Recommended Lunch in Kitsuki | “Masudaya,” the Onigiri Specialty Shop in the Castle Town

If you’re looking for a great lunch spot in Kitsuki Castle Town, Masudaya, a specialty rice ball shop, is the perfect choice. Located at the foot of the famous Suya no saka Slope, this charming eatery offers delicious onigiri made with locally sourced ingredients, all while surrounded by the town’s rich history.

A Picturesque Location with Traditional Charm

Masudaya is conveniently situated near Suya no saka Slope, one of Kitsuki’s must-visit attractions. Nestled in a well-preserved Edo-era castle town, this onigiri shop provides an authentic taste of local flavors in a historically rich setting.

The Unique Appeal of Masudaya

Opened in April 2021, Masudaya features a food space and souvenir shop on the first floor, while the second floor offers accommodations, making it a perfect stop for both sightseeing and dining.

Additionally, Masudaya was established with support from Kitsuki City’s Community Development Facility Improvement Project (FY 2020). Now a beloved landmark, it enhances the historical charm of Kitsuki and has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Exquisite Onigiri and Miso Soup

The rice used for the onigiri is “Milky Queen,” a premium rice variety from Oita Prefecture. This carefully selected rice from a local long-established rice shop is sweet and sticky, making it perfect for onigiri. The fillings are also carefully chosen, featuring handmade ingredients such as locally produced “kamaage shirasu” (freshly boiled baby sardines) from Kitsuki. You can fully enjoy the authentic taste of the area.

Additionally, the miso soup in the set menu uses miso from “Ayabe Miso Brewery,” a century-old company. Made with domestic soybeans, rice, and barley from Kyushu, the miso is slowly brewed with pure natural water. It has a rich aroma and deep umami, perfectly complementing the onigiri and enhancing the deliciousness of the ingredients.

This time, I selected “Kitsuki Shirasu” (freshly boiled baby sardines) and “Meat Miso” as the fillings. Since each onigiri is carefully shaped by hand after ordering, you can enjoy freshly made onigiri. The nori (seaweed) is not the crispy type commonly found in convenience store onigiri, but rather has a moist and tender texture.

The set includes onigiri, miso soup, pickles, and potato salad, making for a simple yet satisfying meal. Enjoying this set while looking out at the charming castle town view enhances the overall deliciousness.

Ordered lunch set (Set A ¥780) Contents: 2 onigiri (choose your preferred fillings), miso soup, pickles, small side dish.

The miso soup uses miso from “Ayabe Miso Brewery,” which is located just a short walk from “Masudaya” across from Suya no saka. Established in 1900, this long-standing miso brewery also offers miso for purchase as a souvenir.

Accommodations to Enjoy Alongside Sightseeing

On the second floor of “Masudaya,” there is a lodging space that can accommodate up to six people. With its traditional farmhouse-style interior, it offers a relaxing space where you can enjoy the atmosphere of the castle town. From the windows, you can take in historic views, including “Suya no saka,” and immerse yourself in the feeling of having time-traveled back to the Edo period.

Store Information

Summary

At “Masudaya,” you can savor carefully crafted onigiri while experiencing the history and culture of Kitsuki. It’s a great spot to stop by during your sightseeing, or you can take advantage of the lodging on the second floor to fully enjoy the atmosphere of the castle town. When visiting Kitsuki, be sure to enjoy an onigiri lunch at “Masudaya.”