Hamamatsu Shizuoka, Japan Travel Guide
Hamamatsu's culinary identity is shaped by marine and freshresources of water. The city gained fame for freshwater eel (unagi) farming, making it a symbolic local dish. Its position on the Tokaido Road exposed it to various culinary influences.
The region's agricultural prowess for green tea and mandarins further complements its dining scene.
Do not stick chopsticks vertically into rice or pass food from one pair to another. Place them on a rest when not eating.
Slurping noodles and soup is acceptable. Say "Itadakimasu" before and "Gochisousama deshita" after meals.
Remove shoes in old-style restaurants. Sharing plates is common at izakayas.
Hamamatsu is Japan's largest producer of farmed eel. Unaju/Unadon (grilled eel over rice) is a popular preparation, with steaming before grilling for tenderness.
Find in numerous specialty unagi restaurants around Lake Hamana and the city center.
Pan-fried dumplings, typically comes in a circular arrangement with boiled bean sprouts in the center. Filling often includes cabbage, pork, and garlic.
Specialty gyoza restaurants are common throughout Hamamatsu.
Shizuoka Prefecture produces high-quality green tea. Enjoy as a beverage (sencha, matcha, hojicha, genmaicha) or in sweets and ice cream.
Available at tea shops, cafes, supermarkets, and souvenir stores.
A famous crispy cookie made with eel extract, butter, and garlic. Tastes sweet and savory. A popular souvenir.
Desserts incorporating local mandarins, especially seasonal.
High-end unagi restaurants offer premium eel. Luxury ryokan feature kaiseki meals. Some larger hotels have international fine dining.
Izakayas (gastropubs) are lively for small dishes and drinks. Ramen, Udon, Soba shops are numerous. Gyoza specialty restaurants are common.
Convenience stores (konbini) offer inexpensive ready-to-eat meals. Supermarkets have prepared meals. Quick-service food chains and standing noodle bars are budget-friendly.
Discover fresh produce and seafood. Not as grand as some other regions.
For daily needs and local ingredients.
High-quality food halls with prepared dishes, gourmet items, sweets, and local delicacies.
Entetsu Department Store near Hamamatsu Station has a good selection.
Many options.
Some establishments.
Commonly available.
Various choices.
Dedicated Halal or Kosher restaurants are rare due to less significant Muslim or Jewish populations.
Focus on seafood or vegetable dishes.
Self-catering from supermarkets might be the most dependable option for strict dietary adherence.
Check labels carefully for ingredients.
Online forums, specific travel blogs, plus specialized apps can offer advice and lists of suitable restaurants.
Look for seasonal fish and seafood fresh from the local waters.
During the Hamamatsu Festival (early May), food stalls offer takoyaki, okonomiyaki, yakisoba, and various sweets.
Less of a traditional "street food" culture in the Western sense, but convenience stores offer many ready-to-eat snacks and hot food items.
High-quality rice wine from various local breweries.
Excellent pairing with local cuisine.
Seek out Hamamatsu Beer for a local craft experience.
Found in specialty shops and restaurants.
Hamamatsu's location ensures a wealth of fresh seafood, freshwater eel, and agricultural produce like green tea and mandarins.
Unagi and Hamamatsu Gyoza are conspicuous as signature dishes, distinct in preparation and presentation from other Japanese regions.
For an authentic culinary journey, seek out family-run establishments and consider visiting during local festivals. These moments provide genuine opportunities to experience Hamamatsu's flavors and hospitality.
