The Best Poultry Dishes to Enjoy in Japan’s Hot Spring Resorts

Japan is renowned for its hot spring resorts, or onsen, where visitors can relax and rejuvenate. One of the delightful aspects of a stay at these resorts is the opportunity to savor local cuisine, especially dishes featuring poultry. Here are some of the best poultry dishes to enjoy while soaking in Japan's serene hot spring atmosphere.

1. Kamo Nanban Soba
This dish serves a delicious blend of duck and soba noodles in a savory broth. The duck meat is tender and flavorful, perfectly complementing the chewy, buckwheat soba noodles. After enjoying the hot spring, a warm bowl of kamo nanban soba provides both comfort and nourishment.

2. Yakitori
Grilled chicken skewers, or yakitori, are a beloved item at many izakayas and resorts. Each skewer typically features bite-sized pieces of chicken, which may include various parts of the bird like the thigh, breast, or liver, all seasoned with salt or a soy-based glaze. This dish is perfect for enjoying outdoors, under the stars, after a day at the onsen.

3. Toridon
At some hot spring resorts, you can find toridon, a delightful rice bowl topped with chicken and egg cooked in a sweet soy sauce. The dish is comforting and filling, making it a fantastic choice for travelers who want a hearty meal before or after their onsen experiences.

4. Shabu-Shabu with Chicken
Shabu-shabu is a Japanese hot pot dish where diners cook thin slices of meat and vegetables in a boiling broth. In hot spring resorts, shabu-shabu featuring tender chicken cuts is often served. It’s a fun and interactive dining experience, especially when complemented by fresh dipping sauces.

5. Chicken Katsu
This crispy chicken cutlet is coated in panko breadcrumbs and deep-fried to perfection. Served with shredded cabbage and a sweet tonkatsu sauce, chicken katsu is a delightful dish that combines crunch with tenderness. Enjoying it at a hot spring resort brings a taste of home-style cooking to your culinary experience.

6. Tsukune
Tsukune refers to chicken meatballs that are typically grilled on skewers. Often flavored with ginger and garlic, these delicious meatballs are served with a range of dipping sauces, enhancing their rich flavors. Tsukune is a great snack to enjoy while socializing with friends at the resort.

7. Hōtō with Chicken
Originating from the Yamanashi region, hōtō is a hearty noodle soup made with flat udon noodles, vegetables, and chicken simmered in miso broth. It’s a warm and filling dish, perfect for warming up after a relaxing soak in the hot springs.

8. Jidori Sashimi
For those who appreciate raw cuisine, jidori chicken sashimi is a must-try. Often sourced from free-range birds, this sashimi is known for its fresh and rich flavor, and it’s served with dipping sauces like soy sauce and wasabi. Dining on jidori sashimi is a unique experience that culinary enthusiasts won’t want to miss.

Visiting Japan's hot spring resorts offers not only a chance to unwind but also to enjoy a variety of delectable poultry dishes. Each dish reflects the local flavors and culinary traditions, making your onsen experience even more memorable. Be sure to explore these options on your next trip to Japan!