30 Minutes from the City Center! 6 Tourist Spots in the Rural Landscape of Moriya, Ibaraki

Moriya City is located in the southern part of Ibaraki Prefecture. With the opening of the Tsukuba Express, it has become easily accessible from Akihabara in just about 30 minutes, making it an attractive destination. This city, which once ranked first in the "National Livability Ranking," is undergoing continuous development, particularly around Moriya Station, evolving day by day.
Moriya may not immediately come to mind as a tourist destination, but it is home to breathtaking scenery, including the majestic view of the Tone River flowing gently through the city. It also retains much of its nostalgic rural landscape, offering many charming attractions that take full advantage of this beautiful setting.
Recently, Moriya has gained popularity not only as a tourist spot but also as a filming location, drawing more visitors each year. Just 30 minutes from the city center! Let us take you on a relaxed and spontaneous trip to Moriya City.

1. Freshly Brewed Beer at Its Best! "Asahi Beer Ibaraki Brewery"

A large and striking building stands out in Moriya City. When it comes to sightseeing in Moriya, the Asahi Beer Ibaraki Brewery is a must-visit. This popular tourist spot offers guided tours for anyone who makes a reservation. Knowledgeable staff provide a detailed walkthrough of the brewery, where visitors can witness the beer-making process—something rarely seen up close. The aroma of beer yeast fills the air inside the factory, adding to the experience.
The highlight of the tour is the freshly brewed draft beer, served at the top-floor observation café, 60 meters above ground! Visitors can enjoy up to three glasses for free and even compare different types of beer, all while taking in the vast Kanto Plain scenery that stretches before them.
For those who don’t drink alcohol, soft drinks are available. The gift shop also sells the same snacks that are served with the beer. Freshly brewed beer tastes completely different from canned beer—you have to try it for yourself!
A free shuttle bus connects Moriya Station and the brewery, available to anyone with a reservation. However, note that if you arrive by car or motorcycle, the driver cannot participate in the beer tasting. To fully enjoy the experience, public transportation is highly recommended.

2. A Stunning 180-Degree View at the Charming Farmhouse Restaurant "Sakurazaka VIVACE"

This is the hottest new spot in Moriya, attracting a growing number of tourists! About a 15-minute drive from Moriya Station, a small red bridge comes into view. Crossing it and continuing down a narrow path, you'll discover the hidden gem of a restaurant—Sakurazaka VIVACE. Housed in a renovated traditional farmhouse, the restaurant exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The highlight is the breathtaking 180-degree panoramic view from the Italian-style garden. Endless rice fields stretch out before you, and on a clear day, you can even spot the Tokyo Skytree in the distance. Though originally a local favorite, word-of-mouth has made it a popular tourist destination even among visitors from outside Moriya.
The chef, trained in Italy, crafts dishes using freshly harvested vegetables from local Moriya farms. Crispy pizzas, chewy homemade pasta, and fine wines bring authentic flavors to the table.
The stylish interior of the renovated farmhouse is lovely, but the terrace seating is the real star! Dining amidst spectacular scenery enhances the flavors of the fresh ingredients and elevates the travel experience. The vibrant and beautifully presented desserts are especially popular among female visitors, adding to the joy of the journey.

3. The Deity of Love and Relationships: "Yasaka Shrine"

Yasaka Shrine was founded in the year 806 (Daido 1). Located about a 10-minute walk from Moriya Station, it is an essential stop for anyone exploring Moriya.
Passing through the torii gate, visitors will notice a towering sacred tree to the left. This 400-year-old zelkova tree is said to bring blessings, and many visitors touch it after praying. Looking closely, you’ll see that a once-separated branch has rejoined with the trunk, symbolizing harmony in relationships and marital unity. Finding this branch after prayer can be an enjoyable part of the visit.
Another must-see within the shrine grounds is an impressive monolithic rock. It enshrines Tsukuyomi-no-Mikoto, a deity known for its immense power. The Yasaka Shrine Gion Festival, held on the last Saturday of July, is one of the three major Gion festivals in the Hokuso region. During the event, numerous portable shrines (mikoshi) parade through Moriya City, drawing around 50,000 people, including tourists.

4. The Waterwheel at "Shiki-no-Sato Park"

A park famous for its Ayame Festival, Shiki-no-Sato Park is a popular destination among tourists. Within the park's pond, a total of 43,000 irises, including Japanese irises (Hanashobu), Siberian irises (Ayame), and rabbit-ear irises (Kakitsubata), bloom in full glory, along with 7,500 daffodils.
Other seasonal plants, such as hydrangeas, plum trees, azaleas, and camellias, can also be enjoyed throughout the year. This park is not only a must-visit for Moriya sightseeing but also a well-loved relaxation spot for locals. The pond is home to many lively koi fish, and visitors can feed them, adding to the tranquil experience.
Walking deeper into the park, you'll find a traditional waterwheel with crystal-clear water flowing through it. The gentle, rhythmic sound of the turning waterwheel is soothing, offering a peaceful escape. Even outside the flower seasons, visitors can be seen sketching or taking photographs, capturing the quiet beauty of nature in this hidden retreat.
Conveniently located near Moriya City Hall, the park is easy to access. If you're looking for a serene getaway in nature, this is the perfect place to visit.

5. Addictively Rich Flavors! "Milk Kobo Moriya"

If you're looking for a place to buy souvenirs from Moriya, Milk Kobo Moriya is the perfect spot! A long-beloved favorite among locals, this dairy shop is also a popular destination for visitors.
Their signature drinkable yogurt is especially famous—it’s even sold at the Moriya Service Area, attracting many tourists. One sip, and you’ll be amazed by its rich, creamy texture.
The secret lies in the slow fermentation process, where yogurt cultures are carefully cultivated over more than 20 hours. This gradual maturation process results in a uniquely deep and smooth flavor. With no added fragrances or stabilizers, the taste is pure and natural.
If you drive about 1 km north from Moriya Station on Route 294, you’ll spot stacks of rolled hay bales on the left side—that's where Milk Kobo Moriya is located. Inside, you can purchase their famous drinkable yogurt as well as rare cheesecake tarts.
For those interested in the production process, the shop offers a guided tour, making it a frequent stop on Moriya sightseeing tours. Watching the yogurt being made through a window while tasting the final product is a one-of-a-kind experience. Many visitors come not just for shopping but also to participate in the factory tour.
Please note that advance reservations are required for the tour, so be sure to book before your visit!

6. Exquisite German Bread! "Backenbart"

With its crispy crust and rich almond aroma, the almond croissant from Backenbart is a must-buy souvenir from Moriya. This hidden gem of a bakery is tucked away in a residential area, making it a bit tricky to find but well worth the visit.
Housed in a charming wooden building converted from a 70-year-old traditional home, the bakery greets visitors with the enticing scent of freshly baked bread. Inside, an array of warm, aromatic breads fills the shelves. Walk further in, and you'll find a cozy café space where you can enjoy freshly baked bread on the spot.
As a German-style bakery, the bread here has a firm, hearty texture. If requested, each bread can be individually wrapped in clear bags, making them perfect as small gifts. This is definitely a place where you’ll want to buy extra to take home!
Popular items include mushroom focaccia and chiffon cake. However, note that the shop is only open on weekdays from 10 AM to 4 PM, so be sure to plan accordingly.
The owner, a Moriya native, is known for his signature mustache and warm personality. With its growing popularity, Backenbart is set to become an even bigger attraction among both locals and tourists.

◎ Summary

How did you enjoy this small journey through Moriya City? We introduced not only famous tourist spots like the beer brewery but also hidden local gems such as small bakeries and specialty shops. Did any of them catch your interest?
Just a short distance from the city center, Moriya still retains its untouched natural beauty. New tourist spots are constantly emerging, making it an exciting place to explore. Visiting regularly to discover new favorite spots can be a great way to enjoy the city.
A quick getaway just 30 minutes from Tokyo! Whether you're planning a group trip or a solo adventure, a visit to Moriya promises a delightful experience. Why not take a spontaneous trip this weekend? You’re sure to have a wonderful time!

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30 Minutes from the City Center! 6 Tourist Spots in the Rural Landscape of Moriya, Ibaraki