Introducing the Souvenirs of Owakudani, Kanagawa!
Owakudani is a valley located in Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture. It was formed by the remains of a volcanic eruption of Mount Hakone about 3000 years ago. Thanks to its rugged rocks, white steam and sulphuric smell, it used to be called "The Valley of Hell".
Visitors can feel the power of nature here, making this a famous tourist destination now.
The black eggs that Hakone is well-known for, as well as as related souvenirs, are sold in large quantities here.
Currently, to maintain safety during times of volcanic activity, part of the park is closed to the public.
It's said that if you eat one of these black eggs, famed as Owakudani's specialty, you can extend your life by seven years.
They're boiled in hot spring water for 1 hour.
The eggs are not dyed black. Sulfur in the hot spring water mixes with iron in the eggshell, creating the iron sulfide that turns them black.
They have a good reputation for being tastier than typical boiled eggs.
Hakone Kuro-Tama, a Sweet Souvenir
The cover illustration shows black eggs in a bath.
A box of 12 is ¥650, and a box of 20 is ¥1080 (tax-inclusive)
Their round, black appearance bears a close resemblance to the real thing!
With a soft, fluffy cocoa-flavored steamed cake enveloping a custard on the inside, it's so delicious!
It's a bit difficult to give boiled eggs as a souvenir, but these "eggs" last longer. I can highly recommend them as a gift representing Hakone!
In Hakone, there are a lot of other souvenirs imitating black eggs, too!
