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Ibaraki Food Guide: Natto, Ankou Nabe & Musk Melon

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Gourmet๐Ÿ—พ All seasons

Ibaraki Food Guide: Natto, Ankou Nabe & Musk Melon

๐ŸŒธ Ibaraki|Published May 17, 2026|Updated July 29, 2026
โœ๏ธ Edited by the Tabitabi JAPAN Editorial Team(based on official and primary sources)

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 โ€” a wholesome snack.

Stamina Ramen

A Tsuchiura and Mito speciality โ€” 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.

๐Ÿ“ Location & Access

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โœ๏ธ About this article

This article is compiled by the Tabitabi JAPAN editorial team from official and primary sources, including facility and shrine/temple websites, tourism information published by municipalities and tourism associations, and cultural-property records released by national and local governments. Prices, opening hours and event dates may change, so please also check the official information of each facility or local government before you visit.

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