changes and natural surroundings contribute to a pleasant, aesthetic atmosphere.