Overview
Atmosphere and Appeal of the Café — Discovering a Hidden Gem Near Tsukuba Mountain
Numataya, a charming sweets shop located at the foothill of Tsukuba Mountain, invites visitors with its welcoming atmosphere and rich history. The café embodies a sense of nostalgia with its traditional design, seamlessly integrated into the scenic landscape of the area. The serene environment enhances the experience, making it an inviting stop for travelers exploring the natural beauty of Tsukuba. With over a century of history, Numataya maintains its essence while catering to modern tastes, retaining the warmth and character that draws patrons in.
Signature Drinks & Sweets — Delightful Kanto-Style Manju Crafted with Care
Numataya is renowned for its signature item, the karintō manju, a deep-fried confection featuring a crunchy exterior and a tender red bean paste interior. This treat strikes a perfect balance between texture and flavor; the caramelized outer layer wraps around a subtly sweet filling, offering a delightful indulgence. Visitors can opt for single pieces or boxed assortments, allowing them to savor the freshness or share the experience with others. The exquisite aroma wafting from the shop makes it hard to resist, especially for those seeking a delightful dessert after a day of exploration.
Food/Menu Genre — A Celebration of Traditional Japanese Confections
Numataya focuses on creating high-quality traditional Japanese sweets, specifically through its iconic karintō manju. The craftsmanship behind these treats highlights the use of quality ingredients, such as brown sugar, which not only contributes to their unique flavor but also encapsulates the essence of Japanese confections. The shop embodies a straightforward yet satisfying menu, demonstrating the beauty of simplicity through their carefully crafted sweets that resonate with those who appreciate authentic flavors. A visit to Numataya offers a chance to taste a piece of Japan's culinary heritage in a picturesque setting.
Reviews
"Visiting the long-established Numata-ya near Tsukuba Mountain was a delightful experience. The atmosphere was calm and inviting, making it the perfect pit stop during our sightseeing. The signature karintou manju was wonderfully crispy and the sweet filling was smooth, creating a delightful contrast in textures. I can see why it’s so popular and look forward to returning for more."
"I stopped by before enjoying the autumn leaves around Tsukuba Mountain. The karintou manju has gained popularity, and it did not disappoint. The flavor was satisfying, and while I often prefer a firmer texture, this was still enjoyable. I appreciate the quality and look forward to trying different textures in the future."
"It was a nostalgic moment returning to Numata-ya, as I remembered trying karintou manju years ago. The lovely aroma took me back, and tasting the crispy outer layer with the rich filling was a delight. The balance of flavors made for a delightful treat, and I can’t wait to share them with friends next time."
"On a Saturday afternoon, I found it easy to purchase my snacks without a wait. The karintou manju is just the right size with a perfect blend of flavors. It’s a wonderful snack that can be enjoyed any time. I remain impressed by the quality and will definitely be back for more."
"While visiting Tsukuba Mountain, I stopped by this renowned sweet shop. The variety of freshly made sweets was fantastic, and the staff were incredibly friendly. The karintou manju I tried was a lovely balance of textures and flavors, making it a delightful treat. I am excited to return for another round next time I’m in the area."
Opening Hours
Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
How to Get There
Train / Subway
3.3km (2.05mi) from Miyawaki Station
13.0km (8.08mi) from Tsukuba Sancho Station
12.8km (7.93mi) from Nyotaisan Station
13.0km (8.08mi) from Tsukuba Sancho Station
12.8km (7.93mi) from Nyotaisan Station
Bus stop
23m (0.01mi) from Numata Kamitsubo - about a 1-minute walk
205m (0.13mi) from Numata - about a 4-minute walk
288m (0.18mi) from Tsukuba-san Guchi - about a 5-minute walk
205m (0.13mi) from Numata - about a 4-minute walk
288m (0.18mi) from Tsukuba-san Guchi - about a 5-minute walk
Map
1400 Numata, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 300-4353, Japan
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Things to Do in the Area
Ibaraki - Nature's Beauty and Cultural Heritage Await
Ibaraki Prefecture is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and significant historical sites. Visitors can enjoy a blend of natural wonders and cultural richness in this captivating region.
- Kairakuen Garden: One of Japan's three great gardens, it is famous for its beautiful plum blossoms that attract tourists every spring. The garden also features a tea house and amazing views of Mt. Tsukuba.
- Hitachi Seaside Park: A sprawling park renowned for its seasonal flowers, particularly the vibrant blue nemophila that carpets the landscape in spring. It's the perfect spot for picnics and outdoor activities amid stunning scenery.
- Mito Art Tower: A modern architectural marvel, this iconic building is home to art exhibitions and cultural events. Its observation deck provides panoramic views of Mito city and the surrounding area.
Tsukuba - A Hub of Innovation and Nature's Serenity
Tsukuba City is known for its research and technological advancements, making it a unique blend of modernity and nature. The city offers visitors both educational experiences and serene outdoor settings.
- Tsukuba Space Center: This facility is the heart of Japan's space exploration program, where visitors can learn about space missions and view exhibits detailing astronaut training. It's an inspiring destination for science enthusiasts of all ages.
- Mount Tsukuba: An iconic peak with a beautiful dual-shaped summit, it offers hiking trails that vary from easy to challenging, attracting outdoor lovers year-round. The stunning views from the top include the Kanto Plain and even Mt. Fuji on clear days.
- Tsukuba Botanical Garden: This garden showcases diverse plant species native to various climates and is dedicated to research and education about plants. It's a tranquil place for those who enjoy nature walks and peaceful gardens.