Ibaraki Food Guide: Natto, Ankou Nabe & Musk Melon

Mito Natto

Natto's most celebrated home is Mito, Ibaraki. Various styles of fermented soybean fill local shops.

Ankou Nabe (Monkfish Hot Pot)

A winter luxury from the northern Ibaraki coast. Seven parts of the monkfish are cooked in a rich miso broth.

Ibaraki Musk Melon

Ibaraki ships more melons than any other Japanese prefecture. The Andes and Earl's Favourite varieties are renowned for their sweetness.

Hoshi-imo (Dried Sweet Potato)

Ibaraki accounts for over 90% of Japan's dried sweet potato production. Naturally sweet and chewy — a wholesome snack.

Stamina Ramen

A Tsuchiura and Mito speciality — fried pork, cucumber and garlic in a sweet chilli sauce served over ramen.

Access

Mito City and Oarai fishing port are the best bases. Ankou nabe is available from autumn through winter.