Planning a trip to Japan? Enjoying fresh seafood is one of the experiences worth having. Japanese seafood is renowned worldwide for its freshness and diversity. In this article, we will introduce the top 8 seafood spots to visit in Japan. Savor the benefits of enjoying fresh seafood and discover the deliciousness it has to offer.
Tsukiji Market: Tokyo's Seafood Treasure
Tsukiji Market is a world-famous fish market that offers visitors fresh seafood. Here, you can enjoy the fresh tuna cutting show and a wide variety of seafood. It's also a great idea to taste fresh sushi at one of the market's sushi restaurants. Feel the lively atmosphere of Tsukiji and grab fresh seafood early in the morning. We particularly recommend having fresh sushi for breakfast; the freshness and flavor are exceptional.
Kuromon Market in Osaka: Kansai's Seafood Spot
Osaka's Kuromon Market, known as "Osaka's Kitchen," is lined with many stores offering fresh seafood. You can enjoy fresh sashimi and seafood rice bowls here, making it popular among both locals and tourists. Walking through the market, you can see colorful seafood and enjoy fresh dishes on the spot, which is worth trying at least once. Besides sushi, you can also enjoy Osaka specialties such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki, making your food adventure exciting.
Hokkaido Seafood: A Paradise for Fresh Crab and Sea Urchin
Hokkaido is famous for its fresh crab and sea urchin. Especially at Sapporo's Nijo Market and Hakodate's Morning Market, you can indulge in fresh seafood. There's a wide range of dishes you can only taste here, such as sea urchin rice bowls and crab soup. The cold winters of Hokkaido enhance the flavor of the seafood. Breaking open fresh crab meat and savoring the rich taste of sea urchin are highlights of a trip to Hokkaido.
Tottori's Fishing Ports: Taste the Bounty of the Sea of Japan
Tottori's fishing ports offer fresh seafood directly off the boats. Particularly at Sakaiminato City Fish Market, you can buy fresh crabs and shrimp and have them cooked on the spot. Interacting with locals is also part of the fun. Choosing fish at the market and asking for a specific cooking method provides a valuable experience of Japan's fishing village culture. Visiting in winter allows you to enjoy seasonal seafood like snow crabs.
Kamakura in Kanagawa: Locally Loved Seafood
Kamakura is a beautiful city where history and nature blend, offering fresh seafood loved by locals. There are many restaurants serving dishes made with fresh seafood caught at Kamakura's fishing ports. It's recommended to enjoy fresh sashimi or seafood pasta at seaside cafes and restaurants during your sightseeing breaks. Kamakura is worth visiting for its scenic beauty and culinary attractions.
Okinawa's Ocean Delights: Enjoying Tropical Seafood
Okinawa, surrounded by warm tropical seas, is rich in diverse seafood. Particularly at markets in Ishigaki Island and Naha, you can enjoy fresh local seafood. Popular dishes include those prepared with Okinawa's unique cooking methods. Enjoy the local specialties and fresh seafood in a tropical atmosphere. Taste island-specific seafood with sea grapes and goya champuru.
Fukuoka's Yatai Stalls: Fresh Seafood Street Food
Fukuoka has a strong yatai (street stall) culture, where you can enjoy fresh seafood street food. Especially in the Nakasu area of Fukuoka City, there are many yatai offering fresh sashimi and grilled fish made with local seafood. At night, the yatai stalls set up, creating a lively and fun atmosphere. Eating street food shoulder to shoulder with locals is one of the best ways to enjoy Fukuoka's night.
Kyoto's Traditional Cuisine: The Charm of Seafood in Kyoto Cuisine
Kyoto is known for its traditional kaiseki cuisine, which includes many dishes made with fresh seafood. Particularly at Kyoto's long-established restaurants, you can enjoy delicate dishes made with fresh seafood. You can also find fresh seafood at Kyoto's markets. The beauty and delicacy of Kyoto cuisine turn eating into an artistic experience. Enjoy seasonal seafood dishes in Kyoto.
Conclusion
Fresh seafood in Japan is one of the attractions worth experiencing. There are many spots across Japan, such as Tsukiji Market, Kuromon Market, and Hokkaido's markets, where you can enjoy fresh seafood. Indulge in fresh seafood that you can only taste at local markets and fishing ports, and enjoy sushi, sashimi, seafood rice bowls, and other unique Japanese dishes. On your next trip, be sure to visit these spots and fully enjoy the charm of Japan's seafood.