Nagaoka, Niigata Prefecture, Japan | Century-old Kappo Izakaya "Uosen"

Arriving in Nagaoka via Shinkansen, my journey through Japan's Tohoku region begins. This is my first time in Niigata Prefecture, where the air seems to carry the fragrance of rice—this is Japan’s famed rice-producing region, and I’m here, above all, for the food. In the evening, we chose a highly rated local classic: Kappo Uosen (うおせん). This century-old establishment, operating since the Taisho era (about 100 years ago), sits quietly on a street corner in Nagaoka’s Tonocho district, its unassuming entrance easy to miss. Inside, the warm wooden counter and traditional seating instantly put you at ease. 🍽️ Must-try: Uosen’s Special Tochio Aburaage (Tochio Deep-Fried Tofu) We ordered the signature "Special Aburaage," and to our surprise, it arrived looking like premium "Wagyu tofu"—golden and crispy outside, tender and juicy inside, with a rich soybean aroma that melts in your mouth like delicate fried meat. Drizzled with soy sauce, sprinkled with scallions and bonito flakes, each bite delivers a satisfying crunch. One bite reveals a perfect contrast of crispiness and softness, the deep soybean flavor lingering on your palate. The frying is masterfully balanced—rich but not greasy, leaving you craving more. 👀✨ This Tochio aburaage is a staple home-style dish in Niigata’s Tochio region, but only at Uosen can you taste this elevated, refined version! 🐟 More Than Tofu: Exquisite Sake and Fresh Delicacies Of course, Uosen’s appeal goes beyond aburaage. The sashimi platter, featuring fish delivered fresh from Niigata, is expertly sliced and refreshingly tender. The menu also boasts hidden gems like "Katsuo Namero" (pounded bonito) and "Shirayaki Unagi" (salt-grilled eel). Though the handwritten menu is mostly in Japanese, the friendly staff patiently explain each dish. 📍 Restaurant Info 🏠 Address: 2-2-9 Tonocho, Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture (3-min walk from Nagaoka Station) 💰 Avg. cost: ~¥4,000 (incredible value!) 🕰 Hours: Lunch and dinner (reservations recommended)