1. What are some popular local dishes in Nikko?
Some popular local dishes in Nikko include:1. Yuba: a specialty dish made from soybeans, served as a skin of tofu with seasonal toppings.
2. Nikko Soba: buckwheat noodles served in a hot dashi broth, often topped with sliced mountain vegetables and green onions.
3. Yumoto Manju: steamed buns filled with sweet bean paste and shaped like the entrance gate of Toshogu Shrine.
4. Shojin Ryori: traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine that emphasizes natural ingredients and simple flavors.
5. Kuri Kinton: a dessert made from mashed sweet potatoes and chestnuts, often eaten during New Year’s celebrations.
6. Dango Jiru: a hearty soup made with dumplings, vegetables, and mushrooms, often served with miso or soy sauce-based broth.
7. Trout Sushi: a type of sushi made with fresh river trout caught from nearby rivers, served raw or cooked on top of rice.
8. Kinchakuda Keiryu Fried Ita-age Manju: fried buns filled with red bean paste, often sold at the Kinchakuda red leaf festival.
9. Hato Sabure: heart-shaped butter cookies popular as souvenirs in Nikko.
10. Strawberry Farms: In spring and summer, visitors can pick their own strawberries at local farms and enjoy them freshly picked.
2. Are there any vegetarian or vegan restaurants in the area?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan restaurants in the area, including Gracias Madre, Good Earth Natural Foods, and Seed Kitchen & Bar.
3. How does the cuisine in Nikko differ from other regions in Japan?
The cuisine in Nikko is influenced by the mountainous terrain and cooler climate of the region, as well as its history as a popular religious and tourist destination. This has led to a unique blend of local ingredients and techniques from neighboring regions.
1. Local Ingredients: Nikko is known for its high-quality freshwater fish, such as trout and char, which are caught in the nearby lakes and rivers. The area also produces a variety of high-quality vegetables, including mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and wild plants like sansai (mountain vegetables).
2. Buddhist Cuisine: As a popular religious destination for Buddhists, Nikko has a strong influence on vegetarian cuisine, known as shojin ryori. This type of cuisine focuses on simple, seasonal ingredients and excludes meat and seafood.
3. Mountain Cuisine: The mountainous terrain surrounding Nikko also influences the local cuisine, with dishes incorporating hearty ingredients like venison, wild boar, and chestnuts.
4. Temples and Tea Houses: With its long history as a temple town, Nikko’s cuisine is also influenced by ritual meals served at temples and tea houses. These meals often feature traditional dishes like soba noodles, rice balls (onigiri), tofu dishes, pickled vegetables, and green tea.
5. Hot Pot Dishes: The colder climate in Nikko makes hot pot dishes (known as nabe) popular year-round. These are typically made with locally sourced ingredients like chicken or beef along with vegetables and tofu simmered in a flavorful broth.
Overall, the cuisine in Nikko highlights the use of fresh locally sourced ingredients while incorporating influences from Buddhism, mountain living, rituals at temples and tea houses, and traditional Japanese cooking methods like hot pot dishes.
4. Are there any traditional tea houses or cafes in Nikko?
Yes, there are several traditional tea houses or cafes in Nikko. Here are a few options:
1. Kanaya Tea House: This tea house was established in 1873 and is located near the entrance of Toshogu Shrine. They serve traditional matcha green tea and Japanese sweets.
2. Akebono Chaya: This tea house is located in the Nikko National Park and offers a beautiful view of Lake Chuzenji. They serve seasonal dishes and Japanese tea.
3. Morinoki: This cafe is situated in a traditional Japanese house and offers a peaceful atmosphere to enjoy some tea, coffee, or light snacks.
4. Shintoist Soba Noodles Kamman Kyoyado: This cafe serves traditional soba noodles, as well as various teas and desserts made from local ingredients.
5. Genkiya Cafe: Located near Rinno-ji Temple, this cozy cafe offers a wide selection of Japanese teas and sweets, as well as light meals such as rice balls and sandwiches.
6. Kikugetsu Tea Shop: This shop serves a variety of traditional Japanese teas, including houjicha (roasted green tea) and houji-genmaicha (roasted brown rice green tea). They also offer sweet treats like dango (rice dumplings) and manju (steamed buns with sweet filling).
7. Kanazawa Yakushido Teahouse: Located near Kanmangafuchi Abyss, this teahouse has been operating since 1879 and serves matcha green tea with authentic wagashi (traditional Japanese confectionery).
Note that some of these establishments may have temporarily closed or changed their hours due to COVID-19, so it’s best to check their websites or call ahead before visiting.
5. What is the most famous food souvenir to bring back from Nikko?
Corn chocolate, also known as yubari corn6. What is the most famous type of sake to bring back from Nikko?
Nikko’s signature sake is called “Gori Gori” and it is a dry, refreshing sake with a smooth finish. It is made using local ingredients and traditional brewing methods passed down for generations in the Nikko region. This sake is highly recommended for visitors to bring back as a souvenir.
6. Is seafood a common ingredient in Nikko’s restaurants?
Yes, seafood is a common ingredient in Nikko’s restaurants. Nikko is located near the coast and has access to a wide variety of fresh seafood, which is often featured in dishes such as sushi, sashimi, tempura, and grilled fish. Fish and shellfish are also commonly used in soups, stews, and noodle dishes. Additionally, many traditional Japanese recipes call for seafood as a key ingredient. Overall, seafood plays a significant role in Nikko’s cuisine.
7. Are there any must-try street food stalls or markets in Nikko?
Some popular street food stalls and markets in Nikko that are worth trying include:
1. Yuba no Sato: This stall specializes in yuba, a traditional ingredient made from soy milk skin. They offer different types of yuba dishes such as yuba nigiri (sushi), yuba croquettes, and yuba hotpot.
2. Shokado: Located in the Nikko Toshogu Shrine, this stall sells dango (sweet rice dumplings) with various toppings such as red bean paste, kinako powder, and black sesame.
3. Takoyaki Maruto: Known for its delicious takoyaki (octopus balls), this stall also offers other snacks like yakisoba (fried noodles) and fried chicken.
4. Tobu Nikko Station Market: Located next to the Tobu Nikko train station, this market offers a variety of local produce and products like pickles, honey, and sake.
5. Kirifurikogen Popcorn: This small popcorn stand near Lake Chuzenji offers freshly popped popcorn with unique flavors like wasabi or cinnamon sugar.
6. Nikko Night Market: Held every Saturday evening at the Nikko Futarasan Shrine, this night market features a variety of food stalls selling local specialties like nikuman (steamed buns) and wagyu beef skewers.
7. Edo Wonderland: This theme park in Nikko has several street food stalls serving Edo-style snacks such as dango, senbei (rice crackers), and soba noodles cooked over an open fire.
8. Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants in Nikko?
There are no Michelin-starred restaurants in Nikko as of 2021. However, there are several high-end and renowned restaurants in the area that offer delicious and unique dining experiences. Some notable options include Kaiseki-style restaurants, traditional ryokans, and local specialty restaurants that serve dishes made with fresh ingredients from the region.
9. Can you recommend any good restaurants with a view of the mountains or temples?
1. Baphuon Rooftop Bar: Located near the iconic Baphuon Temple, this rooftop bar offers stunning views of the temple and surrounding mountains while serving delicious Cambodian and international cuisine.
2. Mie Café: Set against the backdrop of rice fields and mountains, Mie Café offers a serene dining experience with panoramic views of Phnom Krom mountain. Their menu features traditional Cambodian dishes made with organic ingredients.
3. The Pavilion: Located in the heart of Siem Reap, The Pavilion offers a beautiful view of the Angkor Wat Temple from its open-air dining area. They specialize in Khmer cuisine using fresh local ingredients.
4. Sunflower Kitchen & Juice Bar: This charming restaurant is situated on the banks of the Siem Reap River with views of lush greenery and mountains in the distance. They serve healthy vegan and vegetarian dishes as well as refreshing juices and smoothies.
5. Bayon Restaurant: Enjoy traditional Cambodian dishes while gazing at the majestic Angkor Thom complex at Bayon Restaurant. The restaurant also has a rooftop area where you can admire panoramic views of the temples and nearby mountains.
6. Heritage Suites Terrace: Set within a luxurious boutique hotel, Heritage Suites Terrace boasts a stunning view of Wat Preh Khan temple from their outdoor terrace dining area. Their menu features modern fusion cuisine with Khmer influences.
7. Madame Butterfly: This charming restaurant is located near Wat Bo Pagoda, offering diners a beautiful view of this ancient Buddhist temple while they dine on delicious Thai, Chinese, and Khmer dishes.
8. Grill Wine Café: With an unbeatable location right next to Srah Srang lake, Grill Wine Café offers spectacular views of both Ta Prohm Temple and Phnom Bakheng Mountain while you enjoy their grilled specialties or sip on a glass of wine.
9. Blue Pumpkin Angkor: Situated within Siem Reap’s iconic Pub Street, this cafe offers a rooftop dining experience with views of the bustling street below as well as majestic views of the nearby temples. They serve delicious sandwiches, salads, and pastries, perfect for a quick lunch or snack break.
10. Do most restaurants accept credit cards or is it mostly cash only?
Most restaurants accept credit cards, but it is always a good idea to check with the specific restaurant beforehand. Cash only restaurants are rare, but they do exist.
11. Is it easy to find Western-style food options in Nikko as well?
Yes, there are several Western-style restaurants in Nikko, particularly in the main tourist areas near the temples and shrines. These restaurants may offer a mix of traditional Japanese dishes as well as more familiar Western options. However, it may be more difficult to find a wide range of Western cuisine options outside of these areas.
12. What is a typical breakfast option in Nikko?
A typical breakfast option in Nikko could be a traditional Japanese breakfast, which usually consists of steamed rice, miso soup, grilled fish, and various side dishes including vegetables, pickles, and egg dishes. Other options may include western-style breakfasts such as toast, eggs, and bacon or pancakes with maple syrup.
13. Are there any special dining experiences, such as traditional Japanese meals served by geisha, available in Nikko?
Yes, there are several traditional dining experiences available in Nikko, including:
1. Kaiseki Ryori: This is a multi-course, traditional Japanese meal served at high-end restaurants or ryokans (traditional inns) in Nikko. The dishes are carefully crafted and beautifully presented, showcasing the freshest local ingredients.
2. Sake Tasting: Nikko is known for its sake production, and many restaurants offer sake tasting experiences where guests can sample different types of locally brewed sake.
3. Geisha Dinner: Some upscale ryokans or private dining establishments in Nikko offer the opportunity to be entertained by geisha while enjoying a traditional kaiseki dinner. These dinners can be expensive and must be booked well in advance.
4. Shojin Ryori: This is a type of vegetarian cuisine originally developed by Buddhist monks. Some temples and vegetarian restaurants in Nikko serve shojin ryori meals that are both delicious and full of cultural importance.
5. Outdoor Dining: During the warmer months, some restaurants in Nikko offer outdoor dining experiences where guests can enjoy their meal while surrounded by nature and beautiful views of waterfalls or mountains.
Note: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some dining experiences may not be available at this time. It’s recommended to check with specific restaurants or ryokans for updated information on their offerings before making reservations.
14. Are there any food festivals or events that take place in Nikko throughout the year?
Yes, there are several food festivals and events that take place in Nikko throughout the year:1. Nikko Soba Festival – held in March, this festival celebrates the local specialty dish of soba noodles with various vendors and restaurants offering their own variations of the dish.
2. Nikko Strawberry Picking Season – taking place from January to May, visitors can pick their own strawberries at various farms around Nikko.
3. Hatsu-uma Matsuri (First Horse Festival) – held on January 1st every year, this festival features a parade of white-painted samurai on horseback and a traditional mochi-pounding ceremony.
4. Nikko Waterfall Festival – held in April, this event celebrates the numerous waterfalls found in the area with food stalls, live music performances, and guided waterfall tours.
5. Yuba Tasting Fair – taking place in June, this fair offers visitors a chance to try yuba (tofu skin) dishes from different restaurants in Nikko.
6. Nikko Vegetable Harvest Festivals – held in June and October respectively, these festivals celebrate the seasonal harvest of vegetables by offering fresh produce for sale at local markets.
7. Nikko Maple Leaf Festival – taking place in October and November when autumn foliage is at its peak, this festival features food stalls selling seasonal specialties such as maple syrup and sweet potatoes.
8. Shojin Ryori Festival – celebrating vegetarian Buddhist cuisine, this festival takes place in November with several temples offering a special menu of shojin ryori dishes for visitors to try.
9.Nikko Craft Beer & Jazz Festival- held over a weekend in July or August, this event features craft beer from local breweries and jazz performances throughout the day.
10.Nikko Citrus Mochi Festival- also known as Dekopon Mochi Matsuri, this festival is held in December to promote the local citrus fruit “Dekopon” and offer various dishes and sweets made with this fruit.
11.Nikko Wine Festival- held in November, this festival offers visitors a chance to taste and buy locally produced wines, as well as enjoy live music and food stalls.
12.Cheese & Wine Festival- taking place in May, this festival celebrates the local specialty of Nikko cheese with tastings, sales, and workshops on cheese making.
13.Nikko Vegetarian Food Festa- organized by local vegetarian restaurants, this event is held in October to promote healthy and sustainable eating habits through vegetarian cuisine.
14.Shake Strut Ramen Matsuri- held in September, this festival showcases different types of ramen from around Japan, as well as Nikko’s own version of ramen.
15. Can you suggest some off-the-beaten-path dining spots for a more authentic experience?
1. A local mom-and-pop eatery in a small town, where the owners cook traditional dishes using family recipes.2. A food truck serving ethnic cuisine, such as authentic Mexican tacos or Thai street food.
3. A farm-to-table restaurant located on a working farm, where ingredients are sourced directly from the land.
4. A hole-in-the-wall diner known for its signature dish, like a famous breakfast sandwich or a secret recipe burger.
5. A traditional tea house serving unique blends of tea and homemade pastries.
6. An underground supper club, where intimate dinners are hosted by talented home cooks in their own homes.
7. An old-fashioned soda fountain and diner, where you can enjoy classic milkshakes and burgers in a nostalgic setting.
8. A seafood shack tucked away on the beach, serving fresh catch of the day with a view of the ocean.
9. A rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city, offering creative cocktails and small plates made with local ingredients.
10. A speakeasy-style bar hidden behind a secret entrance, serving handcrafted cocktails and elevated bar bites.
11. A fusion restaurant that combines two or more cuisines to create unique and delicious dishes.
12. An upscale restaurant located in an old historic building, preserving its charm while offering modern cuisine.
13. A food tour led by a knowledgeable guide through hidden culinary gems and local favorites in the city.
14. A pop-up restaurant serving experimental menus for a limited time at different locations throughout the city.
15.An intimate bistro specializing in slow-cooked comfort foods from around the world, served in a cozy atmosphere with live music performances.
16. Are reservations required for popular restaurants in Nikko?
It is highly recommended to make reservations for popular restaurants in Nikko, especially during peak tourist seasons. Making reservations ahead of time will ensure that you have a table at your desired date and time, and will prevent any potential disappointment or waiting time.
17. Is it considered rude to eat while walking around the streets of Nikko?
In general, it is not considered rude to eat while walking around the streets of Nikko. However, it is important to be mindful of your surroundings and dispose of any trash properly. Some areas, such as shrines and temples, may have designated eating areas or may prohibit food consumption. It is always best to check for any signs or ask a local for guidance before eating in public areas.
18. What is your favorite local restaurant and why?
My favorite local restaurant is called “The Cozy Corner.” They have delicious homemade comfort food and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. I love supporting small businesses in my community, and the staff at The Cozy Corner always make me feel like a valued customer. Plus, their mac and cheese is to die for!
19. Is it customary to tip at restaurants in Nikko?
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including in Nikko. Most restaurants do not expect or accept tips. Instead, customers are expected to pay the full amount of the bill without any additional gratuity.
20. Have you tried any unique dishes or fusion cuisines that are only found in Nikko?
One unique dish that can be found in Nikko is Yuba, a type of tofu skin. It is traditionally made by using the skin that forms on top of boiling soy milk, then drying and pressing it into thin sheets. In Nikko, there are restaurants that offer Yuba served in various ways such as hotpot or wrapped around vegetables or fish. Another popular dish in Nikko is Kashiwa-meshi, where chicken and mushrooms are steamed together with rice inside an oak leaf for a unique flavor. Additionally, some restaurants in Nikko offer fusion cuisines, combining traditional Japanese flavors with Western dishes such as sushi burgers or tempura pizza.