About the Shop

Hello there!
This is Mikan 🍊, a writer for [SaruKuma].

Today I’m introducing you to
Marushige Meat Bypass Store,
located in Jonohara, Yamato Town, Kamimashiki District, Kumamoto Prefecture.

The center of the shop proudly displays the name “Niku no Marushige” (Marushige Meat).

Park your car right in front of the shop.

The sign next to the shop also reads “Yabe no Kenchiki” (Yabe’s Kenchiki).

And right in front of the shop, there it is again — “Yabe no Kenchiki.”

Did you know about this hidden gem?

That’s right! Yabe has its very own “Kenchiki” — a local twist on KFC-style fried chicken! (haha)

Inside, it’s a proper butcher shop —
the display case is filled with fresh meat,
sold by weight.

There’s also a frozen food section,
perfect for quick dinner ideas
or when you don’t have time to cook from scratch!

This zone is a busy parent’s best friend!

I always end up tossing frozen hamburgers into my basket. (haha)

Now, just to your left as you walk in —
there’s this corner with serious presence.

Yes! This is the legendary Yabe no Kenchiki!

You can immediately tell this is the shop’s star attraction.

While I was there,
Yabe no Kenchiki was flying off the shelves nonstop.

Yep — this is definitely the boss of the shop.

Recommended Menu

The menu is refreshingly simple — just three options:

・Yabe no Kenchiki Momo (Thigh, 400 yen each)

・Yabe no Kenchiki Hane (Wing, 350 yen each)

・Yabe no Kenchiki Nekku (Neck, 200 yen per 100g)

This time I tried the Momo (400 yen) and the Nekku (200 yen per 100g).
After heading home, I regretted not grabbing the Hane too. (haha)
Guess I’ll just have to come back!

Anyway, back to the food!

Yabe no Kenchiki Momo (Thigh)

About the size of your palm!

Doesn’t it have a beautiful shape?

CHOMP!
I took a big bite!

The first word out of my mouth: Delicious!

The spices have a real kick — but they’re not overpowering!

The seasoning is perfectly balanced — flavorful without being too intense!

To be honest, the original American KFC has a stronger seasoning,
but I personally prefer this milder, more refined spice level.

The meat is plentiful and
you really get to enjoy that hearty chicken texture!

It’s not too greasy either — really easy to eat.

Yabe no Kenchiki Nekku (Neck)

It’s stick-shaped, about 5 cm long.

Definitely on the smaller side, and looks pretty modest. (haha)

But for me, this is a taste of nostalgia —
my dad used to bring these home all the time.

I bet there are quite a few neck-meat fans out there too!

Unlike the thigh, one bite and
the meat is pretty much gone. (haha)

You’re probably thinking, “Wait… what?? Is that it??” (haha)

But the magic of the neck starts HERE!

Once you’ve finished off the meat,
just SUCK and SUCK and SUCK every last bit of flavor from those bones!

The bones are coated in delicious spice
and pure umami — savor every drop!

This is the true joy of the neck.

Moms and dads — once the kids are asleep,
these make the perfect snack to pair with a drink!

So, did anyone already know about this hidden treasure?

Niku no Marushige’s Yabe no Kenchiki!

Definitely give it a try when you’re in the area! ♪

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Frequently Asked Questions

※Information is current as of the time of reporting. Prices and hours may change. Please confirm before visiting.