Kyushu: Regional Foods from Japan's Third Largest Island

Kyushu is the third largest island of Japan and is located in the southwestern part of the country. The island is made up of seven prefectures, including Fukuoka, Kagoshima, Kumamoto, Nagasaki, Oita, Saga, and Miyazaki. Each prefecture has its own unique culture and attractions, making Kyushu a popular destination for tourists.

Kyushu is known for its rich history, natural beauty, and delicious food. The island is home to many historical sites, such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Kikuchi Gorge in Kumamoto, and the Nagasaki Peace Park, which commemorates the atomic bombing of Nagasaki during World War II. The island is also home to many natural wonders, such as the active volcano of Mount Aso in Kumamoto and the hot springs of Beppu in Oita.

One of the main draws of Kyushu is its delicious regional food. The island is known for its fresh seafood, particularly its sushi and sashimi. The region also has a strong tradition of using local ingredients, such as pork, chicken, and vegetables.

One of the most popular dishes in Kyushu is "Tonkotsu Ramen", a dish of Chinese origin that has been adapted to the local taste. It is made with a rich, creamy pork bone broth and thin, chewy noodles. The dish is typically topped with slices of pork, green onions, and a soft-boiled egg.

Another popular dish in Kyushu is "Motsunabe", a hot pot dish made with beef or pork offal. The dish is simmered with vegetables and a variety of seasonings, such as soy sauce, miso, and garlic. It is traditionally eaten with a bowl of rice and a side of raw garlic and chili peppers.

Another unique regional food is "Mentaiko" which is a spicy cod roe that is often served as a topping for sushi or pasta. It is made by curing cod roe in a mixture of chili pepper, sake, and other seasonings.

Kyushu is also famous for its fresh seafood, such as "Yaki-ika" (grilled squid) and "Sakura-ebi" (lit. cherry shrimp). These dishes are often served simply grilled with salt or served with a side of soy sauce and lemon.

Lastly, "Mizutaki" is a traditional hot pot dish made with chicken and vegetables. The dish is simmered in a clear, flavorful broth made from chicken bones and vegetables. It is typically served with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ponzu and sesame.

If you are planning a trip to Japan, make sure to include Kyushu on your itinerary for an authentic taste of the region's unique food and culture.

About the author:

Britney Budiman

Britney Budiman (@booritney) is a writer, minimalist, aspiring effective altruist, and runner-in-progress with a penchant for saying “yes.” Previously, she has worked in Cambodia at a traditional arts NGO, in Brazil as a social sciences researcher, and in San Francisco at a housing start-up. She currently lives in the countryside of Kagoshima, Japan, where she teaches English. Her favorite thing in the world is good conversation.