Hikone, a historic castle town on the shores of Lake Biwa, is a well-known tourist destination in Shiga Prefecture, though it sees fewer overnight visitors, resulting in limited accommodation and dining options. The town’s center is concentrated around Hikone Castle and the area near Hikone Station. Despite its smaller size, Hikone is renowned for its culinary delights, particularly Omi Beef (近江牛) and Omi Champon (近江ちゃんぽん). Omi Beef, one of Japan’s top wagyu brands, is celebrated for its tender texture, rich marbling, and deep, savory flavor, often enjoyed in dishes like steak, sukiyaki, or shabu-shabu. Omi Champon, another local specialty, is a hearty noodle dish featuring thick noodles in a rich, savory broth with a mix of vegetables, pork, and seafood, offering a unique twist on the traditional champon style. These dishes capture the essence of Hikone’s rich food culture, making the city a must-visit destination for those looking to explore traditional Japanese cuisine.
- Specialty Dishes
- Omi Beef
- Omi Champon
[Dinner Restaurants]Asahikawa-旭川 - Google マイマップ
Asahikawa-旭川
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1. Omi Beef Sennaritei Kyara-近江肉 せんなり亭伽羅
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Omi Beef Sennaritei Kyara, located near Hikone Castle, is a renowned restaurant offering an exquisite dining experience centered around Omi beef, a delicacy highly regarded in Japan. The restaurant’s traditional atmosphere, set in a renovated historical building, adds to the overall charm, making it a perfect spot for a memorable meal. Guests can enjoy various Omi beef dishes, such as sukiyaki, shabu-shabu, and steak, each prepared to highlight the rich flavor and tenderness of the beef. The sukiyaki, in particular, is noted for its perfectly balanced sweet and savory broth, which enhances the delicate texture of the marbled beef. The restaurant also offers private rooms, some with views of a beautiful garden, providing a serene setting for enjoying a leisurely meal. Many patrons appreciate the attentive service, where staff often prepare dishes at the table, ensuring a personalized and satisfying dining experience. Whether you’re savoring the finely marbled beef in a sukiyaki or indulging in a fillet steak set, Omi Beef Sennaritei Kyara promises a culinary experience that beautifully showcases the region’s famed beef.
2. Nishikawa-すき焼きうどん にし川
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Nishikawa, located in Yonbancho Square near Hikone Castle, is a popular spot for tourists seeking to savor Omi beef dishes. Despite the bustling lunch hours, the restaurant offers a relaxed and traditional atmosphere, where visitors can enjoy various specialties like the Omi Beef Sukiyaki, tail udon, and the well-seasoned Omi Beef Karubi Don. The beef-wrapped onigiri is another highlight, known for its flavorful, tender beef encasing a deliciously seasoned rice ball. The sukiyaki is particularly recommended for its balanced sweetness, which complements the tender, marbled beef. Despite its slightly higher price, the quality of the Omi beef and the attentive service make it a worthwhile experience. Whether dining on a classic beef donburi or indulging in the richer sukiyaki, Nishikawa promises a satisfying meal in a calm and welcoming setting. The restaurant also caters well to families and offers convenient parking options for visitors exploring the nearby Hikone Castle.
3. Chanpontei Hikone Station Branch-ちゃんぽん亭 彦根駅前本店
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Chanpontei Hikone Station Branch, located just a minute’s walk from Hikone Station, is a beloved local chain specializing in Omi Chanpon. This dish, distinct from the Nagasaki variety, features a light yet flavorful golden broth, abundant with cabbage and other vegetables, making it a satisfying meal. The restaurant’s offerings, such as the Special Meat Chanpon and the award-winning fried chicken, are both filling and delicious, with many customers enjoying the option to add vinegar or ginger for a unique flavor twist. Despite its unassuming appearance, the chanpon delivers a hearty portion that leaves diners fully satisfied. The menu also includes other options like gyoza and fried rice, which complement the chanpon well. Known as the birthplace of Omi Chanpon, this branch is popular among locals and tourists alike, offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere where patrons can enjoy a tasty and comforting meal.