Ibaraki Prefecture: A Hidden Gem Just Outside Tokyo

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Ibaraki Prefecture, located just outside of Tokyo, is a fascinating place full of surprises.

It boasts a vast expanse of the Kanto Plain, with flat land stretching as far as the eye can see.

What makes Ibaraki special is its unique mix of beautiful nature, abundant agriculture, cutting-edge technology, and easy access to the exciting city of Tokyo.

Every February, my wife and I make a trip to this area to enjoy their incredibly popular local foods and visit some of the beautiful shrines.

This year, I'm excited to introduce you to a super photogenic sweet and a traditional hot pot dish that's loved by everyone.

Amazing Mont Blanc: A Taste of Kasama's Elegance

The main reason we stop by "Michi no Eki Kasama" isn't just for the local fruits and vegetables or the regional specialties – it's for their Mont Blanc! This chestnut cream cake is a huge hit with both locals and tourists.

*Michi no Eki: In Japan, a "Roadside Station" is more than just a place to rest. It's a hub where you can find local information and purchase unique products from the area.

Their Mont Blanc features a base of fluffy sponge cake with fresh cream or gelato, all enveloped in incredibly fine (only 0.5mm!), silky threads of chestnut cream.

The texture is amazing – the delicate chestnut cream flows onto the sponge like a silent, creamy waterfall. It's so smooth it melts in your mouth like light snow, giving you a truly wonderful and unforgettable taste experience. This Mont Blanc is so special that it won the grand prize for two years in a row, in 2023 and 2024, at a national competition showcasing the best regional gourmet foods from all over Japan. It's definitely something you have to try!

Look forward to my next article where I'll be sharing about Anglerfish hot pot and the beautiful Kasama Inari Shrine.

See you soon!