Edamame is a popular snack across Japan, and it boasts a number of nutritional benefits – the beans are a good source of protein, fiber, and antioxidants, plus high in a number of vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin K. For edamame fans, an event in Nagaoka challenges competitors to see how fast they can eat 650 grams of them, and it's now in its sixth year.
The Edamame Speed Eating Championships include both individual and group categories, and there are some ground rules for participants. For instance, you have to bring the bean pods to your mouth and not pop them out beforehand to eat in bulk.
Getting there
Aore Nagaoka is located just three minutes on foot from Nagaoka Station, which is served by the Joetsu Shinkansen line, the JR Joetsu local line, and the Shinetsu main line.
