Foodie Road Trips Across the World in Ōita, Ōita, Japan

1. Yufuin no Dango

Traditional Japanese dumplings made with local sweet potatoes in Yufuin, known for their unique soft and chewy texture.

Locally-sourced Ingredients: Made with locally grown sweet potatoes
Authentic Experience: An authentic taste of traditional Japanese cuisine
Seasonal Availability: Best enjoyed during fall when sweet potatoes are in season

Grilled local chicken experience at Beppu's yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) restaurants using free-range chickens from the region.

Quality Meat: Free-range chicken provides a unique flavor and texture
Cultural Experience: Enjoying the communal BBQ experience is a key part of Japanese culture
Freshness Guaranteed: Chickens are delivered daily, ensuring freshness

Eggs boiled in hot spring waters in Beppu, known for their unique taste and softness.

Natural Minerals: The minerals from the hot spring water contribute to the eggs' flavor
Culinary Tradition: A centuries-old culinary tradition in Beppu
Limited Availability: Available only during specific times of the day at designated onsen (hot springs)

Buckwheat noodles made with local water from Hasshu town, known for their unique texture and aroma.

Premium beef from Ōita Prefecture, known for its rich flavor and tenderness.

Raised in a Natural Environment: Cows are raised in the natural environment of Ōita
Specialized Breeding: Special breeding techniques to enhance the quality of the beef
Culinary Art: Skilled chefs prepare and present the beef in various ways

Thick, chewy udon noodles served with a variety of toppings and broths in Ōita.

A variety of wild mushrooms harvested in Beppu's forests, known for their unique flavors and textures.

Sustainable Harvesting: Harvested sustainably to preserve the ecosystem
Seasonal Availability: Availability depends on the mushroom season
Culinary Versatility: Can be enjoyed in various dishes, from soups to stir-fries

Premium sake brewed in Ōita Prefecture, known for its smooth and delicate flavor.

Famous citrus fruit known for its aromatic zest and tangy flavor, used in a variety of dishes and beverages.

Unique Flavor Profile: Has a unique balance of sweet and sour flavors
Local Production: Grown and harvested in Ōita Prefecture
Versatile Ingredient: Used in various dishes, from desserts to savory dishes and beverages

Fresh seafood caught from the waters surrounding Ōita Prefecture, known for its variety and quality.

Sustainable Fishing: Fished sustainably to preserve marine ecosystems
Seasonal Availability: Availability depends on the fishing season
Versatile Ingredient: Used in various dishes, from sushi to soups and grilled dishes

Witness the exciting tuna auction at Beppu's fish market, where local fishermen sell their catch.

Live Auction Experience: A live, open-air auction of freshly caught tuna
Freshness Guaranteed: The tuna is sold immediately after the auction for maximum freshness
Cultural Experience: A key part of the local fishing industry and culture in Beppu

Black pig (Kurobuta) raised in Ōita Prefecture, known for its marbled fat and tender meat.

Specialized Breeding: Specially bred black pigs to enhance quality
Natural Environment: Raised in a natural environment that contributes to the flavor and texture
Culinary Art: Skilled chefs prepare and present the pork in various ways

High-quality green tea grown in Ōita Prefecture, known for its unique aroma and taste.

Traditional rice wine made in Ōita Prefecture, known for its strong flavor and high alcohol content.

Quality Rice: Made with local rice
Artisanal Production: Brewed by skilled artisans using traditional methods
Aging Process: Aged for several years to develop its unique flavor and strength

Cooking with sake lees (Kasu) in Ōita Prefecture, known for its unique flavor and texture.

Unique Ingredient: Uses sake lees as an ingredient
Local Production: Made with locally produced sake
Versatile Ingredient: Used in various dishes, from appetizers to main courses and desserts