How to Eat Like a Shogun in Japan

The incredible popularity of the resurgence of "Shogun" thanks to Hollywood has ignited a food craze amongst visitors to Japan that want to immerse themselves in the culture and dine like ancient aristocracy. Fortunately, what's old is now new again as is the case for so many of Japan's wonders and Samurai Kaga cuisine remains as prominent as ever across Kanazawa.

Some of the most sought-after dishes that fold in local specialties from chicken and duck, to locally grown vegetables like carrots, spinach, taro, mushrooms and more cooked in rich broths bubbling in special iron pots.

The spate of small eateries that cater to this type of cuisine originated long ago deep in the heart of the Ishikawa Prefecture in Kanazawa. One of the most significant castle towns of the Edo period within the Kaga Domain, this region was and still is home of original samurai culture and thus, where many aspects of the culture took shape.

Centuries ago, the wealthier families would entertain groups that would visit their homes for meals where chefs would prepare the meals to serve in a banquet-style forum- thus began the culture of dining out. Simultaneously, in the surrounding areas, tea houses began to crop up and became the basis of what is now known as ryotei or Samurai Kaga cuisine.

During the demise of the Samurai manors during the Meiji period, these ryotei bought up abandoned homes and transformed them into restaurants, taking special care of the surrounding gardens to ensure their aesthetic appeal. Years later, after the opening of the railroad system and the launch of Kanazawa Station in the late 1800s, incoming military personnel aided in the growth of these concept restaurants as they also began to serve as havens for hospitality.

Today, travelers to Japan are spoiled for choice in Kanazawa, as these celebrated restaurants pay homage daily to traditions of centuries past and always best paired with a Tea Ceremony experience to truly complete the circle of Samurai life from long ago.

For more information Ishikawa's tourism opportunities, please visit https://www.ishikawatravel.jp/en/
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