What is Mito Natto?
Mito Natto is a traditional fermented food originating from Mito City in Ibaraki Prefecture, and it is said to be the root of natto culture spread throughout Japan.
Natto, made by fermenting soybeans, is known for its high health benefits, distinctive stickiness, and flavor.
Particularly, Mito Natto is made from high-quality soybeans and traditional methods, making it a must-try delicacy for natto enthusiasts.
Mito City offers many tourist spots related to natto, where you can enjoy unique dishes featuring this fermented food.
This article provides a detailed introduction to the history and characteristics of Mito Natto, recommended ways to enjoy it, and spots where you can indulge in natto gourmet experiences!
The Charm of Mito Natto
1. History and Origin of Mito Natto
The history of Mito Natto dates back to the Edo period.
Origin of Natto Creation
- It is said to have originated when farmers in the Tohoku region accidentally fermented soybeans during the Heian period.
- In the Edo period, it developed as a preserved food in the Mito Domain
- The culture of selling natto spread, becoming popular among the common people
The second lord of the Mito Domain, Tokugawa Mitsukuni (commonly known as Komon-sama), was also said to favor natto, which helped increase the popularity of Mito Natto.
2. Characteristics of Mito Natto
Mito Natto has distinctive features that set it apart from natto from other regions.
① Small Grains with Strong Stickiness
- Smaller grains compared to regular natto, with a rich soybean flavor
- Strong stickiness, allowing you to fully enjoy the unique natto taste
② Traditional Fermentation with Natural Straw
- Traditional natto is wrapped in straw and naturally fermented
- Natto bacteria residing in the straw create its distinctive aroma and stickiness
③ Addictive Aroma and Taste
- Characterized by a strong fermentation aroma, which becomes milder when combined with sauce or condiments
- Delicious both as is and when used in various recipes
Natto lovers can indulge in the authentic taste!
3. Recommended Ways to Enjoy and Natto Recipes
Natto can be enjoyed not only as is but also through various recipes.
① Classic "Natto Rice"
- Simply pour natto over white rice and mix with sauce or mustard!
- Add egg yolk or green onions for a creamier taste
② Natto Toast
- Spread butter on toast, top with natto and cheese, and bake
- Natto × Cheese fermented food combo enhances umami!
③ Natto Pasta
- Mix natto with garlic oil and combine with pasta
- Perfectly matches with Japanese-style sauce or soy sauce-based seasoning
④ Mito Natto Tempura
- Wrap natto in seaweed, coat with batter, and fry
- The crispy texture and natto's stickiness are irresistible!
In Mito, many restaurants offer these natto gourmet dishes, so be sure to try them out.
4. Spots to Enjoy Mito Natto
Mito City offers plenty of spots where you can experience the charm of natto.
1. Mito Natto Museum (Tengu Natto Main Store)
- A museum where you can learn about the history and production process of natto
- Purchase Mito Natto as a souvenir
- [Address] Yanagimachi 1-13-13, Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture
- [Business Hours] 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
2. Kairakuen
- One of Japan's three great gardens, with shops offering natto gourmet
- [Address] Tokiwacho 1-3-3, Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture
3. Natto Specialty Store "Kume Natto Direct Store" in Front of Mito Station
- Various types of natto available
- Also offers natto snacks and natto sweets!
Enjoy tourism themed around natto!
Convenient Information for Travelers
Access Information (How to Get to Mito City)
By Train
- From Tokyo: About 1 hour and 10 minutes by express train on the JR Joban Line to "Mito Station"
- From Narita Airport: About 2 hours by express bus
By Car
- From Tokyo: About 1 hour and 30 minutes to "Mito IC" via the Joban Expressway
Wi-Fi Information
- Free Wi-Fi available at Mito Station and major tourist facilities
- Many cafes and restaurants also offer Wi-Fi
Language Support
- Tourist information centers offer pamphlets in English and Chinese
- Some restaurants have English menus available
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
Mito Natto is a traditional Japanese fermented food and a superfood beneficial to health.
While the stickiness and aroma of natto might be surprising at first, its addictive taste is the real charm once you try it!
In Mito City, you can also enjoy tourism themed around natto, so be sure to visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How is Mito Natto different from regular natto?
A: Mito Natto is characterized by its small grains, strong stickiness, and rich flavor. The traditional straw-wrapped natto is also popular.
Q: What are some recommended natto dishes in Mito?
A: You can enjoy unique recipes such as natto rice, natto pasta, and natto tempura!
Q: Where can I buy natto?
A: You can purchase it at souvenir shops at Mito Station or at the direct stores of Tengu Natto and Kume Natto.
Q: How can I eat natto if I'm not a fan?
A: Mixing it with cheese or eggs makes the natto flavor milder and easier to eat!
When you visit Ibaraki and Mito, be sure to taste the authentic Mito Natto!
