A Small Detour, a Bite to Remember– Mishima Korokke and the Taste of Japanese Nostalgia –

What Is a Korokke? Is It the Same as a Croquette?

If you’ve traveled in Japan, chances are you’ve come across the word "korokke."
A korokke is a classic Japanese comfort food—a humble croquette made by mashing potatoes, mixing them with ground meat and onions, shaping the mixture into patties, coating them in breadcrumbs, and deep-frying them until golden brown.

Crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, it’s the kind of food that brings back memories for many Japanese people. It's lovingly known as “mom’s cooking.”

You'll find korokke everywhere—from neighborhood delis and train station stalls to casual restaurant menus. It's an affordable, everyday snack.
But in Mishima, there's one korokke that stands out from the rest.

The Beginning of Mishima Korokke

It’s called Mishima Korokke.
This special version was created in 2008 by local residents who wanted to share Mishima’s local flavor with the world.

But this isn’t just any korokke.
Its star ingredient is Mishima Bareisho—a premium variety of May Queen potatoes grown in the highlands on the western slopes near Hakone. These potatoes grow in well-drained soil and soak up plenty of sunshine. They’re harvested for just one month each summer, making them incredibly rare. In fact, they’re among the most valuable potatoes on the Japanese market.

Mishima Korokke is made using 100% of this prized local crop. That’s what makes it so special.

Unique in Shape and Flavor, United by Warmth

Mishima Korokke isn’t limited to just one shop. In fact, over 900 shops across Japan now serve it.
You might be surprised to learn that there's only one simple rule:
It must be made with 100% Mishima Bareisho. Beyond that, every shop is free to use its own ingredients, shapes, and seasonings.

Some shops focus on the potatoes themselves, adding little seasoning to let the natural sweetness shine. Others offer hearty versions packed with flavorful meat.
Some are shaped like Mount Fuji, others like hearts. You’ll even find soba noodles topped with korokke!

It’s the perfect street snack—just grab one in your hand and enjoy it as you wander the town.
From Mishima Taisha Shrine to the clear waters of Genbe River, many shops are just a short walk away from the city’s top sightseeing spots.

👉 Explore with this English guide map: Mishima Korokke English Map (PDF)

It Doesn’t Have to Be Fancy—Just Memorable

When thinking about gourmet travel in Japan, you might picture a luxurious kaiseki meal or a high-end sushi course.
But sometimes, what stays in your memory isn’t a five-star meal—it’s a simple bite that carries the heart of a place.

A Mishima Korokke may only cost a few hundred yen, but each one is filled with local pride, history, and warmth.
Maybe you’ll think, “Why not give it a try?”—and find that it becomes one of your favorite moments from your trip.

If you’re visiting Mishima, don’t miss it.
Enjoy the taste of this town’s hospitality—freshly fried and served with a smile.

official logo

You’ll find authentic Mishima Korokke only at certified shops.
Look for the official logo as your delicious guide.

※After enjoying your meal, please take your trash home with you. Kindly refrain from littering.