Introducing the top 10 unmissable local gourmet dishes from the Wakayama region.

Introducing the top 10 unmissable local gourmet dishes from the Wakayama region.
When visiting the Wakayama region, be sure to enjoy the authentic local gourmet dishes at their best.

Table of Contents

Mehari-zushi
Wakayama Kujira
Suzume Sushi
Wakayama Ramen
Ume Udon
Mikan Mochi
Saba no Narezushi (Fermented Mackerel Sushi)
Kumano Beef
Kue Nabe
Shirasu Don

No.1

Mehari-zushi

So large you have to open your mouth wide to take a bite!

Mehari-zushi is a local dish from the Kumano region, which spans Wakayama and Mie prefectures, and the Yoshino region, centered on Yoshino District in Nara Prefecture. These are rice balls wrapped ...

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No.2

Wakayama Kujira

Whale dishes, a Wakayama specialty

Taiji, in Higashimuro District, Wakayama Prefecture, is known as the birthplace of whaling in Japan. Commercial whaling is regulated, and strict catch limits set by the government make whale meat a...

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No.3

Suzume Sushi

Tender, flavorful kodai seabream kissed by ocean waves

“Kodai Suzume Sushi (雀寿司)” is a traditional sushi from Wakayama Prefecture and one of its most iconic local delicacies. This sushi features small seabream (kodai, also called "charihko") meas...

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No.4

Wakayama Ramen

One of Wakayama’s signature flavors

Now one of Wakayama’s signature dishes, Wakayama Ramen is usually called “chūka soba” (Chinese-style noodles). Based on the broth, it can be divided into three styles: soy sauce, pork-bone soy sauc...

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No.5

Ume Udon

A bowl brightened with Kishu plums, celebrating Wakayama’s local flavors and traditions

Known as a local specialty of Wakayama Prefecture, Ume Udon is distinguished by its delicate pink color, created by kneading Kishu plums—a regional specialty—into the noodles. It brings together th...

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No.6

Mikan Mochi

A traditional mochi infused with the fresh aroma of Kishu mandarins and sunshine

Mikan Mochi (みかん餅, Mikan mochi) is a traditional sweet from Wakayama Prefecture, crafted with the renowned Kishu mandarins. This delightful mochi is known for its refreshingly sweet citrus flav...

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No.7

Saba no Narezushi (Fermented Mackerel Sushi)

A traditional fermented sushi from Wakayama, lovingly crafted by hand

Saba no Narezushi (サバのなれ寿司, fermented mackerel sushi) is a signature dish of Wakayama and a unique type of fermented sushi made without vinegar. It has a distinctive aroma, reminiscent of de...

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No.8

Kumano Beef

A premium wagyu brand from Kishu

Kumano Beef is a wagyu breed traditionally raised in the Kumano region of southern Wakayama Prefecture. Its roots are said to lie in pack cattle brought from Kyoto during the Heian period. The catt...

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No.9

Kue Nabe

Kue, a celebrated winter delicacy of Kishu

Kue, a prized fish from Wakayama Prefecture, is known for its delicate flavor, gelatin-rich skin, and firm, fatty flesh that delights discerning diners. In a hot pot, it is every bit as delicious a...

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No.10

Shirasu Don

A favorite with adults and children alike!

Yuasa in Wakayama Prefecture ranks first in the prefecture for shirasu landings and is one of Japan’s leading landing areas. The town has many popular restaurants serving delicious shirasu rice bow...

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