Why do the unique flavors of local cuisine leave such a lasting impression?

Simply visiting tourist spots often feels incomplete. It's only when you experience the authentic flavors cherished by locals that you truly feel connected to a place. Nagano is brimming with regional delicacies shaped by its natural beauty and rich history—foods you must try at least once. Here are five reasons why these dishes will surprise and delight you.

🍎 Five Must-Try Specialties in Nagano

1. **Shinshu Soba**

Is it true that soba noodles are meant to be swallowed, not chewed?
When you think of Nagano, Shinshu soba immediately comes to mind. Especially Togakushi soba, known for its unique serving style called "bocchi-mori." Since the Edo period, soba has been enjoyed for its smooth texture, with connoisseurs advocating the practice of swallowing rather than chewing.

2. **Oyaki**

Do you prefer "grilled" oyaki or "steamed" oyaki?
This humble local dish features a dough made from wheat or buckwheat flour, filled with vegetables or sweet bean paste, and then cooked. Depending on the region or shop, oyaki may be grilled over an open hearth for a smoky flavor or steamed for a soft texture. The fillings often change with the seasons, adding to the charm.

3. **Sanzoku-yaki**

Why is it called "yaki" when it's actually fried?
Originating in Shiojiri, this soul food involves marinating chicken in garlic soy sauce and frying it to perfection. The name "Sanzoku-yaki" (Mountain Bandit Fry) is said to come from the idea of bandits "taking" or "lifting" food, adding a playful twist to its history.

4. **Nozawana Pickles**

Did you know some regions eat Nozawana raw?
Famous as a pickled vegetable, Nozawana is also used in stir-fries, fried rice, and as a filling for oyaki in local cuisine. In snowy areas, it has long been a vital winter food, showcasing the ingenuity of Nagano's food culture.

5. **Gohei Mochi**

Are there as many miso sauce recipes as there are households?
This regional treat features cooked non-glutinous rice mashed and shaped onto sticks, then coated with walnut miso or soy sauce and grilled. Centered around the Kiso region, Gohei Mochi varies in flavor and shape depending on the area, making it a fun dish to sample and compare during your travels.

🧭 Conclusion

Nagano's cuisine is more than just delicious—it encapsulates the region's climate, lifestyle, and history. Eating local dishes allows you to deepen your appreciation for the area. Nagano is a place where you can have such enriching experiences. For your next trip, embark on a "Shinshu Gourmet Journey" to satisfy both your palate and your heart.