3 Crazy Bugs You Can Eat in Japan
Marie Moore
When you think of delicious Japanese snacks and Japanese candy we bet bugs don’t come to mind! However repulsive bugs may seem to some they’re commonly eaten across the globe! People don’t seem to think they eat bugs in Japan either, and assume it would be something out of a Japanese Horror movie but however many misconceptions there are about Japan, there are some bugs that are really eaten here in Japan fairly commonly! Though don’t worry, you wont be finding any of these in your TokyoTreat snack box!
Hachinoko
Hachinoko are the larvae and pupae of wasps… yep wasps! But specifically yellow jackets! Yeah those rather large and mean looking ones! Yikes! They’re also called “Hebo” in Gifu prefecture where they’re predominantly harvested and eaten. They’re usually prepared by simmering them in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, sake and cooking rice wine. Apparently the best time to eat them is in Autumn and that they’re particularly tasty on a bed of rice.
Inago
Rice grasshoppers or Inago are found commonly across Japan and are a pest too, so rather than using pesticides and chemicals to rid them, why not just eat them right? They’re large at 4cm and a good source of protein too! They were more commonly eaten before WW2 but are still eaten in Tohoku region today. Some people say they taste like shrimp whilst others say they have a nutty taste! They’re prepared the same way as hachinoko, then they’re usually eaten as a side dish or snack.
Kaiko
Kaiko are the pupae of the Japanese silk moth and are a byproduct of silk production. After the silk that the caterpillars spin to produce their cocoons with is harvested the pupae are left over, so why not eat them! Apparently they have a strong flavour and even those who enjoy inago and hachinoko don’t enjoy the stronger flavour of kaiko. They’re prepared in a similar way to inago and hachinoko. Apparently they’re common in Nagano prefecture.
Want to see more weird Japanese food? Why not check out these really weird cup ramen flavours or this crazy expensive Japanese food!
Would you try any of these bugs? Or have you tried any? Let us know in the comments!
Keep up with all fun foodie news coming out from Japan by following us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!
Want to get a FREE Japanese candy box? Check out how to get one here!
Related articles
Ume Power: The Amazing Story of the Japanese Plum!
Japanese ume (梅), often called the “Japanese plum,” is a small fruit with a big role in Japan’s food and culture! Even though some people call it a plum, it is actually closer to an apricot.
Japanese Chocolate: Best Spring KitKat Flavors You Have to Try!
From classic cherry blossom to sakura‑infused twists with matcha, sake, and more, these bars are perfect for anyone who wants to taste Japanese spring in chocolate form.
Matcha Latte: What’s The Story Behind This Drink?
Matcha latte is one of the most popular drinks in the world right now! It is the mecca of everything related to wellness cafés, Japanese tea culture, and colorful social media drinks! But how did it come to be so beloved?
Crispy Chicken Katsudon Recipe From Aaron and Claire!
Aaron and Claire show how to make crispy chicken katsudon in just 20 minutes. This comforting Japanese rice bowl features fried chicken, soft eggs, and savory sauce over rice.
Aaron and Claire Make the Easiest Japanese Fried Rice at Home!
Aaron and Claire show how to make simple Japanese fried rice, or yakimeshi. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep.
Vegan Ramen in Japan: Best Places to Try!
Vegan ramen has become easier to find in Japan as food choices slowly change. Traditional ramen usually uses pork broth, chicken stock, or fish-based sauces. Today, plant-based versions can be found in major cities and popular tourist areas. These bowls focus on vegetables, soy products, and miso-based broths instead of meat. As a result, it’s...