#Japan #Tokyo #Asakusa #Cool Japan #JIDORI

Celebrate the Rich Flavors of JIDORI at the ASAKUSA JAPANESE PREMIUM CHICKEN FEST 2026

From February 13 to 15, 2026, the Japan Poultry Association will host the ASAKUSA JAPANESE PREMIUM CHICKEN FEST at KADOMASU ASAKUSA, located in the bustling Asakusa area. This exciting pop-up event aims to showcase the unique and rare breed of Japanese chicken, known as JIDORI, to both domestic and international visitors. Situated in the heart of Asakusa's shopping district, this event is the perfect opportunity for food lovers to experience the culinary delights of this respected ingredient.

What is JIDORI?

JIDORI is a special strain of Japanese chicken that has been recognized for its outstanding quality and rich taste. Considered vital to Japanese cuisine, JIDORI has been registered as a part of Japan's UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. To be certified as JIDORI, the chicken must meet stringent standards set by ordinary Japanese Agricultural Standards (JAS). This includes:

• - Retaining over 50% indigenous Japanese lineage
• - Being raised in a free-range environment from 28 days old
• - A minimum rearing period of 75 days, which is approximately double the average for regular chickens

Due to these rigorous requirements, JIDORI constitutes a mere 1% of the total chicken production in Japan. Unfortunately, its value hasn't been widely recognized both at home and abroad. The festival's mission is encapsulated in the theme, "Bringing Japan’s Prized JIDORI to the World," highlighting the unique qualities and sophisticated flavors of JIDORI for visitors from around the globe.

Event Highlights

One of the major attractions of the festival will be the renowned yakitori restaurant, Eiki, located in Ebisu, Tokyo. Known for its exceptional culinary skills, Eiki will be preparing JIDORI dishes and showcasing the chicken’s full potential.

• - Free Tasting Experience

Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy a free tasting of JIDORI Sukiyaki made with Aomori's Shamorokku chicken. In addition, Sasaki Sake Brewing Company will offer complimentary tastings of their sake, Tokubetsu Junmai Tori, combining the unique tastes of chicken and sake in a quintessential Japanese culinary experience. These tastings will be available daily, but will be limited in quantity and will conclude once supplies run out.

• - JIDORI Tasting Set

For those looking to delve deeper into the world of JIDORI, a special tasting set featuring Hinai Jidori from Akita and Nagoya Cochin from Aichi will be available for purchase at 2,000 yen (tax included).

• - Purchase Incentive

As a special bonus, those who buy Yamamoto's Tare (basting sauce) will receive a unique cat silhouette sake cup from Sasaki Sake Brewery while supplies last.

Venue Details

The KADOMASU ASAKUSA, where the event will take place, is part of the Cool Japan TV group, designed for inbound tourists located in Asakusa's vibrant cultural hub. This venue aims to provide an immersive cultural experience through Japanese cuisine, making it a popular destination for international visitors. The location serves as a platform for local governments and businesses to promote Japanese culture and hold various pop-up events.

Event Overview

• - Event Name: ASAKUSA JAPANESE PREMIUM CHICKEN FEST 2026
• - Date: February 13 (Fri) - February 15 (Sun), 2026
• - Venue: KADOMASU ASAKUSA
• - Address: 2-7-13 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo, 111-0032, Japan
• - Organizer: Japan Poultry Association

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• - Sponsors: Sasaki Sake Brewing Company

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Yamamoto Corporation
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• - Cooperation: Cool Japan TV

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Get ready to indulge in the extraordinary flavors of JIDORI and celebrate the richness of Japanese culinary culture at this exciting event. Whether you are a local or a tourist, the festival promises an unforgettable experience.