Gov't releases English guidebook on Japanese local cuisines+

TOKYO, June 9 Kyodo - The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries on Tuesday released an English guidebook on local cuisines as part of efforts to promote tourism in Japan's countryside.

Ten thousand copies of the guidebook titled ''Japan's Tasty Secrets'' will be
given out at Narita, Chubu and Kansai international airports as well as at
travel fairs hosted in Asia, Europe and the United States, the ministry said.
The guidebook, which is based on 122 Japanese local dishes the ministry
selected in 2007, is divided into two parts, the first dedicated to popular
local cuisines and the second to traditional local cuisines.
Under the list of ''Local dishes loved by the nation'' are 23 dishes such as
Kanagawa Prefecture's ''Yokosuka Navy curry'' and Hyogo Prefecture's ''Kobe
beef steak,'' while 95 dishes such as Iwate Prefecture's ''Wanko Soba'' noodles
and Miyazaki Prefecture's ''Hiya-jiru'' (cold miso soup) are included in
''Local favorites: a taste of place.''
The book has been translated and edited by Adam Fulford, who is involved in
making English versions of Japanese TV programs.
''There are many discoveries to be made in Japanese food culture,'' said
Fulford. ''I hope people will try many of the dishes.''
==Kyodo