Opening hours, fees and event dates change. Before you go, please confirm the latest details on each facility's or organizer's official information.
What is “Sato ni Hachikoku”?
“Sato ni Hachikoku” is Higashimurayama's regional brand, trademarked and promoted by the Higashimurayama Chamber of Commerce. Starting with Musashino udon, and including yuba (tofu skin), natto, sake, sauce, sweets and more, it unearths and certifies the distinctive “good things” nurtured in Higashimurayama as brand items. The name draws on the city's symbol, Hachikokuyama. Shops don't simply claim the name themselves; these are items chosen by the regional-brand promotion committee — in other words, flavors that come with the “town's seal of approval.”
What flavors are there?
A feature of the flavors certified under “Sato ni Hachikoku” is how wide their range is. Let's note a few representative ones (the certified items and stockists can change, so check the latest in the Chamber of Commerce's list).
- Musashino udon: thick and firm, the heart of Higashimurayama's food. A regional udon eaten with a hot pork dipping broth.
- Higashimurayama kuro-yakisoba: a local B-grade specialty defined by its jet-black “black sauce.”
- Grilled dango: fragrant soy-glazed grilled dumplings. Some shops are said to be connected to Ken Shimura.
- Yuba, natto, local sake, sauce, sweets and more: from Japanese ingredients to sweets, the town's “tasty” is broadly represented.
Where can you find them?
You can find “Sato ni Hachikoku”-certified flavors at certified shops in the city and at events such as the autumn “Citizens' Industry Fair.” Many items can be taken home as souvenirs, perfect for finding a gift for Taiwan. If you're looking for “local Japanese delicacies no one else is doing,” start by checking this brand.
Read the Citizens' Industry Fair article →Certified items, stockists and availability can change. Check the latest in the “Sato ni Hachikoku” official information from Higashimurayama City and the Chamber of Commerce. Check each shop's official information for opening hours, prices and stock. “Sato ni Hachikoku” also includes local sake. In Japan, drinking under the age of 20 is prohibited by law.
Sources