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

Wakayama

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.

No.1
Mehari Sushi
Mehari Sushi
Take a big bite that’ll make your eyes widen with surprise!

Mehari Sushi (めはり寿司) is a traditional dish from the Kumano region, which spans across Wakayama and Mie Prefectures, as well as the Yoshino region in Nara Prefecture. It consists of rice bal...

No.2
Wakayama Whale Cuisine
Wakayama Whale Cuisine
Traditional whale dishes, a specialty of Wakayama

Wakayama's Taiji Town in Higashimuro District is known as the birthplace of whaling in Japan. Whale meat, due to strict government regulations and limited permitted catches, is considered a rare an...

No.3
Suzume Sushi
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...

No.4
Wakayama Ramen
Wakayama Ramen
One of Wakayama's iconic flavors

Wakayama Ramen (和歌山ラーメン, Wakayama ramen) has become one of the signature tastes of Wakayama Prefecture, often referred to locally as "chūka soba" (Chinese-style noodles). Its soup base is...

No.5
Plum Udon
Plum Udon
A bowl graced with Kishu plums—Wakayama’s bounty and tradition

Plum Udon (梅うどん, Ume udon) is a local specialty of Wakayama Prefecture, known for its delicate pale pink color, achieved by kneading Kishu-grown plums into the dough. This dish beautifully comb...

No.6
Mikan Mochi
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...

No.7
Saba no Narezushi (Fermented Mackerel Sushi)
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...

No.8
Kumano Beef
Kumano Beef
A premium wagyu brand proudly from Kishu

Kumano Beef (熊野牛, Kumano gyu) traces its origins back to the Heian period when pack oxen were brought from Kyoto to the Kumano region. Over the years, these cattle were traditionally raised in s...

No.9
Kue Hot Pot
Kue Hot Pot
A Winter Delicacy from Wakayama: The Exquisite Kue Fish

Kue Hot Pot (クエ鍋, Kue nabe) features the prized Kue fish, a rare and luxurious seafood cultivated in Wakayama Prefecture. Known for its delicate flavor, gelatinous skin, and tender, rich marbled...

No.10
Shirasu Don
Shirasu Don
A favorite for both kids and adults!

Shirasu Don (しらす丼, Shirasu don) is a beloved dish from Yuasa Town in Wakayama Prefecture, a place known for being one of Japan's leading regions in shirasu (whitebait) catches. While fresh shi...