Taste of Love: Top Gourmet Specialties in Chiba

Pork Raised with Love: The Romance Pork Research Institute

Chiba Prefecture features a unique brand of pork known as Koisuru Buta, which translates to "pork in love." The name reflects the idea that these pigs are raised so happy and healthy that they seem to be in love, resulting in exceptionally sweet and tender meat. Local farmers pay extraordinary attention to feed quality and livestock care. Although Sangenbuta (three-breed crossbred pork) is common across Japan, the meticulous raising techniques here create a flavor that sets it far apart. Because only a single farm in Chiba raises Koisuru Buta and has no plans to expand in order to maintain quality control, visiting Chiba is the only way to taste this rare specialty.

The fat on Koisuru Buta is exceptionally delicious. Thanks to a specialized diet, the fat has a clean, subtle sweetness rather than the gamey odor typical of standard pork, making it light and enjoyable to eat. The restaurant recommends shabu-shabu hot pot or gentle steaming to best highlight the natural sweetness of the meat. Pan-searing—crisping both sides over high heat before finishing over low heat—is another excellent cooking method. Deep-frying like tonkatsu is not recommended, as it renders out the signature natural fats. The artisanal sausages and ham are also highly recommended.

Chiba's Sweet Potato Specialty: IMO PPUCCINO at Cafe Netaimo

Sweet potatoes are a famous regional specialty of Chiba Prefecture. Following the summer harvest starting in June, sweet potato treats can be seen across the region. Chiba ranks second in sweet potato production nationwide, right behind Kagoshima Prefecture, and its crop enjoys equal popularity across Japan. Like Kagoshima, Katori City features rich volcanic ash soil that provides ideal growing conditions for these sweet root vegetables.

Cafe Netaimo is located in the historic streets of Katori City, where a visit centers on tasting the signature IMO PPUCCINO. The word imo means potato in Japanese. Situated about a 10-minute walk from Sawara Station, the cafe is easy to access without a car. Traveling here from Tokyo takes just 1.5 hours by train, making it a simple day trip option or a pleasant overnight stop before heading to nearby Narita Airport the next day.

Made from locally grown roasted Beni Haruka sweet potatoes, the thick and creamy IMO PPUCCINO dessert drink comes in two flavors: Kuromitsu (black sugar syrup) and Chocolate.

Summer Seafood Delicacies: Sardines and Oysters at Country House Tsubaki

Sardine season in Chiba runs from May through July, while oysters peak between June and August. Visiting in June offers the rare chance to enjoy both seafood specialties at their peak freshness. Located near Cape Gyoubu, Country House Tsubaki (Country House Tsubakiri) offers ocean views alongside these seasonal catches.

The restaurant serves a variety of sardine dishes, including set meals that pair sashimi, tempura, and seafood rice bowls for a complete tasting experience. The yellowtail (buri) sushi is another highlight, featuring rich, savory fish oils paired with seasoned sushi rice. The restaurant's exceptional cuisine was even featured on the popular Japanese television program Syoku no Aisaidai (Colors of Food).

A Historic Eel Restaurant: Unagi Kappo Yamada

Katori City in Chiba Prefecture is famous for fresh eel, hosting a variety of historic unagi establishments across the area. Unagi Kappo Yamada is a renowned restaurant with over 300 years of history. Because reservations are not accepted and lines form quickly, visiting on a weekday is recommended. The location is convenient for travelers, situated just a 10-minute walk from Sawara Station and easily accessible without a car.

The restaurant specializes in Kanto-style grilled eel. Traditional Kanto preparation involves grilling the eel plain without sauce, steaming it to remove excess fat, and then repeatedly basting it with savory sauce while grilling. Yamada uses a proprietary technique: instead of using steam, the plain-grilled eel is placed in a closed box to let its residual heat steam the meat before it is grilled over premium Kishu Binchotan charcoal. Grilled eel liver is also available as a rare delicacy.

Enjoy Chiba's Gourmet Scene by Train or Car!

If you are traveling by public transit, Katori City offers two delicious culinary stops within easy walking distance: the historic eel restaurant and the sweet potato IMO PPUCCINO café in the old town area. If you plan to rent a car to explore Chiba, be sure to add Koisuru Pork and fresh coastal seafood to your dining itinerary!