the Black Eggs of Ōwakudani (Photo credit: False Positives)
If you stop at Okuwadani, take the path to see the steaming hot springs where the local specialty, kuro-tamago, or “black eggs” are made. Regular eggs are boiled in the springs at Tamago-Jaya, and a reaction with the sulfur and other chemicals turns the egg shells an ominous black. They are sold in sets of 5 eggs for 500 in a souvenir paper bag.
The eggs taste similar to regular hard-boiled eggs, though do have more of a sulfur smell. Enjoy them sprinkled with salt. The eggs are said to extend your life by seven years if you eat one. This legend results from a Jizo statue in the area, whose powers of healing extend to the eggs.
Tamago-Jaya is open from 9 am to 4:30 pm, though hours may vary with the seasons. Take the Hakone Ropeway to the Owakudani Station, then walk up the well-marked path. For more information:
http://www.owakudani.com/kurotamago/index-e.html
