The western foot of Mt. Hakone is covered with volcanic ash from Mt. Fuji, providing good drainage and making it ideal for growing vegetables.

The vegetables grown in this fertile soil on the western foot of Hakone, Mishima, are known as "sakamono" (vegetables grown on the slopes), as they have thrived under the blessings of nature. There are many different kinds of vegetables, including potatoes and sweet potatoes, and the vegetables available vary depending on the season.

This time, we will introduce Hakone Seiroku Mishima vegetables, which are also selected as high-class vegetables.

What are Hakone Seiroku Mishima Vegetables?

Located southwest of Mt. Hakone (between Shizuoka and Kanagawa prefectures), these vegetables are grown at altitudes of 50 meters or higher. Hakone Seiroku Mishima vegetables, which grow in the mineral-rich red soil of the Kanto Loam layer, are highly valued by local restaurants and luxury hotels and inns in Tokyo.

Varieties of vegetables from Mishima, western foot of Hakone

A wide variety of vegetables are grown in Hakone Seiroku Mishima, from root vegetables to leafy vegetables. We will introduce some of them here.

Mishima potato

Mishima potatoes, which are used in high-end restaurants and hotels, are also known as the most expensive potatoes in Japan. Taking advantage of the high altitude and the difference in temperature between day and night, the vegetables are given just the right amount of stress, which brings out their sweetness.

Mishima potatoes, which combine the best of both May Queen and Danshaku varieties, are characterized by their fluffy texture and moist, rich flavor. They are only shipped from July to August.

Mishima sweet potato

There are three types of Mishima sweet potatoes: Beni-Azuma, Silk Sweet, and Beni-Haruka. Their greatest feature is undoubtedly their sweetness. Beni-Azuma has a soft and fluffy texture, Beni-Haruka has a sweetness like a dessert, and Silk Sweet has a smooth texture and a rich sweetness that spreads across your tongue.

Mishima corn

Harvested early in the morning when the sugar content is at its highest, they have a crunchy texture and delicious flavor when you bite into them. They have a thin skin, so there is almost no skin left after eating.

Mishima radish

The season is from November to April, and locally it is processed into pickled radish and eaten as a preserved food. It has a lot of water, and when simmered it has a juicy taste. During the harvest season, it is sun-dried with Mt. Fuji in the background, and has become a seasonal feature that symbolizes winter in the western foot of Hakone.

Mishima Carrot

This carrot has one of the highest sugar contents in Japan and is characterized by its fruity flavor. It is in season from November to February and can be eaten raw, or enjoyed in tempura or salads. It is also sold as 100% juice.

Mitsutani Chinese cabbage

It is characterized by its firm flesh, strong flavor, and softness. Chinese cabbage has been grown in the Mitsuya area on the western foot of Mt. Hakone for over 50 years, and has been protected as a traditional vegetable. It is delicious in hot pot dishes, pickles, and the part near the core is also delicious in salads.

lettuce

You can enjoy the crisp texture and freshness. Because it is harvested young, the leaves are soft and sweet. It is in season from October to May.

broccoli

It is soft all the way to the core and has a sweet taste, so you can eat the leaves and stems as well. It is harvested from November to February and from March to May.

Mishima Celery

Celery from Mishima has a unique aroma, but it is said to be very easy to eat. It has a mild flavor and leaves no fiber in the mouth. It is only shipped from November to December.

The history of Mishima vegetables from the western foot of Hakone

Hakone Seiroku Mishima vegetables have been valued as "itamono" (sliced vegetables) for over several decades, and are named after the fact that they are grown at high altitudes.

Around 1945, potato production became popular, and now leafy vegetables are also grown here. In order to deliver high-quality vegetables, a council was established in 2013 to promote the brand, and only vegetables that meet dozens of standards can be shipped as Hakone Seiroku Mishima vegetables.

It has been praised for its safety and security, and is apparently widely available in the metropolitan area.

How to enjoy Hakone Seiroku Mishima vegetables

Hakone Seiroku Mishima vegetables can be enjoyed in a wide variety of dishes. Here we will introduce recommended ways to eat them locally.

Bagna cauda

The freshly picked vegetables are served with an original bagna cauda sauce. The colorful dishes are a great way to enjoy the natural flavor of the vegetables.

Plate Lunch

Plate lunches using more than 10 kinds of vegetables offer a wide variety of vegetables to choose from. Many restaurants also offer meat and fish dishes, so you're sure to have a great time.

Course menu

In the Mishima area, there are plenty of course meals that make the most of the deliciousness of vegetables. There are restaurants serving a variety of cuisines, including French and Italian, and it's a good idea to make a reservation at popular restaurants before visiting. There are also many other restaurants in the city that sell vegetables from Mishima, Seiroku, Hakone, so be sure to check them out.

Recommended sightseeing spots in Mishima City

From here, we will introduce some recommended tourist spots in Mishima, Shizuoka Prefecture.

Mishima Skywalk

Mishima Skywalk, located at the western foot of Mount Hakone, is the longest pedestrian-only suspension bridge in Japan, with a total length of 400m and a maximum height of 70m. From the bridge, you can see Suruga Bay and the Izu mountains in a 360-degree view, and the open, spacious view will give you energy. There are plenty of exciting giant athletic facilities and activities for both adults and children, and we also recommend spending a relaxing day at the cafes and restaurants.

Rakujuen

Rakujuen, located close to JR Mishima Station, was built in 1890 as a villa for Prince Komatsu Akira. In 1952, it became a municipal park in Mishima City, and visitors to the rich natural environment and traditional Rakujukan building are also popular. The park also has an animal plaza and a vehicle plaza, making it a perfect place for a family outing.

Mishima Taisha Shrine

Mishima Taisha, a power spot representing Shizuoka, is the most prestigious shrine in Izu Province and attracts many visitors. The shrine grounds include the sacred pond, Itsukushima Shrine, and Sacred Deer Garden, and the shrine is known as a famous spot for cherry blossoms in spring and golden osmanthus flowers in autumn.

Access to Mishima

There are various ways to get to Mishima City, including by Shinkansen or car.

If you take the Shinkansen, it takes about an hour from Tokyo, and about three hours from Shin-Osaka Station. We also recommend taking the highway bus from Haneda Airport or downtown Tokyo. If you are driving, you can reach Mishima city center in about 20 minutes from the nearest interchange on the Tomei and Shin-Tomei Expressways.

There are many ways to get around the city, including buses, trains, and bicycle sharing, so be sure to make use of them.

Location of Mishima City, Shizuoka Prefecture

summary

This time we explained about Shizuoka's local gourmet food, "Hakone Seiroku Mishima Vegetables."

Hakone Seiroku Mishima vegetables, grown in the rich nature and climate, can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Be sure to try the vegetable-focused main dish at the restaurant.

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