【Popular Spot】Beyond the sugarcane fields in Ishigaki Island is "Tofu no Higa," which is bustling from early in the morning.

"Tofu Higa," located beyond the sugarcane fields of Ishigaki Island, is a famous shop that attracts a line even before dawn. I want to make an effort to wake up early and enjoy a flavorful breakfast. What is that taste at the end of the line?

A bustling scene before dawn! Heading to "Tofu no Higa."

I came to Ishigaki Island for a family birthday celebration. While enjoying a water buffalo tour on Taketomi Island, which is about a 15-minute boat ride away, I started chatting with another tourist who mentioned, "The breakfast I had this morning was absolutely delicious." I want to go to that restaurant where a line forms before dawn! I planned to wake up a little early the next morning and decided to head there to check it out.

In the morning, it was still dark, and the sun had not yet risen. As I drove through the dim sugarcane fields, I started to feel a bit anxious, wondering, "Is there really a store ahead?" But just as rumored, I began to see a queue.

Actually, I overslept a bit and arrived at "Tofu no Higa" at 6:45. It was about 15 minutes after opening, but there was already a line of more than 10 groups. Surprised by its popularity beyond my expectations, I decided to wait in line in the still slightly chilly air.

Tofu Higa Address: 570 Ishigaki, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture Business Hours: 6:30 AM - 3:00 PM (until sold out)

While waiting in line, a sweet and gentle aroma of tofu wafted through the air. During the wait, the menu that came around featured an array of attractive sets. I hesitated for a moment, but choosing the classic option, I went for the "Yushi Tofu Set Small (600 yen)." About 30 minutes after starting to line up, I was finally able to take a seat.

On the table were a variety of seasonings such as Kooregosu (a condiment made by soaking island chili peppers in awamori), salt, chili pepper, and miso.

The warm "Yushi Tofu Set" seeps into my body.

Is this island miso?

As I enjoyed the atmosphere of the shop, before I knew it, the "Yushi Tofu Set" arrived. The steaming yushi tofu, rice, pickles, and soy milk formed a lineup that truly represented an island breakfast, rich in flavors.

First, I tried the warm yushi tofu as it is. The natural sweetness of the soybean spreads throughout my mouth, and the quality of the ingredients is conveyed directly. The soybean flavor is not too strong, creating a good overall balance.

The author is originally a tofu lover. Among the many tofu shops I have visited, this one stands out for its deliciousness. Ah... the warm tofu seeps into my cold body, gently melting into it. As rumored, it was worth getting up early.

Next, I added miso to change the flavor. A rich and deep umami was added, creating a comforting taste like miso soup. When I added a little salt here, the sweetness of the soybean was enhanced. Even though only a small amount of each was added, it was interesting how much the flavor changed!

To finish, I added the previously mentioned seasoning, koori-gosu. The sharp spiciness tightened up the flavor, and I was able to enjoy it deliciously until the last bite.

If you're going to Ishigaki Island for sightseeing, it's worth a stop.

By the time I finished eating, the sun was fully up, and a refreshing breeze was blowing through. There was still a line, and I've heard that it often sells out by just after 9 AM. Waking up early was truly the right decision. Both my stomach and heart were fully recharged, so it seems I can enjoy the subsequent sightseeing in Ishigaki Island to the fullest.

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