The regional food specialty of Nikko in Toshigi Prefecture is yuba, the curd-like skim that forms on the top of soymilk when it is boiled. You can find it in many forms: rolled and sliced, dried, fried, and served in broth with soba noodles. It has a slightly nutty taste and is valued for its health benefits as well as the flavor.
For centuries, it has been popular among monks and pilgrims who practice a strict Buddhist lifestyle and complete vegetarian diet because it is very high in protein. In the Meiji era, regular people began to add yuba to their diet. Many women claim that it is good for their skin complexion. Yuba is served in many restaurants around Nikko. You can also buy souvenir packages in gift shops.
For more information: http://www.nikko-jp.org/english/shigai/yuba.html
Yuba Soba in Nikko
