Introducing the top 10 unmissable local gourmet dishes from the Niigata region.
Introducing the top 10 unmissable local gourmet dishes from the Niigata region.
When visiting the Niigata region, be sure to enjoy the authentic local gourmet dishes at their best.
Table of Contents
Imo Mochi
Hegi Soba
Namban Shrimp
Tai Chazuke
Kurumafu
Saba Sandwich
Noppei-Jiru Soup
Hama-Yaki
Sasa Dango
Poppo Yaki
Imo Mochi
Warm and fluffy with the rich flavor of sweet potatoes
Imo Mochi (いももち, Imo mochi) is a traditional dish from Sado Island, originally created as a substitute for rice, which was scarce in the area. Today, it remains a beloved sweet snack and can ev...
Hegi Soba
A silky-smooth traditional soba from Niigata—elevated by seaweed binding for the ultimate texture
Hegi Soba (へぎそば, Hegi soba) is a cherished traditional dish from Niigata Prefecture, particularly beloved in the Uonuma region. This unique soba features funori, a type of seaweed, as a binding...
Namban Shrimp
Sweet and melt-in-your-mouth goodness! A winter delicacy bursting with flavor!
Namban Shrimp (南蛮エビ, Namban ebi), also known as Amaebi, are locally called this in Niigata because their color and shape resemble red chili peppers. The tender, sweet flesh of Namban Shrimp has...
Tai Chazuke
Enjoy the variety! Savor the changing flavors.
Tai Chazuke (鯛茶漬け, Tai chazuke) is a delightful local rice bowl dish from Kashiwazaki, a region renowned for its premium sea bream from the Sea of Japan. This dish features fragrant fried se...
Kurumafu
Try it as a meat substitute! A lighter, healthier option
Kurumafu (車麩, Kurumafu), a traditional comfort food from Niigata, has been loved as a "taste of home" for generations. Made from wheat flour and free from any additives, it is easy to digest and ...
Saba Sandwich
A Turkish classic reborn in Kashiwazaki, Niigata – the exceptional “Saba Sandwich”!
The Saba Sandwich (サバサンド, Saba Sand) is a beloved local specialty of Kashiwazaki City in Niigata Prefecture. This culinary delight is a reimagining of a Turkish classic, tailored to suit Japan...
Noppei-Jiru Soup
A beloved traditional dish of Niigata, "Noppei-Jiru"
Noppei-Jiru Soup (のっぺい汁, Noppei-jiru) is a classic simmered dish made with root vegetables, chicken, konjac, and other ingredients, with a thick texture added by taro. It has been cherished in...
Hama-Yaki
Irresistible aroma and packed with the rich flavors of Niigata’s fresh fish!
Hama-Yaki (浜焼き, Hama-yaki) is a traditional cooking method from Niigata, where freshly caught fish from local fishing ports are skewered on bamboo sticks and roasted whole. Carefully grilled ...
Sasa Dango
Niigata’s specialty with a gentle sweetness and the fragrant aroma of bamboo leaves
Sasa Dango (笹団子, Sasa dango) is a traditional wagashi—Japanese sweet—originating from Niigata Prefecture. It features a yomogi (mugwort) rice cake filled with red bean paste, wrapped in fragrant...
Poppo Yaki
A nostalgic soul food loved at food stalls in Niigata!
Poppo Yaki (ぽっぽ焼き, Poppo yaki) is a beloved and nostalgic treat known by everyone in the Kaetsu region of Niigata Prefecture. This delightful snack features a soft and chewy texture paired ...
