Ibaraki: A Story of Flowers and Food
Top image: A dashi sauce made from duck bones is poured over duck.
A special experience awaits you, where the natural beauty and traditional flavors handed down from the Edo period are brought back to life in the modern age. Take a moment to relax and enjoy the seasonal floral landscapes and carefully selected local ingredients. We invite you to experience the continually evolving history of Ibaraki for yourself.
Shokusai Roku: Reborn for the Modern Era
Shokusai-roku is a collection of 300 recipes said to have been created by Nariaki Tokugawa (1800–1860). The ninth lord of the Mito domain that ruled the central and northern parts of present-day Ibaraki Prefecture. For Tasting the Phantom Recipes with History, a project launched by Ibaraki Prefecture, 11 restaurants have cooperated to create an updated 2025 version of the menu! Enjoy one-of-a-kind delicacies, each with its own unique flavor.
One of the highlights is Yoshichou, a renowned Japanese restaurant that has faithfully recreated two traditional recipes. The first dish, charcoal-grilled wild mallard duck, is inspired by Nimitori from the Shokusai-roku. In keeping with tradition, the ducks—caught using net hunting—are not drained of their blood before cooking, resulting in a rich, wild flavor. The second dish, carp with Nishiki ware, is a modern interpretation of the koi no kawatsukuri recipe described in the Shokusai-roku. Carp from Kasumigaura is carefully soaked in fresh water for several days, allowing it to develop a delicate, refined taste.
Hideaki Kimura, head chef of Yoshichou in Tsuchiura—a restaurant with a history of nearly 180 years—draws on Ibaraki’s rich history to recreate traditional dishes with his own unique approach.
Hitachi Seaside Park
One of the most breathtaking destinations in Ibaraki Prefecture, Miharashi no Oka offers stunning panoramic views over the Pacific Ocean. In spring, visitors can marvel at the vast fields of vibrant blue nemophila. Meanwhile in autumn transforms the landscape with brilliant crimson kochia (summer cypress). The park, decorated with seasonal flowers, offers a beautiful scene in harmony with nature.
Kairakuen Garden
One of the three most famous gardens in Japan, Kairakuen was opened in the Edo period by Nariaki Tokugawa as a place for the people of the Mito domain to rest and relax. Renowned for its stunning spring plum blossoms, the garden features 3,000 plum trees of about 100 varieties. Visitors can immerse themselves in the harmonious blend of history and nature.
Ibaraki Flower Park
A healing spot where visitors can enjoy flowers and immerse themselves in nature, Ibaraki Flower Park is open year-round. Visitors can also savor dishes and sweets made from locally sourced ingredients and inspired by the concept of “being invited by a rose farmer.” These delightful offerings can be enjoyed at any favorite spot within the park.
Explore 11 restaurants serving Ibaraki cuisine: savorjapan.com/special/ibarakifoodbrand/