Also called ishi-dofu, both names mean "stone tofu" and refer to the unique dense consistancy. Unlike tofu in other parts of Japan, the rough and robust taste of this ultra-firm tofu will have you coming back for more. So dense is it that traditionally it was carried by rope. Great in soups, on the BBQ, or simply eaten uncooked with a pinch of ground ginger, wasabi, and soy sause.
Eat & Drink
Eat & Drink
Taste the soul of Iya and Oboke
The Bounty of Nature Awaits
One of the greatest attractions of the Miyoshi region is experiencing the array of flavors available. Small traditional farmplots, still managed by the hands of centuries old farming families, provide the backbone for the area's culinary creations. Yet not only are vegetables and grains locally sourced, but an entire range of foods come from this naturally abundant region, from river fish and wild game, to green tea and sake.
Connoisseurs of agrarian cuisine
are often enamored with the wealth of pure tastes available here, taken straight from the source.
And while the rugged lands here shape the often unique ingredients that are available, the same formidable enviornment has influenced what happens inside the kitchen. In many parts of Japan, the dishes are often refined to a delicate level of precision, and while such lavish meals can also be found in the Miyoshi area (particularly in the larger hotels), more common here is a down-home style
that often highlights the integrity of the base ingredients. Though some may feel such food is rough and inelegant, those who can appreciate pure and robust flavors that are unavailable elsewhere will certainly be delighted.
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Local Foods
Iya Soba Taste the Tradition
In a land of steep hills, cooler temperatures, and small terraced farm plots, for centuries the cultivation of soba
(buckwheat) has been an essential part of the Iya Valley. Due to the rough environment, growing rice had always been limited, so instead the local people developed a strong culture around this hearty grain.
While having soba noodles may be common throughout Japan, what's on offer in Iya is like no other. Here the soba is not mixed with wheat flour or other fillers. The only other ingredient to the noodles is the pure water
that comes from the gushing mountain springs, thereby giving a texture, flavor, and consistancy that can't be more natural. And the short, thick noodles are always cut by hand, one at a time, by chefs whose skills are unequalled. No doubt, the people of Iya take their soba pretty seriously.
And for those seeking a deeper appreciation of Iya's famed culinary treat, opt to take a cooking class
where one can learn how to grind the soba by hand, knead and roll out the dough, then cut and cook the noodles. Along the way, maybe hear a traditional soba-making ballad sung by a local sensei. But if not looking to turn your hands on the grind-stone, simply walking by a field of blossoming soba
in the autumn, still cultivated the old way in the hillside hamlets, will connect anyone to this time-honored grain.
Iwa-dofuIya's famed "stone" tofu
Iya KonnyakuA key to good health
Made from the East Asian konnyaku potato, for some western people this is often a peculiar item. Ground into flour and mixed with water, handfuls of this paste is boiled, resulting in what can best be described as a gelatinous blob. Eaten in a variety of ways and reknowned for its health benefits, the rough textured Iya version is also mixed with fire ash, which gives a unique flavor.
Hodo-ImoRobust local potatoes
Potatoes were introduced to Iya in the mid-1800s and quickly became popular since they could be grown on slopes and in cooler climates. The Iya potatoes (also called goshi-imo) are small and very dense, perhaps more similar to what an original potato was like before modern hybrids were developed. Full of favor and eaten in a variety of ways, harvest time is mid-summer.
Ayu & AmegoFlavorful river fish
The clear, emerald rivers and streams of the Iya and Oboke areas are famed for their ayu (sweetfish) and amego (a type of salmon trout). One of the most popular ways to eat either would be to encrust the fish with salt, and slowly roast it whole on skewers over charcoal. Usually it is skewered so that the body forms a curving wave and the fish appears to be swimming.
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Dekomawashi Unique skewered goodness
A popular offering that can only be found in Iya is called dekomawashi
which means "wooden doll" due to its human-like shape. Composed of a dense slab of "stone" tofu, an even denser wedge of local konnyaku, and an even denser whole Iya potato, the three are skewered together and slow roasted over charcoal. Sweetened miso paste is also slathered all over it, further bringing out the taste of this holy Iya trinity. Though only found in some restaurants, if visiting the Kazurabashi vine bridge in Nishi-Iya one will always find several vendors roasting up decomawashi along the arcade there, and be sure to get some tissues since the thick miso is sure to get all over your face!
Hirara-YakiA mountain meal unlike any other
With a name that means "flat stone barbecue", hirara-yaki
is only
found in the Iya Valley, and traditionaly, it is literally cooked on a large flat stone. To make, first a thick wall of miso paste is formed in a large circle on the stone while a fire is built under it. Inside the miso wall a pool of sake
is then added along with seasonings, and then pretty much every Iya ingredient is put in, including the dense potatoes, tofu, konnyaku, mushrooms, and river fish as well as whatever else may be on hand (like chicken, green peppers, and onions). As the sake
and juices slowly simmer, the side walls of miso begin to disolve into the stew and seep into every ingredient. It can be a bit hard to find, but some restaurants, hotels, and homestay guesthouses may offer it. Nowadays it is often cooked on an iron griddle (a bit easier than using a stone), but either way, you will be coming back for more.
SansaiWild mountain sprouts
Throughout Japan, the wild growing sansai ("mountain vegetables") are a prized culinary ingredient, and are used to adorn soups, eaten pickled, or cooked in dishes. There are several varieties of sansai, though due to their dificulty in obtaining, in many places (like cities) imported sansai are often used. But these esteemed sprouts grow abundantly in the hills of Iya and Oboke, and people cherish their naturally robust taste.
ShiitakeMeaty mushrooms
Though the shiitake mushroom is common throughout Japan as well as abroad, what's often on offer is usually grown in somewhat artificial conditions. Not around here, where one will often see rows of hardwood logs (mainly chestnut) in a shady part of most small farms. The cool and humid conditions of the area are excellent for creating thick and meaty shiitake that bursts with an earthy flavor that is valued by chefs.
Wild GameA carnivour's delight
The mountains around the Iya Valley are revered for their hunting, where large popuations of boar (shishi) and deer (shika) live. Sadly, their numbers have risen so much that they not only affect farms, but have also done extensive damage in forests by eating tree bark as food (which then kills the tree). To promote hunting, Iya has opened a Hunter's Butchery, allowing the prized meat (called "ji-bi-e" from the French "gibier") to be available for area restaurants and barbecues.
Read more in our article about hunting.
Soba-gomeHome-style goodness
The most common way to eat soba in Japan is as noodles (see above), but in the homes of Iya and Oboke, soba-gome is also quite popular. The name means "buckwheat rice" but this refers to how the whole kernal of the buckwheat is used instead of grinding it into flour. With this whole grain a thick porridge is made, which can include vegetables like shiitake and sansai, along with chicken and seasonings. Healthy and hearty, it's not just found at homestay guest-houses, but also in restaurants and hotels.
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Local Drinks
Bancha The essence of the misty mountains
The fog covered valleys of Iya and Oboke are conductive to growing fine quality tea. Its easy to spot the abundant rows of tea bushes that line the hillside farms, and each spring (usually late April to mid-May) the season's first new leaves are picked, as these are the most tender and richest with flavor. To make the local style of bancha
tea, the leaves are slowly roasted in large cast iron pots, where much of the moisture is steamed off. After some time, the still warm leaves are squeezed and kneeded by hand on woven mats, which further intesifies the flavor. Finally, the leaves are put in the sun for a couple days to completely dry out. During this time in the small hamlet farms it is common to see mats of leaves drying, along with other foods like sansai
mountain sprouts (see sansai
above).
Miyoshi SakeHere's to generations of tradition!
Ikeda is home to three sake
breweries, and all have been in operation for over a century. Though rice (the main ingredient of sake) is not commonly grown in the Iya Valley and Oboke & Koboke areas, rice cultivation is very prevelent along the wider valley plains of the Yoshino River as it heads out from Ikeda towards the sea. The other chief ingredient to fine sake
is pure spring water, and the mountains and hills that surround Ikeda have abundant reserves of that. With tastes that are revered by aficionados, Ikeda's
sake brands are quite famed in the region, and each February the town hosts the large Shikoku Sake Festival, where producers from all across the island highlight their creations, while patrons come from far and wide to sample and enjoy.
Two for you, Two for meAn ancient drinking style still practiced in Iya
The people of Iya are certainly fond of their alcohol, and though much of the younger generations tend to prefer shochu and beer, the traditional drink of choice is of course sake, just like the rest of Japan. Throughout many parts of the country there once existed a traditional shared-drinking style for sake which used to be commonplace, but has now vanished nearly everywhere. Not so in the Iya Valley however, where this style is still earnestly practiced to this day. Actually, the style is so extinct now in Japan, that when other Japanese people visit Iya and experience it, they actually think it is indeginous to the valley, not realizing it was once quite universal (another symbol of how Iya was cut off from the rest of the country for so long). Usually only done at large gatherings like shrine festivals, parties, or other special occassions, when the old boys get together for a session, nobody walks away... they'll only stagger if they can stand at all!
What first must be understood is that anywhere in Japan, when drinking with someone else it's considered impolite if someone must fill their own empty cup. This is not an outdated custom, so if ever partaking with a Japanese friend, whether in Tokyo or Tokushima, be sure to keep their glass full, and of course, don't pour for yourself, since they should be doing the same for you. However, the old style that is still done in Iya takes this honorable exchange a couple steps further.
To begin, someone gives their own empty cup (usually a small sake cup, but sometimes bigger) to whomever they are with, and they then take the bottle and fill that cup for the other person. Being that this is not one's own cup, and the actual owner of the cup is now empty-handed, the partner must immediately drink the entire cup so that they can return it to the rightful owner. Upon giving it back, the partner then fills the cup up for the original owner, who will also quickly polish it off. Not to be ungraceful, the partner then repeats the compelling offer by giving his cup to the first person, and afterwards is also returned their cup and which is again refilled. This will go on back-and-forth for as long as their conversation lasts, and of course, as one drinks more, the banter only increases in gusto (allowances are made for non-drinkers with tea or juice instead so that everyone gets to be included). In drinking circles of five or six people, cups obviously get mixed up sometimes, so other "rules" regulate how to recover a new cup.
Eventually the partners will move on to find new people in the group to continue the same exchange with, and it is the underlying goal to have shared spirits with everyone present at least once (or thrice). So in larger parties of 30 or 40 people, one is sure to see the room spin, provided they haven't yet passed out.
SudachiTokushima's famed limes
Many people don't realize that Japan is home to a huge variety of citrus, and Tokushima Prefecture is famed for its production of sudachi. These small, green fruits have a thin skin and their juice is tart and tastey. Used in soups and sauses, squeezed on meat and fish, or added to drinks, many area homes have a tree or two in their yard. When they come into peak season in September, they can be found everywhere.
YuzuRevered citrus of chefs
Along with sudachi, Tokushima and neighboring Kochi Prefectures are noted for growing the illustrious yuzu. The juice of this large yellow citrus fruit has a tart yet smooth flavor (its usually not eaten whole) that's valued by chefs around the world. The thick skin is also used in cooking, either for its intensely flavored zest, or used to make jams and tea. They come into season throughout November.
Hoshi-gakiPiquant dried persimmons
Persimmons (kaki) are common across Japan, and while the sweeter version is often eaten fresh and whole, a great way to enjoy the less sweet version is dried. Miyoshi has an abundace of these orange fruits which come into season in mid-autumn, and it is common to see strings of hoshi-gaki hung along the balconies of homes, drying in the breeze. Though a bit bitter when picked, once dry they become delightfully sweet.
Waki-mizuPure mountain water
The region's ample rainfall seeps into mountain aquifers, and the hillside villages all get their water directly from the numerous mineral rich springs (there is no central water system). It is common to see black water pipes threaded along road sides, and people are proud of the pure chemical-free quality. The water spring on the side of Mt Tsurugi, which is the source of the Iya River, is noted as being one of Japan's 100 best tasting waters.
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Grocery Storesand Buying Local Food
Ikeda
For the largest selection of food in Miyoshi,
central Ikeda
would be the place to stock up. For those transferring through Ikeda via public transportation, the
Frespo shopping center
shares the same parking lot as the Miyoshi Bus Terminal and is also only a couple hundred meters from JR Awa-Ikeda train station. Just behind the Frespo is a
7/11 convenience store that is open 24 hours.
For those with more time or a vehicle, the SunShine Supermarket
is a bit down the road from Frespo near the hospital with a slightly different selection. Also, out on Rt 192 a couple minutes by car from the train station are a few more good shops: the Shinonome Farmer's Market and Butcher
(also called "Ueno") has a wide variety of local vegetables and seasonal fruit of every kind as well as lots of area products like honey, tofu, grains, breads, and tea leaves. The butcher has a range of meats (though no wild game, see Oku-Iya below) and appropriately, downstairs is a BBQ restaurant.
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Oboke & Koboke
Heading south down Rt 32 into Oboke and Koboke, the Utopia convenience store has a decent selection of snacks, prepared foods, and drinks (and its a bit cheaper than chain convenience stores), and a bit further along, the Furutani Shop a couple hundred meters up the Rt 319 turn off is the biggest grocery store for the area around the JR Awa-Kawaguchi Train Station.
There are a few other shops along Rt 32 towards Oboke, including a well stocked Lawsons convenience store within the West-West service area. But perhaps the place to seek for groceries if in the area would probably be Boke Mart, which is right by JR Oboke Train Station. Offering a range of foods and prepared take-out items, they also have bricks of the local tofu, fresh konnyaku, local tea, and their unique "Boke-age" which is an utterly enormous piece of deep-fried tofu (abura-age). Across the street is their cafe serving drinks and some meals. If they don't have what you seek, consider crossing the bridge to where Tosaya food shop is located. Also, just outside the train station is the Maekawa Liquor Shop.
Nishi-Iya
The grocery selection for Nishi-Iya
is pretty limited. There's a shop near the town office in Central Nishi-Iya, but don't expect much. About 200m before the Kazurabashi Bus Stop on Rt 32 is Matoba Shouten
with a somewhat dire selection, while 50m past the Kazurabashi Bus Stop is Okazaki Shouten which is probably the area's best bet, though again, don't expect a large variety, but local tofu can be had if going early (and they also sell alcohol to help comfort your shopping sorrows).
Oku-Iya
(reserving products can be done in person or by phone. See the Grocery Store
for phone #s)
There are a few food shops in Oku-Iya, including a couple in small shops in Kyojo (or go to the gas station in Kyojo if looking to buy alcohol) as well as some very small shops in Ochiai, Kubo, and Sugeoi, though the selection is usually limited to mainly snacks and drinks in most shops. Minokoshi has a few hiker's restaurants that sell some take-out food and snacks/drinks, but if planning to go camping, you'll definately want to stock up elsewhere.
If looking to buy wild game meat to cook yourself, head to the Hunter's Butchery in Oku-Iya at Tochinose, just past Tani-Shoten. Its located down a small road on the riverside, just past an old swimming pool (this is actually the location of a former kindergarden). Packs of sliced and frozen deer (shika) and boar (shishi) can be had here, as well as the butcher's reknowned sausage of both types of meat (sausage making classes available by reservation). More of a meat processer than a shop, (they mainly supply area restaurants or ship out to specialty supermarkets) hours here can vary, often depending on whether a local hunter has brought something in, but late mornings (10 - 11am) tend to be the most reliable, or call to find out if open. (The welcoming staff only speak a little bit of English.)
There are two small tofu and konnyaku factories in Oku-Iya where one can buy the dense "iwa-dofu" directly from the producers, though it's probably best to reserve beforehand, and definately try to go before noon. On the back street of Kyojo, Yoshida Tofu also makes konnyaku, though they are only open a couple days a week. In Ochiai just past the Soba Dojo restaurant, Kurieda Tofu makes tofu and konnyaku daily (except Sunday) but strongly reccommends reserving beforehand (English not spoken at either place). Many shops in Iya and Oboke sell their tofu as well, so you may be better off going to a grocery shop.
Fresh soba noodles can be bought at Tsuzuki's Soba Atelier in Wakabayashi (between Tochinose and Kyojo) though one should reserve beforehand if wanting some. Better still, opt to take one of her cooking classes (reservations needed, can be done through email) and make the noodles yourself. After eating your fill of what you've made there, she'll overload you with extra noodles to take with you (Ms. Tsuzuki and her staff only speak a few words of English, but she goes out of her way understand and communicate through action).
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Senkichi
Restaurant
仙吉
Nishi-Iya & Iyakei
Lunch
Yanamoto
Restaurant
Bar & Pub
Bar & Pub
御食事処やなもと
Oku-Iya
Lunch
& Dinner
& Dinner
Tel: 0883-88-2354
Mainly serving the locals, this place kinda looks like a regular house on the outside, but Mr Yanamoto and his wife will warmly welcome you and make you satisfied. Hand-made udon & soba, various Iya dishes, and grill tables set up for okonomi-yaki. Cold beer on tap.
• 10am-10pm daily
Kazurabashi Arcade
Restaurant
Cafe
Cafe
かずら橋アーケード
Nishi-Iya & Iyakei
Lunch
Tel:
Between the main parking area and the Biwa Waterfall there are several small restaurants selling local Iya food, including soba noodles, skewered river fish, and roasted dekomawashi. All are good for either a meal or just a snack.
• Usually about 9am to 5pm
• Most places open everyday
Check our• Most places open everyday
detailed page
about here
Cafe
Bar & Pub
Bar & Pub
やまや
Oboke & Koboke
Lunch
& Dinner
& Dinner
Tel: 0883-86-1898
website
Cafe/restaurant and bar set in a restored old house. Indoor & outdoor seating. Daily set meals, lots of drinks, cool tunes. Guest house also at this location.
• 11:30am-10:30pm. Closed Wed & Sun
• Lunch served on Tues, Thurs & Sat only
Check our• Lunch served on Tues, Thurs & Sat only
detailed page
about here
Onomiya
Restaurant
Bar & Pub
Bar & Pub
おのみや
Nishi-Iya & Iyakei
Dinner
Tel: 0883-87-2013
This local watering hole is just across from the Kazurabashi Hotel. Set meals and lots of side dishes. English menu. Drinks are mainly beer, sake, and shochu. There is a karaoke machine in the back room if you feel like singing.
• 11:00am to 10pm. Closed Wed
• Outside is painted like an orange and yellow bus.
• Outside is painted like an orange and yellow bus.
Restaurant
Cafe
Cafe
旅の宿 奥祖谷
Oku-Iya
Lunch
& Dinner
& Dinner
Tel: 0883-88-2045
website
Where locals go for lunch. Daily sets and dishes featuring home-made Iya ingredients, including sansai, tofu, and wild game meat (the owner is a hunter). Reservations before-hand needed for dinner.
• 11am-3pm (dinner by reservation only)
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about here
Grocery Store
Cafe
Cafe
歩危マート
Oboke & Koboke
Lunch
Tel: 0883-84-1111
website
Small but well stocked grocery store with a good selection of fresh and packaged goods, including local food products. A few dozen meters from JR Oboke Station. Drinks and meals can be had at their cafe across the road.
• 8am-7pm everyday
Restaurant
剣山頂上ヒュッテ
Oku-Iya
BF, Lunch
& Dinner
& Dinner
Tel: 080-2997-8482
website
At the top of Mt Tsurugi, this comfortable and woodsy restaurant serves a range of hot meals daily, along with coffee, beer, etc. Great view looking out to the east. Mountain Hut guesthouse also located here.
• Open daily 6am - 8pm
• Open late Apr to mid Nov
Check our• Open late Apr to mid Nov
detailed page
about here
Grocery Store
ローソン三好大歩危店
Oboke & Koboke
Tel: 0883-76-8220
website
Within the West-West service area. They got whatever you may need for a pit stop, including bentos, booze, and butts. ATM in English.
• Open 24 hours
Forest Bear Cafe
Cafe
Restaurant
Restaurant
カフェ森のくまさん
Nishi-Iya & Iyakei
Lunch
Tel: 090-3184-3029
If you had your fill of soba noodles, get one of their sandwiches or snacks, as well as gelato and desserts featuring Iya honey. Also, take a few of their sunflower seeds and hold them out on the balcony. Soon enough a mountain bird will eat them out of your hand.
• 9am-6pm. Closed Tues
Restaurant
Cafe
Cafe
cafe & ジビエ
Oboke & Koboke
Lunch
Tel: 090-1003-6974
website
Located inside the Michi-no-Eki Oboke, release you inner carnivore cravings with their epic wild game burgers and other dishes featuring deer and wild boar that were hunted in the Iya Valley, all with a great view into Oboke Gorge!
• Open everyday 10am-5pm (closed Tues in winter)
• Also enjoy their homemade desserts and range of drinks.
• Also enjoy their homemade desserts and range of drinks.
Fuurin
Restaurant
手打ち うどん 風輪
Ikeda & North
Lunch
Restaurant
つづき商店
Oku-Iya
Lunch
Tel: 0883-88-5625
website
Not really a regular restaurant, but soba-master Ms. Tsuzuki serves lunch sets of local Iya food by reservation. She may not be able to handle you if you just show up, so best to contact in advance. Awesome take-out lunch boxes can also be ordered.
• Open daily, but reservations reccommended
• Soba making classes also available (check "See & Do")
• Soba making classes also available (check "See & Do")
Frespo Shopping Center
Grocery Store
Restaurant
Restaurant
フレスポ阿波池田
Ikeda & North
Lunch
Soba Dojo
Restaurant
そば道場
Oku-Iya
Lunch
Restaurant
もみじ亭
Oboke & Koboke
Lunch
Tel: 0883-84-1117
website
Set in a thatched roof farmhouse overlooking the river beside the West-West service area, this beautiful place serves up Iya soba and other local foods. Certainly the nicest looking soba place in Oboke.
• 11am-5pm. Closed Wed
• At the north end of the WestWest parking area
• At the north end of the WestWest parking area
Cafe
なこち LIFE SHARE COTTAGE
Oku-Iya
BF, Lunch
Grocery Store
Restaurant
Restaurant
レストハウスウエノ
Ikeda & North
BF, Lunch
& Dinner
& Dinner
Tel: 0883-72-3377
website
They got it going on here! Large local farmers vegetable market. Craft shop. Top class butcher. Great BBQ restaurant. Fresh set meals. Breakfast buffet for ¥700.
• Restaurants 7am-9pm (grocery 8:30am-8pm)
Restaurant
祖谷美人
Nishi-Iya & Iyakei
Lunch
Tel: 0883-87-2009
website
Renown for their home-made soba noodles, the restaurant of this top class hotel with a nicely decorated interior is open for non-guests during the day. Indoor & outdoor seating, with a lovely view from the terrace.
• 8am-5pm
Cafe
古民家喫茶 きむら
Oku-Iya
Lunch
Tel: 0883-88-5433
website
Recognized as the oldest thatched farmhouse in Iya, enjoy tea and a small snack inside this 300+ year old house served by the delightful Kimura family. When you get there, beat the drum on the front step to summon the hosts.
• 10am-4pm most days
• Calling ahead to reserve is very helpful
• Calling ahead to reserve is very helpful
Cafe
ハナン カフェ
Oboke & Koboke
Lunch
Tel: 080-6394-9391
website
Cute and cozy outdoor cafe with a friendly owner just across the bridge from Oboke Station. Serving a wide variety of coffees, teas, smoothies, juices, ice cream, and alcohol. A nice place to chill out to enjoy the natural views, but only open on Sundays.
• Open all Sundays 9am-6:30pm
• Also open some Saturdays and random weekdays
• Also open some Saturdays and random weekdays
Cafe
Restaurant
Restaurant
剣山観光センター
Oku-Iya
Lunch
Tel: 0883-67-5216
website
This cafe is within the Information Center that is in lower floor of the chairlift building. Fresh hot coffee, sandwiches, snacks, and local micro-brew beer available.
• Open daily mid-Apr to mid-Nov 10am-3pm
• May be closed if weather is bad.
• May be closed if weather is bad.
Furutani Grocery
Grocery Store
フルタニ
Oboke & Koboke
Restaurant
Cafe
Cafe
MINDEキッチン
Ikeda & North
Lunch
Tel: 090-7629-3000
website
Located within a large refurbished old building in the historic Udatsu Streets district of Ikeda, this stylish place focuses on their fresh local vegetables, including a delicious salad bar. The cafe also has a variety of drinks and desserts.
• 11am-6pm. Closed Tues
Cafe
Restaurant
Restaurant
ハレとケ
Nishi-Iya & Iyakei
Lunch
Tel: 0883-75-2208
website
Inside a former elmentary school, this hipster-esque cafe and event space serves decent coffee and sweets, as well as home-made pizzas. Guest house also located here.
• 11am-5pm. Closed Wed
UTOPIA Fumiya
Grocery Store
ユートピア ふみや
Oboke & Koboke
Kirinomine
Restaurant
霧の峰
Oku-Iya
BF, Lunch
Tel: 0883-67-5211
Located on the small Minokoshi street, close to the Tsurugisan Bus Stop. Serving a variety of meals and snacks, it was once also a gusesthouse, but its now just a restaurant and only open on weekends (usually) and sometimes on weekdays
• 7am - 5pm ??
• Open mid Apr to late Nov, maybe
• Open mid Apr to late Nov, maybe
Minshuku Matsuura Restaurant
Restaurant
民宿まつうら
Oku-Iya
BF, Lunch
& Dinner
& Dinner
Tel: 0883-67-5009
This restaurant and guesthouse is located on the small Minokoshi street (its the first place you pass when coming up from the valley, across from the steps to Tsurugi Shrine and hiking trailhead). A wide range of meals are available, as well as bento lunch boxes and other take-out food.
• Open daily 7am - 7pm
• Open mid Apr to late Nov
• Open mid Apr to late Nov
Okazaki Shouten
Grocery Store
岡崎商店
Nishi-Iya & Iyakei
Bar & Pub
Restaurant
Restaurant
ヘソサロン
Ikeda & North
Dinner
Tel: 050-3476-1769
website
In the main arcade not far from the train station, this cozy and comfortable place has drinks, meals, and music, and it tends to get a slightly younger crowd.
• 6pm-11pm Usually closed Tues
• Closed days sometimes changes. Also, in winter may be open fewer days.
• Closed days sometimes changes. Also, in winter may be open fewer days.
Restaurant
Cafe
Cafe
徳島らーめん にし利
Oboke & Koboke
Lunch
Tel: 090-5272-1052
website
Within the West-West service area. Get you fill with Tokushima style ramen along with fried rice and gyoza. Coffee and other drinks also served. Nice outdoor seating also on the back deck overlooking the river
• 11am-5pm (but sometimes 3pm)
Butter Chicken
Restaurant
バターチキン
Ikeda & North
Lunch
& Dinner
& Dinner
Tel: 0883-87-7555
Authentic Indian food... in Ikeda??!! Yes, operated by actual Indians, this is where to go if tired of Japanese food and looking for something with spice and flavor! Wide variety on the menu, including several set options. Curries are sweet and tangy, and the real naan bread is particularly delicious
• Open daily for lunch and dinner
• Located inside the main Frespo shopping center hall (inside the center section on the mall corner)
• Located inside the main Frespo shopping center hall (inside the center section on the mall corner)
Cafe
Restaurant
Restaurant
とりの巣カフェ
Oboke & Koboke
Lunch
Tel: 0883-86-2650
website
Positive energy flows at this cozy place. The small but satisfying original menu creations use local ingredients in meals like pasta, risotto, etc. The welcoming owner also serves delicious drinks.
• 10am-6pm. Closed Wed
Bar & Pub
酒食処 およばれ
Ikeda & North
Dinner
Tel: 090-5655-0257
website
Run by a young couple, this small pub within an old refurbished building in the historic Udatsu Street district has light meals and tasty side dishes to go along with their range of drinks, including all types of Ikeda sake.
• 5pm-11pm. Closed Tues (also closed some Wed)
Kurieda Tofu
Grocery Store
栗枝豆腐こんにゃく店
Oku-Iya
Tel: 0883-88-2944
The biggest tofu maker in the Iya Valley is actually a pretty small family run operation. Best to order ahead and also get there in the morning. Most shops in Iya and Oboke also sell their tofu, so it may be easier to order and buy your tofu through there.
• 9am-12 noon
• Konnyaku also available
• Konnyaku also available
Restaurant
レストラン大歩危峡まんなか
Oboke & Koboke
Lunch
Tel: 0883-84-1211
website
Within the Mannaka Service Area, this large cafeteria serves the standard soba and a range of other meals. Best to opt for one of their Yokai Sets based on mythical monsters if available. Nice views.
• 9am-5pm everday
• Tastey soft ice cream with original flavors.
• Tastey soft ice cream with original flavors.
Restaurant
Cafe
Cafe
・
Nishi-Iya & Iyakei
Lunch
Tel: 0883-75-2311
website
The posh restaurant for the Hotel Iya Onsen is open for non-guests for lunch, offering finely crafted meal sets and supurb views of the gorge.
• 11am-2pm (cafe till 3pm)
21st Century ("niju-i seiki")
Restaurant
Cafe
Cafe
パーラー&喫茶 21世紀
Ikeda & North
Lunch
Michi-no-Eki Nishi-Iya
Restaurant
道の駅 にしいや
Nishi-Iya & Iyakei
Lunch
Restaurant
Cafe
Cafe
永渕食堂Shanti
Oboke & Koboke
Lunch
Tel: 050-5328-3428
website
Located up a small road in neighboring Kochi Prefecture, you will think you are in Kashmir at this cute place which serves tasty Indian-style curry sets featuring local meats and home-grown vegetables.
• 11am-5pm, closed Wed & Thurs
Restaurant
ラ・ターボラ
Ikeda & North
Lunch
& Dinner
& Dinner
Tel: 0883-72-7422
website
This very fine Italian restaurant has set meals for lunch, while dinner is a la carte. Excellent chef. Fantastic wine selection. Delicious desserts. The only question is, why is it in Ikeda?
• Lunch 11am-2pm, Dinner 5:30pm-8:00+
Grocery Store
祖谷の地美栄 (いやのじびえ)
Oku-Iya
Tel: 0883-76-7530
website
If looking for some deer or boar meat for a mountain-style BBQ, the butcher here has a stock of cuts as well as home-made sausage of both meats (he also runs a sausage making class).
• 9am-12 noon (maybe?)
• Hours vary based on if a hunter brings in an animal. Morning is most common.
• Hours vary based on if a hunter brings in an animal. Morning is most common.
Restaurant
鮨ひらい
Ikeda & North
Dinner
Tel: 0883-72-5011, 0883-72-0493
website
The best sushi in Ikeda can be found here. Multi-generation sushi chef family. High quality with skillful presentation. Fantastic course sets available.
• Reservations helpful but not required
7-Eleven
Grocery Store
セブン−イレブン
Ikeda & North
Lawson
Grocery Store
ローソン
Ikeda & North
Cafe
Bar & Pub
Bar & Pub
ヨキ カフェ&ゲストハウス
Nishi-Iya & Iyakei
Lunch
Tel:
website
As of Oct 1, 2018, the cafe here has closed until further notice, though the guest house does still operate.
• Cafe closed until further notice
Cafe
Bar & Pub
Bar & Pub
ココクロス, カフェバー＆ホテル
Ikeda & North
Lunch
& Dinner
& Dinner
Tel: 0883-72-0011
website
International cuisine, side dishes, and home-made desserts using local ingredients. A range of drinks, including all types of Ikeda sake. Guest house also located here.
• 11:30am-10pm. Closed Tues
Kajimoto Shouten
Grocery Store
梶本商店
Oku-Iya
SunShine Supermarket
Grocery Store
サンシャイン 池田店
Ikeda & North
Tosaya
Grocery Store
土佐屋
Oboke & Koboke
Kitakatsumi Shop
Grocery Store
喜多勝美酒店
Nishi-Iya & Iyakei
Hackibankan
Restaurant
Cafe
Cafe
八番館
Ikeda & North
Lunch
& Dinner
& Dinner
Fukuya
Grocery Store
ふくや
Oboke & Koboke
Restaurant Deneb
Restaurant
Cafe
Cafe
レストランデネブ
Ikeda & North
BF, Lunch
& Dinner
& Dinner
Tel: 0883-72-6898
Looks a bit weathered outside, but inside is clean and comfortable. Japanese style meals and a variety of sets. Tasty with decent prices.
• 7am-8:30pm
• After you eat, for fun take a walk down the steps beside their street sign and follow the paved path down 3 minutes in the forest to the very long Shimuzu foot-bridge for awesome views!
• After you eat, for fun take a walk down the steps beside their street sign and follow the paved path down 3 minutes in the forest to the very long Shimuzu foot-bridge for awesome views!
Maruishi Parkland
Restaurant
Cafe
Cafe
丸石パークランド
Oku-Iya
Lunch
Tel: 0883-88-2768
Across from the entrance to the Double Vine Bridges, the building is not much of a sight to look at, and the inside is a bit kitchy old-style, but the friendly staff serves up surprisingly tasty soba noodles, curry sets, and more. Souvenirs on sale too.
• 10am-5pm usually on weekends only.
• Closed in winter and not reliably open even on weekends
• Closed in winter and not reliably open even on weekends
Iba Shouten
Grocery Store
射場商店
Nishi-Iya & Iyakei
7-Eleven Sarada
Grocery Store
セブン−イレブン池田町サラダ店
Ikeda & North
Miyanishi Shop
Grocery Store
・
Oku-Iya
7-Eleven Kiosk
Grocery Store
セブン-イレブン Kiosk
Ikeda & North
Lawsons Ikeda
Grocery Store
ローソン 阿波池田店
Ikeda & North
7-Eleven Ikawa
Grocery Store
セブン-イレブン 井川町店
Ikeda & North
Toyozaki Store
Grocery Store
・
Oboke & Koboke
o
** For Grocery Stores,
some stores also serve meals, so be sure to select "All Meals"
to see every possible store.
Some accommodations may include meals **
** Only a few places serve breakfast in the area. You should either opt to have you morning meal at your accommodation, or bring/buy your own breakfast food from a grocery store.
Open the Map and Listings for All Places to Eat & Drink