Discover the Essence of Hayama with Japan Adventures Co.
At Japan Adventures Co., we believe in creating immersive experiences that connect travelers with the heart and soul of Japan. Our latest offering, the Cooking Tour in Hayama, is a testament to this philosophy. Designed by the brilliant Kageyama-san, this tour is a journey through the local food culture of Hayama, allowing guests to engage with local producers, purchase fresh ingredients, and cook delightful meals together.
Day 1: Odawara – Exploring the World of Miso
Our adventure begins in the historic town of Odawara with a visit to the renowned Kato Heitaro Shoten. This miso brewery has a history spanning over 140 years and has recently become a subsidiary of the local Odawara Shiki Industry Co., Ltd., enhancing its stability in miso production. Additionally, Kato Heitaro Shoten has established a subsidiary agricultural corporation to begin soybean cultivation. This integration allows for a seamless production process from soybean to miso, promising an exciting future for the company.
Day 2: Hayama – A Day of Culinary Exploration
The second day of our tour is dedicated to the charming town of Hayama, starting with an early morning visit to the Nagai Fishing Port, the second-largest fishing port in Kanagawa Prefecture. Thanks to our special connection with Otousan (meaning Dad in Japanese) of Muku, a local restaurant, we have exclusive access to the port. Guests will participate in the auction, aiming to secure the freshest sea bream, squid, and other seafood delicacies. The excitement of the auction is just the beginning of our culinary adventure.
After the auction, we take a leisurely coffee break at Soso Hayama, a quaint cafe known for its serene ambiance and delicious brews. Nestled in the heart of Hayama, Soso Hayama offers a perfect respite with its cozy interiors and picturesque views. It’s the ideal spot to relax and reflect on the morning’s activities.
Next, we head to SHO Farm in Yokosuka, a beacon of sustainable farming. SHO Farm is dedicated to organic farming practices and produces a variety of fresh, seasonal vegetables. While we are only purchasing vegetables this time, tours can be arranged with prior reservation. SHO Farm is a well-known name in Yokosuka for organic farming. The owners, Shoko san and Sho san, are like a kind older brother and sister who always warmly welcome us.
Our next stop is the Chickeeta Farm, also in Yokosuka, renowned for its high-quality eggs. At Chickeeta Farm, hens are raised in a stress-free environment, resulting in eggs that are rich in flavor and nutrition. Guests will learn about the farm’s practices and gather fresh eggs for our culinary creations.
Finally, we visit Ishii Farm in Hayama to procure the famous Hayama beef. This farm is known for its meticulous care in raising cattle, feeding them a diet that includes sake lees and rice bran, which results in beef that is both tender and flavorful. The farm has also obtained HACCP certification, ensuring the highest standards of food safety. The dedication to sustainable and ethical farming practices by Ishii-san makes their Hayama beef a true delicacy.
The Climax of the Cooking Tour: A Local Feast
In the evening, we reach the climax of our cooking tour. We are warmly welcomed into the home of Kageyama-san, a resident of Hayama, where we will cook the ingredients we gathered throughout the day.
The cooking begins with young corn and shishito peppers, followed by sashimi made from the squid we won at the auction.
The main highlight of the evening is the Hayama beef, prepared both as steak and sukiyaki-style by Kageyama-san. Each bite is a testament to the quality of the local ingredients and the skillful preparation.
Cooking and dining with a local family using locally sourced ingredients is the ultimate local experience. It is a unique and immersive way to connect with the culture and community of Hayama.
Join Us for an Unforgettable Experience
The Hayama Cooking Tour is a perfect getaway from Tokyo, located just an hour away. Surrounded by beautiful mountains and the sea, Hayama offers an ideal setting for a culinary adventure. If you are interested in joining this unique tour, please contact us here.
Embark on this culinary journey with Japan Adventures Co. and savor the true taste of Hayama.