Nikko, a renowned tourist destination in Tochigi Prefecture famous for the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, is also celebrated for its yuba cuisine (ゆば料理). Yuba, or tofu skin, is a delicate and versatile ingredient made from the thin layer that forms on the surface of boiling soy milk, deeply connected to the area’s tradition of vegetarian Buddhist cuisine. Visitors can savor yuba in various forms, such as a topping for soba noodles, in soups, or served sashimi-style with soy sauce, showcasing the craftsmanship and subtle flavors of traditional Japanese cuisine. While Nikko is a popular destination, most travelers staying overnight tend to dine at their accommodations, so restaurants offering dinner are quite limited. The majority of dining options are concentrated along Route 119, west of Nikko Station. This unique culinary experience makes yuba a must-try when visiting Nikko, perfectly complementing the city’s stunning natural beauty and historic sites.
- Specialty Dishes
- Yuba cuisine
[Dinner Restaurants]Asahikawa-旭川 - Google マイマップ
Asahikawa-旭川
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1. Nikko Yubamaki ZEN-日光湯波巻き 全 – ZEN
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367 283 878*42 - Description
Nikko Yubamaki ZEN is an elegant restaurant in Nikko, renowned for its refined take on traditional Yuba (tofu skin) dishes. Nestled among other eateries, it offers a unique twist with its signature Yubamaki, where Yuba is used instead of seaweed to wrap sushi-style rolls, creating a visually appealing dish that attracts tourists. The menu allows diners to choose from various fillings like Wagyu beef, sea bream, and vegetables, with each combination offering a distinct flavor experience. However, the strong flavors of some ingredients, like the Wagyu, can overpower the delicate taste of the Yuba, which might not appeal to purists who prefer Yuba’s subtlety. Despite some mixed opinions on the flavor balance, the restaurant’s atmosphere and the aesthetic presentation of the food make it a popular choice for dates and special occasions. While the service can be slow at times, possibly due to staffing issues, the overall experience is enhanced by the attentive staff and the beautifully presented dishes. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, as the restaurant tends to fill up quickly. Diners also praise the Yuba sashimi, and the Yuba-inspired desserts, like the Yuba zenzai, offer a delightful end to the meal. Although some found the service inconsistent, the exquisite Yuba cuisine and the serene ambiance make Nikko Yubamaki ZEN a memorable dining destination in Nikko.
2. SHIORI-お食事処 栞
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367 283 559*22 - Description
SHIORI is a charming restaurant in Nikko that offers a delightful dining experience, particularly known for its Yuba (tofu skin) dishes. Drawn by the popularity of last year’s taiga drama about Ieyasu, I visited Nikko Toshogu Shrine and chose this restaurant for lunch, intrigued by their Yuba offerings. Despite my usual preference for hearty meals, I opted for the pork shogayaki, which was seasoned perfectly with ginger, showcasing the chef’s meticulous attention to detail. The Yuba dishes were also exceptional, reflecting the chef’s background in French cuisine. The atmosphere was serene, and the service was warm and attentive, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal. The restaurant also offers a variety of other dishes, such as grilled eel, which allowed us to enjoy a leisurely meal while discussing our travel plans. The restaurant’s ambiance, coupled with the chef’s skillful preparation of each dish, made for a memorable dining experience. The Yuba sashimi, in particular, stood out for its mild flavor and delicate texture. Despite a slight wait time due to the restaurant’s popularity, the overall experience was well worth it. SHIORI’s ability to blend traditional Japanese ingredients with a touch of French finesse makes it a must-visit for anyone traveling to Nikko.
3. Hippari-Dako-ひっぱり凧
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No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Hippari-Dako is a unique ramen shop located on the main street near Nikko Toshogu Shrine, attracting a significant number of foreign tourists. The shop’s walls are adorned with countless notes and messages left by visitors from around the world, creating a lively and eclectic atmosphere. The menu offers familiar Japanese dishes, such as soy sauce ramen, which is meticulously prepared and delivers a rich, savory flavor without modern twists. The ramen’s slightly firm, medium-thin noodles are particularly commendable for their texture and taste. Despite the shop’s popularity among foreign tourists, the simple and authentic flavors make it a great choice for Japanese visitors as well. The friendly and casual service adds to the welcoming environment, making Hippari-Dako a memorable dining experience in Nikko.
4. Meiji-no-yakata-西洋料理 明治の館
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367 312 351*70 - Description
Meiji-no-yakata, a Western-style restaurant housed in a historic building near Nikko Toshogu Shrine, offers a unique dining experience with its elegant atmosphere and classic dishes. The restaurant, which often has a wait due to its popularity, is set in a stone-built structure from the Meiji era, now a registered tangible cultural property. Diners can enjoy dishes like the highly recommended omelette rice, featuring fluffy eggs and large, succulent shrimp, all topped with a rich demi-glace sauce. The restaurant also serves other favorites such as beef stew, cream croquettes, and a must-try cheese cake, known for its perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. The warm, classic interior, coupled with the impeccable service, makes dining here a memorable experience, ideal for those looking to savor a taste of history along with their meal.
5. Meguri coffee -自然茶寮 廻
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367 283 786*41 - Description
Meguri Coffee is a charming café located near the station, offering a unique blend of vegan and natural foods in a cozy, Japanese-style setting. The café, run by a single person, may require some patience as everything is meticulously prepared from scratch, but the attention to detail in both the food and drinks is well worth the wait. The interior, with its traditional beams and tatami mats, adds to the serene atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to unwind. The menu features a variety of carefully crafted dishes, such as vegan pasta, organic coffee, and their signature crepes, which pair perfectly with their coffee. The café’s popularity extends to foreign visitors, who make up a significant portion of the clientele, drawn in by the welcoming ambiance and the quality of the offerings. Whether you’re stopping by after a visit to Nikko Toshogu Shrine or simply looking for a relaxing place to enjoy a meal, Meguri Coffee provides a delightful experience with its emphasis on health-conscious, plant-based cuisine and a warm, inviting atmosphere.