In Hitachinaka City, Ibaraki Prefecture, you can enjoy a taste of Okinawan home cooking and a tropical atmosphere at a restaurant called "Kariyushi" (Okinawan Cuisine & Authentic Awamori). Here, you can savor traditional Okinawan dishes made with local ingredients, along with a wide selection of awamori and sour cocktails, making you feel as if you're in Okinawa itself. It's conveniently located within walking distance from Katsuta Station, making it a perfect spot for dinner after a day of sightseeing.
Enjoy Okinawa's classic dishes at Kariyushi.
At Kariyushi, you can enjoy a variety of representative dishes from Okinawa. For example, the slow-cooked pork belly known as Rafute is characterized by its sweet and savory flavor, making it a perfect accompaniment to rice. Additionally, you can savor fresh sea grapes directly sourced from the region, allowing you to fully indulge in the tastes of Okinawa.
Okinawa soba, goya champuru, and po-po are also offered, each boasting a rustic and rich flavor that reminds you of local home cooking. Many of these dishes are highly regarded by those from Okinawa or those who have traveled to Okinawa, often described as "nostalgic flavors."
Cheers with a variety of awamori and tropical drinks!
At Kariyushi, we offer not only delicious food but also a wide selection of Awamori and various types of sour cocktails. Awamori is a unique distilled spirit from Okinawa, known for its deep richness and aroma, which sets it apart from barley shochu. We have a variety of options, from beginner-friendly, easy-to-drink brands to more sophisticated choices for connoisseurs, allowing you to enjoy the Okinawan atmosphere while having a great night out.
Local Okinawan craft beers and Orion Beer are also available, so we recommend trying a tasting alongside your meal. Raising a glass while soaking in the tropical atmosphere will surely make your travel evening even more enjoyable.
A store interior full of the atmosphere of Okinawa.
The interior is adorned with decorations and music that evoke the atmosphere of Okinawa, enhancing the tropical vibe. With the cheerful smiles of the staff, you can truly experience Okinawa's "hospitality culture," making it a warm and welcoming space for first-time visitors.
The restaurant has a lively atmosphere, bustling with locals returning from work and tourists alike. Enjoying a meal while listening to Okinawan music makes you feel as if you're on a little trip to Okinawa, all while being right here in Hitachinaka.
Just a 7-minute walk from Katsuta Station!
Kariyushi is conveniently located about a 7 to 8-minute walk from the east exit of JR Katsuta Station. It's within easy reach for a visit after sightseeing or shopping, making it easy to fit into your travel itinerary.
Recommended Okinawan Cuisine Experience for International Travelers
Okinawan cuisine offers a unique culinary culture that is hard to find in other regions of Japan. With tropical ingredients and drinks like awamori, the flavors stand out distinctly within Japan, providing a refreshing experience for travelers from abroad.
If you're planning your first trip to Japan and want to enjoy a variety of Japanese flavors, we highly recommend Karuyushi in Hitachinaka for an experience of Okinawan cuisine. You can relax and savor the diversity of Okinawan culture and food while enjoying a delightful time.
A great way to wrap up your visit to Hitachinaka!
If you're looking to enjoy Okinawan cuisine in Hitachinaka, be sure to visit "Kariyushi." The authentic Okinawan dishes and drinks, along with the tropical atmosphere, will make your trip even more memorable.