Explorer’s Collection JAPAN

Kyushu Island is located in the south of the Japanese archipelago. In the northeastern part of the island lies Oita Prefecture.

Blessed with abundant nature and good food from the land, sea and countryside, Oita is a nationally famous place for delicious food. Dried shiitake mushrooms grown in Japan’s biggest producing area are exported to Western countries, enjoying increased popularity. Oita Prefecture has a widely diverse food culture that is rooted among people.

Based on the concept of sustainable gastronomy, Oita has launched initiatives to recognize its wonderful food anew and disseminate information inside and outside the prefecture.

Oita’s food has three “powers.”

First, the “power of the ground.” Oita Prefecture is nationally known as the best hot spring area in Japan. In Beppu City, in particular, rare recipes using hot spring water and steam gushing out of the ground have been handed down for a long time. Hot spring water rich in minerals is used for cooking food.

Secondly, the “power of fermentation.” Usuki City preserves the traditional culture of fermentation and brewing. The production of sake, miso and soy sauce keeps thriving. This is one of the reasons that the city was recognized as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy in 2021. Usukiyaki pottery, which once disappeared in the Edo era, has been revived and exported to Europe, the U.S. and Australia, where it is gaining popularity.

Thirdly, the “power of people.” Yufuin in Yufu City is a world-famous health resort built in natural settings. Here, farmers and cooks keep talking about ways to produce food materials. While preserving the rich natural environment, they have given hospitality to travelers from around the world with safe and distinctive local dishes and, of course, with a smile.

Oita sustainable gastronomy. Oita has a history of sustainable food culture that has been handed down for a long time. Visit Oita to experience it physically. We are looking forward to seeing you.

Oita Prefectural Office Oita Sustainable Gastronomy Gastronomy of Usuki City OFFICIAL FACEBOOK OFFICIAL YOUTUBE