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Must Try Local Dishes During Hakata Gion Yamakasa

The Hakata Gion Yamakasa is not just a feast for the eyes, but also for the palate! Fukuoka, the city where the festival takes place, is renowned for its delicious and unique cuisine, often referred to as "Hakata food." While you're caught up in the excitement of the races and the vibrant atmosphere, make sure to take some time to explore the local culinary scene. You won't regret it. This is where you can truly say you have been touched by a culture, from the heart and to the stomach.

Hakata Ramen a Fukuoka Specialty

No trip to Fukuoka is complete without indulging in a bowl of Hakata ramen. This is not just ramen, this is THE ramen of Fukuoka. It's characterized by its rich, milky-white tonkotsu (pork bone) broth, thin and straight noodles, and simple toppings like sliced pork, green onions, and sometimes kikurage (wood ear mushrooms).

Why is it special? The secret lies in the broth, simmered for hours, sometimes even days, to extract maximum flavor from the pork bones. This results in a deeply savory and creamy soup that's simply unforgettable.

Where to find it? Hakata ramen shops are ubiquitous throughout Fukuoka, particularly around Hakata Station and the Nakasu area.

Recommended Ramen Shops:

  • Ichiran: This famous chain is known for its customizable ramen, allowing you to choose the richness of the broth, the firmness of the noodles, and the level of spice. They have multiple locations, including a main branch near Canal City Hakata. (Price range: around 800-1000 yen per bowl)
  • Ippudo: Another renowned ramen chain, Ippudo offers a slightly more refined take on Hakata ramen, with a smoother broth and a wider range of toppings. Their main shop is located in the Daimyo area. (Price range: around 850-1100 yen per bowl)
  • Shin Shin: This local favorite is popular for its flavorful and affordable ramen. They have a few branches, including one in Tenjin. (Price range: around 700-900 yen per bowl)
  • Hakata Issou: This is where the local people go. They have a strong, rich broth that will fulfill your wildest Ramen fantasies. With limited English support, you might need to use some body language to explain yourself, but that just adds to the authentic experience. It's absolutely worth the trouble! (Price range: around 700-900 yen per bowl)

Motsunabe Offal Hot Pot a Hakata Delicacy

Motsunabe is a hearty hot pot dish featuring motsu (beef or pork offal), simmered in a flavorful broth with vegetables like cabbage, garlic chives, and tofu. It might sound a bit adventurous, but trust me, it's a delicious and unique Fukuoka specialty that you won't find anywhere else.

Why is it special? The offal, typically intestines, is carefully prepared to remove any strong odors and cooked until tender, resulting in a surprisingly delicate flavor and texture. The broth, often miso or soy sauce-based, is rich and savory, perfectly complementing the other ingredients.

Where to find it? Motsunabe specialty restaurants are scattered throughout Fukuoka. It is most popular during the colder seasons, but some restaurants will sell them year round.

Recommended Motsunabe Restaurants:

  • Yamanaka: This upscale restaurant offers a refined motsunabe experience, with high-quality ingredients and a stylish setting. They have multiple locations, including one near Hakata Station. (Price range: around 3000-5000 yen per person)
  • Rakutenchi: This popular chain is known for its generous portions and affordable prices. They have several branches in Fukuoka, including one in Tenjin. (Price range: around 2000-3000 yen per person)
  • Ooyama: Another reliable motsunabe chain, Ooyama offers a variety of broth flavors and a wide selection of side dishes. They have multiple locations throughout the city. (Price range: around 2500-3500 yen per person)

Mizutaki Chicken Hot Pot a Fukuoka Classic

Mizutaki is another type of hot pot popular in Fukuoka, but this one features chicken instead of offal. It's a lighter and more delicate dish compared to motsunabe, making it a great option for those who prefer a less adventurous meal.

Why is it special? The chicken, often locally sourced Hakata Jidori (free-range chicken), is simmered in a simple yet flavorful broth, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine. The dish is typically served with ponzu (citrus-based soy sauce) for dipping.

Where to find it? Mizutaki can be found at specialized hot pot restaurants, as well as some izakayas (Japanese pubs) and traditional ryotei (high-end Japanese restaurants).

Recommended Mizutaki Restaurants:

  • Hanamidori: This renowned restaurant specializes in mizutaki made with Hakata Jidori chicken. They have several branches in Fukuoka, including a flagship store in Nakasu. (Price range: around 4000-6000 yen per person)
  • Toriden: Another well-regarded mizutaki restaurant, Toriden offers a variety of set courses and a la carte options. They have multiple locations, including one near Hakata Station. (Price range: around 3500-5000 yen per person)
  • Iroha: This long-established restaurant is known for its traditional mizutaki recipe and elegant atmosphere. They have a main branch in the Tenjin area. (Price range: around 5000-7000 yen per person)

Yatai Street Food Stalls a Fukuoka Tradition

Yatai are small, mobile food stalls that pop up in Fukuoka during the evenings, offering a variety of local dishes and drinks. Visiting a yatai is a must-do experience during the Hakata Gion Yamakasa, as it's a great way to soak up the local atmosphere and try some delicious street food.

Why is it special? Yatai offer a unique and intimate dining experience, often with just a few seats around a counter. You can chat with the stall owner and other customers while enjoying freshly prepared food and drinks.

Where to find it? Yatai are typically found along the Naka River in Nakasu, as well as in some other areas of the city. It is easy to find them during the festival.

Popular Yatai Dishes:

  • Hakata ramen: Of course, you can also find Hakata ramen at yatai! It's a great way to enjoy a quick and affordable bowl of this local specialty.
  • Yakitori: Grilled chicken skewers, seasoned with salt or tare (sweet soy sauce).
  • Oden: A variety of ingredients, such as fish cakes, tofu, and vegetables, simmered in a flavorful broth.
  • Tempura: Deep-fried seafood and vegetables.
  • Gyoza: Pan-fried dumplings.
Recommended Yatai:

  • Mami-chan: Known for serving delicious Yakitori, it's one of the most popular food stands in Fukuoka. Be prepared to wait in line, or you can also call ahead and book a seat. (Price range: around 2000-3000 yen per person)
  • Kokkin-chan: This yatai is famous for its yaki-ramen, a unique dish of stir-fried ramen noodles. (Price range: around 1500-2500 yen per person)
  • Kajishika: This yatai is located in a very convenient location, right near the river in the Nakasu area. It's known for its tasty and affordable seafood dishes. (Price range: around 1500-2500 yen per person)

Drinks to Enjoy During Hakata Gion Yamakasa

Of course, no festival experience is complete without some refreshing drinks! Here are some local beverages to try during the Hakata Gion Yamakasa:

Local Sake and Shochu

Fukuoka is known for its production of sake and shochu, both traditional Japanese alcoholic beverages.

Sake: This rice wine comes in a variety of flavors, from dry to sweet, and can be enjoyed chilled or warm.

Shochu: This distilled spirit can be made from various ingredients, such as sweet potatoes, barley, or rice. It has a higher alcohol content than sake and is often served on the rocks or mixed with water or soda.

Where to find it? Sake and shochu can be found at most restaurants, izakayas, and yatai in Fukuoka. You can also visit local breweries or distilleries for tastings and tours.

Craft Beer Scene in Fukuoka

Fukuoka's craft beer scene has been growing in recent years, with several local breweries producing a wide range of styles.

Recommended Breweries and Bars:

  • Hakata Craft: This brewery offers a variety of craft beers, including IPAs, stouts, and wheat beers. They have a taproom in the Hakata Station area. (Price range: around 700-900 yen per glass)
  • Goodbeer Faucets: This bar has a large selection of Japanese and international craft beers on tap. They have a location in Tenjin. (Price range: around 800-1200 yen per glass)
  • Beer Paddy Fukuoka: This cozy bar specializes in Kyushu craft beers, including several from Fukuoka. They have a location near Gion Station. (Price range: around 700-900 yen per glass)

Non-Alcoholic Options

If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, there are plenty of options to choose from, including:

  • Ramune: This classic Japanese soda comes in a unique glass bottle with a marble stopper.
  • Calpis: This milky, slightly tangy beverage is a popular choice among both children and adults.
  • Green tea: Enjoy a refreshing cup of Japanese green tea, either hot or cold.
  • Oolong tea: This is a black tea that is less caffeinated. It has a fragrant aroma and a refreshing taste, making it a great choice for a hot day.

Sweet Treats to Try During Hakata Gion Yamakasa

Don't forget to satisfy your sweet tooth with some local treats!

Mentaiko a Fukuoka Delicacy

While not exactly a sweet treat, mentaiko (spicy cod roe) is a Fukuoka specialty that's often incorporated into various dishes, including pastries and snacks.

Why is it special? Mentaiko is known for its unique salty and spicy flavor, which adds a kick to any dish.

Where to find it? Mentaiko can be found at most supermarkets and souvenir shops in Fukuoka. You can also find mentaiko-flavored snacks, such as potato chips and rice crackers.

Recommended Mentaiko Products:

  • Fukutaro: This company offers a wide range of mentaiko products, from fresh roe to processed snacks. They have several shops in Fukuoka, including one in Hakata Station.
  • Yamaya: Another popular mentaiko brand, Yamaya offers a variety of flavors and styles of mentaiko. They also have multiple locations throughout the city.

Hakata Torimon a Popular Sweet

Hakata Torimon is a type of manju (Japanese sweet bun) that's filled with a sweet white bean paste. It's a popular souvenir from Fukuoka and a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Why is it special? The smooth and creamy white bean paste is perfectly balanced with the soft and fluffy bun.

Where to find it? Hakata Torimon can be found at most souvenir shops and department stores in Fukuoka.

Ume Tea

This is a refreshing and slightly sour tea made from pickled Japanese plums (umeboshi). It's said to have various health benefits and is a popular drink during the summer months. It's usually made with green tea, although sometimes black tea is used instead.

Other Considerations

  • Budget: Food and drink prices in Fukuoka can vary widely depending on where you go. Yatai and ramen shops are generally more affordable, while upscale restaurants can be quite expensive.
  • Dietary restrictions: If you have any dietary restrictions, such as allergies or vegetarianism, be sure to communicate them clearly when ordering. Many restaurants in Fukuoka are happy to accommodate special requests. You might want to look up the Japanese phrases to explain your dietary restrictions or carry a small card with the phrases written down.
  • Language barrier: While English menus are becoming more common in Fukuoka, especially in tourist areas, you may still encounter some language barriers. Don't be afraid to use gestures or translation apps to communicate your needs. It is part of the experience!
Enjoy the delicious food and drinks that Fukuoka has to offer during the Hakata Gion Yamakasa! It's an integral part of the festival experience and a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture. You will be missing out if you don't give the food and drinks a try while you are there for the festival!