1. What are some must-try local dishes in Matsue?
a) Izumo soba: A type of buckwheat noodle dish typically served cold with a soy sauce based dipping sauce.
b) Yakisoba: Fried noodles typically made with pork, vegetables, and a sweet and savory sauce.
c) Shimane beef: Local Wagyu beef known for its tenderness and rich flavor.
d) Nishin soba: A hearty bowl of soba noodles in a broth made from dried herring, often topped with egg or pickled plum.
e) Warigo zushi: A type of sushi made by stacking layers of rice and toppings in a wooden box and pressing them together to create a compact square.
f) Izumo Udon: Thicker wheat noodles in a hot broth topped with thinly sliced beef, green onions, and other toppings.
g) Horumon-yaki: Grilled offal dishes such as intestines or liver, commonly served skewered on sticks.
h) Kaki-no-hazushi: Sushi made with raw oysters marinated in soy sauce and wrapped in persimmon leaves.
i) Dojo-nabe: A hotpot dish featuring loach fish cooked with vegetables, tofu, and mushrooms.
2. Are there any popular local restaurants in Matsue known for their food?
Yes, there are several popular local restaurants in Matsue known for their food. Some of these include:
1. Kamosawa: This restaurant serves traditional Izumo cuisine, which is known for its simple yet flavorful dishes made with local fresh ingredients. Their specialty is the Izumo soba noodles.
2. Yakumoba: This cozy restaurant specializes in yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and other various izakaya-style dishes. It is a popular spot among locals for its casual atmosphere and delicious food.
3. Akiya: Akiya offers a wide range of Japanese dishes, including sushi, sashimi, grilled fish and meats, and more. They use fresh seafood from the nearby Sea of Japan.
4. Hanayome Nagomi: This restaurant serves traditional Japanese kaiseki cuisine using seasonal ingredients from Shimane Prefecture. They also have a beautiful garden where guests can enjoy their meal.
5. Kayouben: Known for their Matsue-style udon noodles, this restaurant has been operating for over 100 years and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Overall, Matsue is known for its delicious local specialties such as Izumo soba, yakitori, and kaiseki cuisine made with fresh local ingredients.
3. Is there a specialty food market or street in Matsue where one can try various local delicacies?
Yes, there is a food market called “Shijimi no Sato Tanoura” in Matsue City where one can try various local delicacies such as shijimi clams, Izumo soba (buckwheat noodles), and Izumo Taiko mochi (sticky rice cakes). The market is open every day from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM and offers a wide range of fresh seafood, produce, and local specialty products. Additionally, there are several streets in Matsue City, such as Karakoro Kaido and Yurabukimachi Street, where one can find many restaurants and street food stalls offering traditional dishes and snacks unique to the region.
4. Can you recommend any restaurants that offer traditional Japanese kaiseki cuisine in Matsue?
Yes, here are some restaurants in Matsue that offer traditional Japanese kaiseki cuisine:
1. Kappou Ryokan Mizuki: This restaurant is known for its high-quality kaiseki courses made with fresh seasonal ingredients sourced locally.
2. Shunka: This cozy restaurant offers a variety of kaiseki dishes, including vegetarian options, using fresh local ingredients from the Sea of Japan and Lake Shinji.
3. Oosako: With a stunning view of the castle, this upscale restaurant serves multi-course kaiseki meals highlighting local seafood and produce.
4. Matsushiroya: Enjoy an elegant dining experience at this restaurant serving beautifully presented kaiseki courses made with carefully selected ingredients.
5. Ginza Umemori: This spacious restaurant offers a wide range of kaiseki courses featuring fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients from Shimane prefecture.
5. Are there any good vegetarian/vegan options available in Matsue?
There are several vegetarian/vegan-friendly restaurants in Matsue, including:1. Cafe Sprout: This cafe offers a variety of vegan options, including salads, sandwiches, and smoothies.
2. SoJiBi: A vegan-friendly restaurant with a variety of dishes made with seasonal vegetables.
3. Miyuki Shokudo: This restaurant serves organic vegetarian and vegan meals.
4. Roots Organic Cafe: A cozy restaurant offering a wide selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes, as well as gluten-free options.
5. VegeKafe Genki-ichi: A small cafe serving exclusively vegan and vegetarian food, with a rotating menu featuring homemade dishes.
6. Syscafe MORiMORi: A cafe with several vegetarian and vegan options on the menu, including tofu-based dishes and vegetable curry.
7. Fresh Salad Works Matsue Castle Town Outlet: A salad bar with plenty of vegetarian options to choose from.
8. Indian Curry Mint Matsue Ekimae Shop: An Indian curry restaurant with some vegetarian curries on the menu.
It’s also worth noting that many traditional Japanese dishes can be easily adapted for vegetarians by removing meat or fish ingredients. Be sure to communicate your dietary restrictions to the restaurant staff when ordering.
6. Are there any unique fusion restaurants that combine local flavors with international cuisines?
Some examples of unique fusion restaurants that combine local flavors with international cuisines are:
1. The Little Owl – located in New York City, this restaurant offers a fusion of Italian and American cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients to create dishes such as Meatball Sliders with Gorgonzola and Truffle honey.
2. Indijinou Cuisine – situated in Japan, this restaurant blends traditional Japanese recipes with French techniques to create dishes like Yuzu Creme Brulee and Salmon Teriyaki Croquettes.
3. La Mar by Gastón Acurio – located in Lima, Peru, this restaurant offers a Peruvian-Japanese fusion menu featuring Nikkei dishes like Tiradito (similar to sashimi) and Seco (a traditional Peruvian stew).
4. Tropical Spice Garden Cooking School – based in Malaysia, this cooking school offers classes on Malaysian fusion cuisine which incorporates influences from Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European cultures.
5. El Pípila – situated in San Francisco’s Mission District, this Mexican-Italian restaurant serves up unique dishes such as Asado Steak Ravioli and Mole Lasagna.
6. Hush Brasserie – located in Cape Town, South Africa, this restaurant fuses African flavors with French techniques to create dishes like Grilled Ostrich Fillet with Fig Sauce and Chakalaka Risotto.
7. Is it easy to find Halal or Kosher food options in Matsue?
It may be difficult to find Halal or Kosher options in Matsue, as the city has a limited selection of restaurants that cater specifically to these dietary restrictions. However, there are some restaurants that offer vegetarian and seafood dishes which can accommodate these diets. It is recommended to check with the restaurant beforehand to ensure they can provide suitable options. Alternatively, visitors can also find supermarkets and convenience stores that offer packaged Halal or Kosher-certified products.
8. Are there any food tours available in Matsue to explore the city’s dining scene?
Yes, there are several food tours available in Matsue that offer a unique opportunity to explore the city’s vibrant dining scene. Some of the popular food tours in Matsue include:
1. Matsue Food Tour: This tour takes you on a 3-hour walking tour of the city’s local food and drink culture. You will visit various markets, shops, and restaurants to sample local dishes and learn about the history and traditions behind them.
2. Izumo Soba Making Experience & Tasting Tour: This tour allows you to learn how to make traditional Izumo soba noodles from scratch and then enjoy a meal featuring your handmade noodles with other local delicacies.
3. Lake Shinji Lakeside Cycling & Food Tour: This unique bike tour takes you along the scenic shores of Lake Shinji, where you can stop at local eateries to try fresh seafood and other regional specialties.
4. Sakaiminato Seafood & Sake Exploration Tour: Discover the flavors of Sakaiminato, a nearby fishing town known for its abundance of fresh seafood. The tour includes visits to seafood markets, sake breweries, and restaurants offering local specialties.
5. Kanben-gawara Ceramic Roof Tile Village & Food Tasting Tour: Explore the charming village of Kanben-gawara, known for its traditional ceramic roof tiles, and taste some of the best local foods such as yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and yakisoba (fried noodles).
These are just some examples of food tours available in Matsue. You can find more options by searching online or through tourist information centers in the city.
9. What is the best time of year to visit Matsue for its seasonal/local food offerings?
The best time of year to visit Matsue for its seasonal/local food offerings would be in the fall (September-November) when crops such as chestnuts, persimmons, and pears are in season. This is also a good time to try traditional autumn dishes such as roasted chestnuts, steamed persimmons, and pear mochi. Matsue is famous for its seafood, so visiting during the winter months (December-February) when seafood is at its freshest is also a great option. Additionally, spring (March-May) is a good time to try local seasonal vegetables like fresh bamboo shoots and wild plants like fuki (butterbur).
10. Can I find fresh seafood and sushi in Matsue?
Yes, there are many restaurants in Matsue that serve fresh seafood and sushi. Some popular options include Ryotei Eishu (a traditional Japanese restaurant specializing in local seafood), Sushiya Yuuraku (a sushi restaurant serving locally-caught seafood), and Kaisen-donya Komatsu (a seafood market and restaurant). It is also common to find sushi and sashimi dishes at izakaya (Japanese pubs) and casual restaurants throughout the city.
11. Are there any farm-to-table restaurants or experiences available in Matsue?
Yes, there are several farm-to-table restaurants and experiences available in Matsue. Some examples include:
1. Nisshin Chaya: This restaurant serves traditional Japanese dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients, including vegetables and seafood from nearby farms and markets.
2. Yanagiya: This restaurant offers a seasonal menu featuring dishes made with ingredients from local farmers and fishermen.
3. Farm Stays: There are several farm stay options in Matsue where visitors can experience living and dining on a working farm. Meals include fresh produce grown on the farm and other local specialties.
4. Home Cooking Experiences: Visitors can also book home cooking experiences with local families who use fresh, local ingredients in their meals.
5. Izumo Soba Experience: Participants in this experience can learn about the process of making soba noodles from scratch using locally-grown buckwheat flour.
6. Local Markets: Matsue has several local markets where visitors can buy fresh produce and other ingredients from local farmers and producers.
12. How prevalent is street food culture in Matsue and what are some must-try street food items?
Street food culture in Matsue is not as prevalent as some other Japanese cities, but there are still some popular street food items that are worth trying.
1. Yakitori: Grilled chicken skewers basted with a sweet soy sauce glaze.
2. Takoyaki: Fried balls of batter filled with chunks of octopus and topped with savory sauces and green onions.
3. Taiyaki: Fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste.
4. Imo Mochi: Grilled rice cakes topped with mashed sweet potato and soy sauce.
5. Kibi dango: Sticky rice dumplings coated in a sweet soy sauce glaze.
6. Ika Senbei: Dried squid crackers seasoned with soy sauce and spices.
7. Ohagi: Glutinous rice balls covered in various toppings such as kinako (roasted soybean flour) or sesame seeds.
8. Gyoza: Pan-fried dumplings usually filled with pork and vegetables.
9. Soba noodles: Thin buckwheat noodles served either hot or cold with a variety of toppings such as tempura or green onion.
10. Okonomiyaki: Savory pancake made with cabbage, meat, seafood, and various other ingredients, and topped with okonomiyaki sauce, mayo, and bonito flakes.
11. Croquettes: Fried potato-based patties filled with various combinations of meat, vegetables, and cheese.
12. Tai Sashimi (red snapper): A local specialty dish where thin slices of raw red snapper are marinated in a vinegar dressing and served over steamed rice.
13. Are there any local beer, sake or other alcoholic beverages produced in or around Matsue?
Yes, there are several locally made alcoholic beverages in the Matsue area. Some popular options include:
– Shimane Beer: This is a craft beer produced by Shimane Prefecture and is known for its high-quality ingredients and unique flavors. It is available in many restaurants and bars throughout Matsue.
– Nihon Sakari Sake: This sake brewery has been producing sake in Matsue since 1863 and offers a variety of different types, including junmai-shu, ginjo-shu, and daiginjo-shu.
– Matsumoto Shuzo Shochu: This shochu distillery has been operating in Matsue since 1845 and produces several different types of shochu using local barley and spring water.
– Mizuki Plum Wine: This plum wine is produced by Tamanooyoshitsuru Brewery, which is located near Lake Shinji in Matsue. It is made using locally grown plums and has a sweet and refreshing taste.
14. How do I navigate the menus at local restaurants if I don’t speak Japanese? Are English menus available?
1. Ask for an English menu – Some restaurants may have English menus available, especially in popular tourist areas. You can simply ask the server if they have an English menu or if they can provide an English translation of the menu.
2. Look for pictures – Many Japanese menus have pictures to illustrate the food items, which can be helpful in deciphering what each dish is.
3. Learn basic phrases – Familiarize yourself with basic Japanese food vocabulary such as “sushi” (raw fish on rice), “ramen” (noodles in broth), and “teriyaki” (grilled meat or fish with sweet sauce). This will make it easier to identify some dishes on the menu.
4. Use translation apps – If you have a smartphone, download a translation app that can translate text in real time. Simply hold your camera up to the menu and the app will translate the words into your preferred language.
5. Point and gesture – If all else fails, you can always point to pictures or dishes that other customers are eating at nearby tables. You can also use hand gestures to communicate your preferences (e.g. making a circular motion with your hand for “more” or a cross motion for “no”).
6. Consider a food tour – Food tours are a great way to try different types of cuisine while having a local guide who can navigate menus and explain dishes to you in English.
7. Research beforehand – If you know where you’ll be dining in advance, take some time to research the restaurant’s website or social media pages for any information on their menu in English.
8. Bring a phrasebook or language guide – Having a pocket-sized phrasebook or language guide can be handy when trying to communicate with restaurant staff.
9. Take note of allergens – If you have any specific allergies, make sure to learn how to say them in Japanese so you can avoid them when ordering.
10. Consider dining at international chains – If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the language barrier, you can always opt for international restaurant chains that have English menus and familiar dishes.
15. Can you suggest any budget-friendly dining options for travelers on a tight budget in Matsue?
Here are some budget-friendly dining options in Matsue:1. Omatsubara Enokisen Uchino Tatoshi: This restaurant offers delicious udon noodles at a very affordable price. They also have a variety of toppings to choose from.
2. Matsue Gastronomy & Coffee: This cozy café serves great coffee and light meals at reasonable prices. Their homemade cakes are also worth trying.
3. Iwami Ginzakozushi Honten: For sushi lovers, this restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat sushi buffet for only 1,500 yen per person. The quality and variety of sushi is impressive.
4. Izumo Soba Tei: This family-owned soba restaurant serves delicious handmade soba at a very affordable price. The atmosphere is simple but the food is authentic and satisfying.
5. Matsudaira-tei Shinsuien: This traditional Japanese inn offers lunch sets for under 1000 yen. You can enjoy a variety of local dishes in their beautiful garden setting.
6. Mugiwara Dining Kaze no Sato: This casual dining restaurant serves tasty Japanese comfort food at a budget-friendly price. They also offer vegetarian options.
7. Gyoza-dokoro Nakamura: If you’re a fan of gyoza (Japanese dumplings), then this small eatery is a must-visit. They serve delicious gyoza and other homestyle dishes at a very reasonable price.
8.Gontarou Ramen: Located near Matsue Castle, this ramen shop is popular among locals for its flavorful broth and generous portions at an affordable price.
9. Otemae Yokocho Market: For an ultimate budget dining experience, visit this market where you can find various food stalls offering cheap but delicious local dishes like grilled fish, yakitori, tempura, and more.
10.Supermarkets/Convenience Stores: For travelers on a really tight budget, buying snacks or meals at supermarkets or convenience stores is a great option. You can find a variety of bento boxes, onigiri (rice balls), sandwiches, and other affordable food options.
16. What is the typical cost of a meal in Japan?
The typical cost of a meal in Japan can vary greatly depending on where you are eating and what type of meal it is. A basic Japanese meal at a local establishment like a casual restaurant or food stall can cost anywhere from 500-1000 yen (approximately $4.50-$9 USD). A mid-range meal at a more upscale restaurant could cost around 2000-3000 yen ($18-$27 USD). Fine dining or multi-course meals can cost upwards of 10,000 yen ($90 USD) or more per person. In general, street food and fast food options tend to be cheaper while sit-down restaurants and specialty cuisine will be more expensive.
17.Where can I find the best matcha (green tea) desserts or drinks in Matsue?
1. Omiya Cafe – This cozy cafe offers matcha lattes, matcha parfaits, and other delicious matcha desserts.
2. Naniwa-en Tea House – This traditional tea house serves a variety of matcha desserts, including matcha jelly and matcha ice cream with red bean paste.
3. Shofukuro – This popular restaurant offers a range of matcha dishes, including matcha pudding and matcha shaved ice.
4. Matsunoya – Here you can enjoy a delicious bowl of creamy matcha soft serve ice cream or try their famous Matchazuke (matcha over rice).
5. Enchante – Known for their exquisite French-inspired pastries, this cafe also serves a decadent Matcha Crepe Cake.
6. Onigashima Matchalong – This store specializes in all things green tea, offering an array of authentic Japanese sweets such as mochi and dorayaki.
7. Kagaribi Cafe & Bakery – Enjoy a slice of their popular Matcha Cheesecake or indulge in one of their many other creative matcha creations.
8. Maruichi Seika Kabuki-tei – Head to this traditional Japanese sweets shop for some Matcha Manju (sweet steamed buns) and other scrumptious treats made with high-quality matcha powder.
9. Kinryu-an Teahouse & Museum – Satisfy your sweet tooth with their famous Green Tea Sundae, featuring layers of rich green tea ice cream, red bean paste, and mochi balls.
10. Delightful English Cake & Bread Matsue Tenmangu Branch – Try their signature Matchanoir Cake or opt for one of their other delightful green tea desserts baked fresh daily.
18.How does the dining experience differ between traditional Japanese ryokans and modern hotels/restaurants?
The dining experience in traditional Japanese ryokans is typically much more formal and intimate compared to modern hotels and restaurants. In a ryokan, guests are often seated at low tables on tatami mats and served a multi-course kaiseki meal, which consists of several small and beautifully presented dishes made with seasonal and local ingredients. The meal is usually served by the ryokan’s staff or the owner themselves, creating a more personal experience for the guests.
In contrast, dining in modern hotels and restaurants tend to be less formal and more diverse in terms of cuisine options. Meals are usually served at regular height tables and chairs, with a focus on efficiency and quicker service. Additionally, there is often a wider variety of dishes to choose from, allowing guests to have more control over their dining experience.
Another key difference is that traditional ryokans may offer communal dining experiences, where guests can dine together with other travelers or interact with the chef preparing their food. In modern hotels and restaurants, dining is generally done in private spaces, giving guests more privacy.
Overall, the dining experience in traditional Japanese ryokans emphasizes hospitality, tradition, and attention to detail, while modern hotels/restaurants prioritize convenience and variety. Both offer different but equally enjoyable experiences for those looking to enjoy Japanese cuisine.
19.What are some common ingredients used in local dishes that may be unique to the region?
Some common ingredients used in local dishes that may be unique to the region include:
1. Okra: This green vegetable is commonly used in Southern cuisine, particularly in dishes like gumbo.
2. Grits: A popular breakfast dish in the Southern United States, grits are made from ground corn and can be served savory or sweet.
3. Green chiles: These spicy peppers are a staple in Southwest cuisine and are often used in dishes such as enchiladas and chili.
4. Crab: In coastal regions, crab is a popular ingredient in seafood dishes like crab cakes and crab soup.
5. Black-eyed peas: These beans are commonly used in Southern cooking, especially for dishes like Hoppin’ John.
6. Wild rice: This grain is native to the Great Lakes region of North America and is often incorporated into traditional Native American dishes.
7. Sagebrush: A common ingredient in Native American cuisine, sagebrush is used to season meats like buffalo and venison.
8. Huckleberries: These small berries are similar to blueberries but are found primarily in the Pacific Northwest. They are often used in pies, jams, and sauces.
9. Bison: In areas with large bison populations, this meat is often incorporated into regional dishes like bison burgers or stews.
10. Jicama: This root vegetable originated in Mexico but is now popular across the United States, particularly in southwestern cuisine where it’s often shredded and added to salads or used as a dipping vegetable.
20.Can you recommend any scenic outdoor dining spots, such as a waterfront restaurant, with views of Lake Shinji or Izumo Taisha Shrine?
1. Suzu Cafe & Bar – Located next to Lake Shinji, this open-air restaurant specializes in fresh seafood and offers stunning views of the lake.
2. Izumo Taisha Shrine Terrace – This rooftop terrace at the Izumo Taisha Shrine offers panoramic views of the shrine and surrounding mountains while you enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine.
3. Monogatari Cafe Rest – With a prime location on the shores of Lake Shinji, this outdoor cafe offers a quiet and serene atmosphere to enjoy a meal with a view.
4. Shimanami Cafe & Gallery Nanbu – Enjoy locally-sourced ingredients and beautiful views of Lake Shinji at this quaint cafe.
5. Avalon Garden Restaurant – This waterfront restaurant boasts magnificent views of Lake Shinji and offers delicious French cuisine made with local ingredients.
6. Hanatsuboi Yamabori – Dine al fresco on Japanese-style kaiseki cuisine while taking in the natural beauty of Lake Shinji from this traditional ryokan.
7. Yumoto Saryo Kazaritei – Situated near Izumo Taisha Shrine, this elegant restaurant features an outdoor dining area with views of the nearby scenery, including the shrine’s famous Kagura-den stage.
8. Hishiya Toraya Izumo Kanko Hotel – From its terrace seating, guests can enjoy breathtaking views of both Izumo Taisha Shrine and Lake Shinji while indulging in traditional Japanese dishes.
9. Labo Cafe & Gallery Kunisute – Located along the banks of a peaceful river that feeds into Lake Shinji, this charming cafe serves up delicious homemade meals against a backdrop bursting with natural beauty.
10. Rest House Locus Mizoguchi Sohonten – This stylish restaurant on the shores of Lake Shinji boasts floor-to-ceiling windows for an unobstructed view while enjoying their specialty dish: locally-caught pike conger eel hot pot.