This time, we will introduce the history and characteristics of "Sakura shrimp," a local B-class gourmet food of Shizuoka Prefecture.

Shizuoka Prefecture is located in the Kanto region of Japan and boasts some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Japan, including Mount Fuji, the Izu Peninsula, and Suruga Bay.

At the foot of Mount Fuji, you can enjoy beautiful scenery and abundant hot springs, while the Izu Peninsula is popular for its crystal clear waters and hot springs.

It is also famous as a tea-producing region, and the tea fields of Makinohara and Kakegawa in particular offer beautiful views of the greenery that covers the entire area.

Although it is easily accessible from Tokyo, the area has many quiet areas rich in nature and offers a variety of ways to enjoy it.

In this article, we will provide a thorough explanation of this charming local B-class gourmet food of Shizuoka Prefecture: sakura shrimp!

What are Sakura shrimp?

Sakura shrimp are small cherry blossom-colored shrimp and are a local specialty of Suruga Bay in Shizuoka Prefecture.

Characterized by its unique flavor and beautiful cherry blossom color, in Japan it is only commercially caught in Suruga Bay, Shizuoka Prefecture, during limited periods in spring (March to June) and autumn (October to December).

The fishing method used is environmentally friendly "shirasu dragnet," and the emphasis on sustainability is also an appealing point.

Sakura shrimp are commonly eaten raw as sashimi, or as kamaage or kakiage, and you can enjoy fresh sakura shrimp dishes especially in the areas around Suruga Bay.

It is rich in calcium and protein, is highly nutritious, and its unique, savory flavor is probably the reason why it is loved by so many people.

The History of Sakura Shrimp

The history of sakura shrimp dates back to the Edo period. Sakura shrimp fishing has been carried out around Suruga Bay for a long time and has developed into an important local industry.

It was in the second half of the 18th century that sakura shrimp became the main fishery, and around this time, with the development of fishing techniques, sakura shrimp began to appear on the market.

At the time, dried sakura shrimp were highly valued as a preserved food and are said to have become an integral part of the local food culture.

During the Meiji period, shrimp fishing in Suruga Bay became more active and the "shirasu trawl fishing method" that is still used today was adopted.

This is a sustainable fishing method, with strict management of catch volumes and ongoing efforts to protect the environment.

Dishes using Sakura shrimp

From here on, we will introduce some of the most representative dishes that use sakura shrimp.

Deep-fried Sakura Shrimp

It is no exaggeration to say that the most famous dish made with sakura shrimp is sakura shrimp tempura.

This dish allows you to enjoy the crispy texture and fragrant flavor of sakura shrimp together.

Kakiage, made with plenty of fresh shrimp fried with onions, mitsuba, and other ingredients, is also very popular as a topping for soba and udon noodles.

Sakura shrimp rice

The appeal of this dish is that the shrimp flavor permeates the entire rice when cooked together with the rice.

The rice turns a pale pink all over, giving it a colorful look and making it a popular dish that adds a touch of elegance to the table on special occasions.

Sakura shrimp sashimi

It is popular as a rare delicacy that can only be tasted in the area around Suruga Bay, where it is caught.

You can enjoy the freshness and flavor of the sakura shrimp, and the sweetness and bouncy texture are appealing. It is also delicious served on top of white rice.

Tourist spots in Shizuoka Prefecture

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

Miho coast

Miho Beach is a beautiful coastline located in Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka City, facing Suruga Bay.

It is famous for its view of Mt. Fuji over the pine forest, and is registered as part of the World Heritage Site "Mount Fuji - a place of worship and a source of artistic inspiration."

This pine forest is known as "Miho no Matsubara" and is one of the three largest pine groves in Japan.

Miho Coast is also home to the site of the "Hagoromo Legend," one of the legends that exists around the world, and the Hagoromo Pine, which symbolizes the legendary site, is a popular tourist spot.

Combining beautiful nature with historical background, this coast is full of Japanese charm and attracts many tourists every year.

ACAO FOREST

ACAO FOREST is a vast garden resort located in Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture.

The approximately 200,000 square meter site is filled with flowers that bloom in every season, with the most beautiful and popular being the roses and herbs.

The gardens are divided into 12 different themes, so you'll enjoy a new view every time you visit.

The park also has an observation deck with a panoramic view of Atami's ocean, as well as a cafe where you can spend some relaxing time.

Mishima Skywalk

Mishima Skywalk is a 400-meter-long pedestrian-only suspension bridge located in Mishima City, Shizuoka Prefecture.

It is the longest bridge in Japan, and from the bridge you can see panoramic views of Mount Fuji, Suruga Bay, and the Izu mountains.

There are also activities, shops, and cafes around the bridge, making it a popular tourist destination for families and couples.

Access to Shizuoka Prefecture

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

When traveling from Tokyo to Shizuoka Prefecture, we recommend using the Tokaido Shinkansen "Hikari." It stops at fewer stations than the "Kodama," and can take you there in about an hour.

When traveling from Osaka to Shizuoka Prefecture, we recommend taking the Tokaido Shinkansen "Hikari" which takes about two hours.

Location of Shizuoka Prefecture

summary

This time, we introduced the history and characteristics of "Sakura shrimp," a local B-class gourmet food of Shizuoka Prefecture.

We learned that sakura shrimp is a type of shrimp characterized by its unique flavor and beautiful pink color.

We also explained that in addition to eating it as sashimi, it can also be enjoyed in a variety of other ways, such as in tempura or with rice.

Please come and visit Shizuoka Prefecture, a place rich in nature and delicious sakura shrimp!

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