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Imobō is a Kyoto specialty that maintains the wisdom of its original founder. The ebitaro and the bōdara (dried codfish) complement each other exquisitely to create a rich flavor.

As one of Kyoto’s specialties, it is not an exaggeration to say there is no single person who does not know Imobō. Its creator, Mr. Gondayū Hirano, served the Imperial Palace from the Genroku era to Kyōhō era. He brought back and grew the tōnoimo (a type of taro) from the princess’s royal visit to Kyushu. Since the yam grew so well in Kyoto and took on a shape resembling a shrimp, it came to be called ebiimo (shrimp taro). Imobō originated when the ebiimo was combined and cooked with the dried cod offering from Hokkaido to the Imperial Palace. At Imobō Hiranoya Honke, the original taste and skills it took to make Imobō has been passed down from one-generation owner to the next (known as Isshisōden in Japanese) for over 300 years and over 14 generations. The skills are transmitted orally from a predecessor to a successor. Since there are many conditions that can change daily, such as the condition of the ingredients, the climate, and the temperature, it is essential the two share their experience as a part of the transmission process in order to deliver a consistent delicious taste to the customers. This strict measures taken to protect the taste and skill has earned it acclaim from many celebrities, including Nobel Prize winner Yasunari Kawabata. Customers can relax and enjoy this traditional Kyoto flavor in a traditional Sukiya-style restaurant surrounded by the greenery of Maruyama Park.

Imobō Hiranoya Honke has a traditional rustic appearance and is located on the north side of the lushly surrounded Yasaka Shrine. Customers can recognize it by the “Isshisōden” written on the white noren (short curtain hung at the front of a store).

The Kyoto specialty Imobō is a dish made with thickly chamfered ebiimo with re-softened bōdara (dried codfish). The dried cod is re-softened from between seven to ten days and then stewed with the ebiimo for one whole day. The fluffy, lustrous dish is appetizing enough just by looking at it, but its wholesome rich flavor brings out a warm and happy feeling to those who eat it. Many customers come seeking for this rich flavor after a tea gathering.

Along with Imobō, there is also a Seasonal Meal (Kisetsu Gozen) with seasonal dishes prepared in accordance to the season available.
Click here for more information:
http://www.imobou.com/seasonmenu

There are various types of seating available, from private rooms to chairs for one person or for groups, at Imobō Hiranoya Honke so all guests can relax and enjoy a good time. There are also 30 seats that individual diners can use at ease. The refreshing greenery from Maruyama Park makes an impressionable view for its customers as well.

There are five private tatami rooms, including a room with a garden view, for customers who wish to spend a quiet time with their company. Opening all the sliding doors to the private rooms can make a banquet hall that accommodates large groups of up to 50 people.

The raised tatami-floored seating is idea for casual dining.

At some point in the paste, gourds became a symbol for Imobō Hiranoya Honke. Six gourds that became the store’s lucky charm can be seen everywhere around the store. The Kanji for six gourds “muhyō” can also be read as “mubyō” which means sound health. The most unusual gourd is the one divided into six parts placed next to the restaurant’s entrance. Please have a look at it upon your visit.

The flowers and trees in the inner garden harmonize with the greenery of the Maruyama Park to form a beautiful view from the restaurant. They are taken care of by the proprietress’ own hands with the hopes to sooth the customers’ soul by being able to see flowers all year round. The sight and the occasional chirping of the birds that come to play can relieve the soul.

Imobōru is a famous sweet that was sold in the past but is now revived and turned into a souvenir that is only available at the store. It is a yam snack that has a crispy texture and light sweetness that forms a nostalgic and timeless taste. 756yen (Tax included)

Imobō Hiranoya Honke

http://www.imobou.com