Food In Toshogu Shrine

Food History of Toshogu Shrine, Nikko, Japan

The Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Nikko, is not just a place of spiritual and historical significance, but it is also a place where visitors can explore a variety of traditional Japanese foods. The shrine is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate that ruled Japan for over two centuries. Food offerings have always played a vital role in Shinto rituals and ceremonies, and the shrine area is no different. Over the years, local eateries around Toshogu Shrine have continued the tradition of serving authentic Japanese cuisine that is influenced by the history and culture of Nikko.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Toshogu Shrine, Nikko, Japan

1. Yuba (veg) - A Nikko specialty, yuba is made from the skin that forms on the surface when making tofu.

2. Soba Noodles (veg/non-veg options) - These buckwheat noodles can be enjoyed hot or cold and are a staple in Japanese cuisine.

3. Tempura (veg/non-veg options) - Visitors can enjoy crisp, lightly battered vegetables or seafood fried to perfection.

4. Shojin Ryori (veg) - This is a traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine that is available at many temples and restaurants in the area.

5. Manju (veg) - A popular confectionery filled with red bean paste.

6. Kamameshi (veg/non-veg options) - Rice, seafood, and vegetables cooked together in an individual pot.

7. Zunda Mochi (veg) - Sweet rice cakes topped with a paste made from edamame (young soybeans).

8. Ammazake (veg) - A traditional sweet, low-alcohol Japanese drink made from fermented rice.

9. Dengaku (veg) - Grilled tofu or vegetables skewered and covered with a sweet miso glaze.

10. Kakinoha Sushi (non-veg) - Sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, a typical food from the nearby region which carries the essence of Nikko.

Top Famous Restaurants in Toshogu Shrine, Nikko, Japan

Hippari Dako
Address: 1115 Kamihatsuishimachi, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1401, Japan
Famous Food: Yuba dishes (veg) and Soba Noodles (with veg/non-veg options)

Zen
Address: 1011 Kamihatsuishimachi, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1401, Japan
Famous Food: Shojin Ryori (veg)

Renge
Address: 2-53 Yasukawacho, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1432, Japan
Famous Food: Tempura (veg/non-veg options)

Kosugi no Osushi
Address: 5-13 Yasukawacho, Nikko-shi, Tochigi, 321-1432, Japan
Famous Food: Kakinoha Sushi (non-veg)

While meat dishes are prevalent, many restaurants in Nikko offer vegetarian and non-vegetarian options to cater to a diverse array of dietary preferences.