Shizuoka Travel Guide

Savor the Flavors of Shizuoka - Indulge in Shizuoka's Gastronomic Treasures

food and drink from Shizuoka

Embark on a Flavorful Expedition: Discover Shizuoka, Japan's Riviera, Home to Mount Fuji's Majesty and Culinary Delights! Dive into a realm of vibrant landscapes, nurturing the finest foods and drinks, including the world-renowned green tea. Explore cascading waterfalls, serene shrines, and thrilling adventures amidst rich history and culture. Don't miss out on sampling Shizuoka's local delicacies, ensuring an unforgettable gastronomic journey through this captivating region!

Shizuoka's Top Local Specialties Await Your Tastebuds

From the delicate sweetness of Sakura Ebi to the succulent perfection of Unagi, each dish reflects the region's rich cultural heritage. Don't miss the tantalizing aroma of Hamamatsu Gyoza or the refreshing taste of Shizuoka's renowned Green Tea. Warm your soul with comforting Shizuoka Oden and savor the savory goodness of Fujinomiya Yakisoba. Indulge your sweet tooth with Abekawa Mochi and experience the fiery kick of Shizuoka Wasabi. Discover a feast for the senses in Shizuoka's diverse culinary landscape.

Sakura Ebi

In the vast expanse of the Japanese archipelago, a rare treasure awaits amidst the shores of Shizuoka: the elusive sakura shrimp, a delicacy coveted for its ethereal sweetness. Only in the quaint harbors of Yui and Oigawa can these tiny crustaceans be found, their capture restricted to just two fleeting moments each year. Once harvested, they undergo a meticulous drying process to lock in their exquisite flavor. From boiling to frying, pickling to serving as sashimi, the sakura shrimp offers a myriad of culinary possibilities. And for those fortunate enough to visit in May, Yui beckons with its enchanting Sakura Shrimp Festival, a celebration where one can indulge in the bounty of these delectable crustaceans to their heart's content.

Unagi

unagi specialty in Shizuoka

Imagine a dance of flavors where the freshwater eel, known as unagi, takes center stage. Within the prefecture of Hamamatsu, a realm revered as the pinnacle of eel production in Japan, this delicacy reigns supreme. Once a humble fare of the common folk, unagi has metamorphosed into a culinary Cinderella, captivating the palates of the nation. Served atop a mound of steamed rice in the form of donburi, accompanied by an array of complementary side dishes, it orchestrates a symphony of taste sensations. With its peak enjoyment reserved for the sultry summer months, unagi emerges as the darling of Shizuoka's gastronomic scene, cherished by connoisseurs near and far.

Hamamatsu Gyoza

Picture a sizzling symphony of flavors encapsulated within each pan-fried dumpling—a Japanese culinary cornerstone adored far and wide. Amidst the tapestry of Shizuoka's gastronomic landscape, Hamamatsu City emerges as a beacon for gyoza enthusiasts. Here, the artistry of gyoza-making reaches its zenith, with savory parcels brimming with minced pork, cabbage, and leek, accompanied by a generous mound of crisp bean sprouts. Renowned as the gyoza capital of Japan, Hamamatsu City proudly boasts the highest consumption of these delectable dumplings, solidifying its status as an indispensable cornerstone of Shizuoka's rich culinary heritage.

Green Tea

In the verdant embrace of Shizuoka's volcanic mountains, a treasure of unparalleled quality emerges Shizuoka green tea. While Kyoto may steal the spotlight, it's here in Shizuoka where 40 percent of Japan's green tea is nurtured to perfection. A legacy dating back to 1241 traces its roots to a monk's journey to China, where he returned with precious green tea seeds, sowing the seeds of a thriving industry.

green tea specialty in Shizuoka

Shizuoka's temperate climate, pristine water sources, and strategic port proximity form an idyllic trifecta for green tea cultivation. Beyond its lush landscapes, Shizuoka green tea is a potent elixir, brimming with antioxidants and nutrients that elevate both body and mind. From enhancing cognitive function to promoting digestive health and even combating cancer, its virtues are as abundant as the leaves themselves.

Yet, green tea transcends mere sustenance; it's a cornerstone of Japanese culture, the focal point of the revered tea ceremony. While its warmth soothes the soul in a steaming cup, its versatility knows no bounds. Dive into a world of culinary creativity with green tea leaf tempura, indulge in the creamy embrace of green tea ice cream, or savor the delicate crispness of green tea waffles. In Shizuoka, the possibilities unfurl like the rolling hillsides, inviting exploration beyond the conventional confines of a teacup.

Shizuoka Oden

In the heart of Shizuoka, a distinctive rendition of Oden awaits, redefining the notion of Japanese comfort cuisine. Amidst the chill of winter, this regional delicacy takes on a novel form—served skewered on sticks, inviting a playful twist to tradition.

Prepare your palate for an explosion of umami as you delve into the depths of Shizuoka's dashi, a soul-warming elixir infused with robust soy sauce, beef tendon essence, and the essence of seaweed. Enhanced by the subtle complexities of dried fish powder and the piquant kick of karashi, each sip is a journey through layers of flavor.

Intriguingly, the hue of the broth serves as a testament to time's passage—the darker the brew, the longer it has simmered, intensifying its essence.

Venture into Shizuoka City in March, where the streets come alive with the aroma of simmering pots, heralding the annual ode to Oden. For aficionados enamored with this culinary gem, it's an event not to be missed—a celebration of tradition, innovation, and the boundless creativity that defines Shizuoka's culinary identity.

Fujinomiya Yakisoba

In the culinary realm of Fujinomiya, a star shines bright: Fujinomiya yakisoba, a local delight that has earned its stripes in the prestigious B-1 Grand Prix. This beloved dish, born from the essence of the district, adheres to a sacred code of twelve rules, each a testament to its authenticity and tradition.

delicacy from Shizuoka

At its core lies the soul of Fujinomiya—soba noodles crafted with meticulous care in designated factories within the city limits. Locally sourced pork and cabbage, imbued with the essence of the land, join forces atop the sizzling griddle, while a sprinkle of dried sardines adds a touch of coastal flair.

But the secret ingredient that elevates Fujinomiya yakisoba to celestial heights? None other than beer, whose effervescence and depth of flavor infuse each strand of noodle with a symphony of taste.

In Fujinomiya, yakisoba isn't just a dish—it's a culinary ode to tradition, a testament to the vibrant tapestry of flavors that define this enchanting district.

Abekawa Mochi

Picture yourself strolling through the vibrant streets, where the aroma of freshly pounded rice cake fills the air, drawing you closer to the source of its irresistible allure. Abekawa mochi, adorned with a delicate dusting of roasted soybean powder, beckons with promises of indulgence and satisfaction.

As you take your first bite, you're greeted by a symphony of textures and flavors. The mochi, exquisitely soft and chewy, melts in your mouth, while the nutty richness of the soybean powder adds depth and complexity to each delightful morsel. It's a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, a culinary masterpiece that transcends mere sustenance to become an experience unto itself.

In Shizuoka, Abekawa mochi isn't just a snack—it's a celebration of culture, history, and the artistry of Japanese confectionery. So, whether you're a seasoned food enthusiast or a curious traveler, be sure to treat yourself to this heavenly delight and experience the magic of Shizuoka's culinary landscape.

Shizuoka Wasabi

Wasabi, with its enigmatic blend of heat and aroma, is no mere spice—it's a symphony of sensations that dance upon the palate. Evoking the pungency of English hot mustard, its fiery kick tantalizes the senses, awakening the palate with a rush of flavor that lingers long after the last bite.

shizuoka wasabi

But what sets Shizuoka's wasabi apart is not just its taste but its cultivation. Nurtured by the pure waters sourced from the sacred slopes of Mount Fuji and the fertile soils that cradle its roots, this is wasabi at its most authentic—a testament to the harmony between nature and tradition.

Whether grown in soil (Hatake wasabi) or water (sawa wasabi), each root tells a story of resilience and reverence, embodying the spirit of Shizuoka's rich culinary heritage. And yet, despite its renown, the true essence of wasabi remains elusive to many outside of Japan.

For those who dare to seek it, the reward is nothing short of revelatory. Freshly grated Shizuoka wasabi unveils a world of flavor and authenticity that transcends the confines of imitation, inviting the adventurous palate on a journey of discovery.

Conclusion

Shizuoka Prefecture beckons with a tantalizing array of culinary delights waiting to be savored. From the rich flavors of unagi to the fiery allure of authentic wasabi, the region's traditional foods, drinks, and sweets offer a feast for the senses. So, whether you're drawn by the majesty of Mount Fuji or the promise of gastronomic exploration, Shizuoka's culinary landscape promises an unforgettable journey of discovery and delight.

Japan in pictures

Newsletter

Useful information

Contact Us

help[at]exploreshizuoka.com

Privacy Policy

© 2024 Copyright exploreshizuoka.com. All Rights Reserved. Sitemap