Food History of Sankeien Garden, Yokohama
Sankeien Garden is a traditional Japanese-style garden in Yokohama known for its scenic beauty and historic buildings, some of which are designated as important cultural properties. While the garden itself is not specifically known for its food history, it offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural past, which naturally includes the evolution of Japanese cuisine. The garden was created by a silk trader, Hara Sankei, and opened to the public in 1906. Within the garden, visitors can experience tea ceremony culture in historic tea houses where traditional sweets and matcha are served, reflecting the deep connection between Japanese gardens and the country’s gastronomic heritage.
Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes at Sankeien Garden, Yokohoma
The following list includes traditional Japanese dishes one can expect to enjoy in or near Sankeien Garden. It’s noteworthy that traditional Japanese dining often includes fish and seafood. Vegetarian options (indicated) have become more available due to a rising interest in plant-based diets and Buddhism-inspired shojin ryori cuisine.
- Tempura (Non-Veg) - Assorted seafood and vegetables dipped in a light batter and deep-fried to perfection.
- Matcha Ice Cream (Veg) - A refreshing dessert made from powdered green tea that offers a unique blend of sweet and slightly bitter flavors.
- Soba Noodles (Veg/Non-Veg options) - Buckwheat noodles that can be enjoyed cold with a dipping sauce or in a hot broth.
- Onigiri (Veg/Non-Veg options) - Rice balls filled with pickled plum, salmon, or other savory ingredients wrapped in seaweed.
- Sushi (Non-Veg mostly) - A renowned Japanese dish with a variety of ingredients, mainly featuring rice flavored with vinegar and different types of seafood.
- Matcha Sweets (Veg) - Traditional Japanese confectionery that includes various sweets like mochi or dorayaki made with matcha green tea.
- Yakisoba (Veg/Non-Veg options) - Fried buckwheat noodles commonly mixed with bite-sized pork, vegetables, and a tangy sauce.
- Tofu Dishes (Veg) - Silken or firm tofu that may be served cold with toppings or cooked in hot savory broths.
- Edamame (Veg) - Young soybeans often served as a snack, steamed and salted in their pods.
- Ramen (Veg/Non-Veg options) - A noodle soup dish that is highly popular, with various broths and toppings to choose from.
Top Famous Restaurants Near Sankeien Garden, Yokohama
- Sankeien Hontei
Address: 58-1, Honmoku Sannotani, Naka Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture 231-0824, Japan
Famous Food: Matcha and Traditional Japanese Sweets (Veg)
- Kichoan Sankeienmae
Address: 156-2 Honmoku Sannotani, Naka Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-0824, Japan
Famous Food: Anmitsu (Japanese dessert with agar jelly) (Veg)
- Shin Yokohama Ramen Museum (Note: This is a bit farther away, as the garden itself offers limited dining options)
Address: 2 Chome-14-21 Shin-Yokohama, Kohoku Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture 222-0033, Japan
Famous Food: Various regional styles of Ramen (Veg/Non-Veg options)
- Chikaramochiya
Address: Near Sankeien Garden Entrance
Famous Food: Mochi (rice cake) varieties (Veg)
- Manchinro Honten
Address: 155 Yamashitacho, Naka Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture 231-0023, Japan
Famous Food: Cantonese-style Chinese cuisine with vegetarian options (Veg/Non-Veg options)
Please note that restaurant operating hours or offerings may change, so checking ahead for the latest information is advisable before planning a visit.