Food In Hakone Checkpoint

Hakone Checkpoint Food History

Hakone Checkpoint (Hakone Sekisho) is a historic site along the old Tokaido Road which connected Edo (now Tokyo) with Kyoto during the Edo period. The checkpoint was primarily a border control for those entering and leaving Edo, and throughout history, it wasn't particularly noted for its food culture. However, the presence of travelers along the Tokaido road meant that Hakone developed certain local specialties to cater to these visitors. One of the traditional food items associated with Hakone is Yuba, a product made from soybeans. As a region surrounded by mountains and with a cooler climate, Hakone is not as suited for rice cultivation; thus, soybeans and other mountain vegetables have held a significant place in the local cuisine.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Hakone

Here are ten popular dishes to try in Hakone, reflecting the region's proximity to the sea, mountains, and its rich history:

1. Yuba - Vegan: A delicacy made from the skin that forms on the surface of boiled soy milk. It's a versatile ingredient used in various dishes.
2. Tofu - Vegan: Hakone has fresh, artisanal tofu, enjoyed in salads, hot pots, or simply chilled with a splash of soy sauce.
3. Soba Noodles - Vegan/Vegetarian Option Available: Buckwheat noodles, served either cold with a dipping sauce or in a hot, flavorful broth.
4. Onsen Tamago - Vegetarian: Eggs slow-cooked in hot spring waters, resulting in a creamy, custard-like texture.
5. Tempura - Vegetarian Option Available: Battered and fried vegetables and seafood.
6. Odawara Kamaboko - Non-Veg: A steamed fish cake from Odawara, a neighboring area known for this traditional Japanese food.
7. Kaiseki Ryori - Non-Veg/Vegetarian Option Available: A traditional multi-course Japanese dinner that often includes seasonal and local ingredients.
8. Hakone Manju - Vegetarian: A sweet pastry usually filled with red bean paste.
9. Amazake - Vegetarian: A sweet and low-alcohol drink made from fermented rice, often enjoyed warm.
10. Mountain Vegetable Pickles (Sansai Tsukemono) - Vegan: Pickled wild vegetables that often accompany meals and rice dishes.

Top Famous Restaurants in Hakone

Tamura Ginkatsutei

Address: 1300 Gora, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0408, Japan

Famous Food: Tofu Kaiseki - Vegetarian Options Available

Hakone Tent

Address: 1320-257 Gora, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0408, Japan

Famous Food: Vegan Ramen - Vegan

Itoh Dining by Nobu

Address: 1300-64 Gora, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0408, Japan

Famous Food: Seafood Dishes - Non-Veg

Restaurant Pola

Address: 1284 Sengokuhara, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0631, Japan

Famous Food: Yuba Tasting Menu - Vegan/Vegetarian Options Available

Kinnotake Tonosawa

Address: 191 Tonosawa, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture 250-0315, Japan

Famous Food: Kaiseki Cuisine - Non-Veg/Vegetarian Option Available

For vegetarians and vegans traveling to Hakone, it's always advisable to check with the restaurant or eatery in advance to ensure they can accommodate your dietary requirements, as menus can change and traditional Japanese kaiseki can often feature fish or seafood components.