Oita Food Guide: Tori-ten, Ryukyuu & Shiroshita Karei

Tori-ten

Oita's own version of chicken tempura. Lightly battered chicken thigh is deep-fried and enjoyed with ponzu sauce and Oita's famous kabosu citrus.

Ryukyuu

Fresh fish (often horse mackerel or yellowtail) marinated in a sesame-soy sauce. Serve over rice or enjoy as a tea-poured rice dish (ochazuke).

Shiroshita Karei

A legendary flatfish from the springs of Hiji Town. Fed on natural spring water, its firm texture and clean flavour make it Oita's most prized delicacy.

Kabosu Cuisine

Oita grows 95% of Japan's kabosu citrus. The tart juice is used on tori-ten, sashimi, drinks and more.

Onsen Yudofu

Tofu gently simmered in Beppu's alkaline hot spring water until silky soft. A simple dish that showcases the quality of Oita's water and tofu.

Access

Oita City and Beppu have many restaurants. Shiroshita karei is served at high-end ryokan in Hiji Town.