Kumamoto's Specialty! What is "Basashi"?
When it comes to Kumamoto's gourmet cuisine, Basashi (horse sashimi) is a must-try!
Even within Japan, Kumamoto is the home of Basashi,
and it's famous for being a region where you can enjoy fresh horse meat raw.
Basashi is a healthy, high-protein, low-fat ingredient,
known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet flavor.
If you visit Kumamoto, it's a must-try delicacy!
The History of Basashi and Its Connection to Kumamoto
The Origins of Basashi
The culture of eating horse meat dates back to the Sengoku period.
It is believed that the warlord Kiyomasa Kato
spread the culture of horse meat in Kumamoto.
He was a warlord who built Kumamoto Castle, and to prepare for food shortages during wartime,
the habit of eating horse in Kumamoto took root.
Since the Edo period, the culinary culture of horse meat has developed in Kumamoto,
particularly with the staple dish of raw "Basashi".
Why Kumamoto's Basashi is Delicious
1. Access to Fresh Horse Meat
Kumamoto boasts one of the highest production volumes of horse meat in Japan!
You can enjoy horses raised locally in their fresh state.
2. Special Care in Raising
Horses in Kumamoto are raised in a nature-rich environment with minimal stress,
resulting in meat that is odorless and tender.
3. Innovative Ways to Enjoy
The classic way to enjoy Kumamoto's Basashi is with sweet soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
This combination enhances the umami of the horse meat.
Types of Basashi and Flavor Differences
1. Lean Meat
- A classic of Basashi, with a moist texture
- Low in fat, healthy, and easy to eat
2. Marbled Meat
- Like beef, it has high fat content and a melt-in-your-mouth texture
- Enjoy the sweetness and richness of horse meat
3. Double Layer Fat
- Well-balanced between lean and fat
- Features a unique, chewy texture
4. Horse Mane Fat
- A rare part characterized by white fat
- Rich in collagen, popular among women
5. Horse Yukhoe
- Thinly sliced horse meat mixed with egg yolk
- Sweet and spicy seasoning pairs perfectly with rice!
Top 5 Recommended Basashi Restaurants in Kumamoto
Suganoya
- An established Basashi restaurant in Kumamoto
- Experience authentic Basashi in a luxurious setting
Uma-zakura
- A Basashi specialty shop popular with tourists
- Offers a wide range including marbled, lean, and mane
Tengoku
- A hidden gem loved by locals
- Also offers a variety of horse meat dishes
Kumamoto Baniku Dining Nagomi
- Enjoy authentic Basashi at reasonable prices
- Recommended for horse meat shabu-shabu and yukhoe
Fujisaigyuu
- Serves horse meat and Kumamoto’s specialty "Akaushi" beef
- Perfect for enjoying along with sightseeing!
How to Enjoy Basashi Deliciously
1. Eat with Sweet Soy Sauce
The standard way to eat Kumamoto’s Basashi is with sweet soy sauce (sashimi soy sauce)!
It has a mellow sweetness that enhances the flavor of the horse meat compared to regular soy sauce.
2. Enhance Flavor with Garlic & Ginger
- Garlic → Adds a punchy flavor!
- Ginger → Provides a refreshing aftertaste!
3. Pairs Perfectly with Sake or Shochu
Basashi goes well with local Kumamoto sake and shochu.
Rice shochu, in particular, is mild and does not overpower the taste of Basashi.
Useful Information for Travelers
1. Getting to Kumamoto
Shinkansen: From Hakata Station to Kumamoto Station (about 40 minutes)
Airplane: From Tokyo or Osaka to Kumamoto Airport (about 1.5 hours)
Local Transport: Convenient via streetcar and bus
2. Tourist Attractions in Kumamoto
Kumamoto Castle (one of Japan's three major castles)
Mount Aso (one of Japan's largest caldera volcanoes)
Kurokawa Onsen (a quaint hot spring town for relaxation)
3. Best Time to Eat Basashi
- Basashi restaurants in Kumamoto are mainly open at night
- Some places offer it for lunch as well, so it's worth checking!
Summary and FAQs
Summary
- Basashi is a specialty dish of Kumamoto!
- Popular as a fresh and healthy ingredient
- Available in various types like lean, marbled, and double layer fat
- Standard way to eat is with sweet soy sauce & garlic or ginger
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can I eat Basashi?
A: You can enjoy it at izakayas or specialty shops in Kumamoto! Famous places include "Suganoya" and "Uma-zakura".
Q: Is Basashi safe?
A: Kumamoto's Basashi is carefully managed for hygiene and served fresh.
Q: Can I eat Basashi outside Kumamoto?
A: You can find Basashi in Tokyo and Osaka, but it's best enjoyed in its home, Kumamoto!
Q: Can I buy Basashi as a souvenir?
A: Yes! Vacuum-packed Basashi is available at Kumamoto Airport and station shops.
When you visit Kumamoto, be sure to try the fresh and delicious Basashi!
It's an exceptional local gourmet you won't find elsewhere!
