Reader’s Question: I am planning a family trip from Fukuoka City to Katano City via the Chugoku Expressway. Please let me know about delicious food at ○○SA or what souvenirs to buy that would make people happy.
Embarking on a
Delicious Adventure: Fukuoka City to Katano City
Hey there, fellow travelers! So, I just got back from an amazing family road trip from Fukuoka City to Katano City, and I couldn’t wait to share all the delicious food and unique souvenirs we found along the way. Spoiler alert: If you’re a foodie, you’re in for a treat! Buckle up as I take you on a culinary journey via the Chugoku Expressway.
Setting the Scene
First, let’s talk about the journey itself. The Chugoku Expressway is not just a road; it’s more like a scenic highway with gorgeous views of the countryside. As we hopped into the car, the kids were buzzing with excitement, and honestly, I was too. Who doesn’t love a good road trip? We packed snacks (of course), but little did we know we were about to be tempted by the mouthwatering offerings at the service areas, or SAs as the locals call them.
First Stop: Yamaguchi Service Area
Our first stop was the Yamaguchi Service Area, and oh boy, what a find! The minute we walked in, we were enveloped by the aroma of grilled meat and baked goods. Yamaguchi is famous for its fresh seafood, so naturally, we dove into their local specialty: fugu (pufferfish). Yes, I know, it’s a bit daring, but I had to try it!
We ordered a fugu sashimi platter, and let me tell you, it was as delicate as it was delicious. The presentation was stunning, with the translucent slices arranged like a beautiful flower. I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness as I took my first bite. The taste? Pure bliss! It was buttery, with a subtle sweetness that lingered on my palate. If you’re feeling adventurous, this is a must-try.
Snack Attack!
Before we hit the road again, I couldn’t resist grabbing some local snacks. The Yamaguchi SA has an array of treats that caught my eye. After a bit of deliberation, I settled on some fugu chips. Yes, you read that right! They were light and crispy, with a hint of salt that made them incredibly addictive. My kids loved them, and I was happily surprised at how tasty they were! Who knew fugu could be a chip?
Next Up: Okayama Service Area
After a couple of hours on the road, we made our way to the Okayama Service Area. Now, if you’re a fan of fruit, this is where your heart will melt. Okayama is famous for its peaches, and you can’t leave without trying the fresh peach parfait. It’s like a peach explosion in a cup, with juicy slices of peach, creamy ice cream, and a drizzle of sweet syrup. Seriously, it’s heaven!
While we were there, I also spotted some beautiful peach-shaped souvenirs. They were adorable, and I ended up buying a couple for friends back home. Trust me, anyone receiving a cute peach plushie is going to be over the moon!
A Sweet Surprise: Kurashiki Service Area
We indulged in a variety of treats, but the standout for me was the sakura mochi, a sweet rice cake wrapped in a cherry blossom leaf. The flavor was so light and fragrant; it felt like spring on my tongue. Plus, they had these cute little packaging options, making them perfect for gifts.
Getting Creative with Souvenirs
Now, let’s talk souvenirs. As we continued on our adventure, I realized that Japan has a treasure trove of items perfect for bringing back home. At the service areas, I found adorable keychains, interesting local crafts, and even some cool Japanese tea sets that scream “take me home!”
My kids got their hands on some unique local snacks packaged beautifully, and we also couldn’t resist a few quirky T-shirts that had funny English phrases. Who wouldn’t want to sport a shirt that says “I Love Sushi” while strolling around town?
Final Destination: Katano City
After all the food sampling and souvenir shopping, we finally made it to Katano City. We were all a little tired and slightly stuffed, but it was the good kind of tired, you know? As we settled into our accommodation, we couldn’t help but reminisce about all the delicious stops we had made along the way.
Katano City itself is beautiful; it has a more laid-back vibe compared to bustling Fukuoka. The streets are lined with quaint shops and friendly locals, making it feel like a hidden gem. We spent our evenings exploring, but I think the highlight for me was finding a small izakaya where we could relax and enjoy some local cuisine.
Food Adventures in Katano
Speaking of local cuisine, if you are ever in Katano, don’t miss out on trying their grilled chicken skewers, known as yakitori. It’s a casual dining experience, and the locals often gather here. The skewers were perfectly charred, juicy, and seasoned just right. We even had a friendly chat with the owner, who shared stories about the area and his love for grilling.
Reflecting on Our Experience
As our trip wound down, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for all the experiences we’d packed into just a few days. From trying adventurous dishes like fugu at the service areas to sharing local sweets with my family, it reminded me of how food can bring people together. Those moments of laughter and joy over a meal are what make traveling worthwhile.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip, I encourage you to take the scenic route and explore the hidden gems along the way. You never know what delightful surprises you’ll find at the service areas, and trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Final Tips
For those planning a similar journey, here’s a quick tip: Don’t rush! Allow yourself time to stop and savor everything. Each SA has its own unique offerings, so keep your eyes peeled and your appetite ready.
And remember, food isn’t just sustenance; it’s part of the culture. So dive in, ask for recommendations, and who knows? You might discover your new favorite dish. Safe travels, and happy eating!
