If you’re visiting Hōryū-ji and wondering where to grab a great local lunch, Hiraso (平宗) — a long-established maker of Kakinoha-zushi — is a great choice. This quick guide covers what Kakinoha-zushi is, why Hiraso is worth a visit, what to order, plus useful tips for tourists.
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What is Kakinoha-zushi? A Quick Guide
Kakinoha sushi – small, pressed pieces that are surprisingly filling yet easy to eat.
Kakinoha-zushi is one of Nara’s most famous local foods — pressed sushi (oshizushi) made by wrapping vinegared rice and fish (often mackerel) in persimmon leaves (kakinoha). It’s a traditional preservation method that goes back to before refrigeration: persimmon leaves contain tannins that helped keep the fish fresh, and leaving the sushi to rest overnight allows the leaf’s subtle aroma to infuse the rice. The result is a simple but satisfying taste that’s very much tied to Nara’s culinary history.
Glossary
Wrapped neatly in persimmon leaves, so you can enjoy it without getting your hands messy.
There aren’t as many restaurants around Hōryū-ji as you might expect — best to plan ahead during busy times.
Hiraso is a well-known, family-run brand with over 160 years of history and several locations around Nara. Their Hōryū-ji branch sits right on the path to the temple, so it’s very convenient for a lunch stop while sightseeing. They sell both dine-in set meals and takeaway packs — you can also buy items for shipment, making them easy souvenirs.
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