"Kagoshima Kurobuta" is a brand of pork that represents Kagoshima Prefecture. Raised in the rich natural environment of the Satsuma Peninsula, it is loved nationwide for its unique meat quality and flavor.

Let's explore the characteristics and history of Kagoshima Kurobuta pork.

Characteristics of Kagoshima Black Pork

The appeal of Kagoshima Kurobuta pork is its finely textured meat and rich flavor. The muscle fibers are very fine, so you can enjoy a unique texture that is soft and crisp. In addition, it is rich in neutral sugars and amino acids, so the natural sweetness spreads throughout your mouth.

What is noteworthy is that the fat melts at a high temperature, so it is not sticky and has a clean aftertaste. This makes it popular with a wide range of people, including those who don't like fatty meat. In addition, black pork contains just the right amount of water, so it does not lose its juiciness even though it has little fat, and it is rich in high-quality protein, making it easy to digest and absorb.

Kagoshima Kurobuta pork contains ingredients that support blood circulation and collagen that helps maintain beautiful skin, and is garnering attention as an ingredient that is expected to have anti-aging effects.

Definition of Kagoshima Kurobuta

Only pigs that meet the strict standards set by the Kagoshima Prefecture Black Pig Producers Association can bear the name Kagoshima Kurobuta. The pigs are produced from pure Berkshire breeds and have the distinctive "Rokuhaku" (white spots on the limbs, nose, and tail).

In the later stages of development, the pigs are fed a special feed containing 10-20% sweet potato, a specialty of Kagoshima, for over 60 days, resulting in lean fat and firm meat. Sweet potato, rich in the antioxidant vitamin E, also improves the quality of the Kurobuta pork's lean meat.

Kagoshima Kurobuta pigs are raised more slowly than regular pigs, taking about 230 to 270 days to bring out the best in their meat.

How to eat Kagoshima Kurobuta pork

If you want to enjoy the deliciousness of Kagoshima Kurobuta pork, we recommend shabu-shabu, steamed pork, and pork cutlet.

Shabu-shabu allows you to fully enjoy the sweetness and umami of black pork. By dipping the pork in hot soup, the natural flavor of the meat is enhanced along with the refreshing aftertaste of the fat.

In addition, steaming in a bamboo steamer allows you to enjoy the juiciness of the black pork as it is, and when eaten with vegetables, it has an excellent nutritional balance. The tonkatsu pork cutlet is filled with tender and juicy black pork wrapped in a crispy batter. It can be enjoyed all year round with seasonal vegetables.

The History of Kagoshima Black Pork

The history of Kagoshima Kurobuta pork dates back about 400 years. It began when pigs from Ryukyu (present-day Okinawa) were brought to Kagoshima by Shimazu Iehisa, the feudal lord of Satsuma. This black pork took root in the region and has been a beloved Kagoshima specialty for many years.

During the late Edo period, Tokugawa Nariaki, the lord of the Mito domain, and Saigo Takamori also loved the taste of black pork, and its fame spread throughout the country. During the Meiji period, crossbreeding with the Berkshire pig from England progressed, and the breed was improved, resulting in the modern black pig.

Production declined once in the 1950s, but was revived through the efforts of producers, and in 1999 it was certified as a "Kagoshima brand."

Tourist spots in Kagoshima

Kagoshima, where you can enjoy black pork, has a variety of tourist spots. This time, we will introduce three popular tourist spots in Kagoshima.

Saigo Takamori Bronze Statue

The most iconic historical figure in Kagoshima is Saigo Takamori, also known as "Saigo Don." The bronze statue of Saigo Takamori, erected to commemorate the 50th anniversary of his death, is one of the most popular historical spots in the city.

The bronze statue is very impressive, with Saigo Takamori standing majestically in his military uniform against the backdrop of the lush greenery of Shiroyama. The dignified figure, about 8 meters tall, leaves a deep impression on visitors. There is also a statue of Saigo Takamori in Ueno, Tokyo, but the one there is distinctive in that he is dressed in a kimono and accompanied by a dog.

Shiroyama Observatory

Shiroyama Observatory, famous as a spot from which you can get a panoramic view of Sakurajima, is also a must-see tourist spot when visiting Kagoshima. This observation point is located in the center of Kagoshima city, but you can enjoy a panoramic view of the majestic Sakurajima and Kagoshima city from the summit at an altitude of 107 meters. This excellent location overlooks Sakurajima's crater and Kinko Bay, and you can enjoy a beautiful view on a clear day.

During the day, you can enjoy the powerful sight of Sakurajima, and at night, the cityscape of Kagoshima shines as a night view, making this a spot that can be enjoyed both day and night. This observation point, where you can enjoy both Sakurajima and the cityscape of Kagoshima at the same time, is perfect for taking photos or taking a leisurely stroll.

Io World Kagoshima Aquarium

Located along the coast of Kagoshima City, facing Kinko Bay, the Kagoshima Aquarium is popular as a facility where you can experience marine life up close. The distinctive ray-shaped exterior is impressive, and once you step inside, you'll find a large-scale exhibit themed on the Kuroshio Current.

The Kuroshio Large Aquarium is a must-see, with the sight of whale sharks and spotted eagle rays swimming leisurely. It's a spectacular sight that can be enjoyed by both children and adults. In addition, in the Dolphin Pool, you can enjoy dolphin performances, where energetic dolphins put on a lively show.

How to get to Kagoshima

Here is the travel time required from major cities across Japan to Kagoshima. Travel time may vary depending on the season and weather.

[Access by JR]
・From Shin-Osaka: approx. 3 hours 50 minutes ・From Okayama: approx. 3 hours ・From Hiroshima: approx. 2 hours 20 minutes ・From Hakata: approx. 1 hour 15 minutes ・From Kumamoto: approx. 50 minutes

[Access by plane]
・About 2 hours from Haneda Airport・About 1 hour 20 minutes from Chubu Centrair International Airport・About 1 hour 10 minutes from Itami Airport・About 45 minutes from Fukuoka Airport・About 1 hour 20 minutes from Okinawa Airport

Besides JR and airplanes, you can also travel by express bus or ferry. We also recommend taking a leisurely drive to Kagoshima. Find the best way to get there!

Location of Kagoshima Prefecture

summary

Kagoshima Kurobuta pork is a representative brand of pork in Japan, bred with the nature of Kagoshima and the passion of its producers. It is characterized by its finely textured meat, natural sweetness, and a light balance of fat.

If you visit Kagoshima, be sure to try the black pork.

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