Recommended sushi restaurants in Kagawa, Japan

Recommended sushi restaurants in Kagawa, Japan

Recommended conveyor belt sushi restaurants in Kagawa, Japan

Characteristics of Kagawa’s Cuisine

Kagawa: A Crescent-Shaped Prefecture Located in the Northeastern Part of Shikoku
Kagawa Prefecture is situated in the northeastern part of Shikoku, featuring a beautiful crescent-shaped land. The distinctive geography consists of the Sanuki mountain range in the south and the Sanuki plain in the north, interestingly covering almost equal areas of mountains and plains. Facing the warm Seto Inland Sea, it captivates visitors with its beautiful coastline and diverse islands. With a population of approximately 950,000, cities such as Takamatsu, the prefectural capital, Marugame, and Sakaide are concentrated on the Sanuki plain. Although there has been a notable influx of people into urban areas in recent years, depopulation remains a challenge, making future initiatives a focal point of attention.
The tertiary sector dominates the economy, with a vibrant service industry and commerce. Agriculture benefits from the warm climate, producing strawberries, olives, and wheat for Sanuki udon noodles, bringing rich blessings. The main industries include electronics, chemical products, and food processing, generating a variety of technologies and products. Recently, as a tourist destination, it has gained national recognition as the “Udon Prefecture,” welcoming visitors with its charm.

History, Culture, and Natural Blessings of Kagawa Prefecture
Facing the warm Seto Inland Sea, Kagawa Prefecture has prospered as a crucial maritime hub since ancient times. Numerous sites from the Yayoi to the Kofun period have been discovered, indicating long-standing human habitation and exchange.
During the Edo period, multiple domains, including Takamatsu and Marugame, managed their territories, each nurturing its unique culture. Particularly, Takamatsu domain played a significant political role as a branch of the Mito domain. Indispensable to Kagawa’s culture is Sanuki udon noodles, characterized by its thick, chewy noodles and light broth, cherished as a commoner’s food since the Edo period. Now, it is beloved nationwide as a representative local cuisine of Kagawa.
Blessed with rich nature, Kagawa offers captivating views of the Sanuki mountain range and the Seto Inland Sea to tourists. Historic cultural heritage sites, such as Kotohira-gu Shrine and Ritsurin Park, are abundant, allowing visitors to experience history and culture firsthand.
Thus, Kagawa Prefecture has a history and climate cultivated by people over ages, with warm weather, rich nature, and delicious food, making it a land of various attractions.

Sanuki Udon and Seafood: The Culinary Culture of Kagawa Prefecture
Sanuki udon noodles immediately come to mind when discussing Kagawa Prefecture’s culinary culture. Known for their thick, chewy noodles and light broth, they have been enjoyed since the Edo period and now stand as a nationally beloved local dish.
The prefecture, facing the warm Seto Inland Sea, also boasts abundant seafood. Dishes using fresh seafood are numerous, especially popular are sardines, Spanish mackerel, and octopus. Olive-based cuisine from Shodoshima has also gained attention recently.
Additionally, unique local dishes such as bone-in chicken and soy sauce beans are part of Kagawa’s culinary identity.
The food culture in Kagawa is nurtured by its warm climate and rich nature, consisting largely of simple dishes that incorporate local ingredients, deeply rooted in the lives of the people. Recently, various gourmet spots aimed at tourists have emerged, allowing visitors to fully enjoy Kagawa’s allure.

The Sushi Culture of Kagawa: A Blend of Seto Inland Sea’s Bounty and History
Kagawa Prefecture’s sushi culture has developed from the rich bounty of the Seto Inland Sea and its history. From traditional pressed sushi to contemporary creations, a variety of sushi experiences are available.
A typical example is “barazushi,” a type of pressed sushi mixing vinegared rice with ingredients like shredded omelet, shrimp, and conger eel, often served during celebrations and events.
On islands like Shodoshima and Naoshima, sushi made with fresh local seafood is popular. Especially noteworthy are sardines, Spanish mackerel, and octopus from the Seto Inland Sea. Recently, creative sushi using local ingredients has gained popularity among younger generations, crafting a new sushi culture in Kagawa.

From Sanuki Udon to Olives: Kagawa Prefecture’s Famous Products
When thinking of Kagawa Prefecture’s famous products, Sanuki udon noodles immediately come to mind. Known for their thick, chewy noodles and light broth, they have been a staple since the Edo period and are now a nationally beloved local dish.
Blessed with the warm Seto Inland Sea, Kagawa also offers abundant seafood. Processed seafood products are popular, especially olive oil and olives from Shodoshima, gaining recent attention.
Other unique local products include bone-in chicken, soy sauce beans, and Wasanbon sugar.
Kagawa’s famous products are nurtured by its warm climate and rich nature, offering simple yet delightful flavors deeply ingrained in the local lifestyle. Various products are now sold to tourists, allowing visitors to fully experience Kagawa’s charm.
When visiting Kagawa Prefecture, why not try these famous products? From traditional tastes to new flavors, you’re sure to find something to suit your palate.