Experience the Delights of Halal Eel Cuisine at Ryokan Ayunosato in Kumamoto Prefecture

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Indulge in the Long-Awaited Halal Eel Cuisine In Hitoyoshi City in Southern Kumamoto Prefecture

Hitoyoshi City, located in the southernmost part of Kumamoto Prefecture, is a picturesque destination nestled in the Hitoyoshi Basin, surrounded by the Kyushu Mountains. Renowned for its hot springs along the Kuma River and enchanting river cruises, this city flourished as a castle town in the past.

At its heart lies the Aoi Aso Shrine, the sole national treasure in Kumamoto Prefecture. In 2015, the city was recognized as a Japanese heritage site under the name “Hitoyoshi-Kuma: A Culture of Conservation and Innovation Born from 700 Years of the Sagara Clan.”

Despite the adversity faced during the torrential floods in July 2020, Hitoyoshi City has remarkably recovered as of May 2023, with its beautiful riverside landscapes restored to their former glory.

The beauty of the Kuma River

Ryokan Ayu no Sato

Within this enchanting city, onsen ryokan Ayunosato offers Muslim-friendly services to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim guests from around the world. Situated along the Kuma River, one of Japan’s three great rapid rivers, this ryokan harmoniously blends a resort atmosphere with traditional Japanese aesthetics, exuding a sense of tranquility through its warm wooden interiors. It has become a sought-after destination for discerning travelers in search of quality hot springs.

In response to numerous customer requests, ryokan Ayunosato is thrilled about the introduction of their Halal Eel Bento comes for 6,600 yen (tax included). This delectable culinary delight can be reserved at least 3 days in advance (one week in advance for group reservations).

■Reservation
https://reserve.489ban.net/client/ayunosato/4/plan

Halal eel cuisine of Ayunosato

To cater to the Halal requirements, the skilled Japanese chefs at Ayunosato have carefully crafted a special eel sauce using halal soy sauce, halal mirin, and sugar, ensuring an authentic flavor profile comparable to the conventional version.

Kurihara chef that is mastering Japanese cuisine

The meticulously prepared eel showcases a tantalizingly crisp exterior that releases a divine aroma, instantly awakening the appetite. Each succulent bite reveals a meaty and tender texture, as the flavorsome oils of the eel intermingle and spread throughout the palate with every chew. The expertly crafted sauce further enhances the eel’s natural taste, striking a sublime balance between sweetness and a subtle hint of spiciness, creating an extraordinary gastronomic experience.

Eel rice bowl

As an added treat, halfway through the meal, the eel bento transforms into a delightful hitsumabushi dish, incorporating a flavorful broth.

＊Hitsumabushi is an eating culture where a customer scoops out a quarter of the unagi and rice into an empty bowl. In each bowl, you can enjoy it in different ways with toppings and dashi soup, which is also served.

The exquisite broth seeps into the rice, intertwining with the eel’s umami, enriching the taste with an additional depth. This variation offers a luxurious and distinct flavor that sets it apart from the traditional grilled eel experience.

One eel rice bowl in hitsumabushi, enjoying it with special dashi (broth)

Eel, an enduring favorite in Japanese cuisine for centuries, is a must-try dish for gourmet enthusiasts eager to savor the essence of traditional Japanese food. Whether enjoyed as a standalone grilled dish, paired with fragrant rice, or savored in hitsumabushi style, it offers a unique and gratifying flavor profile unmatched by other ingredients.

In addition to its exceptional taste, eel is a highly nutritious ingredient, rich in high-quality protein, vitamins, calcium, potassium, and minerals, making it an excellent addition to a balanced and nourishing diet.

When you visit Japan, be sure to seek out the extraordinary Halal Eel Bento at onsen ryokan Ayunosato in Hitoyoshi City, Kumamoto Prefecture. Immerse yourself in the warm embrace of this charming hot spring ryokan, where you can indulge in the finest halal eel cuisine.

Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Hitoyoshi City, now restored after the challenges faced in 2020, and savor the flavors of this culinary masterpiece.

Ayunosato’s halal-exclusive kitchen

About Ayunosato