Enjoy Iya Valley’s Stone Tofu in Tokushima (Shikoku)

Iya Valley in Tokushima Prefecture boasts secluded gorges, historical villages and surprisingly chunky tofu. One of many regional culinary wonders, iwadofu or stone tofu, challenges the established notion that tofu is bland to prove it can be rich, flavorful, and thrilling to eat. For one, stone tofu is heavy – one block weighs 2 kilograms (4.4 pounds) – and has a rich, sweet taste of soybeans. Due to its weight, villagers would bind it with rope to maintain its shape when carrying it through the region's steep mountain roads. Thankfully, it is easier to keep and enjoy this delicious food in modern times — and you can easily do it in this experience! You'll meet your hosts at Boke Mart, a local supermarket that stocks Iya Valley specialties and daily necessities. Here, all you'll have to do is break up the tofu briskly with your hands, add your favorite condiments, and enjoy it with your group! If you can't finish your meal, you can take home any leftovers. Afterwards, you'll use a stone mortar to grind green tea leaves cultivated in the nearby mountains and enjoy a fresh cup of tea. Experience flow: - Meet your hosts at Boke Mart - Enjoy stone tofu: break up the tofu, add your preferred condiments, and enjoy eating with your group and hosts - Use a stone mortar to grind tea leaves for a fresh cup of tea - After the experience, feel free to enjoy more regional foods at Boke Mart at your own expense