Kumamoto Castle, a symbol of the city of Kumamoto's heritage, has a storied past that extends to its culinary traditions. Feudal lords (daimyo) and samurais residing within the castle precincts influenced the local cuisine, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients and refined cooking methods. Known for its pristine waters and fertile land, the area surrounding Kumamoto Castle provided a rich bounty for the creation of distinctive dishes. Although Kumamoto is famous for its premium quality horse meat dishes (basashi), it also offers a diverse array of other culinary delights that do not include cow meat - from fresh vegetables to succulent seafood from the nearby Ariake Sea.