Hello, fellow travelers!

I’m Binako, a writer for Sarukuma, and lately my child has been completely hooked on a quirky app called “Ojipokkuru Ikusei DX” — a game where you raise tiny baby-old-man characters. Japan really does have an app for everything!

Today, I’m excited to introduce you to a true Kumamoto culinary gem:
“Suganoya Kengun Main Store — Horse Sashimi & Horse Meat Specialty Shop”, located in Wakaba, Higashi Ward, Kumamoto City.

Kumamoto is famous throughout Japan for its basashi (horse sashimi), and Suganoya is one of the most beloved names in town. I had to see what they had to offer!

You’ll find the shop tucked inside the lively Kengun Shopping Arcade — a great spot for casual strolling and local discoveries.

Inside, you’ll find a wonderful variety: frozen hamburg steaks, gyoza dumplings, and ready-to-cook side dishes — perfect if you’re traveling and need food that travels well or keeps for later. ^^

You’ll spot all kinds of cuts on display — including horse liver, premium sashimi-grade horse meat, and even big blocks of horse meat that look almost like edible sculptures. Honestly, just looking at it is satisfying.

The power of meat is real!

Horse Meat Menchi Croquette — 150 yen
Pork Loin Tonkatsu — 350 yen
Horse Meat Cutlet (Bakatsu) — 150 yen
Freshly fried cutlets are also available — a perfect grab-and-go snack!

Horse Meat Croquette — 150 yen
Unfortunately, this one was sold out by the time I arrived. Definitely on my list for next visit!

Recommended Menu

First up, I tried the
Horse Meat Menchi Croquette — 150 yen

It was freshly fried — piping hot, golden, and irresistibly aromatic.

The crispy golden coating gives way to incredibly juicy, savory horse meat —
that satisfying meaty bite is something else.

You can even feel a bit of texture from the meat fibers — pure happiness in every bite (*´Д｀)

Next up was the
Horse Meat Hamburg Steak — 298 yen

It even comes with a special sauce included — such a thoughtful touch!

Cut into it and the meaty juices come
BURSTING OUT!!!
It’s seriously, unbelievably delicious.

Generous portion size, super satisfying, and an absolute champion when paired with a bowl of rice (*´Д｀)

Beyond the fresh meats, Suganoya offers ready-made croquettes and frozen sides — making it a casual, easy stop whether you’re cooking that night or stocking up for later.

If you’re traveling through Kumamoto and want to taste one of the region’s most iconic specialties, don’t miss it!

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Frequently Asked Questions

※Information was accurate at the time of reporting. Prices and hours may change. Please confirm before visiting.