Keihan

Keihan (鶏飯, meaning chicken rice), a beloved dish from Amami Oshima, is a simple yet flavorful meal featuring chicken strips served over a bed of plain rice. The dish is topped with thinly sliced omelet, ginger, green onion, shiitake mushrooms, and dried seaweed, creating a delightful combination of flavors. A savory chicken broth is poured over the ingredients, immersing them in a comforting and aromatic bath of rich flavors.

While the exact origins of Keihan remain unclear, it’s believed to have arrived on the island during the Edo Period (1603-1868), possibly inspired by a dish from the mainland. Today, it remains a popular choice among locals and visitors alike, valued for its healthy ingredients and light, refreshing taste. Its gentle flavor makes it an ideal meal for the island's warm climate, and it is served in many restaurants for around 800 to 1000 yen.