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From the Chef’s Table: A Beginner’s Guide to Omakase | Arigato Travel
Omakase is more than just a meal - it’s a culinary adventure where you place your trust in the hands of a skilled chef, allowing them to create a personalized dining experience just for you. The word “omakase” means “I leave it up to you,” and it embodies the spirit of exploration and discovery. You may hear “kaiseki” which is a meal consisting of dishes served in a specific order based solely on seasonal produce. When you sit down for an omakase meal, you aren’t just eating, but you’re part of an experience with carefully selected ingredients, masterful techniques, and the chef’s artistic vision. Each course is a surprise and is meticulously crafted to showcase the freshest seasonal ingredients and the chef’s expertise. Omakase is based on the reactions of the customer, taking their likes and dislikes into account. For beginners, omakase is the perfect way to dive into Japanese cuisine, as it offers a unique opportunity to experience a variety of flavors and textures you might not have ordered on your own. It’s a dining experience that is intimate and exciting. In this article, we will cover all the tips and tricks for those looking to try this omakase experience in Japan! What To Expect When you opt for an omakase experience, you can count on the chef to take the lead and make a personalized meal just for you. Expect an intimate atmosphere where the chef is your guide, and will curate your meal in courses. Each dish is a reflection of the season’s best ingredients, prepared and presented with artistic flair! Here is a typical step-by-step of an omakase experience: Personalized Menu: The chef will create a unique menu for you, based on the fresh ingredients available for the day. There is no set menu with omakase, and the chef may change your next dish based on your reaction to the course! Seasonal Ingredients & Local Delicacies: Dishes are crafted with the best ingredients of the season, which ensure peak flavors and freshness. Omakase has evolved to include a wide range of Japanese foods like nigiri, sashimi, tempura, and dashi. Interaction with the Chef: You’ll have the chance to engage with the chef, learning about each dish as it’s prepared and served. Omakase experiences are hosted directly in front of the chef, so you will get a chance to see everything up close. Artistic Presentation: Every course is presented with an eye for detail, making the meal as visually stunning as it is delicious. Chefs have the chance to be innovative with their selection of dishes and how it is presented. This creative freedom allows for some amazing courses that you may not find elsewhere! Wide Range Of Flavors: Expect a variety of dishes that showcase different textures, flavors, and culinary techniques. This could be anything from delicate sashimi to rich, savory bites. Create Your Plan Planning your omakase experience is key to ensuring you get the most out of this dining adventure! Omakase restaurants can range from high-end, Michelin-starred restaurants to more affordable, yet equally impressive, hidden gems. Consider your budget, location, and the type of experience you’re looking for when planning your visit. Set A Budget: Omakase can vary widely in price, so decide how much you’re willing to spend and seek out restaurants within that range. Since there is a set amount of courses, there will typically be a price for the type/number of courses you would like to receive. Choosing The Setting: Whether you’re looking for an intimate, upscale environment or a more casual vibe, pick a setting that will fit your preferences. Depending on the amount of people joining your dining experience, you may need to look for a bigger or smaller omakase restaurant. Plan Ahead: Oftentimes, you will need a reservation a few months in advance to secure a spot at very popular Omakase spots. Not to worry - there are amazing restaurants that can be booked just a few days in advance! *Additionally, be sure to check if the restaurant can accommodate young children or any allergies/food restrictions you may have. Research Researching where you go for omakase is crucial, as the experience can differ significantly from one restaurant to another. Use a mix of resources to find the best spots to align with your budget and expectations. It may be best to visit the restaurant’s website rather than a third-party website when making a reservation in case any changes need to be made. Michelin Guide: Check the Michelin Guide for top-rated omakase restaurants. These may be quite pricey compared to other options and depending on the popularity, need to be reserved months in advance. Reddit/Social Media: Dive into travel and food communities for recommendations, reviews, and insider tips from fellow foodies. Explore Different Price Points: Look at both high-end and more affordable options to find a restaurant that offers the experience you’re after within your budget. Read Reviews: Research customer reviews to get a sense of the dining experience, quality of service, and atmosphere at each location. Etiquette When it comes to omakase, a little bit of etiquette goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone. Many omakase restaurants are intimate and high-end, so it’s best to dress smartly - business casual or elegant attire is typically appropriate. Also, as a general cultural rule, try to avoid wearing any perfume, lotion, or products with strong scents due to the intimacy of the dining experience. Oftentimes, the overpowering scents can disrupt the ambiance and subtle aroma of the dishes. While enjoying your meal, be mindful of your behavior to respect the chef and fellow diners. Talking should be kept to a minimum, especially during the serving and savoring of each course, allowing everyone to appreciate the flavors. Flash photography is generally discouraged, as it could be disruptive. If you do wish to take photos, do so discreetly and without flash. Here are some of my favorite Omakase restaurants to visit: Tokyo Sushi Umi - https://www.tableall.com/restaurant/77 Udatsu Sushi - https://www.udatsu-sushi.jp/en Ginza Saisho - https://saisho.net/menu Osaka Sushidokoro Amano - https://www.tableall.com/restaurant/179 Jinen - https://jinen.org/content1/unagidani/ Sushi Hasegawa - https://www.sushi-hasegawa.com/ Kyoto Sushi Gion Matsudaya - https://gion-matsudaya.com/en/ Fujiwara - https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260301/26032207/ Muromachi Wakuden - https://www.wakuden.jp/ Sapporo Sushisai Wakichi - https://www.tableall.com/restaurant/103 Sushi Musou - https://sushimusou.com/en/index.html Sushi Watanabe - https://www.sushi-watanabe011.com/ Fukuoka Kiku Zushi - http://kikuzushi.org/ Yoshitomizushi - https://yoshitomi-sushi.com/ Sushi Gyoten - https://gyoten.jp/en/ Embracing the omakase experience is a journey into the heart of Japanese culinary tradition. From the careful planning and research to understanding the nuances of etiquette, every step adds to this unique dining adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious beginner, omakase offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore new flavors, engage with skilled chefs, and an experience to immerse yourself in a truly personalized meal. By respecting the customs and savoring each moment, you’ll not only enjoy an amazing meal but also gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and culture that make Omakase so special. The next time you’re looking for something extraordinary in Japan, trust the chef and let Omakase guide you through a culinary experience like no other. Featured Photo Credit: Ginza Saisho Love Japanese cuisine? In addition to booking an Omakase restaurant, why not explore more flavors of Japan with one of our locally guided food tours?
INSIDE CHABARA: AKIHABARA’S STYLISH FOOD DESTINATION | Arigato Travel
For food lovers, CHABARA AKI-OKA MARCHE in Akihabara is a worthwhile stop on any culinary tour of Tokyo. Nestled underneath the elevated train tracks between Akihabara and Okachimachi stations, this unique food destination built on the site of the former Kanda Fruit and Vegetable Market has been reborn as a stylish “food theme park.” Chabara, a portmanteau of Yatchaba (“fruit and vegetable market”) and Akihabara offers more than 6000 artisanal products highlighting Japanese food, culture, and tradition. This bustling market is the perfect destination to take in the sights, sounds, and tastes of Japan. Whether for a quick lunch stop or a leisurely shopping trip just strolling the aisles, Chabara has something for everyone. Your culinary tour begins at the market’s entrance. You’ll hear the noise of the trains rumbling overhead as you enter. It is a bit cramped, but like Japan itself, no space is wasted. The aisles are neatly arranged by Japan’s prefectures and regions and feature local delicacies. To the left, you can sample umeboshi, or salty pickled plums, from the Kansai region. These extremely salty and sour fruits are definitely an acquired taste. See if you can eat one without puckering! Then you can walk past the fragrant spices, green teas, and matcha of the Kanto region or head to Kyushu, known for Hakata tonkotsu ramen. This signature dish is made from noodles served in a pork-flavored broth flavored with mushrooms, green onion, and pickled ginger. If that doesn’t tempt you, you might sample some otsumami (finger foods) such as pickles and fried vegetables, that are usually served with alcohol. You can wash down the otsumami with some gin or vodka craft cocktails from the Tottori region. Or if you’re in the mood for a full meal, Chabara has a “shojin ryori” restaurant that features vegetarian cuisine inspired by the food served at Buddhist temples in Kamakura. No meat or fish is served. Instead, the menu focuses on small colorful dishes with seasonal vegetables and subtle flavors. All meals come with miso soup and rice and can be accompanied by sake, beer, matcha, or amazake, a sweet drink made with fermented rice. Before leaving, you can’t miss the enormous wooden barrel laid on its side. You’ll be encouraged to climb inside it (after removing your shoes) and take pictures. This barrel is part of the “Kioke Craftsman Revival Project.” Until the late Edo Period, fermented Japanese seasonings such as soy sauce, miso, mirin, and vinegar were all brewed in wooden barrels (also called “kioke”). Ever since then, the trade has died out with only a few traditional craftsmen still choosing to use them. The wooden barrels promote the growth of microorganisms such as lactic acid bacteria and yeast, which brings a unique flavor to the fermented products. The problem, however, is that the wooden barrels being used today were all built before World War II and will be unusable in 50 years. The Kioke Craftsman Revival Project aims to stop the extinction of traditional barrel-aging culture. Part grocery store, part farmer’s market, part food court, Chabara offers a unique gastronomic shopping adventure in the heart of Japan’s capital. You can enjoy the culinary wonders of Japan without ever leaving Tokyo. The signs are all in Japanese writing, so it might be helpful to brush up on kanji characters or, better yet, go with a guide to fully appreciate the experience. Chabara Aki-Oka Marche is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a cultural and sensory experience. As you navigate the market, take time to engage with the vendors. Many of them are passionate artisans who are more than willing to share stories about their products, from the painstaking process of crafting traditional foods to the history and significance of regional specialties. This interaction can deepen your appreciation for the rich culinary heritage of Japan. Address: 8-2 Kanda Neribeicho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 101-0022 Google Maps: https://g.co/kgs/R2MZ6q6 Website: https://www.jrtk.jp/chabara/ Hours: Open 11 am to 8 pm 7 days a week Featured Photo Credit: Graydon Lavallee Around the Tokyo area this Spring?, come join either our Daytime or Evening cherry blossom tours guided by a local!
“Sea” For Yourself! Japan’s Best Fishy Dishes For Spring | Arigato Travel
When it comes to culinary feasts, Japan is well versed in the subject, whether it be for their desserts, taiyaki for example, or their world-renowned sushi. But what do those two have in common, you may ask? Well, both culinary dishes are inspired by seafood, the former for its shape and the latter for the course itself. As it might be well known, fish is a regular part of the Japanese diet. We may all be aware of the numerous benefits of consuming fish, but did you know that historically, because of Japan’s location, it had to endure the effects of many changes in its climate? This led to periods of famine, rendering the sea their sole source of nourishment. Nowadays, fish are prepared in a plethora of ways, ranging from sushi to grilled skewers, yet the complexity of their art remains in the fact that depending on the season in which the catch took place, the taste will differ. Indeed, during spring, fish will migrate to shallow areas near the shores, thus allowing the fishermen to catch them easily. During this season, the fish will be slender with a light and elegant taste, compared to its fattiness during the winter. Here are some ideas of feasts you could have in Japan in the spring. Let us begin our journey with the king of fish: Tai Tai, also known as sea bream in English, is a fish that spawns in May, making it very accessible during this season, in sushi shops and at fish stalls. Not only is it very tasty, but the name “Tai’ itself holds an auspicious and important meaning. Indeed, “Tai'' is part of the word “medetai”, which means lucky and prosperous. The beginning of spring, in Japan, also represents the start of the school year as well as the commencement of the employment cycle. Therefore, eating Tai in this season marks a very good debut for the rest of the year. Fun fact: Do you recall when I was talking about taiyaki earlier on? Well, did you know that this very famous and delicious dessert takes its inspiration from the shape of the Tai fish? No? Neither did Tai. But now that we have uncovered the mysteries of the taiyaki’s origins, why not try the authentic fish itself? Fun fact #2: It changes its name to Momijidai in the fall. Now, before we pursue our voyage into the deliciousness of Spring’s banquet, let me make a small halt and welcome you to the world of Japan’s culinary etiquette. Indeed, in the following article, we will see a lot of different dishes that may require some attention as to how to eat them. After all, “when in Rome, do as the Romans do”! Or, for that matter, as the Japanese do. But, have no fear, dear reader, for I shall share with you the secrets of my discoveries. Let us begin our lessons with the fundamentals. You must have heard the words sashimi and sushi a thousand times, but have you ever wondered where the difference lies between them? Sashimi is solely made out of thinly sliced, raw, fresh, fish or meat, that’s it! Yes, yes, you read me right, even meat! Amazing, isn’t it? Now, regarding sushi, did you know that the main ingredient of this fabulous dish is vinegar rice? Indeed, the name itself translates to “sour/vinegar rice”. While traditionally, raw seafood complements it, it is not an absolute must for it to be called sushi. Any ingredient paired with the vinegared rice can be considered sushi. For instance, Inarizushi (vinegared rice encapsulated inside a deep-fried tofu pocket) or the Tamago sushi (rolled omelet on rice) both qualify as sushi. Now, we must underline that sushi is still a broad term. Indeed, within it, there is the Nigirizushi (a piece of raw fish/meat/vegetable, or even fruit on top of the vinegared rice; usually it is the Nigiri that comes to mind when we think of sushi) and other types, like Makis (rolled in seaweed and cut, often having more than one ingredient) or even Temaki sushis (cone-shaped). Now that we have learned the basics, let us get back to our etiquette. Take Nigirizushi, for example, when you picture eating it, you see yourself savoring it while holding it between your chopsticks, right? After all, sushi is known to be quite fancy, so using chopsticks seems like an obvious answer as to how to consume it in a clean manner. Nonetheless, did you know, dear reader, that traditionally, sushi was meant to be eaten by hand? In fact, many locals still prefer this method. In most restaurants, it is customary to give the customer a hot towel to let them wipe their hands before touching the meal. Afterward, you place the food between your thumb and middle finger, holding it delicately but firmly. As for the dipping, sushi, just like sashimi, is usually served with soy sauce. This is the crucial part. You do not soak the whole sushi in the sauce. On the contrary, my friend, you rotate your hand in such a way that only the fish/meat/ingredient on top of the rice elegantly touches the liquid. You never let the rice get drenched in the soy sauce, as it would not only alter the taste and texture of the sushi, but the pressure of the liquid would cause the rice to fall apart. This is also the reason why, when you put it inside your mouth, you should turn the nigiri upside down so that the rice is upward with the topping, touching your tongue. However, be aware that unagi (eel) sushi and other nigiri, which are already topped with dressings, should not be dipped. Do not cut your sushi, rather, try to eat it in one bite. Two bites may be somewhat acceptable, but please, never put the half-bitten part back on your plate. Once it has been picked up, it should be eaten wholly. Use the ginger as a palate cleanser in between each sushi. You may also add some wasabi to your sushi but do not put it directly in the soy sauce. There is also an order in which locals eat sushi: white fish nigiri first, then red ones like tuna, and any sushi that contains eggs is always last. Sashimi has similar rules, but the main difference resides in the fact that you never eat it with your hands. Instead, you always use chopsticks! The same goes with grilled fish and ochazuke, as you will see them appear later on. The way to eat grilled fish is to start with the back of the fish. Use your chopsticks to cut along the spine (from left to right), doing this will facilitate the separation between the meat and the bones. Now, open the flap above the spine and enjoy the meat, afterwards, do the same with the ventral flap. You should start eating from the head and work your way through to the body, always from left to right. The stomach has many bones, so make sure to pick them out with your chopsticks and put them in the left top corner of your plate. To eat the other half, all you need to do is use your pair of Japanese utensils to pick out the backbone (which is also attached to the head). One caution though, is to never flip your fish over, as it is considered bad manners. Therefore, for this part, you can use your left hand to grab hold of the fish’s head and use the chopsticks in your other hand to grasp the big bone. Place the latter on the back side of your plate. All that is left now is for you to enjoy the rest of your meal! As for ochazuke, it usually comes in the form of a tray composed of rice, some toppings, and a kettle of green tea or dashi (Japanese stock). You put the toppings on your rice and then pour the hot liquid on top of it. Ochazuke is eaten with chopsticks, and the remaining is gulped like soup (some restaurants do not offer spoons). Now, last but not least, a small reminder of chopsticks etiquette: Never stick them into your food, especially in a bowl of rice, as it is considered a bad omen, reflecting a funeral rite. Do not cross them (also represent funerals and death). When you are not using them, place them on the chopstick holder, the tip should be facing left. Do not pass food from one set of chopsticks to another pair, as it imitates yet another funerary ritual. If required, pick the dish and place it on the plate of the other person, the latter will then use their own chopsticks to grab the food. When sharing on a communal platter, like sushi for example, use a new pair of chopsticks just for it, or use the broad end of your own. Well, let’s go back to the spring seafood! Tai, what about the Sakuradai? Now that I have introduced you to Tai, let us go deep into one of its species, Madai or Sakuradai, aka the Red Sea Bream, or cherry blossom bream. When you hear Tai, generally speaking, it often refers to Madai, the Red Sea Bream, which is known to not only have a refined appearance but also for its firm texture and tasty flesh. After all, it is not known as the King of the fish for nothing! The Red Sea Bream that migrates to the coast of Seto Island for spawning is called Sakuradai. As the name suggests, it refers to the cherry blossoms, the fish is therefore perceived as bringing spring with its arrival, thus making it a highly valued and cherished fish to consume by the Japanese. You can cook Madai in different ways, either boiled with the skin (Matsukawa-Zukuri), grilled (yakishimozukuri), or skinless. You can even enjoy it with salt and sudachi citrus fruit. Another way to enjoy this delicious fish is to top rice with Tai sashimi and pour dashi (Japanese broth) all over it. This dish is called “Tai-chazuke”, and if you pass by Shinjuku, do not miss the chance to try it in the “Dashi Ochazuke En'' restaurant. Sakura season calls for Sakuramasu Now the following fish also has the name Sakura in it, which only means that just as spring can show you different aspects of it, so can this season’s fish! Sakuramasu, or cherry blossom trout got its name because once the fish matures, its scales turn pink just like the sakura blossoms. Moreover, its peak fishing season coincides with the Hanami season. Those caught in the Northern oceans are said to be particularly luscious in flavor. This is due to the fact that the recently melted snow enriches the ocean, thus enriching the sakuramasu as well. This delicacy is best consumed as sashimi, grilled, or meunière. Now, if you are eager to try Sakuramasu, I can only suggest you try “Nihonryori Ryugin” in Midtown Hibiya. The plus point of this restaurant is that they also propose Sakuradai. So what are you waiting for? Good luck with Usu-mebaru Amongst Mebaru (rockfish), Usu-mebaru, the goldeye rockfish of Aomori, is said to not only bring good fortune but is also highly appreciated for its firm flesh and divine, yet delicate flavor. There are many ways to enjoy Mebaru, here are some ideas. You can try the Mebaru Nitsuke, where the fish is simmered in soy sauce. But If you travel to Nakadori in Aomori, do try the “Nakadomari Mebaru Sashimi Nitsuke Zen” meal set. It is a local specialty that consists of whole fish sashimi, squid sashimi, Nitsuke, and local rice. And for those staying in Tokyo, “Shibusan Uokin”, in Shibuya, offers boiled Mebaru. A must-try! What about Sayori? Sayori may be the name of a character from a famous video game, but did you know that it was also the name of a very popular halfbeak fish in Japan? Not only is it known for its strong yet delicate taste, but its appearance may as well enchant you. Indeed, Sayori’s beautiful, shining outer patterns have a double purpose: to treat our eyes and to camouflage itself from its predators. Sayori can be enjoyed as sashimi, nigiri sushi, or even tempura. Its almost translucent flesh will do wonders for your pallet. Fun fact: While the outside is shiny, the inside of the fish is black, rendering popular the following saying: “Sayori no youni haraguroi”. An equivalence of this sentence would be “black-bellied like the Sayori”, meaning that a person is double-faced, evil, cruel, and manipulative. In other words, black-hearted. Let’s talk about Hotaru Ika We have talked about Sayori’s appearance, but in my opinion, Hotaru Ika, also known as Firefly Squid, takes a step further on the matter of presenting itself. Whenever you are in Japan, please visit Toyama Bay during spring, as you will be welcomed by the most enchanting and ethereal view you could ever imagine. Indeed, alongside the bay, you can witness the sighting of the Hotaru Ika magically glowing and dancing to its own rhythm, while selflessly assuring that your day will be illuminated. Beyond the exquisiteness of their sight, I must add that their splendidness does not stop at their sole appearance. Their taste is quite unique as well, and they are very healthy to eat. The way to prepare it is to boil it beforehand to remove any parasites the squid may have carried. Putting this step aside, Hotaru Ika is often enjoyed as sushi or served with a sumiso sauce (vinegar and Miso) or with Wakake seaweed and a dipping sauce made of miso, vinegar, and mustard. If you want to try Sayori and Hotaru Ika and are in Tokyo, I recommend “Sushi Namba Hibiya”, as both dishes are provided there. The plus point is that it is next to “Nihonryori Ryugin
Charming Small Towns in Honshu | Arigato Travel
As the largest island in Japan, Honshu offers so many small towns to be explored! Tokyo often steals the spotlight when it comes to visiting Japan; however, there are numerous small towns scattered across Honshu, each offering its own unique allure. Whether you’re drawn to ancient shrines, stunning gardens, or simply the tranquility of rural life, Honshu’s small towns offer a delightful escape from the bustling cities. While the list of charming towns to explore in Honshu is endless, you’ll find plenty of favorites to discover and savor for your adventure! Odate, Akita Prefecture This charming town is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery and connection to the beloved Akita dog breed. If you want to learn more about these adorable dogs, there is free admission to the Akita Dog Visitor Centre, only three minutes away from the JR Odate Station. Or pick up a small souvenir at the Akita Dog Station operated by ONE FOR AKITA, an organization that works to raise awareness for the dog breed and improve their environment. For a fully immersive experience, visitors can enjoy hiking, canoeing, and even winemaking with the assistance of Akitas by their side! Sponsored by Odate City, these activities are complete with a knowledgeable tour guide. To reserve a tour with one of these loveable pups, visit the website to apply. Odate Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qhztCMCbc1wtc1m59 Website: https://www.pref.akita.lg.jp/pages/en Akita Dog Station Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/pGo2fr83MyaorBsV7 Akita Experience: https://visitakita.com/with-akita/guided-trekking/ Explore the culinary delights of Akita Prefecture with these must-try foods! Chofu, Tokyo Welcome to Chofu, where history meets beauty! This lively city in western Tokyo is home to Jindaiji Temple, one of the oldest temples in Tokyo. Dating back to 733 AD, this ancient temple is full of culture and tradition, with picturesque gardens and ponds. After soaking in the sights, treat yourself to local delicacies like the famous Jindaji soba and traditional crafts at the temple’s shops and restaurants. Not too far from Jindaiji Temple, the Jindai Botanical Gardens is a paradise for nature lovers! With over 100,000 plants from approximately 4,800 species, it is the perfect place to unwind after a long day. Chofu is also home to the GeGeGe no Kitaro, one of the most popular horror manga from the 1960s, and is celebrated with themed shops and cafes. Check out this balanced blend of old-world charm and modern allure! Chofu Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/X511KiRfqseiLtVu5 Website: https://www.gotokyo.org/en/index.html Jindaiji Temple Website: https://www.jindaiji.or.jp/en/ Jindaiji Temple Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/dgoSb3F3eZJ2cb7M9 Jindai Botanical Gardens Website: https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/jindai/ Jindai Botanical Gardens Address: 5 Chome-31-10 Jindaiji Motomachi, Chofu, Tokyo 182-0017, Japan Kusatsu, Gunma Prefecture Located in Gunma Prefecture, Kusatsu is known for its picturesque landscapes and natural hot springs, making it the perfect destination for relaxation! The town has some of Japan’s most acidic hot springs, renowned for their therapeutic properties. Yubatake, the main hot spring source, is a mesmerizing sight where steaming hot water flows through wooden channels, creating a captivatingly steamy atmosphere. Visitors can immerse themselves in various traditional onsens scattered throughout the town, such as Kusatsu Onsen, each offering unique mineral compositions and health benefits. A must-see attraction is the daily Yumomi performance, a traditional method of cooling hot spring water by stirring it with large wooden paddles, accompanied by singing and dancing. Beyond hot springs, Kusatsu offers charming streets lined with shops and local restaurants serving regional delicacies like manju (sweet buns) or onsen tamago (hot spring eggs). Kusatsu Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/tPw5owDgUvNjiGA36 Website: https://www.visit-gunma.jp/en/discover/destinations/kusatsu/ Kusatsu Onsen: https://www.kusatsu-onsen.ne.jp/guide/en/ Here are thebest things to eat in Gunma Prefecture! Kakegawa, Shizuoka Prefecture Learn more about the history of tea in this charming city! Kakegawa, located in Shizuoka Prefecture, has lush tea plantations with experiences for all those fascinated by tea. The rolling hills of this city are adorned with tea fields that produce some of the finest green tea in Japan. Visitors can tour these plantations, participate in tea-picking experiences, and savor freshly brewed tea while learning about its rich history and production process. Kiwi Fruit Country Japan hosts a tea experience where guests can make green tea they freshly picked themselves! For foodies, they offer kiwi cake making and jam making. The city’s historical sites include Kakegawa Castle, offering a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past. With its perfect blend of agriculture and culture, Kakegawa is the best place for those looking to find a refreshing escape! Kakegawa Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/tbfzMB4PfUrsyqAo8 Website: https://en.kiwicountry.jp/ Kiwi Fruit Country Japan: https://en.kiwicountry.jp/rsv/ Kiwi Fruit Country Japan Address: 2040 Kamiuchida, Kakegawa, Shizuoka 436-0012, Japan Interested in Shizuoka tea? Check out this blog about Shizuoka in our Major Tea Regions Series! Gujō-Hachiman, Gifu Prefecture Interested in Edo-period charm and vibrant cultural traditions? Gujō-Hachiman is the place for you! Dominating the town’s skyline is Gujō-Hachiman Castle, a stunning reconstruction of the original structure that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The castle was originally built in the 16th century and stands as a symbol of the town’s rich history. Gujō-Hachiman is also famous for its pristine waterways, earning the nickname “the water city.” Visitors can enjoy walks along the crystal-clear rivers and explore the town’s many traditional water mills and springs. The town really comes alive during the Gujō Odori festival, one of Japan’s longest dance festivals, where locals and visitors dance through the night in the streets. With its blend of historical landmarks, scenic beauty, and cultural festivities, Gujō-Hachiman is an immersive experience of traditional Japan. Gujō-Hachiman Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/5TjK4eQ2Wrmav7Yj6 Gujō-Hachiman Castle Address: Japan, 〒501-4214 Gifu, Gujo, Hachimancho Yanagimachi, 一の平 ６５９ Website: http://www.gujohachiman.com/kanko/index_e.php Find out more about the best dishes to eat in Gifu! Yamanouchi, Nagano Prefecture Animal lovers, this city in Nagano Prefecture is the place for you! Yamanouchi is a delightful town that is home to Jigokudani Yaen-Koen, a monkey park where you can witness the famous snow monkeys relaxing in hot springs all year round. For an immersive cultural experience, staying at a traditional ryokan offers unparalleled relaxation with tatami-matted rooms, futon bedding, and kaiseki meals. The town is known for hosting the 1998 Winter Olympics and, in the winter, is a haven for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Additionally, Yamanouchi offers numerous day onsens and foot baths, perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes. With its unique blend of wildlife encounters and winter sports, this destination promises unforgettable memories. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/5TzfBVJym3hPALFDA Website: https://www.info-yamanouchi.net/english/?hl=en Jigokudani Yaen-Koen: http://en.jigokudani-yaenkoen.co.jp/ Jigokudani Yaen-Koen Address: 6845 Hirao, Yamanochi, Shimotakai District, Nagano 381-0401, Japan Directions to visiting the snow monkeys: https://www.jrailpass.com/blog/jigokudani-monkey-park Five Must-Eat Foods in Nagano! Nachikatsuura, Wakayama Prefecture The highlight of Nachikatsuura, located in Wakayama Prefecture, is Nachi Falls, one of Japan’s tallest and most awe-inspiring waterfalls. The waterfall is part of a sacred Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, and nearby, the ancient Nachi Taisha Shrine stands as a testament to the area’s culture. Visitors can immerse themselves in the quiet ambiance, exploring the shrine’s beautiful architecture and the surrounding forested mountains. Nachikatsuura is also famous for its hot springs and fresh seafood, especially its tuna, making it the place to be for foodies. Be sure to check out the Katsuura Fish Market if you’re interested in seeing tuna auctions! Another amazing experience is partaking in a traditional boat tour to Kumano Hayatama Taisha, another important shrine with stunning scenery. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6QHxWJGr9Yg7DZTZA Website: https://nachikan.jp/en/ Nachi Falls Address: Nachisan, Nachikatsuura, Higashimuro District, Wakayama 649-5301, Japan Katsuura Fish Market: 7 Chome-12 Tsukiji, Nachikatsuura, Higashimuro District, Wakayama 649-5335, Japan Kumano Hayatama Taisha Address: 1番地 Shingu, Wakayama 647-0081, Japan Must-try dishes in Wakayama! As we conclude our journey through the charming small towns of Honshu, it’s clear that each destination gives something unique! From the therapeutic hot springs of Kusatsu to seeing snow monkeys up close in Yamanouchi, these towns encapsulate the heart of Japan’s heritage and serene landscapes. If you are seeking a new adventure with traditional onsens, historic castles, or local celebrations, Honshu’s small towns promise unforgettable experiences and a deeper connection to Japan’s timeless charm. So pack your bags, set out on a journey, and discover the enchanting treasures that await in Honshu’s hidden gems. Featured Photo Credit: fukez84 Plan to visit Japan in the future? Book a Personal Travel Consulting Call with our experts and let us ensure your trip is unforgettable!