Ieyasu Takagari Nabe is a unique Japanese hot pot dish inspired by Tokugawa Ieyasu and his connection to falconry in the Togane area. Using a rich black bean miso broth and hearty local ingredients, this flavorful dish blends history and regional pride in every bite. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes this nabe so special and why it continues to capture attention across Japan—so keep reading to discover the story behind this one-of-a-kind local specialty.
What is Ieyasu takagari nabe?
Ieyasu Takagari Nabe (家康鷹狩り鍋) is a local Japanese hot pot dish inspired with Tokugawa Ieyasu and his love for falconry (takagari). Closely associated with Okazaki City in Aichi Prefecture, where Ieyasu was born, the dish features a flavorful miso broth made from locally grown black beans. The Togane Black Bean Miso Hotpot Association developed this—a collaboration of local restaurants, farmers, and government agencies in Togane City—to promote regional revitalization. This unique nabe has gained national recognition, including winning the Nippon Nationwide Hotpot Grand Prix.
Etymology
The dish takes its name from the fact that Togane once served as a falconry ground for Tokugawa Ieyasu. True to its name, it doesn’t include falcon meat, but instead features ingredients like roast pork, chicken, duck, and vegetables, along with Boso’s specialty clams. These are all simmered in a rich black bean miso broth.
Ieyasu takagari nabe History
About eight years ago, Togane City, together with local restaurants, farmers, and other stakeholders, established the “Togane Black Bean Miso Nabe Association” to promote their unique regional flavor to a wider audience. They developed Ieyasu Takagari Nabe as a local specialty, which quickly gained media attention and became a popular topic. In 2017, the dish earned third place at the Nippon Nationwide Hotpot Grand Prix. Today, it stands not only as a comforting local hotpot but also as a flavorful tribute to Tokugawa Ieyasu, offering visitors a taste of history.
Award-Winning Recognition at National Competitions
The Togane Black Bean Miso Nabe Association gained national acclaim by participating in the Nippon Nationwide Nabe Grand Prix for two consecutive years. In 2017, they won 3rd place out of 60 teams, and in 2018, they secured 5th place out of 62 teams at the event held in Wako City, Saitama Prefecture. Their entry, “Ieyasu Takagari Nabe,” is an inspiration to the stew enjoyed by Tokugawa Ieyasu during his falconry outings in the area. Made with a rich black bean miso broth using locally harvested black soybeans, the dish impressed visitors and showcased the regional flavors and historical legacy of Togane City.
Takeaway
Ieyasu Takagari Nabe is more than just a comforting hot pot—it’s a flavorful tribute to Japan’s rich history and local tradition. Whether you’re a food lover, a history enthusiast, or simply curious about regional Japanese cuisine, this unique dish offers a memorable experience. If you ever find yourself in Japan, especially in the Togane or Okazaki area, don’t miss the chance to taste Ieyasu Takagari Nabe for yourself—you might just discover a new favorite.
If you enjoyed learning about Ieyasu Takagari Nabe, you might also want to explore other history-inspired local dishes across Japan—like Hōtō from Yamanashi or Kiritanpo Nabe from Akita—for a deeper taste of regional tradition and culture.
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