What is Nagano's local specialty "oyaki"?
"Oyaki" is one of Nagano Prefecture's representative local dishes.
It is a traditional snack made by wrapping various fillings in a dough of wheat flour or buckwheat flour, then baking or steaming them.
Beloved by the people of Nagano, this humble food offers a surprisingly deep and satisfying flavor.
When you visit Nagano, be sure to try and compare different local oyaki!
History and origins of oyaki
Oyaki originally developed as a preserved food in the mountain regions of Nagano.
Because Nagano has severe winters and rice cultivation was difficult in many areas, dishes using wheat or buckwheat flour became common.
Oyaki became a popular, nutritious snack eaten during farm work, and it is still passed down as a home-cooked favorite today.
Types of oyaki and popular fillings
1. Nozawana (pickled greens) oyaki
The most popular oyaki in Nagano, made with Nozawana pickles.
The salty, crisp Nozawana pairs perfectly with the chewy wheat dough!
2. Eggplant (nasu) oyaki
Oyaki filled with eggplant seasoned with miso.
It has a juicy, rich flavor.
3. Sweet red bean (anko) oyaki
Perfect for those with a sweet tooth — oyaki filled with sweet azuki bean paste.
Enjoy it much like a traditional wagashi (Japanese sweet).
4. Pumpkin (kabocha) oyaki
Oyaki filled with a slightly sweet, soft pumpkin paste.
A gentle flavor you can enjoy as a snack.
5. Mushroom oyaki
Made with locally harvested mushrooms such as shimeji and maitake.
The combination of lightly sautéed mushrooms and miso is exceptional.
How oyaki are prepared
There are three main ways to prepare oyaki: grilling, steaming, and frying.
1. Grilled oyaki
Grilling in a pan or on a griddle gives a crisp, savory exterior while keeping the inside chewy.
2. Steamed oyaki
Steaming yields a plump, soft oyaki.
They tend to be chewier with a gentle texture.
3. Fried oyaki
Recently, crispy fried oyaki have become available.
Recommended for those who want to try a new texture.
Recommended shops to try oyaki
1. Irohado (Nagano City)
A long-established oyaki shop in Nagano City.
Their crisply grilled oyaki are popular, with a wide variety from classic to unique flavors!
2. Ogawa-no-Sho Oyaki Village（Ogawa Village, Kamiminochi District, Nagano Prefecture）
A place where you can taste traditional steamed oyaki.
You can also enjoy oyaki cooked over an irori (hearth) for a smoky, savory flavor.
Tips for enjoying oyaki in Nagano
1. Check for seasonal oyaki
In autumn you’ll find mushroom and pumpkin varieties, and in winter special flavors like walnut miso appear — look out for seasonal specialties.
2. Enjoy comparing different shops
Each shop uses different doughs and seasonings, so trying several places is recommended!
3. Great as souvenirs
Frozen oyaki make excellent souvenirs.
You can reheat them at home and enjoy the taste of Nagano.
Helpful information for travelers
1. Access
- Oyaki shops near Nagano Station: About 1 hour 30 minutes from Tokyo by shinkansen
- Togakushi area: Said to be one of the birthplaces of oyaki; about 1 hour by bus from Nagano Station
2. Combine with Nagano sightseeing
- Zenko-ji Temple: Nagano's representative sightseeing spot
- Togakushi Shrine: A sacred mountain worship site surrounded by nature
- Jigokudani Monkey Park: A unique place where you can see wild macaques bathing in hot springs
FAQ and summary
Summary
- Oyaki is a traditional local dish from Nagano Prefecture made by wrapping fillings in dough of wheat or buckwheat flour.
- You can enjoy a variety of flavors such as Nozawana, eggplant, and sweet red bean paste.
- The texture varies by cooking method — grilled, steamed, or fried.
- There are many specialty oyaki shops centered around Nagano City, so sampling different ones is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can I buy oyaki?
A: You can buy them around Nagano Station, at roadside stations (michi-no-eki), and at specialty oyaki shops.
Q: Are oyaki suitable for vegetarians?
A: There are vegetarian-friendly varieties such as Nozawana and mushroom, but some miso or seasonings may contain animal-derived ingredients, so it’s best to check.
Q: Can oyaki be frozen for storage?
A: If frozen, they keep well, but homemade oyaki are best eaten within about two weeks — try to finish them as soon as possible.
Q: Are there places in Tokyo where I can eat oyaki?
A: Some Nagano prefecture satellite shops and occasional events in Tokyo sell oyaki.
In closing
Nagano's local specialty "oyaki" is a traditional taste loved by locals.
When you visit Nagano, be sure to sample and compare different oyaki to fully enjoy their charm!
