KARAAGE – FRIED CHICKEN / All-Oita

Karaage is a dish that can be found all across Japan, but in Oita Prefecture, it takes on a special significance. In particular, Nakatsu City is known as the ‘Holy Land of Karaage’, while Usa City is known as the ‘Birthplace of Karaage’. In both areas in addition to being a beloved home–cooked dish, there are numerous specialty shops offering freshly fried karaage to enjoy. Many shops deep–fry their chicken, marinated in soy sauce or salt sauce, fresh after receiving an order. The crispy, savoury outside and juicy inside are enough to make your stomach growl just from the smell alone.

These speciality stores are very popular among the locals, who often buy several kilograms to take away for family gatherings and regular dinners. ‘Oita’s karaage’ has gained such recognition throughout the country that more and more people are visiting these restaurants to get a taste of the local flavour. You can easily takeaway even small quantities of Karaage, so why not savour a freshly fried Karaage while strolling around the town.