Iki: The Resort for Gourmands

To those who are considering visiting Japan: We know the big city of Tokyo and the ancient capital of Kyoto are popular, too, but what would you say to a trip that will give you a more personal experience of Japan?
The trip that makes that possible is a trip to Iki, in Nagasaki Prefecture.
For many people, this might even be the first time hearing about a place called Iki. Iki is an island not far from the mainland of Nagasaki Prefecture and Fukuoka Prefecture in the north of Kyushu, which itself is an island in the south of Japan.

As a stopover through which continental culture from China and the Korean peninsula was spread to Japan, Iki is a place that has seen many people come and go since ancient times. It has long prospered as the "Island of Hospitality."
Today, Iki has developed its tourism industry, as a resort area close to Kyushu. Among people in Japan, as well, Iki has garnered attention and popularity as the perfect destination for occasions like family vacations, with attractions including water sports and hot springs.
When it comes to special attractions, Iki offers local cuisine, with ingredients from around the islands.
Talented chefs here prepare meals with the use of the freshly harvested ingredients that grace the islands.
Won't you add a trip to Iki, and the experience of its uniquely Japanese spirit of hospitality, to the pages of your memories?

: Iki is located at the intersection of the Kuroshio and Oyashio ocean currents. It is known as a great fishing area, with an abundance of plankton.
The cuisine made with firm, freshly-caught fish is a source of pride in Iki.

: Iki beef is tender and high in quality, with great marbling. The cattle are raised without placing stress on the environment, while the salty sea breezes that are characteristic of the island add a moderate amount of salt to the grass upon which the cattle feed, making them healthy. It's worth visiting just to experience the tender texture and rich flavor of Iki beef.

: Much of the land in Iki is flat, making for an environment that is well-suited to farming. A variety of produce can be raised here, from vegetables to rice. Nikomaru, a rice brand from Iki, is the recipient of five consecutive "Special A" ratings from the Japan Grain Inspection Association, starting in 2008. Nikomaru has achieved popularity as the highest-quality rice on the island.

When you visit Iki, there are some local specialties you just have to try before you leave.
If you are visiting Fukuoka or Nagasaki in Kyushu on your trip to Japan, we recommend taking a side trip to the island of Iki.

ウニのイカしゃぶ

Saw-edged perch, the "Great Phantom Fish of the Genkai Sea," and swordtip squid, "the King of Squid," are dipped fleetingly in a special soup stock made with fresh sea urchins from Iki.

サーロインステーキ

As Ajidokoro Umeshima is operated directly by ranchers that produce it, the restaurant is able to offer high-quality Iki beef at a great price.
Single cuts of meat large enough to cover the entire iron griddle are substantial and satisfying.
To make an island memory of your trip to Iki, please be sure to experience a taste that only this very place can provide. Sirloin steak meal, ¥3,980 (including tax).

Whether you're taking a day trip or staying overnight, a meal is the real thrill of any trip, don't you think?
For lunch, there are also many kinds of local rice that are popular among tourists, so please be sure to stop by in between sightseeing and recreation.

かつ丼

Yoshimoto Shokudo's Katsudon (pork cutlet rice bowl), ¥650 (including tax): As you gorge on thick, juicy pork cutlets, the flavor of the simmered broth gradually fills your mouth. The hosts' smiles are also part of the fun.

バーガー

Mochajava Cafe Okubo's Iki Beef Burger, ¥900 (including tax): Served with just the seasoning and an egg. Scarf down a hamburger with 100% treasured Iki beef! This is a cafe where you can feel the relaxed rhythm of the island.

うに丼

Restaurant Taiko's Fresh Sea Urchin Rice Bowl, ¥2,500 (including tax): 20 sea urchins are piled high atop rice in this gourmet rice bowl, an Iki standout. This lovingly-prepared dish does not use preserved sea urchins.

三益寿司

Mimasu-zushi's Sushi: When you want to eat delicious seafood in Iki, it's got to be this hand-formed sushi, which presents the flavors of its ingredients in their true form.

Food isn't Iki's only special quality. Another reason to take a trip to Iki is that you can get your fill of sightseeing and recreation.
In the clear waters here, you can enjoy swimming and marine sports including scuba diving, as well as the uniquely Japanese charm of hot springs.
Iki also has many other fun spots, including views that weave together a wide range of natural beauty.