Taste the Heart of the Harvest at Itako Roadside Station
Nestled in the lush countryside of Minamiboso, Itako Roadside Station is a vibrant gateway to the flavors and traditions of Ibaraki’s agricultural heartland. Surrounded by rolling fields and serene forests, this inviting stop offers more than just refreshment—it’s a celebration of local craftsmanship and seasonal abundance.
Visitors delight in freshly harvested vegetables, premium Koshihikari rice from the famed Chōki region, and time-honored pickled vegetables from a century-old shop. Try the delicate rice flour noodles, warm, freshly baked dorayaki, or a variety of handmade side dishes, all made with care. With seasonal events and scenic views of the surrounding nature, Itako is where food, culture, and the rhythm of the land come together.
Why Visit
Visit Itako roadside station to taste the region’s only handmade rice flour noodles, crafted daily using locally grown Koshihikari rice from the famed rice-producing town of Shikoku. Savor freshly baked dorayaki filled with sweet red bean paste, a local favorite made with traditional methods. The station also offers seasonal pickled vegetables from a century-old family recipe, available only here. Surrounded by serene rice fields and the scenic Tone River, Itako provides a rare glimpse into authentic rural life in Ibaraki.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor local flavors at Itako roadside station, where fresh produce and seasonal dishes await.
Itako Roadside Station Restaurant
道の駅いたこ
Specialty
Fresh local vegetables, rice from the famous Chikura region, traditional pickled vegetables, and handmade dishes
A cozy dining space offering a variety of locally sourced and freshly prepared meals, emphasizing seasonal ingredients and traditional flavors from the Chikura area.
Soy Sauce and Fermented Food Specialty Stall
醤油と発酵食品の専門店
Specialty
Handcrafted soy sauce and fermented food products
A small food stall dedicated to traditional fermented foods, including soy sauce and pickled items made with local ingredients.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique regional goods and handmade treasures at Itako roadside station.
Local Produce Market
地元産直市場
A market featuring fresh seasonal vegetables and fruits directly from local farms
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh seasonal vegetables
Rice and Flour Specialty Store
米と米粉専門店
A store specializing in high-quality rice and gluten-free rice flour products
Products
Must-Try Item
Chikura Koshihikari Rice
Handmade Sweets and Snacks Shop
手作りスイーツとスナック
A shop offering freshly baked traditional Japanese sweets and snacks
Products
Must-Try Item
Freshly Baked Dorayaki
Local Craft and Souvenir Store
地元工芸とお土産
A shop selling handmade crafts and souvenirs made by local artisans
Products
Must-Try Item
Traditional pickled vegetable set
Featured Products
Taste signature specialties like Itako’s famed pickled vegetables and fresh rice noodles.
Chikura Koshihikari Rice
潮来コシヒカリ米
Premium short-grain rice from the Chikura region, known for its soft texture and rich flavor
Traditional Pickled Vegetables
老舗の漬け物
Authentic pickled vegetables made using time-honored methods and local ingredients
Homemade Soy Sauce
手作り醤油
Artisanal soy sauce brewed using traditional fermentation methods
Rice Flour Noodles
米粉麺
Gluten-free noodles made from rice flour, ideal for those with dietary restrictions
Freshly Baked Dorayaki
焼き立てのどら焼き
Soft, warm dorayaki filled with sweet red bean paste, made fresh daily
Insider Tips
Visit during harvest season for the freshest local finds and best events.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekends to secure the day's first batch of freshly baked dorayaki from the on-site bakery, which sells out quickly and is unavailable after 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter near the entrance between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to find the limited daily batch of handcrafted pickled vegetables from local artisans, often sold out by noon
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, check the outdoor food truck area near the parking lot between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM for the seasonal rice noodle (rice flour noodles) dish made with locally grown Koshikari rice
- Must-Try Product: Purchase the seasonal fresh rice (Koshikari) directly from the rice counter during harvest season (typically late September to early October) to get the most flavorful and aromatic grain
- Local Experience: Join the free 1:00 PM guided tour of the nearby rice paddies and wetland area every Saturday and Sunday—meet the farmers and learn how Koshikari rice is grown in the traditional way
- Best Photo Spot: Position yourself at the southern edge of the roadside station’s main plaza at 4:30 PM during the autumn season to capture the golden light reflecting off the nearby rice fields and the station’s red-tiled roof
- Souvenir Tip: Buy the handmade seasonal jam from the gift shop before 3:00 PM on weekdays—only 20 jars are produced daily, and they are often sold out by early afternoon
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Canola flowers bloom in late March to April, and fresh bamboo shoots are available at the roadside station market.
Summer (June–August): Fresh rice from Chikura's Koshihikari harvest is available in late July, and local vegetables peak in August.
Autumn (September–November): Harvest season brings regional produce like sweet potatoes and autumn mushrooms to the roadside station.
Winter (December–February): Hearty handcrafted dishes and seasonal pickles are featured, with cozy indoor dining available.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Itako roadside station offers a children's play area, stroller-friendly paths, and family-friendly food options. Interactive local exhibits and clean facilities enhance the experience for families.
Food Lover Review
The station features diverse local specialties like fresh rice, pickled vegetables, rice flour noodles, and handmade snacks. High-quality produce and artisanal items elevate the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Itako provides restrooms, vending machines, and designated parking. While quiet and pleasant, it lacks clear overnight camping rules and dedicated camping facilities.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by lush natural scenery, Itako offers scenic views, seasonal landscapes, and well-maintained viewpoints ideal for photography and relaxation.