Savor the Heart of Ibaraki’s Harvest
Joso, nestled at the southern gateway of Ibaraki Prefecture, is a vibrant roadside station where the legacy of the Tone River meets the richness of regional agriculture. Once a vital hub for river transport, this dynamic village now thrives as a celebration of local flavor, tradition, and community. Surrounded by lush farmland and forested landscapes, Joso offers travelers a genuine connection to the land and its people.
Home to Ibaraki’s top-ranked agricultural products, the station showcases seasonal treasures like sweet potatoes, rice, and fresh vegetables. Highlights include the annual Joso World Festival and the beloved Joso Sweet Potato Festival, where visitors can enjoy roasted potatoes, handmade crafts, and live cultural performances. More than a pit stop, Joso is a living expression of Ibaraki’s enduring food culture and warm hospitality.
Why Visit
Visit Joso roadside station to experience the region’s only dedicated sweet potato festival, where over 20 varieties—including rare Kogane-ko and black-skinned cultivars—are roasted fresh on-site. This is the only place in the area where you can taste handmade sweet potato ice cream made from locally grown, seasonal harvests. With seasonal events like the JOSO World Fest and the annual Halloween celebration, Joso offers unique cultural experiences rooted in the local harvest and community spirit.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor the warmth of local flavors at Joso roadside station, where fresh, regional ingredients meet heartfelt hospitality.
Soba Noodle House
そばの家
Specialty
Traditional soba noodles made from local ingredients
A cozy restaurant specializing in handmade soba noodles, offering a rustic dining experience with a focus on authentic Japanese noodle craftsmanship and seasonal ingredients.
Local Harvest Cafe
地元の恵みカフェ
Specialty
Freshly brewed coffee and seasonal pastries
A relaxed café serving locally sourced coffee and handmade pastries, perfect for a quiet break with views of the surrounding farmland and natural landscape.
Yam Specialty Stall
芋専門店
Specialty
Freshly roasted and prepared sweet potatoes
A vibrant food stall dedicated to sweet potatoes, offering a variety of roasted, steamed, and baked preparations with a focus on seasonal harvests.
Farm-to-Table Bento Shop
地産地消弁当店
Specialty
Locally sourced bento boxes with seasonal ingredients
A quick-service stall offering fresh, hand-packed bento boxes made with ingredients from nearby farms, emphasizing seasonal and sustainable dining.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique crafts and seasonal goods at Joso roadside station, crafted with pride from the heart of Ibaraki.
Farmers Market
農産物直売所
A marketplace featuring fresh produce, fruits, and vegetables directly from local farmers in Ibaraki Prefecture.
Products
Must-Try Item
Freshly harvested sweet potatoes
Craft & Souvenir Shop
工芸品・お土産店
A shop offering handmade crafts, local art, and traditional souvenirs from Ibaraki Prefecture.
Products
Must-Try Item
Hand-painted pottery from local artisans
Bakery Corner
ベーカリー角
A small bakery specializing in traditional Japanese and Western-style baked goods using local ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Soba flour bread
Local Alcohol Store
地酒販売所
A dedicated shop selling regional alcoholic beverages, including local sake, plum wine, and seasonal brews.
Products
Must-Try Item
Ibaraki Prefecture craft sake
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties like roasted sweet potatoes and other top-tier agricultural treasures from Ibaraki Prefecture.
Roasted Sweet Potato
焼きいも
Premium-quality sweet potatoes roasted to perfection, known for their natural sweetness and smooth texture.
Soba Flour
そば粉
High-quality buckwheat flour made from locally grown soba, ideal for making traditional noodles and baked goods.
Ibaraki Sake
茨城酒
Premium sake crafted in Ibaraki Prefecture using traditional methods and local rice.
Hand-Painted Pottery
手描き陶器
Artisan-crafted pottery featuring traditional designs and vibrant hand-painted patterns from local artists.
Farmers' Coffee Beans
農家コーヒー豆
Locally roasted coffee beans sourced from Ibaraki's own coffee farms, offering a smooth and rich flavor profile.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and recharge with convenient amenities designed for comfort and ease at Joso roadside station.
Information Center
The roadside station provides information and assistance to visitors, including event details and local recommendations.
Main entrance area
Restroom
Clean and accessible restrooms are available for visitors, including facilities for people with disabilities.
Near the main building and parking area
Parking
Ample parking space is provided for visitors and travelers, including designated spots for large vehicles.
Front and side of the roadside station
Free Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the roadside station for visitors' convenience.
All public areas including the main building and outdoor seating
Play Area
A dedicated children's play area with safe equipment for young visitors to enjoy.
Near the outdoor plaza
Nursing Room
Private and comfortable space for mothers to breastfeed or care for infants, equipped with necessary facilities.
Inside the main building, near the restroom area
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging points are available for visitors using electric cars.
Near the main parking area
ATM
An automated teller machine is available for cash withdrawals and banking services.
Near the entrance of the main building
Pet Area
A designated space for pets to rest and relieve themselves, with waste disposal facilities.
Outside the main building, near the entrance
Activities & Experiences
Engage in lively workshops and seasonal events that bring the spirit of Joso to life throughout the year.
JOSO World Festival 2025
JOSOワールドフェスタ2025
Experience a vibrant festival celebrating global culture with performances, food, and interactive activities.
Duration
120 min
Dotonbori Sweet Potato Festival 2025
道の駅常総芋フェス2025
Enjoy a seasonal celebration featuring local sweet potatoes, cooking demonstrations, and hands-on food activities.
Duration
180 min
Dotonbori Halloween Event 2025
道の駅常総ハロウィン2025
Participate in a festive Halloween event with costumes, pumpkin carving, and seasonal treats.
Duration
120 min
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around seasonal festivals for the best local experiences and insider access to fresh produce.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on November 1 to secure fresh batches of roasted sweet potatoes from the JOSO World Festival 2025 event stall, which sell out quickly after 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Check the deli counter near the main entrance for the limited-edition “常総芋フェス” (JOSO Sweet Potato Fest) special blend of roasted sweet potato and black sesame paste, available only during the festival dates
- Weekend Special: On weekends during the JOSO World Festival 2025, visit the food truck area behind the main building between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM to sample the exclusive “Milk Bread & Sweet Potato Croquette” combo
- Best Time for Local Produce: Arrive by 10:00 AM on weekdays to get first access to the daily harvest of fresh sweet potatoes from local farms displayed at the produce stand near the entrance
- Unique Activity: Participate in the “Sweet Potato Roasting Demonstration” held at 11:30 AM daily during the JOSO Sweet Potato Fest 2025, where local farmers roast sweet potatoes using traditional methods in a public fire pit
- Best Souvenir Purchase: Buy the “JOSO Sweet Potato Season 2025” limited-edition gift pack at the main counter before 12:00 PM to ensure availability—only 200 packs are made per day
- Best Photo Spot: Stand at the stone pathway near the riverbank entrance during the JOSO Halloween 2025 event (October 25–31) to capture the themed lantern displays and decorated koi fish statues in the evening light
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market from late March to early May.
Summer (June-August): No specific seasonal events or products mentioned in the content.
Autumn (September-November): Peak season for the Joso World Festival and the Joso Sweet Potato Festival, held from November 1–3.
Winter (December-February): No specific seasonal events or products mentioned in the content.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Joso roadside station offers play areas, seasonal events like Halloween and potato festivals, and family-friendly activities. It features stroller-accessible paths and kid-friendly food options, enhancing its appeal for families.
Food Lover Review
The station showcases a wide variety of local specialties, including high-quality potatoes and regional produce. Farmers markets and artisan food stalls highlight fresh, locally sourced ingredients and authentic culinary experiences.
Car Camping Review
Joso provides basic facilities like restrooms and vending machines, supporting overnight stays. While parking is available, there is no explicit overnight policy, and the area lacks quiet zones, limiting comfort for extended camping.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located near the Tone River, Joso offers scenic views of natural landscapes and seasonal beauty. Scenic viewpoints and well-maintained surroundings provide excellent photo opportunities and a pleasant, inviting atmosphere.