What is Hitachi Station?
Hitachi Station (Hitachi-eki) is a JR Jōban Line station in Hitachi City, Ibaraki Prefecture, famous as a "sea-view station" where you can enjoy a sweeping view of the Pacific Ocean.
The station features a futuristic, glass-enclosed design that allows you to gaze out at the endless Pacific from inside the building.
Designed in 2011 by world-renowned architect Kazuyo Sejima, this station has become a popular spot for tourists.
Hitachi City is also known as a center of manufacturing and is the birthplace of Hitachi, Ltd.
The area is blessed with beautiful coastlines and rich nature, so you can enjoy driving, hiking, and seafood cuisine.
This article introduces the attractions of Hitachi Station, nearby sightseeing spots, recommended food, and more in detail!
Highlights of Hitachi Station
1. A sea-view station with a spectacular panorama — world-class architectural design
Hitachi Station is characterized by its fully glass-enclosed station building facing the sea, giving the sensation of floating above the ocean.
Glass-enclosed station design
- Designed by architect Kazuyo Sejima
- Plenty of natural light creates a strong sense of openness
View from the station
- The blue sea spreads out immediately when you exit the ticket gates!
- Especially sunrise and dusk are spectacular, making it ideal for photography
- The color of the sea changes with the time of day and weather, which is also part of the charm
This station is sometimes called the "most beautiful station in Japan" and is a spot that soothes the heart just by visiting.
2. SEA BiRDS CAFE — a scenic café directly connected to the station
Hitachi Station houses the café SEA BiRDS CAFE inside the station building.
Here you can enjoy meals while looking out at the Pacific through the glass, which makes it very popular with visitors.
Recommended menu at SEA BiRDS CAFE
- Morning set (toast & coffee)
- Relaxed breakfast while watching the morning sea
- Lunch menus using local seafood
- Enjoy lunch made with local specialties, including Hitachi favorites
- Original drinks & sweets
- Perfect for a cafe break with a sea view!
The best times to visit are early morning at sunrise and the magic hour at sunset.
If you visit Hitachi Station, be sure to take a break at SEA BiRDS CAFE!
3. Sightseeing spots around Hitachi Station
There are many spots around Hitachi Station where you can enjoy beautiful coastlines and nature.
① Kawarago Beach (Kawarago Kaigan)
- About 10 minutes by car from Hitachi Station
- A clear, beautiful beach where you can swim in summer
- Also popular for surfing and fishing
② Kamine Park
- About 15 minutes by bus from Hitachi Station
- A multi-use leisure facility with a zoo, amusement park, and observation deck
- The observation deck offers panoramic views of Hitachi city and the sea
③ Oiwa Shrine (Oiwa Jinja)
- About 25 minutes by car from Hitachi Station
- A shrine famous as a power spot
- A mystical atmosphere with giant trees over 500 years old
When you visit Hitachi Station, be sure to enjoy these nearby sightseeing spots as well!
Useful information for travelers
Access information (how to get to Hitachi Station)
By train
- From Tokyo: About 90 minutes on the JR Jōban Line limited express "Hitachi" or "Tokiwa"
- From Mito Station: About 25 minutes by local JR Jōban Line train
By car
- From Tokyo: About 10 minutes from the Jōban Expressway "Hitachi-Chūō IC"
- From Mito City: About 30 minutes via National Route 6
Wi-Fi
- Free Wi‑Fi is available inside Hitachi Station and at SEA BiRDS CAFE
- Some cafes and tourist facilities also offer Wi‑Fi
Language support
- Tourist information centers have pamphlets in English and Chinese
- SEA BiRDS CAFE can provide basic service in English
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
Hitachi Station is one of Ibaraki Prefecture's top scenic stations.
The glass-enclosed design and the panoramic sea view are must-sees!
Also attractive are the station-connected cafe and nearby sightseeing spots — it's a great place to relax.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is Hitachi Station famous?
A: It is known as a "sea-view station," and the design by architect Kazuyo Sejima has attracted attention.
Q: What sightseeing spots are recommended around Hitachi Station?
A: There are many nature spots such as Kawarago Beach, Kamine Park, and Oiwa Shrine.
Q: What is the best time of day to visit?
A: Sunrise and sunset are especially recommended — you can also enjoy the spectacular views from the cafe.
Q: Are there souvenir shops near Hitachi Station?
A: There are many shops around the station selling local seafood and sweets. Dried sweet potatoes (hoshi-imo) and anko senbei (anglerfish rice crackers) are especially popular!
If you visit Ibaraki and Hitachi, be sure to enjoy the stunning view from Hitachi Station!
