Admire the night view of Kumamoto Castle and savor horse meat in an imperial setting

Eating beef, chicken, pork, or lamb may not be unusual, and the Chinese also consider dog meat a delicacy. But for the Japanese, who value gourmet experiences, horse meat is a prized ingredient. The best way to enjoy it is fresh and raw—the pink flesh is even known as “cherry blossom meat.” It’s a renowned local specialty in Kumamoto, with the highest-quality horse meat coming from the Aso region.

Savoring traditional horse meat cuisine while admiring one of Japan’s three great castles, Kumamoto Castle, is nothing short of an imperial experience. The “Shironokan” restaurant, located right next to the moat of Kumamoto Castle, offers just that perfect ambiance. This six-story building features diverse spaces on each floor—from tatami-separated rooms to banquet halls—all equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer full views of Kumamoto Castle across the way. The scenery is especially atmospheric from evening into night.

The tradition of eating horse meat dates back to post-war Kumamoto, when food was scarce and horses retired from military service were used as a substitute for beef or pork. Horse meat has less fat but is rich in protein and vitamins, making it relatively valuable. It can be cooked in various ways such as pan-frying, grilling, or boiling, but it tends to become tougher when cooked. Therefore, the most authentic way to enjoy it is as raw horse sashimi.