Chojiya

Chojiya is a traditional Japanese restaurant in Shizuoka that has been serving Tororo, a grated yam dish, since 1598. This restaurant holds a special place in Japanese history, as it has been a favorite stop for travelers along the old Tokaido road, which connected Edo (modern-day Tokyo) with Kyoto. Chojiya’s connection to history goes beyond food—it is said that the famous ukiyo-e artist Utagawa Hiroshige depicted the restaurant in one of his prints, capturing its essence as a resting place for weary travelers.

Tororo, the signature dish at Chojiya, is made from locally sourced yam, which is grated into a sticky, nutritious paste and often served over rice. The dish, known for its unique texture and earthy flavor, was a staple for travelers in the past due to its energy-boosting properties. Today, visitors to Chojiya can experience this centuries-old culinary tradition in a setting that preserves the atmosphere of Japan’s Edo period.