Mishima City is located in the eastern part of Shizuoka Prefecture. The city is run by underground water from Mt. Fuji, and is an area where some of Japan's most luxurious vegetables, Hakone Seiroku Mishima vegetables, are grown. Have you heard of Mishima Croquettes, which are made with plenty of Mishima vegetables? This time, we will introduce the appeal of Mishima Croquettes, which are perfect for eating on the go.

What is Mishima's specialty "Mishima Croquette"? And what are its characteristics?

"Mishima Croquettes" are made using 100% Mishima potatoes (May Queen) grown in the foothills of Mount Hakone in Mishima City, and feature a crispy batter and creamy potato flavor. The fillings and shapes can be freely arranged, and a wide variety of croquettes with different flavors are sold at various shops in Mishima City.

Mishima Croquette has several sister products; the ones made with potato are sold from June to December, and the "Sweet Potato Mishima Croquette" made with Mishima sweet potatoes is available from November to May.

Sweet potato Mishima croquettes are made using only sweet potatoes from the Sano district of Mishima city, and are characterized by their moist, sweet dessert-like flavor.

Another dish you can't miss is the "Satoimo Mishima Croquette," made only with Mishima taro. It's very sweet, and the creamy taste of the taro will become addictive.

Where can I buy Mishima Croquettes?

Mishima Croquettes are sold at stores that have a flag with "Mishima Croquettes" written on it. They can be purchased at a variety of places in the city, including restaurants, bakeries, convenience stores, supermarkets, butcher shops, and farm shops.

History and origin of Mishima croquette

"Mishima Croquette" was born in July 2008 with the desire to let tourists visiting Mishima know about delicious food and to encourage them to make a detour to Mishima.

The ingredient, Mishima potatoes, are only available for shipment for about one month around July, and are so highly rated by luxury hotels and restaurants that they are a delicacy known only to those in the know. Croquettes were first made to make effective use of the irregularly shaped and small potatoes.

In 2010, the town held an event to make the largest croquette in Japan, and in 2018, the most pairs of people feeding each other Mishima croquettes at the same time was recognized as a Guinness World Record. Mishima croquettes have been used as a catalyst to enliven the town.

The deliciousness and appeal of Mishima Croquettes

"Mishima croquette" allows you to directly taste the deliciousness of potatoes and has an irresistible smooth texture. Each shop serves it in different ways, and it is sold in a convenient size, so it is a recommended dish to eat while walking around. This time, we will introduce several shops.

Omura Butcher Shop, located near Mishima Taisha Shrine, sells the cute heart-shaped "Mishima Croquette." When you hear "croquette from a butcher," you might imagine a hearty croquette filled with meat, but this croquette is characterized by the gentle sweetness of the potatoes and a smooth texture.

At the bakery "Gruppe Honmachi Branch," which is within walking distance from Mishima-Hirokoji Station, you can eat "croquette bread" filled with Mishima croquettes.
The chewy bread dough is topped with croquettes, sauce, a soft-boiled egg, and tartar sauce. The sweet and spicy sauce matches well with the richness of the tartar sauce, and goes perfectly with the elegant bread.

You can also find Mishima croquettes on the menu at izakaya restaurants and hamburger shops, so be sure to look for them.

Things to do in Mishima

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

Mishima Skywalk is a pedestrian-only suspension bridge located between Izu and Hakone, known as one of Japan's most scenic spots. On a clear day, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Mt. Fuji, Suruga Bay, and the mountains of Izu, and the Skywalk, which is about 70 meters above the ground, offers a thrilling aerial stroll.

After crossing the suspension bridge, you will come across "Kicoro Forest," a walking path surrounded by nature, and "SKY GARDEN," where you can buy souvenirs and snacks. The ceiling is decorated with fresh flowers of various colors and types, creating a gorgeous and lovely space.

Mishima Skywalk also offers a wide range of natural activities, such as a long zip line that allows you to slide down a distance of 560m round trip in one go, and athletic facilities where you can move your body to your heart's content.

Another hidden gem in Mishima City is the Genbei River.

This clear stream, which can be reached in a 5-minute walk from Mishima Station, is said to be the result of underground water from Mt. Fuji springing out onto the ground. It is about a 1.5km walk downstream to Nakazato Onsuichi.

The water in the river is surprisingly clear, and there is a walking path with boardwalks and stepping stones next to it. You can enjoy a peaceful walk while listening to the murmuring of the river and the chirping of wild birds. It is also recommended as a little change of pace.

Additionally, in the area around Mishima Station, you'll find Rakujuen, a nationally designated natural monument and scenic spot, and Mishima Taisha Shrine, which is said to have been visited by Minamoto no Yoritomo. If you're in the area, be sure to stop by.

Access to Mishima City

From here, we will introduce how to access Mishima City. Mishima City is conveniently accessible by train, car, or plane, as it is served by the Shinkansen and major roads.

If you travel by train, it takes 45 to 55 minutes on the Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station, or 1 hour 20 to 1 hour 50 minutes from Nagoya Station.

If you are traveling by car, it takes about 1.5 hours from Tokyo via the Tomei Expressway. From Nagoya, it takes about 2.5 hours via the Tomei Expressway or Shin-Tomei Expressway.

If you are flying, take a bus from Mt. Fuji Shizuoka Airport to Shizuoka Station, then take the Shinkansen to arrive in about 30 minutes.

Location of Mishima City, Shizuoka Prefecture

summary

This time we introduced the specialty of Mishima City, "Mishima Croquette." Made using only precious potatoes, "Mishima Croquette" is reasonably priced and has an excellent taste.

Depending on the season, you may not be able to find it, so be sure to give it a try if you visit Mishima City!

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