Arriving in Owakudani, Japan, the first two things that impress visitors are not the steam rising from the ground or the signs warning of volcanic activity: the first is the scent, a thick sulfurous scent that reminds that the ground here is always ready to boil, and the second is the unique dish - black eggs kuro-tamago. Legend has it that eating just one black egg will extend your life by seven years. Regardless of the truth, this dish still attracts thousands of visitors every year to both enjoy the taste and discover the mysterious story behind it.
Owakudani Volcanic Valley, Hakone Town, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Journey to Owakudani - The majestic volcanic valley
Owakudani, which means "Great Boiling Valley," was formed by an eruption of Mount Hakone about 3,000 years ago. Today, it is one of Kanagawa Prefecture's most popular destinations, attracting visitors with its amazing natural scenery.
The landscape here is a dramatic picture of wild nature, with steam-belching hot vents, strange sulfur-colored rocks and boiling hot pools that resemble a witch's cauldron. If you pay attention, you will see pipes running along the mountainside, bringing precious mineral water from Owakudani to the ryokan (traditional inns), testament to the area's long history as an ideal destination for those who love hot springs.
There are many ways to get to Owakudani, but the most interesting journey is the Hakone Ropeway. When the cable car leaves Sounzan station, visitors will admire the green forests, then suddenly step into the wild landscape of the volcanic region. The higher you go, the more steam rises from the ground, dyeing the rocks yellow with sulfur minerals. This is the place where the legendary black eggs are born.
Visitors should experience the Hakone Ropeway when coming to Owakudani.
Volcanic specialty: Kuro-tamago black eggs
Kuro-tamago black eggs are prepared using a very special process. Fresh eggs are placed in wire baskets and dipped into hot springs rich in iron and sulfur, then left to cook for about an hour. During this process, a chemical reaction between the iron and hydrogen sulfide gas forms iron sulfide, which turns the eggshells jet black. After boiling, the eggs are steamed for another 15 minutes to complete the process.
Despite its unusual appearance, when the black shell is peeled off, the egg white inside is still smooth and shiny, no different from a normal boiled egg. The taste is also not too special, just a slight characteristic mineral scent. But what makes this egg dish attractive is the legendary story of longevity associated with it.
Despite the unusual outer shell, the inside of a kuro-tamago is no different from a regular boiled egg.
The Legend of "Seven Years"
Legend has it that eating a black egg at Owakudani will prolong your life by seven years. This legend originates from an ancient statue of Enmei Jizo Bosatsu, meaning “Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva of Longevity.” According to legend, the statue was carved by the monk Kobo Daishi more than 1,200 years ago.
Enmei Jizo is considered the guardian deity of children, the elderly, and the weak, and is capable of granting blessings and longevity to those who pray to him sincerely. Therefore, when locals discovered that the eggs turned black after being boiled in the hot springs, they believed that they had absorbed the spiritual energy of this sacred land and could help people live longer.
The number "seven" is not a coincidence. In Japanese culture, the number seven is considered a lucky number, bringing blessings and health. Although there is no scientific evidence to prove this, the legend still makes many tourists curious. However, if you intend to "immortality" by eating many eggs, you should also note that the longevity effect is said to only be effective with a maximum of two eggs!
Legend has it that black eggs are the crystallization of the land's spiritual energy, helping people live longer.
What should I pay attention to when coming to Owakudani?
While it is a fascinating destination, Owakudani is still an area of active volcanic activity. Local authorities regularly monitor gas levels in the air, and the area can sometimes be temporarily closed if sulfur levels get too high.
Also, those with respiratory problems should consider before coming here, as the sulfur smell can be unpleasant. If you feel uncomfortable, you can rest in the sheltered areas or shops in the tourist area.
Those with respiratory problems should consider before coming here as the sulfur smell can be unpleasant.
If you want to try the original black eggs, you can go to Owakudani Kurotamagokan, which sells fresh eggs prepared on the same day. Whether you believe in the longevity legend or not, eating kuro-tamago at Owakudani is an unforgettable experience. More valuable than tasting the special dish is surely the opportunity to admire one of Japan’s most spectacular natural wonders.
And who knows, that black egg might actually give you seven extra years of life!
