Explore Ibaraki: Japan’s Hidden Gem Comes to Life at JAPAN RAIL CAFE

This December, Ibaraki Prefecture is bringing its untapped charm to Singapore in collaboration with JAPAN RAIL CAFE. From 1 to 29 December 2024, visitors can uncover the wonders of this scenic Japanese region through exclusive travel information, local delicacies, and a special menu showcasing authentic Ibaraki flavors.

Discover the Beauty of Ibaraki

Located just an hour from Tokyo, Ibaraki offers a diverse range of attractions. Nature lovers can enjoy seasonal blooms at Hitachi Seaside Park

and Ibaraki Flower Park,

while history buffs can visit the Ushiku Daibutsu, one of the tallest Buddha statues in the world,

or marvel at the ocean-side Oarai Isosaki Shrine.

For those seeking cultural experiences, Ibaraki’s festivals, like the Tsuchiura Fireworks Festival

and the Kasama Azalea Festival,

provide a glimpse into the region’s rich traditions and celebrations.

A Taste of Ibaraki in Singapore

JAPAN RAIL CAFE is offering a limited-edition menu that highlights Ibaraki’s culinary treasures.

Iwashi Shirasu Don ($19.50): Featuring fresh seafood, this dish combines boiled shirasu (whitebait) and vinegared sardine over rice, accompanied by tamagoyaki (rolled omelette) and red ginger. The rice and shirasu compliment and combat the sour vinegar taste of the sardine.

Deep Fried Shishamo ($9): Crispy capelin filled with roe, crunchy and perfect with the sauce proided; a popular izakaya-style snack.

Ibaraki Mont Blanc Parfait ($10.90): A decadent dessert layered with chestnut puree, sweet potato, vanilla ice cream, and baumkuchen sponge cake, topped with dried sweet potato. Sure to excite chestnut lovers

Premium Sake Offerings

Visitors can also enjoy premium sake imported from Ibaraki:

• Hananoi Kodai-mai by Nishioka Honten (Left)
• Gokeiji Junmai Ginjo Karakuchi by Aoki Shuzo (Middle)
• Miyama Nishiki Junmai Ginjo by Morishima Brewery (Right)

The sake trio is available for $20 and pairs perfectly with the menu’s dishes.

Plan Your Next Trip

To inspire travel to Ibaraki, representatives from the prefecture will share exclusive tips and highlights at JAPAN RAIL CAFE throughout December. Explore the region’s breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and culinary delights, and start planning your 2025 adventure to Japan’s hidden gem.

For more information, visit Ibaraki Travel Guide.