The Essence of Japan events launched in 2022, with the aim of presenting the best of Japan.

This upcoming installment will be a collaborative dinner showcasing Shiga Prefecture, which is brimming with diverse charms from Lake Biwa’s rich natural beauty.

For one night only, this special dinner is presented by Takeji Ito, the third-generation proprietor of Hirasansou—a pioneer of “Yamanobe cuisine,” unique to the foothills of Hira Mountains and making extensive use of the local bounty—and Shingo Izumi, chef of Japanese Restaurant Wadakura at Palace Hotel Tokyo.

Hirasansou’s signature dish, a hot pot of bear meat in soft-shelled turtle broth, will be served at the event.

Winter is the prime season for bear meat, a cherished gift from the mountains that can only be savored during these months. Meat from the Japanese black bear, caught by skilled hunters, is odorless and remarkably light, with a sweet, melt-in-your-mouth flavor from its high-quality fat that fills the mouth.

The cuisine will be accompanied by “Kiramizuki,” a newly cultivated organic rice from Shiga.

Beverages include Hagi no Tsuyu Junmai Daiginjo Black Label from Fukui Yahei Shoten, a brewery dedicated to crafting sake that utilizes the abundant natural resources of the region, and Matsuno Tsukasa Junmai Daiginjo Ryuo Yamadanishiki from Matsuse Sake Brewery.

Delight in the pairing of Shiga’s signature cuisine and exquisite sake.

Date: February 18 (Wed.), 2026
Time: 6:00 pm –
Venue: Banquet Room Yamabuki (4F)
Price: JPY 50,000 (inclusive of food, beverages, consumption tax, 15% service charge) per person

Reservations: *Sold out
Tel +81-3-3211-5326 (10:00 am – 6:00 pm JST [Weekdays only])
*Advance payment required
*Eligible for THE PALACE CLUB points

Click here for information on Palace Hotel Group’s membership program THE PALACE CLUB.