Japan, surrounded by the ocean, is a treasure trove of fresh seafood such as tuna, sea bream, and horse mackerel. One of the great pleasures of traveling is visiting different regions and enjoying seafood bowls at market cafeterias or seafood dishes at local restaurants. Here, we introduce spots where you can savor delicious seafood gourmet food.
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The charm of morning markets lies in their offering of fresh, delicious local fish at reasonable prices, such as seafood bowls and set meals. It’s also a great way to engage with locals and experience the local food culture, making morning markets a popular tourist spot. Since markets typically close by noon, it’s worth the effort to wake up early.
Dining at a local restaurant that knows everything about the local fish is one of the highlights of traveling. You can also enjoy a more luxurious seafood experience at a traditional Japanese restaurant. Izakaya, where you can feel like a local, and Italian or French cuisine focusing on locally sourced ingredients, are also appealing. Recently, more fish markets have been adding eat-in corners, offering fresh seafood on the spot.
One of the unique pleasures of traveling in Japan is tasting a variety of local seafood, thanks to the country's abundance of fresh seafood and river fish. While enjoying freshly caught fish in a fishing village is a delight, there are also preserved fish dishes, such as "Mackerel Heshiko" from Fukui Prefecture, a fermented food made from salted mackerel pickled in rice bran, and "Ikanago no Kugini" from Hyogo Prefecture, which is braised sand lance. These inland specialties are equally exquisite. Take the opportunity to try local fish dishes from around Japan and learn about each region's history and culture.
The charm of morning markets lies in their offering of fresh, delicious local fish at reasonable prices, such as seafood bowls and set meals. It’s also a great way to engage with locals and experience the local food culture, making morning markets a popular tourist spot. Since markets typically close by noon, it’s worth the effort to wake up early.
Dining at a local restaurant that knows everything about the local fish is one of the highlights of traveling. You can also enjoy a more luxurious seafood experience at a traditional Japanese restaurant. Izakaya, where you can feel like a local, and Italian or French cuisine focusing on locally sourced ingredients, are also appealing. Recently, more fish markets have been adding eat-in corners, offering fresh seafood on the spot.
One of the unique pleasures of traveling in Japan is tasting a variety of local seafood, thanks to the country's abundance of fresh seafood and river fish. While enjoying freshly caught fish in a fishing village is a delight, there are also preserved fish dishes, such as "Mackerel Heshiko" from Fukui Prefecture, a fermented food made from salted mackerel pickled in rice bran, and "Ikanago no Kugini" from Hyogo Prefecture, which is braised sand lance. These inland specialties are equally exquisite. Take the opportunity to try local fish dishes from around Japan and learn about each region's history and culture.
If you want to enjoy freshly caught seafood, a restaurant at the fish market is a must. Breakfast is especially popular. Frequented by people working at fishing ports and markets, these spots offer hearty seafood bowls and set meals at reasonable prices. Some of the most popular markets among tourists include Hakodate Morning Market, Otaru Triangle Market, Odawara Fish Center, Sakata Seafood Market, Fukui Nihonkai Fish Town, Oarai Seafood Market, and Tsukiji Outer Market. Enjoy the lively atmosphere while filling your stomach with delicious seafood.
Iwate
Enjoy Fresh Seafood That Can Only Be Found in Stores Directly Managed by Fisheries Producers
A restaurant and direct sales facility directly managed by a fisheries industry, located about a 10 - minute walk from BRT Ofunato Station on the JR Ofunato Line. From seafood caught in the waters near Ofunato, where the Oyashio and Kuroshio Currents collide, a rich fishing ground, to farmed products such as scallops and oysters, you can only find fresh seafood lined up in stores directly managed by fisheries producers. The seafood on display at the store can be cut into sashimi, or cooked and eaten on the spot (separate Dish fee required). At the cafeteria, you can enjoy Sanriku seafood such as fries and sashimi, as well as the standard scallop and oyster set meal, which you can eat while grilling on the grill attached to the table.
Ehime
Savor Three Kinds of Local Cuisine in One Indulgent Meal
"Ehime, Kakureya" offers a variety of local Ehime dishes and Japanese-Western fusion cuisine. At lunchtime, there is a comprehensive menu, featuring classic dishes like the "tonkatsu set meal" and the "kimagure set meal," where the owner showcases his skills using ingredients available that day. The recommended dish is the "Taimeshizen (seabream rice set meal)," which allows you to enjoy three types of local cuisine in one meal. This luxurious set includes taimeshi from Matsuyama City and Uwajima City, as well as Satsuma soup, a traditional dish from the Nanyo region, making it a must-try meal worth reserving. Hamburgers made with 100% domestic beef are also popular. In the evening, the restaurant offers all-you-can-drink and course meals by reservation, and is happy to accommodate custom menu requests.
Kouchi
Enjoy a Wide Variety of Kochi Specialties through Set Meals
This restaurant serves a wide range of Japanese and Western dishes made with local Kochi produce. With a focus on seasonal ingredients, the restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes, including limited-time set meals and izakaya-style items, making it suitable for many different occasions. The fresh fish, sourced through unique supply channels, and the reasonable prices are especially well-regarded, attracting many repeat visitors from outside the prefecture. Locally grown vegetables and regional specialties are also sold on-site, making it a lively spot for couples and families alike.
Kyoto
An Izakaya Celebrating Seasonal Fish and Local Sake
"Watatsumi" is a seafood izakaya in Miyazu City, Kyoto, known for fresh seasonal fish caught daily at Ine Bay and a carefully curated selection of local sake. The menu features generous portions such as "Otsukuri Moriawase" (sashimi platter) and "Nigirizushi Moriawase" (sushi platter), along with seasonal delicacies like isaza, rock oysters, cockles, and blue crab. Rare fish not typically found on the market are also served at reasonable prices. A variety of alcoholic drinks is available to complement the dishes, including premium local sake. The cosy, relaxed interior offers comfortable table seating. Conveniently located near Amanohashidate, it's an ideal stop during your travels.
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If you want to casually enjoy local fish with some drinks, we recommend visiting a local izakaya. It’s the perfect place to have fun with friends. You can savor a variety of dishes such as shuto and shiokara (traditional sake accompaniments), local fish, transparent squid sashimi, grilled crab shell, and seafood bowls topped with generous amounts of salmon roe and sea urchin. Asking the staff or local patrons for recommendations on regional seafood specialties will make your trip even more memorable.
Osaka
Experience Hamayaki at a Conveniently Located Food Court
Located in the HUB KITCHEN food court in Honmachi Yokocho, approximately a2-minute walk from Osaka Metro Honmachi Station, this seafood izakaya offers a barbecue on a table-top stove at each table.Barbecue can be enjoyed at the tabletop stove at each table, and all courses include all-you-can-eat chicken wings.
Kanagawa
A Modern Izakaya Blending Japanese and Western Flavours
Just a 5-minute walk from JR Yokohama Station (East Exit) and one minute from Shin-Takashima Station, this modern izakaya blends a relaxed café mood with stylish dining flair. Inside, find an inviting mix of antique-style tables, sunken kotatsu tatami seats, and cozy counter spots—perfect for anything from girls’ gatherings to date nights or parties. The menu stands out with playful originals: the "Grilled Silver Salmon Set" inspired by Japanese-style afternoon tea, the ultra-thick "Smile Pork Ginger," and the bonito-rich "Gentle Set." Stop by during café hours for their signature soufflé pancakes, available in four tempting flavours.
Hiroshima
Custom-Made Course Meals Tailored to Your Tastes
A Japanese restaurant that requires reservations and is limited to a maximum of two groups per day, located about a 6-minute walk from the Hiroshima Electric Railway Komachi stop. They purchase ingredients only after receiving a reservation and always provide fresh ingredients. In addition to the standard main dishes such as eel, crab, sukiyaki, and hot pot, they also take requests into account and customize the course contents to suit your tastes, which is why it is popular. The head chef, who has over 30 years of experience in Japanese cuisine, has a reliable skill that brings out the best in ingredients, even when it comes to how they are cut and can accommodate a wide range of Japanese cuisine requests. Enjoy the exceptional cuisine prepared by Japanese culinary craftsmen.
Ishikawa
Fresh Seafood Lunches Drawing Local Popularity
"Kuimonya Furusato Kaga" is located close to JR Kaga Onsen Station. You can enjoy fresh seafood dishes for lunch, including crab, a winter delicacy of the Hokuriku region. Popular dishes include the specialty "Kaga Crab Rice," packed with the delicious flavor of crab, the "Sashimi Set Meal," and the seafood bowl. Reservations are essential, particularly for the crab dishes.
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Many people travel in search of seasonal seafood that can only be enjoyed at specific times and places, such as spiny lobster, pufferfish, grouper, and monkfish. If you want to savor top-quality seafood in a relaxed atmosphere, a traditional Japanese restaurant is the perfect choice. You’ll feel fulfilled as you indulge in the dishes prepared by chefs who are experts in local ingredients. Staying at a gourmet ryokan allows you to enjoy a luxurious experience, falling asleep right after a sumptuous meal.
Wakayama
Creative Japanese Food and Sushi Where You Can Enjoy the "Highest Quality"
Sushi Tozaemon Annex Kagayaki opened in May 2022 by Tozaemon, a seafood merchant that has been in business since the Bunkyu era and also runs a sushi restaurant in Iwade City, Wakayama Prefecture. For this restaurant, we have invited a talented Japanese chef from overseas with over 30 years of experience. Everything from the interior to the set of chopsticks has been luxuriously done. Of course, the food is also luxurious. We use only the finest and rarest of the carefully selected natural fresh fish that Fujizaemon procures. Thanks to the chef's excellent skills and taste, you can discover a dish unique to that day that you have never seen before. The customers are mainly executives. The materials and atmosphere are top - notch, but it's not too difficult to enter and will warmly welcome adults.
Aichi
Enjoy a Quality Time at an Elegant Restaurant From the Edo Period
Located just a 2-minute walk from Nagoya City Subway Kamiiida Station, "Okaiseki Shiratama" is housed in a relocated Edo-period building that preserves traditional architectural elements like tea rooms and shoin-style designs. Guests can savor seasonal kaiseki cuisine meticulously crafted from fresh ingredients. Dishes like sashimi served on lotus leaves are artistic masterpieces that engage all five senses. The restaurant pairs its delicate dishes with exclusive sake, such as the specially brewed "Hyakushun" from Kosaka Sake Brewery. The historic setting, combined with private tatami rooms, makes it ideal for gatherings, celebrations, or casual meals.
Ishikawa
Fresh Seafood Lunches Drawing Local Popularity
"Kuimonya Furusato Kaga" is located close to JR Kaga Onsen Station. You can enjoy fresh seafood dishes for lunch, including crab, a winter delicacy of the Hokuriku region. Popular dishes include the specialty "Kaga Crab Rice," packed with the delicious flavor of crab, the "Sashimi Set Meal," and the seafood bowl. Reservations are essential, particularly for the crab dishes.
Tokyo
Savor Authentic Japanese Flavors in a Warm, Cozy Restaurant
A Japanese restaurant nestled in the heart of Ginza, Tokyo, this cozy establishment is run by a warm and welcoming husband-and-wife duo. Guests are treated to authentic Japanese cuisine lovingly prepared by the husband, while the gentle hospitality of the proprietress adds to the charm of the dining experience. Engaging in friendly conversation with the couple is part of the restaurant’s unique appeal, and the attentive service—such as having your tea promptly refilled—makes you feel right at home. With its relaxed and homey atmosphere, the restaurant welcomes everyone, whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor.
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When thinking of seafood, Japanese cuisine may come to mind, but fresh seafood is also a key ingredient in French and Italian dishes. For example, seafood pasta, bouillabaisse, and poached fish all rely on fresh ingredients. Oysters, spiny lobster, and abalone are often used in French and Italian cuisine as well. For a romantic date or a special family trip, consider visiting an Italian or French restaurant to enjoy these gourmet seafood dishes.
Toyama
Italian Dining Highlighting the Distinct Taste of Toyama
Located in Shinminato, Toyama Prefecture, this Italian restaurant is a hidden gem, renovated from a 100-year-old traditional Japanese house. The nostalgic, tranquil interior and a courtyard that reflects the beauty of each season create an extraordinary dining experience. The restaurant serves only the "Omakase Course," showcasing the bounty of Toyama. Thanks to its coastal setting, the menu features fresh local fish delivered every morning, alongside other carefully selected regional ingredients. Guests can savour Italian cuisine unique to this area, complemented by a curated wine selection. The owner’s wish to "inspire affection for the town" is infused in every detail of the restaurant.
Kanagawa
A Modern Izakaya Blending Japanese and Western Flavours
Just a 5-minute walk from JR Yokohama Station (East Exit) and one minute from Shin-Takashima Station, this modern izakaya blends a relaxed café mood with stylish dining flair. Inside, find an inviting mix of antique-style tables, sunken kotatsu tatami seats, and cozy counter spots—perfect for anything from girls’ gatherings to date nights or parties. The menu stands out with playful originals: the "Grilled Silver Salmon Set" inspired by Japanese-style afternoon tea, the ultra-thick "Smile Pork Ginger," and the bonito-rich "Gentle Set." Stop by during café hours for their signature soufflé pancakes, available in four tempting flavours.
Toyama
Dishes Perfectly Completed by Wine Pairings
"Winista" serves dishes that use an abundance of seasonal ingredients from Toyama Prefecture and are completed by pairing them with wine. The owner sommelier, a great wine enthusiast, confidently recommends unique wines to match each dish of the course menu. You can feel the attention to detail, not only in the pairing with the ingredients, but also in temperature control and tableware that allows you to enjoy the aroma to the fullest. Reservations are required by phone, and the course contents are created after confirming the occasion, preferences, and number of visits. Based on the concept of "from the everyday to the extraordinary," enjoy memorable service that focuses on each individual guest.
Osaka
Luxurious Dinner with a Night View
The restaurant's large windows overlook the Okawa River and Tenmabashi Bridge.At night, you can enjoy "Oiseushi," a brand of beef from Mie Prefecture, and fresh oysters while gazing at the glittering night view of the blue-lit Okawa River and the lights of the city.
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During road trips, you may come across roadside stations or tourist markets and streets offering takeout seafood delights such as kushiyaki (grilled skewers), grilled oysters in their shells, and mini seafood bowls loaded with fresh ingredients. This takeout style allows you to easily enjoy local and B-class gourmet food unique to the region, making it a popular option for family trips with children or casual outings with friends.
Hiroshima
A Dual-Purpose Restaurant That Transforms Into a Café During the Day and an Izakaya at Night
A store located within walking distance from the Hiroshima Electric Railway Chuden-mae stop. During lunchtime, the restaurant offers poke bowls, set meals, and pizza toast at reasonable prices. A popular choice is the "poke bowl," available in a wide variety of flavors, from classic Hawaiian to Korean yukhoe and spicy options. At night, it transforms into a pub. They offer "gansu," a local dish of minced fish mixed with onions and chili peppers and deep-fried, "four kinds of seafood assortment," including cute octopus, and "three kinds of chicken fillet" topped with wasabi and plum perilla. You can enjoy hearty kushikatsu. There is also an all-you-can-drink menu, perfect for banquets and after-parties. Takeout is available both day and night.
Hokkaido
Premium Sea Urchin Dishes by a Long-Standing Seafood Wholesaler
"Uni no Sato" is conveniently located approximately a minute's walk from JR Hakodate Station. Located in the area of Hakodate Morning Market, a popular tourist spot in Hakodate City, Hokkaido, this sea urchin specialty restaurant is run by a seafood wholesaler and serves fresh seafood that only a wholesaler can provide. For sea urchin lovers, the restaurant offers a luxurious selection of dishes that showcase the natural sweetness and rich flavor of uni, along with a variety of seafood from Hokkaido. Highlights include the "Sea Urchin and Abalone Bowl", generously topped with both delicacies, and the "Two-Color Bowl", featuring seasonal portions of bafun and purple sea urchin. This is a restaurant that you should definitely stop by to commemorate your trip to Hakodate.
Hokkaido
Signature Beef Cutlet and Shabu-Shabu Dishes to Savor
This izakaya has a wide variety of menu items, including shabu-shabu, seafood dishes, and the specialty beef cutlet. It is run by a meat wholesaler, so you can enjoy shabu-shabu at a reasonable price. In addition to meat dishes such as tender beef cutlet and fresh seafood, there are many dishes that focus on dashi, such as udon and oden.
Kyoto
A Sushi Restaurant in Saiin, Kyoto That Is Particular About Natural Fish and Vegetables
A sushi restaurant about 13 minutes walk from Tambaguchi Station on the JR Sagano Line. This restaurant is run by a proprietor who wants people to enjoy sushi in a casual manner, and strives to create a customer - centered restaurant. You can visit anytime during business hours, and you can even use it with your baby. They serve sushi and other dishes according to the customer's pace. For dinner, we recommend the "General's Omakase Nigiri Course" where you can enjoy 12 pieces of nigiri. We use ingredients that are kind to the body, such as sushi vinegar and salt that do not contain chemical seasonings, and vegetables that do not use pesticides as much as possible. I want to fully enjoy sushi made with fresh, natural seafood.
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