This time, we will introduce natto, a local B-class gourmet food of Ibaraki Prefecture.

Ibaraki Prefecture is located in the northeast of the Kanto Plain in Japan, bordering Fukushima, Tochigi, Saitama, and Chiba prefectures, and is known as an area rich in nature.

This time, we will thoroughly explain the history and characteristics of natto, a local B-class gourmet food of Ibaraki Prefecture!

I'm sure most people have tried natto before, but I think you'll come to love it even more if you learn about its history and characteristics, so be sure to read through to the end.

What is Natto?

Natto is made by steaming and fermenting soybeans and is made from soybeans and natto bacteria.

The steamed soybeans are cooled and then placed in a "warazuto" (straw basket) made from boiled and sterilized rice straw, and left to ferment in an environment of around 40°C.

During the fermentation process, the natural natto bacteria that live in the straw multiply and the natto is completed in about 22 to 24 hours.

However, nowadays, due to the lack of a stable supply of straw, natto is mostly made using cultivated natto bacteria.

It is highly nutritious, and not only does it contain the nutrients that soybeans naturally provide, but by fermenting it you can also obtain many other nutrients such as digestive enzymes and vitamins B1 and B2 necessary for metabolism, and vitamin K2 to strengthen bones.

The history of natto

The origins of natto are unclear, but it is said that people have been eating something similar to natto since the Jomon period.

It is said that rice cultivation methods were introduced from what is now China around this time, and rice straw was used to line pit dwellings and as containers for eating.

Therefore, it would not be surprising if soybeans were wrapped in rice to keep them safe.

Another theory is that boiled beans packed in rice straw bales and carried by the troops of Minamoto no Yoshiie, who was active in the late Heian period, as food to eat during battles, fermented due to the body heat of the horses and became natto.

Later, during the Edo period, it is said that there were "natto sellers" who traveled around peddling natto, and whatever the theory, it is clear that natto has been a popular food in Japan since ancient times.

Characteristics of Natto

Natto is characterized by its sticky texture and unique aroma.

When the natto bacteria grow, the protein and carbohydrates in soybeans are broken down, creating the unique aroma, flavor, and sticky texture of natto.

This viscosity is due to polyglutamic acid, which is a combination of glutamic acid, a type of umami component. It is said that the stickier natto is, the tastier it is.

Recommended recipes using natto

Here we introduce a recommended recipe, "Nebaneva Rice Bowl," which is an easy and delicious dish using natto.

The recipe is quite simple; simply place sticky ingredients such as natto, yam, and okra on top of white rice and pour soy sauce over it.

It's also delicious with chopped seaweed, kimchi, tuna, egg yolk, etc.

It's easy, delicious and nutritious, so please give it a try!

Tourist spots in Ibaraki Prefecture

From here, we will introduce tourist spots in Ibaraki Prefecture.

Mount Tsukuba

Mount Tsukuba is a famous mountain in Japan located in Tsukuba City, Ibaraki Prefecture, and is a mountain that combines beautiful nature and historical charm.

With an elevation of 877 meters, it has long been known as one of the "100 Famous Mountains of Japan" and the "Roof of Kanto," and is popular with many climbers and tourists.

Mount Tsukuba is made up of two peaks, Mount Nantai and Mount Nyotai. Mount Nantai has a powerful appearance, while Mount Nyotai has graceful curves, and each has its own unique charm.

From the summit, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the Kanto Plain and Tokyo Bay, and if the weather is good you can even see Mount Fuji in the distance.

Torii gate of Kamiiso

Kamiiso no Torii is a beautiful scenic spot located in Oarai Town, Ibaraki Prefecture, and is one of the landmarks that symbolize the Japanese landscape. Since its installation in 1928, it has been loved by many people.

This torii gate stands on a reef facing the Pacific Ocean, where you can feel the power and sanctity of nature.

The Kamiiso Torii gate appears to be floating in the sea, and one of its charms is that the scenery changes depending on the tides and wave movement.

At sunrise and sunset in particular, the colors of the sky and sea blend beautifully with the torii gate, creating a breathtaking view.

The Kamiiso Torii has also been selected as one of Ibaraki Prefecture's "Top 100 Sunsets in Japan," and the moment the sun sets, the silhouette of the Torii gates becomes even more fantastical. This beautiful scenery deeply moves visitors, and is a great photo spot for tourists.

Fukuroda Falls

Fukuroda Falls, located in Daigo Town, Ibaraki Prefecture, is one of Japan's most beautiful waterfalls.

Fukuroda Falls, also known as one of the "Three Great Waterfalls of Japan," is a gigantic waterfall measuring 120 meters in length and 30 meters in width, boasting overwhelming power and beauty. It also attracts many tourists with its magnificent scenery and seasonal scenery.

Fukuroda Falls has long been designated as one of the "108 Scenic Spots" and "Scenic Spots," and has been a popular tourist destination since the Edo period. Along with its historical background, it is a place where you can feel the power and beauty of nature.

There is a walking trail around the waterfall, so you can walk up close to the waterfall. The view from the "waterfall viewing platform" is particularly spectacular, as you can get a panoramic view of the entire waterfall.

Access to Ibaraki Prefecture

From here, we will introduce how to access Ibaraki Prefecture.

If you are traveling from Tokyo to Ibaraki Prefecture, we recommend the express bus. It takes about an hour from Tokyo Station to Tsukuba Center Station, and is cheaper and easier to access than other means of transportation.

If you are traveling from Osaka to Ibaraki Prefecture, we recommend taking the Shinkansen. It takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes to get from Shin-Osaka Station to Mito Station.

Location of Ibaraki Prefecture

summary

This time, we introduced natto, a local B-class gourmet food of Ibaraki Prefecture.

I think all Japanese people are familiar with natto, but there are probably many who don't know much about its history or nutritional value.

Use this article to rediscover the appeal of natto and enjoy it!

\ We are looking for Tempo Star affiliates! /