Station Makunaga Village Koga

Discover the Heart of Ibaraki’s Harvest at Makunaga Village Koga

Nestled in the rolling countryside of Koga City, Makunaga Village Koga stands as one of Ibaraki Prefecture’s largest and most vibrant roadside stations. More than a stop along the road, it’s a celebration of local agriculture, culture, and community, where fresh produce, regional specialties, and seasonal events come together in a welcoming space. Designed as a hub for both travelers and locals, it offers a true taste of rural life with a modern touch.

At the heart of the station is a dynamic food scene featuring a bustling food court, a cozy café-bakery, and a bustling farmers’ market showcasing morning-harvested vegetables, eggs, and Ibaraki’s famed saishima tea. From seasonal fruits like shain masukat to hearty local delicacies such as koga-style sweetfish stew and beef buns made with Ibaraki cattle, every bite tells a story of the land. With year-round events, a vibrant market, and a commitment to local producers, Makunaga Village Koga invites visitors to experience the flavor, warmth, and spirit of Ibaraki.

Makunaga Village Koga stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering a curated selection of authentic Koga specialties, including the famed Koga-style sweetfish simmered in miso and the unique "Sashima Tea Roll Cake," a locally crafted dessert made with the area’s renowned Sashima tea. Its food court features a rotating lineup of hyper-local dishes, such as the popular Konoshiro rice roll and fresh produce from nearby farms, all available only here.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to secure the day’s first batch of fresh Shinagawa melons from Ashino Farm in Hodota City, which are only available until midday and often sell out quickly.

• Hidden Gems: Head to the Sashima Tea Corner in the direct sales shop to sample and purchase the Sashima Tea and Sweet Chestnut Cake, a limited-time seasonal treat that sells out by 2 PM on weekends.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the Food Court between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to try the "Kogasaki" rice ball set, a special lunch offering featuring local rice and seasonal vegetables, available only during weekend lunch hours.

• Best Buy for Local Produce: Purchase Kogasaki eggs and Kogasaki rice at the direct sales counter before 11:00 AM on weekdays to get the freshest stock—these are restocked only once daily and are often sold out by noon.

• Must-Try Food Item: Order the Hokkori Pumpkin and Miso Curry Udon at the food court in the morning, as it is only served from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and is not available during afternoon hours.

• Exclusive Product Purchase: Buy the "Kogasaki Brand" Cold-Pressed Vegetable Juice at the direct sales counter before 10:30 AM, as it is only restocked once per day and is not available in the afternoon.

• Event Timing: Visit the Koga Market (held on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month) between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to access exclusive vendor booths selling handmade crafts and rare local snacks not available elsewhere in the station.

Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available in early spring; peak season for canola flowers in late March to April.

Summer (June-August): Fresh corn harvested from June through August; summer fruits like peaches and pears reach peak ripeness in July.

Autumn (September-November): New rice harvest begins in September; sweet potatoes and pumpkins available from late September.

Winter (December-February): Seasonal treats like chestnuts and winter melon featured; local delicacies such as sweetfish simmered in soy sauce available.