SPACIA X × Nikko Brewing
Craft beer is one of the pillars of drinks served on board.
Developed SPACIA X Limited Nikko Lager
We asked Yasufumi Tsurumaki about his thoughts on the product.
Developed SPACIA X Limited Nikko Lager
We asked Yasufumi Tsurumaki about his thoughts on the product.
Everyone at the beer brewing site
- Nikko Brewing
- Yasufumi Tsurumaki
Nikko Brewing
A notable craft brewery that won the highest award at the craft beer contest "Japan Great Beer Awards 2020." The brewery has a tap bar where you can sample six types of freshly brewed beer. As for bottled beer, we sell two types of ``The Nikko Monkeys'' with brightly colored pop labels and 3 types of ``Nikko Belgian,'' as well as limited-time products.
What is the appeal of the original craft beer on board?
I am the heir to the long-established drive-in, Sanbonmatsu Chaya, located in front of Senjogahara in Oku-Nikko. I started Nikko Brewing because I felt a sense of crisis that while there are many beers bearing the name Nikko, there was no craft beer that was properly brewed in Nikko. I aimed to make a craft beer that was particular about the local area, using local water and using strawberries and yuzu from the prefecture as secondary ingredients.
Nikko Lager
Nikko Lager, which is offered exclusively onboard SPACIA X The concept is ``Less is More,'' which is similar to the Japanese culture of ``Wabi-Sabi,'' an idea used in Italian Pilsner. Furthermore, by incorporating an innovative manufacturing method called dry hopping, we have achieved a taste that is easy to drink and never gets boring.
Thoughts on SPACIA X
We hope that it will become a new presence that conveys the charms of Nikko. I think many foreign tourists will use it, so I think the name of Nikko will spread throughout the world.
What is your favorite thing about Nikko?
The natural beauty of Oku-Nikko, where I was born and raised, still fascinates me. Beautiful nature can be seen throughout the year, including flowers in June and July and colored leaves in autumn.
Introduction of the store
At the tap bar, you can pour freshly made food on the spot.
Nikko is the place loved by Thomas Glover, a leading figure in the promotion of the beer industry in Japan. It has a history of being a popular summer resort for Italian diplomats, and there is a connection between Nikko and beer, and between Nikko and Italian-style pilsner.
The bottled beer we brew is sold throughout the city, but the brewery also has a tap bar. You can also enjoy comparing drinks, such as premium lager with a deep malt flavor and refreshing taste, and pale ale with a gorgeous aroma. We also have a wooden deck outside, so we recommend enjoying the outdoors on sunny days.
The bottled beer we brew is sold throughout the city, but the brewery also has a tap bar. You can also enjoy comparing drinks, such as premium lager with a deep malt flavor and refreshing taste, and pale ale with a gorgeous aroma. We also have a wooden deck outside, so we recommend enjoying the outdoors on sunny days.
Tap bar counter space attached to the brewery
The tap bar has a total of 6 types of craft beers that change daily.
Nikko Brewing
- TEL
- 0288-25-3631
- business hours
- 10:00～18:00
- Regular holiday
- Tuesday
- location
- Tochigi 1564-4 Kiwadajima, Nikko-shi, Nikko
- access
- 15 minutes by car from Shimo-imaichi Station on the Tobu-nikko
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SPACIA X × Nikko Coffee
We asked the representative, Kiyoshi Kazama, about the story behind this amber cup, which is perfect for a special trip to Nikko.
Mr. Kazama came up with the concept of coffee to be served in the car, and created a unique flavor by finely adjusting the selection of beans and roasting method.
- Nikko Coffee
- Mr. Kiyoshi Kazama
Nikko Coffee
` Nikko Coffee'' is a popular local brand that operates six cafes in Tochigi Prefecture, including the main branch of Nikko Coffee Gyocha-an located on Negoya Alley in Kanuma City, which retains a retro atmosphere. At both shops, you can enjoy high-grade, in-house roasted specialty coffee and cafe menus in an atmosphere of stylishly renovated old folk houses.
What is the appeal of original coffee in the car?
ORIGINAL BLEND (Hot) Original blend
ICED COFFEE Ice coffee
ICED COFFEE Ice coffee
Among various vehicles, I think SPACIA X is a special one that gives you a sense of luxury.
What kind of coffee taste is best suited to be served in a car?
After careful consideration, we came up with keywords such as "elegance," "harmony," "classic," and "relaxation." Nikko is a place where you can feel the elegance of the city where Eastern and Western cultures are harmonious, and the gorgeousness exemplified by Nikko Toshogu Shrine makes it a place that continues to be loved by people of all ages and genders.
Our goal was to create a coffee that would help you relax and even feel the afterglow of your trip.
Yes, this is an original cup that can only be enjoyed inside the car.
For hot coffee, we offer the recommended blend at the time from among several original blends for SPACIA X It has a taste that is suitable for all ages and genders, and will accompany you during your travels. We also have one type of iced coffee available.
What kind of coffee taste is best suited to be served in a car?
After careful consideration, we came up with keywords such as "elegance," "harmony," "classic," and "relaxation." Nikko is a place where you can feel the elegance of the city where Eastern and Western cultures are harmonious, and the gorgeousness exemplified by Nikko Toshogu Shrine makes it a place that continues to be loved by people of all ages and genders.
Our goal was to create a coffee that would help you relax and even feel the afterglow of your trip.
Yes, this is an original cup that can only be enjoyed inside the car.
For hot coffee, we offer the recommended blend at the time from among several original blends for SPACIA X It has a taste that is suitable for all ages and genders, and will accompany you during your travels. We also have one type of iced coffee available.
Nikko Cola
Furthermore, we will also be offering Nikko Cola craft cola that we developed so that even people who don't like coffee can enjoy it.
This is a new coffee drink based on authentic specialty coffee, mixed with ingredients such as yuzu and chili peppers from Nikko, and spices. Mixed with carbonic acid to create a cola-like drink with a rich aroma and complex taste.
By the way, I think that a cafe is a comprehensive art form. We provide a menu that is perfect for the space, time, season, etc. SPACIA X 's cafe counter is also a comprehensive work of art. I would be happy if people could look at the inside of the car from that perspective.
This is a new coffee drink based on authentic specialty coffee, mixed with ingredients such as yuzu and chili peppers from Nikko, and spices. Mixed with carbonic acid to create a cola-like drink with a rich aroma and complex taste.
By the way, I think that a cafe is a comprehensive art form. We provide a menu that is perfect for the space, time, season, etc. SPACIA X 's cafe counter is also a comprehensive work of art. I would be happy if people could look at the inside of the car from that perspective.
Thoughts on SPACIA X
First of all, I would like to say that I am very honored to be able to participate in this SPACIA X cafe project. It was because of my childhood memories.
A train called Deluxe Romance Car used to be operated by Tobu Railway.
There was a salon with a jukebox and a buffet corner, so it was a dream-like space for me as a child.
This time, SPACIA X also has a new cafe counter and special lounge-style seats. This project was like a culmination for me, who grew up along the Tobu Railway lines and had opened shops along the lines. With this in mind, we thought about creating a system to connect with everyone along the railway lines. What we came up with was a cycle in which a portion of the proceeds from the coffee served on the train would be used for environmental conservation and other community development efforts, giving back to the local community. In addition to the relationship between sellers and buyers, customers can also form a new relationship in which they become stakeholders who support Nikko's future.
A train called Deluxe Romance Car used to be operated by Tobu Railway.
There was a salon with a jukebox and a buffet corner, so it was a dream-like space for me as a child.
This time, SPACIA X also has a new cafe counter and special lounge-style seats. This project was like a culmination for me, who grew up along the Tobu Railway lines and had opened shops along the lines. With this in mind, we thought about creating a system to connect with everyone along the railway lines. What we came up with was a cycle in which a portion of the proceeds from the coffee served on the train would be used for environmental conservation and other community development efforts, giving back to the local community. In addition to the relationship between sellers and buyers, customers can also form a new relationship in which they become stakeholders who support Nikko's future.
What is your favorite thing about Nikko?
At that time, Nikko has its goodness at that time. I particularly often visit Takio Shrine (Futarasan Shrine Bekku) located behind Nikko Toshogu Shrine. Just as I did when thinking about the concept for this coffee, when I think about something important, I suddenly remember something and turn to it. Nikko is a place with impressive nature, but I also like the countryside where you can feel the life of people who have not changed since ancient times.
Introduction of the store
The interior has a calming atmosphere, with a lot of wood used. There is a courtyard in the back with refreshing green trees.
Nikko Coffee 's roots are as a cafe with only 10 seats, which was started in a renovated old folk house, which is also my parents' home, located in an alley in Kanuma City. This is the current Nikko Coffee Gachaan main store.
Alleys are narrow streets, so it's easy to have conversations and say hello as you pass each other, and I think it's a place where you can get a feel for the lives of the people who have lived there for a long time.
Furthermore, revitalizing old buildings is also about bringing to life the character of the city. Unlike newly built shops, old buildings contain the history of the town and can be said to be unique to that town.
These are the things I focus on when opening a store.
The shops on Goyotei-dori are also a little far from the main street where there are many tourists, and the building is a renovated old merchant house with impressive thick beams.
Alleys are narrow streets, so it's easy to have conversations and say hello as you pass each other, and I think it's a place where you can get a feel for the lives of the people who have lived there for a long time.
Furthermore, revitalizing old buildings is also about bringing to life the character of the city. Unlike newly built shops, old buildings contain the history of the town and can be said to be unique to that town.
These are the things I focus on when opening a store.
The shops on Goyotei-dori are also a little far from the main street where there are many tourists, and the building is a renovated old merchant house with impressive thick beams.
Goyoteidori black curry is a popular cafe menu item. The most popular dish with a blend of several spices.
In addition to coffee and sweets, the omelet rice, which features a tomato-based sauce that I invented when I first opened, is the same at all stores, but the curry is original to each store.
Here in Nikko, we have developed a black curry made with carefully roasted spices, taking into account Nikko's history, culture, lacquer, and the stately image of imperial mansions.
Please try the deep-flavored roux and specially selected pork from Tochigi Prefecture that has been stewed for 3 days.
In summer, shaved ice made with natural ice from Nikko is also a popular menu item. We recommend the shaved ice made with plenty of strawberries and Tochiotome from Tochigi Prefecture.
Here in Nikko, we have developed a black curry made with carefully roasted spices, taking into account Nikko's history, culture, lacquer, and the stately image of imperial mansions.
Please try the deep-flavored roux and specially selected pork from Tochigi Prefecture that has been stewed for 3 days.
In summer, shaved ice made with natural ice from Nikko is also a popular menu item. We recommend the shaved ice made with plenty of strawberries and Tochiotome from Tochigi Prefecture.
Tochiotome's shaved ice. You can also add condensed milk.
Delicious omelet rice with melty egg and tomato-based sauce, inspired by the movie “Tandopo” (Photo shows the dish at Nikko Coffee Kyocha-an main store)
Nikko Coffee Goyotei Street
Nikko Coffee is located in a quiet area near Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park. While retaining the calm atmosphere of a historic merchant house, it has been renovated into a retro-modern space where you can relax and feel the warmth of the wood. Each Nikko Coffee store has a curry menu, and this store's specialty is spicy black curry. In summer, we also recommend shaved ice made with natural ice from Nikko.
- TEL
- 0288-53-2335
- business hours
- 10:00～18:00
- Regular holiday
- Mondays, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays (closed the next day if it is a holiday)
- location
- Tochigi 3-13 Honmachi, Nikko-shi, Nikko
- access
- 30 minutes walk from Tobu-nikko Nikko Station on the Tobu-nikko
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SPACIA X × Watanabe Sahei Shoten
Nikko's famous sake bottled in a stylish bottle exclusively for inside the train
We asked Yasuhiro Watanabe, a long-established sake brewer who serves Nikko Homare Sake Homare, about the secret behind its deliciousness.
We asked Yasuhiro Watanabe, a long-established sake brewer who serves Nikko Homare Sake Homare, about the secret behind its deliciousness.
With a representative brand in hand, Mr. Watanabe explained in detail its characteristics.
We use English to help foreigners as well.
We use English to help foreigners as well.
- Watanabe Sahei Shoten
- Mr. Yasuhiro Watanabe
Watanabe Sahei Shoten
A long-established sake brewery founded in 1842, located near Tobu-nikko Station, one stop from Shimo-imaichi Nikko Station by SPACIA X, and in front of a popular roadside station. We brew and sell a wide variety of alcoholic beverages, with the three main brands being Nikko Homare Sake, Sontoku, and Seikai. We also have a large selection of products that are made locally in Imaichi and Tochigi Prefecture. Sake brewery tours are available by reservation.
What is the appeal of Nikko Homare Sake which has an original package inside the car?
The one in the center Nikko Homare Sake 's Junmai Ginjo served on the train. Yume Sarara is used. The one on the right is Sontoku Junmaishu, which revived the kimoto brewing that was practiced at the time of its founding. On the left is Seikai's Junmai Daiginjo, created with an emphasis on the balance of five flavors.
Imaichi, where we have been brewing sake for nearly 200 years, is an ideal place for sake brewing. The first important element is water. As we are located on the alluvial fan of the Otani River that flows from Kegon Falls, there is an abundance of high-quality groundwater. What's more, it is soft water that gives the sake a gentle flavor. We have well water flowing constantly in front of the store, so please feel free to draw some and enjoy the delicious taste.
Next, there's the climate. Located at an altitude of about 400m at the foot of Mount Nikko, it's cool in the summer and quite cold in the winter. This cold is ideal for sake brewing. Nikko Homare Sake Prefecture is also blessed with good quality rice, and Tochigi Homare's Junmai Ginjo sake is made using rice specially grown by farmers in Imaichi.
Next, there's the climate. Located at an altitude of about 400m at the foot of Mount Nikko, it's cool in the summer and quite cold in the winter. This cold is ideal for sake brewing. Nikko Homare Sake Prefecture is also blessed with good quality rice, and Tochigi Homare's Junmai Ginjo sake is made using rice specially grown by farmers in Imaichi.
Thoughts on SPACIA X
Actually, I love trains, and personally, I'm really looking forward to riding this new limited express train. The design is more stylish and modern than Tobu Railway's previous limited express trains, and the interior has a luxurious feel. I'm looking forward to riding SPACIA X and heading to Tokyo soon.
What is your favorite thing about Nikko?
In front of the store, the well water used for preparation is flowing, and you can freely drink it.
I still love this place where I was born and raised, and where I still live. It is easily accessible from Shimo-imaichi to Asakusa in about 1 hour and 40 minutes by express train, the water is delicious, prices are low, and I feel that it is a comfortable place to live.
Even in Nikko, my favorite place is the Sky Corridor on Kirifuri Plateau. It is one of the most relaxing places with abundant nature and great views.
Even in Nikko, my favorite place is the Sky Corridor on Kirifuri Plateau. It is one of the most relaxing places with abundant nature and great views.
Introduction of the store
Inside the store, you can feel the warmth of wood and history.
A sales floor and office located in a retro building that was built over 100 years ago. I think you can see the traditional style of the sake brewery.
The sake brewery tour is popular because it is easy to understand using panels.
However, as a long-established store, we must not stand still. We welcome tours of our sake brewery in order to spread the word about the appeal of Japanese sake. We will explain it in an easy-to-understand way, including the differences between it and alcoholic beverages other than sake. English is also available, and the number of foreign tourists has increased significantly recently.
Watanabe Sahei Shoten
- TEL
- 0288-21-0007
- business hours
- 8:00～18:00
- Regular holiday
- Obon, year-end and New Year holidays
- location
- Tochigi 450 Imaichi, Nikko-shi, Nikko
- access
- 7 minutes walk from Shimo-imaichi Tobu-nikko
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SPACIA X × Katayama Shuzo
Katayama Shuzo offers original bottles of Nikkoji Sake on the train.
We asked Tomoyuki Katayama, the company's representative and chief brewer, why he is so particular about the Sase style.
We asked Tomoyuki Katayama, the company's representative and chief brewer, why he is so particular about the Sase style.
Mr. Katayama scientifically analyzes the deliciousness of Japanese sake and aims to further improve its taste.
- Katayama Shuzo
- Mr. Tomoyuki Katayama
Katayama Shuzo
A sake brewery with a reputation for careful sake brewing, based on the concept of "doing things that major sake brewers cannot do." It is located near the Otani River, about a 10-minute walk from Shimo-imaichi Station. The most distinctive feature is that it incorporates the ``Sase style,'' a time-consuming process in which the mash, which is the basis of sake, is packed in bags and slowly squeezed. The sake lees produced in this way is not only good for drinking, but also has a special taste and is popular.
What is the appeal of Nikkoji Sake which has an original package inside the train?
Nikkoji Sake
Sake brewing takes a lot of time and effort, and delicious sake cannot be produced unless passion is poured into each of the many steps. In particular, the pressure applied during squeezing affects the taste. Therefore, instead of pressing the sake all at once with a machine, which is the method used by many sake breweries, we adopted the ``Sase method.'' The mash is manually packed into bags, stacked one on top of the other, and then slowly squeezed under pressure. By doing this, you will end up with a flavor that is free of unpleasant tastes.
Furthermore, we have focused on direct sales because we want our customers to enjoy the original taste. If you put the product through standard distribution channels, it will take a long time to reach the customer. If you buy directly, you can enjoy the taste of freshly made food.
The Nikkoji Sake Ginjo served on the train is a proud brand made with Yume Sasara, a sake rice grown within the prefecture, and Nikko's famous water. I think you can feel the noble fragrance without any unpleasant taste.
Furthermore, we have focused on direct sales because we want our customers to enjoy the original taste. If you put the product through standard distribution channels, it will take a long time to reach the customer. If you buy directly, you can enjoy the taste of freshly made food.
The Nikkoji Sake Ginjo served on the train is a proud brand made with Yume Sasara, a sake rice grown within the prefecture, and Nikko's famous water. I think you can feel the noble fragrance without any unpleasant taste.
On the left is the real face of unfiltered unprocessed sake, which is unfiltered and unheated, and boasts the most popularity. On the right is Nikkoji Sake 's Junmai Ginjo, which has a good balance of flavor and aroma. This is the brand offered on the train.
We are also developing sweets and beauty products that use alcohol.
Sweets unique to sake breweries, made with plenty of unprocessed sake Kashiwamori
We also sell original face packs containing raw unprocessed sake and sake lees.
Thoughts on SPACIA X
I heard that the inside of the car is very luxurious. We feel honored to be able to serve our alcoholic beverages on board such vehicles. At the cafe counter, you can enjoy various products related to Nikko. It seems that Nikko-like designs are scattered throughout the interior of the car. Just moving around in the car will make you feel like you've traveled.
What is your favorite thing about Nikko?
The shop along National Route 121 is decorated with seasonal flowers.
My favorite part of Nikko is the Imaichi area, which has an environment that is neither too rural nor too urban.
Introduction of the store
Mr. Katayama taught me the process in front of the Sase-style machine.
The first founder set out in search of high-quality water from Kashiwazaki in Niigata Prefecture, which is known for its sake production, and it was here that he discovered water that he was satisfied with. As this episode shows, Nikko is blessed with high-quality water. The climate is cool, and Tochigi Prefecture has developed rice and special yeast suitable for sake brewing. In this blessed environment, we will continue to carefully brew sake while faithfully following the teachings of our predecessors.
Katayama Shuzo
- TEL
- 0288-21-0039
- business hours
- 8:00～18:00
- Regular holiday
- Obon, year-end and New Year holidays
- location
- Tochigi 146-2 Segawa, Nikko-shi, Nikko
- access
- 9 minutes walk from Shimo-imaichi Tobu-nikko
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SPACIA X × Girouette
To the chef who developed three types of appetizers that go well with Nikko Brewing 's craft beer,
We asked them about the store's commitment and the appeal of Nikko-produced ingredients.
We asked them about the store's commitment and the appeal of Nikko-produced ingredients.
They sometimes help out with planting and harvesting the rice they purchase, as well as harvesting vegetables.
Mr. Fukui. He spoke passionately about his love for Nikko.
Mr. Fukui. He spoke passionately about his love for Nikko.
- Girouette
- Chef Shinnosuke Fukui
Girouette
A French restaurant opening in July 2021, located along Omotesando from Tobu-nikko Station to Nikko Toshogu Shrine. Chef Shinnosuke Fukui, who trained at two-star restaurants in France, travels to the local area to discover unknown Nikko ingredients and spread the word about their deliciousness.
What is the appeal of the three types of appetizers?
Itadakimasu Trout and Scallion Rilettes
Smoked Itadakimasu Trout
Smoked Itadakimasu Trout
First, I would like to talk about the ingredients used in this product.
"top
trout
"Torakkyo Rillette" and "
top
trout
The main ingredient of "Smoked" is "
top
trout
”. Nikko's brand mass is well known to those in the know.
Because they are grown in a clear stream flowing through the nature-rich area of Ashio-cho, Nikko City, they have no odor, so even people who don't like freshwater fish can eat them. What's more, they are carefully raised for a longer period of time than normal farming, and have a delicious flavor with a strong umami flavor.
`` Itadakimasu Trout and Scallion Rilettes'' is a rillette with a fun texture when combined with rakkyo from Kamisawa Umetaro Shoten in Nikko. `` Smoked Itadakimasu Trout'' allows you to enjoy the taste of trout directly.
"
Because they are grown in a clear stream flowing through the nature-rich area of Ashio-cho, Nikko City, they have no odor, so even people who don't like freshwater fish can eat them. What's more, they are carefully raised for a longer period of time than normal farming, and have a delicious flavor with a strong umami flavor.
`` Itadakimasu Trout and Scallion Rilettes'' is a rillette with a fun texture when combined with rakkyo from Kamisawa Umetaro Shoten in Nikko. `` Smoked Itadakimasu Trout'' allows you to enjoy the taste of trout directly.
Asano Pork Jerky
Another notable ingredient is “asano pork.” This is Tochigi Prefecture's proud brand of pigs, which are raised with special care in terms of feed, water, environment, etc. Although it is a valuable meat that is shipped in small numbers, I am so fond of it that I sell it wholesale. Its characteristics are that the fat is refreshing and the taste is deep! We created "Asano Pork Jerky" in collaboration with a product from a Japanese pepper specialty store in front of our store.
All of these are perfect for when you're feeling peckish, and they pair perfectly with the variety of craft beers sold on board the train.
All of these are perfect for when you're feeling peckish, and they pair perfectly with the variety of craft beers sold on board the train.
Thoughts on SPACIA X
A variety of Nikko-produced vegetables were used on the day we visited. Another appeal is that the ingredients are safe and secure and you can see the faces of the producers.
We are very happy to have the opportunity to let people traveling to Nikko enjoy delicious locally produced ingredients not only at the store but also on the train.
What is your favorite thing about Nikko?
Nikko has many great places, but my recommendation is the winter scenery of Oku-Nikko. Lake Chuzenji and its surrounding areas are deserted and are enveloped in silence. Although it is bitterly cold, being surrounded by the quiet nature will calm your mind.
Introduction of the store
Our recommendation for the ``Chomasu'' that you can eat at the restaurant is the Chōmasu and grapefruit salad (left). This signature salad is made with fresh trout and seasonal Nikko vegetables.
On the right is roasted Asano Pork. It has a chewy texture that is cooked at a low temperature, and the deliciousness of the fatty meat is also noteworthy.
On the right is roasted Asano Pork. It has a chewy texture that is cooked at a low temperature, and the deliciousness of the fatty meat is also noteworthy.
When I was studying in France, I learned that there are shops that can only be opened in rural areas. The restaurant's style is to find hidden local ingredients and serve them as delicious dishes, allowing people to learn about the charm of the region. I think it's a one-of-a-kind experience that you can't experience unless you visit the place.
Nikko is famous for yuba, but many people don't know that it has many other delicious ingredients as well. Blessed with abundant nature and an environment with varying temperatures, the area is characterized by the strong flavors of the vegetables and other ingredients. Through this shop, we want to spread the appeal of Nikko and the ingredients of the prefecture. Our job as chefs is to help bring out the original flavor of the ingredients. delicious! If you think so, that's the charm of Nikko's ingredients.
Additionally, on the table is a welcome plate carved by Nikko that I designed. It is one of Nikko's traditional crafts, but I wanted to show that there are also such colorful works.
Nikko is famous for yuba, but many people don't know that it has many other delicious ingredients as well. Blessed with abundant nature and an environment with varying temperatures, the area is characterized by the strong flavors of the vegetables and other ingredients. Through this shop, we want to spread the appeal of Nikko and the ingredients of the prefecture. Our job as chefs is to help bring out the original flavor of the ingredients. delicious! If you think so, that's the charm of Nikko's ingredients.
Additionally, on the table is a welcome plate carved by Nikko that I designed. It is one of Nikko's traditional crafts, but I wanted to show that there are also such colorful works.
You can relax in the chic white-based interior.
A colorful Nikko carving welcome plate. This is a one-of-a-kind Nikko carving designed by Mr. Fukui and created by Keiichi Nakayama of Nikko Mishimaya.
Girouette
- TEL
- 0288-25-5001
- business hours
- 11:30-14:00 (LO 13:00), 18:00-22:00 (Food LO 20:00, Drink LO 21:00)
- Regular holiday
- Monday/Tuesday
- location
- Tochigi 956 Shimohachiishi-cho, Nikko-shi, Nikko
- access
- 13 minutes walk from Tobu-nikko Nikko Station on the Tobu-nikko
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SPACIA X × Izawaichigoen
Izawaichigoen created original sweets products.
We visited Atsuhiko Izawa in Shimotsuke, Tochigi Prefecture, and asked him about his hometown of Tochigi and his thoughts on the products he has developed.
We visited Atsuhiko Izawa in Shimotsuke, Tochigi Prefecture, and asked him about his hometown of Tochigi and his thoughts on the products he has developed.
Mr. Izawa is still involved in growing strawberries, paying special attention to water and soil.
Gelato trained at a famous store in Tokyo.
Gelato trained at a famous store in Tokyo.
- Izawaichigoen
- Mr. Atsuhiko Izawa
Nikko Dorabata-san (Nikko Dorabata-san)
A shop that sells "Dorabata-san", a new type of hybrid sweets created by gelato and cafe Izawaichigoen. It is located in Nishi-Sando Chaya, which is convenient for sightseeing. You can take out original sweets made by a long-established confectionery store in Tochigi City, such as dorayaki with red bean paste sandwiched between the hand-baked skin and our signature gelato.
What is the appeal of the five types of sweets served on the train?
Some people may find it strange that Izawaichigoen, which is also a strawberry producer, created a product that will be sold inside the SPACIA X It is true that we are the primary producers of strawberries. However, they are also focusing on activities that bring back vitality to rural areas, and in addition to gelato made with home-grown strawberries and other ingredients, they also produce a variety of other products. The basis of this is the awareness that no matter what product we produce, we are the representatives of farmers and that we make them heroes. I believe that by using ingredients from local farmers in Shimotsuke and Tochigi Prefecture, as well as from domestic and overseas farmers who are serious about agriculture, we can revitalize farmers and restore vitality to rural areas. Therefore, Yoshidamura Village was established on the former JA site in Shimotsuke. We renovated a magnificent warehouse made of Oya stone and opened a shop, cafe, hotel, and glamping facility. Our restaurant is located next door, and we are now attracting a lot of people.
In addition to the "Sake-kasu Gelato" that is only available on SPACIA X,
We offer recommended products as "Today's Gelato"
We offer recommended products as "Today's Gelato"
With this in mind, one of the products we have created to be served on board is "Sake-kasu Gelato." This is a product that is only available on board the train, combining cheese gelato made from pasteurized milk from Nasu Senbonmatsu Farm with sake lees from Watanabe Sahei Shoten, a sake brewery in Nikko where sake is sold on board. There is also a "Today's Gelato" that is a Tochigi-style product made with home-grown strawberries. All of the gelatos are made with a natural sweetness in mind, allowing you to fully enjoy the flavor of the ingredients.
Sake lees butter sandwich
Sake-lees & Rice-flour Cracker Biscuits
Sake-lees & Rice-flour Cracker Biscuits
Sake lees from Katayama Shuzo Brewery in Nikko, which also produces Japanese sake sold on board the train, was also kneaded into butter sandwiches and cracker biscuits. This product is designed to be paired with beer or sake. We also recommend dipping the cracker biscuits into the `` Itadakimasu Trout and Scallion Rilettes'' available only on board.
Thoughts on SPACIA X
Through SPACIA X
Introduction of the store
This product is sold exclusively at Nikko stores. The one on the left is Mr. Dorabata (strawberry), and the one on the right is Mr. Dragera (milk). A unique taste that combines Japanese and Western flavors.
Although our gelato shop is a little far from Nikko, we have two in our local roadside station Shimotsuke and in the southern part of Ibaraki Prefecture. There is a directly managed cafe in Yoshida Village Village next to the head office, and a restaurant next door that uses locally grown vegetables. Furthermore, in Nikko, which will be our destination on SPACIA X The skin of the dorayaki, which is hand-baked in the store, is made by artisans who are particular about the ingredients, including the moist and textured Takaragasa wheat flour, orchard eggs from Nasu, beet sugar from Hokkaido, and ripe acacia honey. thing. The filling is also carefully cooked with Hokkaido-produced large-grain red beans, Toyosho.
Gelato is also available at stores in Nikko. The photo shows half of our signature product, strawberry milk and pistachio.
To go with this dorayaki, there are 4 types of Nikko Dorabata sandwiched with special butter cream, and 6 types of Nikko Doragela sandwiched with homemade gelato. In the center of Nikko, where many people gather, we will convey the thoughts and stories of farmers from all over the region.
Yoshida Village Village, where Mr. Izawa serves as the village chief. It used to be a place where JA housed and locals gathered, but after it closed, it became an empty warehouse. Mr. Izawa renovated it into a place where people from outside the prefecture can also visit.
Lunch menu at the restaurant attached to the headquarters. There are plenty of vegetables, many of which are locally grown.
Nikko Dorabata-san (Nikko Dorabata-san)
- TEL
- 0288-25-6970
- business hours
- 10:00～17:00
- Regular holiday
- Wednesday
- location
- Tochigi 10-20 Yasukawa-cho, Nikko-shi, Nikko
- access
- 30 minutes walk from Tobu-nikko Nikko Station on the Tobu-nikko
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SPACIA X × Mitsuyama Youkan Honpo
The yokan has the same flavor as the one from the main store, wrapped in a cutely designed package that is only sold inside the train.
We asked Yasuhiro Mitsuyama, the 4th generation owner, about the thoughts and commitment he put into this.
We asked Yasuhiro Mitsuyama, the 4th generation owner, about the thoughts and commitment he put into this.
Mr. Mitsuyama talked about his love for Nikko as well as his commitment to yokan.
In the guest room opposite the main store
In the guest room opposite the main store
- Mitsuyama Youkan
- Yasuhiro Mitsuyama
Mitsuyama Youkan Honpo
Since its founding in 1895, this long-established store has consistently made only yokan. It is a famous Nikko confectionery with a long history, and has been used as a gift to the imperial family resting at the Tamozawa Imperial Villa in Nikko, and also as an official item at Nikko Futarasan Shrine. The elegant sweetness and rich flavor of red beans are created through traditional handcraft techniques that have been passed down through the generations. In addition to the bite-sized One-bite Yokan, we also recommend the mizu yokan, which brings out the deliciousness of Nikko's famous water.
What is the appeal of the yokan in the original package inside the car?
One-bite Yokan (1 piece)
What we offer on the train is One-bite Yokan, which is also sold at our main store. However, the small box is a colorful one depicting the scenery of Nikko, and the outer box containing 3 pieces has a Kanuma Kumiko pattern reminiscent of the window frame of SPACIA X, so you can see the pattern on the small box. We have Inbound a product that is suitable for the new limited express, combining Nikko's traditional yokan with a new design.
One-bite Yokan (set of 3)
The ingredients for yokan are really simple: azuki beans, agar, sugar, and water. The unique characteristics of the ingredients come out directly, and changing the manufacturing method will also change the taste. For this reason, we continue to carefully select raw materials and are particular about handmade products that have remained unchanged since ancient times. Using Nikko's famous water, it has a smooth and elegant texture, and a rich sweetness that is satisfying as a Japanese sweet. However, the taste is actually changing little by little to match the tastes of customers, which change with the times.
Thoughts on SPACIA X
I feel that Limited Express Train is packed with the fun of traveling. In a sense, they are the guardians of Japan's travel culture. We hope that together with our new customers, we will bring a new breeze to Nikko.
What is your favorite thing about Nikko?
Surrounded by mountains on three sides, this area offers a variety of natural scenery. Of course, there is history, and there are many famous historical sites. My first favorite is Takio Shrine, located north of Nikko Toshogu Shrine. There are hardly any people in sight, and the atmosphere is quiet and dignified.
The other is Kannonji Temple, which stands on a hill behind the main store. This place is rarely visited by tourists, but it is recommended because you can get a panoramic view of Nikko city. The atmosphere is different from the tourist-filled streets of Omotesando and other areas of Nikko, and you will be able to see both the ``dynamic'' and ``static'' aspects of Nikko.
The other is Kannonji Temple, which stands on a hill behind the main store. This place is rarely visited by tourists, but it is recommended because you can get a panoramic view of Nikko city. The atmosphere is different from the tourist-filled streets of Omotesando and other areas of Nikko, and you will be able to see both the ``dynamic'' and ``static'' aspects of Nikko.
Introduction of the store
Yokan from Nikko has a history of being loved by travelers since the Edo period. Continuing to preserve this tradition. I believe that it is not about things remaining the same, but about passing on the good parts and continuing to change. In this way, we are able to continue to protect Nikko's yokan, a traditional confectionery, that is accepted by customers of each era.
One-bite Yokan that has the same taste as the yokan sold inside the train. Available retail and in boxes (from 8 pieces), they have a long shelf life and are popular as Nikko souvenirs.
Mizu Yokan, which has a smoother texture and a softer texture, is also one of their signature products that you must try (Image provided by Mitsuyama Youkan Co., Ltd.)
Inside the store, you can feel the style of a long-established store.
It is located about 300 meters from Shinkyo Bridge in front of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, making it a convenient location to stop by when visiting two shrines and one temple.
Mitsuyama Youkan Honpo
- TEL
- 0288-54-0068
- business hours
- 8:00～18:30
- Regular holiday
- new year's day
- location
- Tochigi 914 Naka Hachiishi-cho, Nikko-shi, Nikko
- access
- 20 minutes walk from Tobu-nikko Nikko Station on the Tobu-nikko
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One-bite Yokan (set of three) available exclusively on the Spacia X train. Also sold individually
SPACIA X × PATISSERIE LE SON
We developed the new "Ono Koji Miso Nikko Sable" which will be released on March 16, 2024.
Pastry chef Kyoko Fukui
We asked about the appeal of the product and about Nikko.
Pastry chef Kyoko Fukui
We asked about the appeal of the product and about Nikko.
Fukui-san loves Nikko's scenery, traditions and people
- Patisserie Le Son
- Kyoko Fukui
Patisserie Le Son
This sweets shop opened in November 2023 along the Nikko Kaido road connecting Tobu-nikko Station and Nikko Toshogu Shrine. In addition to cakes and baked goods by Fukui, who has trained at famous hotels in Tokyo, the shop also sells prepared foods from Girouette, run by his brother across the street who also makes appetizers (light dishes such as appetizers) available exclusively on the Spacia X train, charcuterie such as ham and sausages made by his father, and freshly baked bread.
What is the appeal of Nikko Sable?
Nikko Sable made with Ono Koji Miso and miso and blonde chocolate ganache
This product was created with the concept of being Nikko-esque, as it will be served on the Spacia X, which values its ties with the area along the line. The dough is made with a generous amount of Nasu's Goyo eggs and kneaded with hazelnut powder, giving it a rich flavor and a crispy texture.
The center is topped with a ganache made from miso and chocolate. The miso is made by Ono Koji Miso in Nikko city, and is a rice miso that has a stronger flavor than usual and has been aged for two years.
The center is topped with a ganache made from miso and chocolate. The miso is made by Ono Koji Miso in Nikko city, and is a rice miso that has a stronger flavor than usual and has been aged for two years.
The saltiness of the miso and the sweetness of the dough go well together, so we recommend pairing it with coffee.
The chocolate used is called blond chocolate made by Valrhona in France. This chocolate has a taste that is somewhere between black, milk, and white chocolate, and has a unique caramel-like flavor.
We decided to use miso to bring out the flavor of Nikko, and then we wondered what would be the best combination to bring out that flavor. We came up with fragrant blonde chocolate, and when we combined the two, we were able to fully enjoy the characteristics of both. Compared to ordinary sables, we think the result is a product that is more satisfying.
We decided to use miso to bring out the flavor of Nikko, and then we wondered what would be the best combination to bring out that flavor. We came up with fragrant blonde chocolate, and when we combined the two, we were able to fully enjoy the characteristics of both. Compared to ordinary sables, we think the result is a product that is more satisfying.
Thoughts on SPACIA X
Some customers have come to the store after seeing our products inside the Spacia X. We feel that the Spacia X, which brings many tourists to Nikko, has a positive impact on the town. With the increase in tourists, the town has been beautifully maintained, and new, attractive shops are opening one after another. We have also seen an increase in cases of people from Nikko who had moved to Tokyo and other places returning to open their own shops. We feel that a virtuous cycle is being created.
What is your favorite thing about Nikko?
Nikko is rich in nature and has many great places, but the highlights I recommend are its traditional events. The Yayoi Festival and Takio Shrine Annual Festival, held every year in mid-April, feature large floats called yatai parading through the city, heralding the arrival of spring in Nikko. I also participate by playing the flute. As the day of the festival approaches, the sounds of nighttime practice in various places echo through the town, creating an indescribable atmosphere.
In addition, various other traditional events are held throughout the year. Be sure to visit on a day when one is held and experience the profound depth of Nikko's traditions.
In addition, various other traditional events are held throughout the year. Be sure to visit on a day when one is held and experience the profound depth of Nikko's traditions.
Introduction of the store
A shop with a design that blends in with the townscape
My shop is located halfway along Nikko Kaido, which connects Tobu-nikko Station and Nikko Toshogu Shrine. When you enter the shop, you can see a magnificent lattice ceiling reminiscent of a shrine or temple, and colorful decorations painted on it. The ceiling depicts the four seasons of Nikko, and features colors reminiscent of Nikko carving, a traditional local craft. The noren curtain at the entrance is also dyed with indigo, which is dyed locally. We incorporated the ideas of Girouette 's brother and built a new shop with a retro-modern look that blends in with the historic streetscape of Nikko.
I always have about 7 to 10 kinds of cakes in stock, as well as seasonal limited items using seasonal fruits, and baked goods that are perfect for souvenirs. I also recommend choosing a stay plan that does not include dinner, and purchasing appetizers and charcuterie from Girouette to enjoy in your room in addition to the sweets.
I always have about 7 to 10 kinds of cakes in stock, as well as seasonal limited items using seasonal fruits, and baked goods that are perfect for souvenirs. I also recommend choosing a stay plan that does not include dinner, and purchasing appetizers and charcuterie from Girouette to enjoy in your room in addition to the sweets.
The interior of the restaurant is decorated with a lattice ceiling reminiscent of traditional architecture.
They also sell cookie cream puffs, perfect for eating on the go.
Patisserie Le Son
- TEL
- 0288-25-5507
- business hours
- 11:00～18:00
- Regular holiday
- Wednesday and Thursday
- location
- Tochigi 798-1 Shimohachiishi-cho, Nikko-shi, Nikko
- access
- 13 minutes walk from Tobu-nikko Nikko Station on the Tobu-nikko
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SPACIA X x Uezawa Umetaro Shoten
We will start serving miso soup from spring 2024, which is perfect for eating bento in the car.
We visited Uezawa Yuki to learn more about the appeal of these products, which are full of the essence of Nikko.
We visited Uezawa Yuki to learn more about the appeal of these products, which are full of the essence of Nikko.
Uezawa-san continues to carry on the traditions of his long-established business while also taking on new challenges
- Uezawa Umetaro Shoten
- Yuki Uezawa
Uezawa Umetaro Shoten
This is a long-established store representing Nikko, founded at the same time as the construction of Nikko Toshogu Shrine as a storehouse for the rice tax of Nikko Shrine. It began producing miso and soy sauce in the mid-Edo period, and invented "tamari pickles" after World War II. Today, it is a beloved Nikko specialty. The freeze-dried miso soup served on board is one of its most popular items, due to its Nikko-esque character and convenience.
What is the appeal of miso soup?
Freeze-dried miso soup sold in stores
The Nikko miso and yuba miso soup served on board the Spacia X is the "Yuba and Spinach Freeze-Dried Miso Soup" that is also sold in stores and online. This product was created with the desire to make it possible for people to enjoy delicious miso soup even on busy mornings by simply pouring in hot water. The ingredients that go with the additive-free, naturally brewed Nikko miso made from Nikko rice and soybeans are deep-fried yuba, a Nikko specialty, and colorful spinach. The koji used to make the miso is made from special rice grown in terraced fields that draws water from the Kirifuri River that flows through the Kirifuri Plateau.
In fact, fried yuba and spinach miso soup is a familiar dish that is often served in ordinary households in Nikko, where yuba is common. Nikko has many famous dishes, but I'm glad you learned about this simple local miso soup.
In fact, fried yuba and spinach miso soup is a familiar dish that is often served in ordinary households in Nikko, where yuba is common. Nikko has many famous dishes, but I'm glad you learned about this simple local miso soup.
Thoughts on SPACIA X
For us, who are locals of Nikko, "riding the Tobu Railway" means "going on a trip" or "starting a new life." All those memories are linked to the scenery we saw from the train window back then, and are burned into our minds... That's what makes this a special railway.
That alone is wonderful enough, but the Spacia X is not just a means of transportation; it is a special express train that allows you to enjoy the time you spend on board. I think many people will visit Nikko on the Spacia X, and I would be very happy if our miso soup could add color to the Nikko region as an expression of its local character.
That alone is wonderful enough, but the Spacia X is not just a means of transportation; it is a special express train that allows you to enjoy the time you spend on board. I think many people will visit Nikko on the Spacia X, and I would be very happy if our miso soup could add color to the Nikko region as an expression of its local character.
What is your favorite thing about Nikko?
After working in China, I came back to my hometown. I was surprised by the blueness of the sky in Nikko, the freshness of the air, and the irreplaceable charm of the place. Nikko is rich in nature. My favorite area in Nikko is the Koraigawa area. The area is filled with idyllic scenery that can be called the original Japanese landscape, woven together by rivers, mountains, and valleys. It's fun to travel around in search of the unknown Nikko.
Introduction of the store
The owner two generations ago created tamari pickles, which are now a standard Nikko souvenir. Tamari pickles are vegetables pickled in tamari, the clear top layer of miso produced in-house, and their signature product is pickled scallions grown in the prefecture. They also use carefully selected ingredients for their other products, such as ginger from Mibu Town in the prefecture and radishes harvested in the winter that are aged for a long time at low temperatures.
Our shop in Shimo-imaichi, which is committed to in-house manufacturing and direct sales, offers a wide variety of products like these, as well as other delicious ways to eat rice. In addition, in a Japanese-style house behind the shop, we also operate a breakfast specialty shop called "Shiruhanka no Mise Inkyo Uwasawa," where you can enjoy rice, miso soup, and a variety of pickles. You can experience a rich Japanese breakfast without getting bored of its simplicity.
Our shop in Shimo-imaichi, which is committed to in-house manufacturing and direct sales, offers a wide variety of products like these, as well as other delicious ways to eat rice. In addition, in a Japanese-style house behind the shop, we also operate a breakfast specialty shop called "Shiruhanka no Mise Inkyo Uwasawa," where you can enjoy rice, miso soup, and a variety of pickles. You can experience a rich Japanese breakfast without getting bored of its simplicity.
The main store is packed with a wide range of products.
They also sell clay pots for cooking delicious rice.
Miso made with rice koji from rice terraces is aged after preparation.
In addition to the classic tamari pickles, new products such as mixed nuts and dried fruit tamari pickles are also available.
Uezawa Umetaro Shoten
- TEL
- 0288-21-0002
- business hours
- 8:30～17:30
- Regular holiday
- Third Wednesday of every month (may vary on public holidays and during peak periods)
- location
- Tochigi 487 Imaichi, Nikko-shi, Nikko
- access
- 14 minutes walk from Shimo-imaichi Station on Tobu-nikko
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SPACIA X × Food Coordinator
In order to rediscover the various values of Nikko and enjoy it through our cafe,
Developed the cafe menu with good mornings Yu Mizushiro.
By incorporating perspectives such as regional revitalization, we aim to create a new type of cafe on Limited Express Train.
Developed the cafe menu with good mornings Yu Mizushiro.
By incorporating perspectives such as regional revitalization, we aim to create a new type of cafe on Limited Express Train.
- good mornings Co., Ltd.
- Yu Mizuyo
good mornings Co., Ltd. (Good Morning Kabushiki Gasha)
There are many special places, things, and people in Nikko that you really want to keep secret. What particularly captivated me was water. We would like to utilize the power of water, which can be felt everywhere in Nikko, in our manufacturing. Also, I work on various manufacturing projects with colleagues from all over Japan, and I was very impressed by the sincere attitude towards manufacturing of the business operators with whom I will be collaborating with them this time. We are confident that by working together with them, we will be able to deliver the best products to our customers. We will do our best to provide you with the best transportation experience of your life, so please take a ride on SPACIA X
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Information on On-Board Cafe
INTERVIEW
Here are the thoughts of everyone involved in the development of original products that can only be enjoyed here.
Everyone at the beer brewing site
The directors we spoke to, Mr. Sasaki (back right) and Mr. Kaneko (front left), and the staff
Uezawa-san continues to carry on the traditions of his long-established business while also taking on new challenges
