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.
Miyagi
Enjoy Whale Dishes and Seafood Unique to the Oshika Peninsula
Cottu, a tourism and product exchange facility located in Whale Town Oshika, a tourist facility on the Oshika Peninsula, opened in October 2019 in Ayukawahama, Ishinomaki City, Miyagi Prefecture. "Seafood Restaurant Nagisa" inside is a restaurant operated by "Shimashu no Yado Sakai", an inn located on the peninsula. Ayukawa is famous for its whale dishes and seafood dishes. The minke whale sashimi set meal, which can only be served fresh, and the set meal using seafood caught off the coast of Mt. Kinka in Sanriku, one of the world's best fishing grounds, are recommended. You can use the lobby inside Cottu as well as inside the store. You can enjoy your meal while looking out at the sea from the terrace seats.
Aichi
Enjoy Raw Whitebait in One of Japan's Premier Whitebait Fishing Towns
"Marui Shoten Utsumi" is a restaurant offering whitebait dishes and souvenirs, located about a 10-minute walk from Nagoya Railroad Utsumi Station. Minamichita Town in Aichi is known for its rich whitebait fishing grounds, and this shop is directly managed by Marui Shoten, which specializes in processed seafood products. Recommended dishes include the popular "Nama Shirasu Don (raw whitebait bowl)" and "Namataki Shirasu Hitsumabushi (raw whitebait simmered in a special sauce with rice)", featuring "Namataki Shirasu Tsukudani (raw whitebait simmered in a special sauce)", which won the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Award. Other menu items include "Himono Teishoku (dried fish set meals)" and gelato. Enjoy a relaxing meal while selecting souvenirs such as tsukudani and dried fish in the store's food and drink corner. It's a must-visit during your trip.
Gifu
Delicious Fish Dishes Served by Professionals at a Long-Established Fish Store
A long-established fresh fish store in Gifu City featuring an eat-in space. Since its founding in 1902, the business has operated solely as a fresh fish store; however, the fourth-generation owner has recently begun serving meals on-site to showcase a professional approach to enjoying fish. Seasonal fish are expertly prepared before customers' eyes—a unique experience offered exclusively by a fresh fish store. Seminars and take-out services are also available for those wishing to enjoy delicious fish at home. To convey the thrill of encountering seasonal fish to children in oceanless Gifu and inspire a love for fish, bluefin tuna dissection shows are held at kindergartens, the Dosan Festival in spring, and the Gifu Nobunaga Festival in autumn.
Hokkaido
Fresh Fish Caught in the Morning Is Delivered Directly From Otaru City and Nemuro City Markets
Demekin, located in Sapporo's Nijo Market, opens at 6 a.m. daily. Named for its "eye-poppingly delicious seafood," the restaurant serves fish freshly sourced each morning from markets in Otaru and Nemuro. Specialties include house-dried salmon harasu and homemade soy-marinated salmon roe. Hokke from Shiretoko’s Rausu region is notable for its large size and rich fat content, offered at reasonable prices. Pair the fresh seafood with the restaurant's signature dipping soy sauce, enhancing the natural flavors. Reservations are available, making it a convenient choice for tourists planning their visits.
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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
An Izakaya Serving the Freshest Local Chicken and Seafood
Opened in October 2021, this izakaya is located approximately a 4-minute walk from Osaka Metro Shinsaibashi Station. It prides itself on its commitment to freshness, serving a variety of seasonal dishes featuring high-quality jidori chicken and seafood. The owner’s meticulous attention to detail is evident not only in the flavors but also in the presentation. Designed to offer both a casual and slightly luxurious dining experience, "Sakedokoro Umaiya" features counter seating, private rooms, and sunken kotatsu-style tatami seating. The space can also be reserved for private gatherings of up to 20 people, making it an excellent choice for banquets and business meetings. If you're visiting Shinsaibashi, this spot is well worth a visit.
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.
Hiroshima
Enjoy the Hiroshima Nightlife With All-You-Can-Eat and Drink
"Enengakugaku Otemachi" is approximately a 5-minute walk from Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Edion Peace Wing Hiroshima is also within walking distance, making it the perfect place for a get-together after a game. The high-quality menu, which defies the common sense of all-you-can-eat and drink, is sure to get the conversation flowing. In addition to a wide variety of Hiroshima specialties, including the "Kokusan-gyu Corne Aburi (lightly seared domestic beef corne)" which has been the most popular dish since the restaurant opened. "Kaki Cancan-yaki", oysters steamed in a can over an open flame, is a hearty optional dish worth adding. For those who wish to enjoy their meal without watching the clock, the restaurant also offers an unlimited time plan - a thoughtful touch for a relaxed dining experience.
Kagawa
A Long-Established Restaurant Serving High-Quality Japanese and Seafood Cuisine
Located about a 5-minute walk from JR Yashima Station, "Uonatsu" is a Japanese and seafood restaurant with roots dating back to 1917 as a fishmonger. Utilizing the expertise and techniques honed over its long history, the owner personally selects fresh seafood from the Seto Inland Sea every morning. The restaurant offers high-quality Japanese cuisine in a calm atmosphere. Private and semi-private rooms with sunken kotatsu seating provide an ideal setting for important gatherings. The counter seating is perfect for solo diners to enjoy food and sake casually. A spacious hall with a stage and karaoke is also available, making it suitable for year-end and New Year parties, welcome and farewell gatherings, and meals during sightseeing tours.
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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.
Saitama
A Traditional Japanese Restaurant Serving Refined Kaiseki Cuisine
Founded in 1885, "Ichinoya, Ryotei Omiya" preserves the traditional flavors that have been handed down through generations. In a serene, sukiya-style setting, guests can savor kaiseki cuisine prepared with carefully selected seasonal ingredients, including premium items such as Japanese Black beef, soft-shelled turtle, pufferfish, and abalone. All dining rooms are completely private, featuring tatami rooms, sunken kotatsu tables, and Western-style seating—ideal for every occasion, from weddings and celebratory gatherings to large year-end parties and casual dining. Surrounded by lush greenery, the restaurant offers heartfelt hospitality and an elegant dining experience steeped in history.
Yamaguchi
"Fuku Restaurant" Where You Can Feel "Happy"
Located in Tokuyama, the birthplace of longline fishing, "Fukudokoro Kai" offers an authentic fugu (pufferfish) dining experience. This modern-style fugu restaurant is nestled near the port, slightly away from the city center. The dining space provides a comfortable, semi-private atmosphere where guests can enjoy fresh, high-quality ingredients served in robust Imashiro ware bowls under soft lighting. The restaurant also boasts a wide selection of Japanese sake, including "Kai," crafted specifically for fugu hire-zake (grilled pufferfish fin-infused sake), as well as shochu and plum wine—allowing diners to fully immerse themselves in a "Ko-fuku (happiness-filled)" experience. Signature dishes include "Fugu no Sumibi Yaki" marinated in a special sauce, and hearty fugu dishes are available year-round.
Shimane
Savor Seasonal Japanese Dishes Paired with Local Sake
"Sanroku" is located approximately a 6-minute walk from JR Matsue Station, quietly tucked away in the lively Isemiya district. The calm, Japanese-style interior offers a serene setting to enjoy refined, seasonal cuisine unique to this restaurant. Using carefully selected ingredients—such as fresh seafood from Toyosu Market and local fishmongers—Sanroku showcases the best of regional specialties with a touch of elegance.
Niigata
Enjoy the Blessings of Niigata's Sea and Mountains in a Relaxing Private Room
A 140 - year - old Japanese restaurant located just off the street, about a 12 - minute walk from Niigata Station. While inheriting tradition and techniques, they pursue new possibilities for Japanese cuisine by incorporating new Dish methods and presentations that suit the times. The restaurant is famous for its various sushi kaiseki dishes, which are a fusion of Japanese cuisine and sushi made with seasonal ingredients from the sea and mountains. You can also enjoy Niigata's specialties such as black - throated blackthroat, Nanban shrimp, and Murakami beef, as well as sashimi served in hand - carved ice - crafted vessels. Niigata's famous sake is also available, and many fans come from outside the prefecture to enjoy Niigata's delicious ingredients and alcohol.
Search for Restaurants Where You Can Eat Gourmet Seafood by Area
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.
Hiroshima
Enjoy Hiroshima's Delicacies in an Open Seat Overlooking the Seto Inland Sea
ZONA FORTUNATO is located in Sunami Seaside Park, about 20 minutes by car from the center of Mihara City, Hiroshima. You can enjoy your meal while looking out at the Seto Inland Sea from all seats. Enjoy dishes that incorporate plenty of Hiroshima's blessings, such as octopus caught in the Seto Inland Sea, oysters and local shrimp from Hiroshima, Setouchi six-grain pork, aged chicken aged at low temperatures, and Setouchi beef. Drinks made with fresh citrus juice and Setouchi lemon are also delicious. Reservations are required for dinner. The perfect location can be used for a wide range of occasions, including wedding ceremonies and receptions.
Shizuoka
Spend a Special Day with your Loved One in this Restaurant
"il ponte" is located in Tadehara, Fuji City, Shizuoka Prefecture, and is a cafe and restaurant with a Southern European vibe, featuring a spacious terrace. This popular restaurant specializes in authentic European cuisine, particularly Italian dishes. The terrace is adorned with lovely flowers and greenery during the day, while the restaurant's interior offers a view of the starry sky at night, evoking a sensation of being at a foreign resort. The menu boasts a wide array of colorful dishes, including various, pastas, meat dishes, and salads made with fresh vegetables. The restaurant offers a variety of meal plans and courses designed to enhance occasions such as girls' nights out and anniversaries, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a special dining experience.
Yamanashi
Enjoy Teppanyaki Cuisine in a Luxurious Space
Teppanyaki restaurant in Kofu City, Yamanashi. In a luxurious setting, enjoy exquisite locally sourced dishes, including "Koshu Beef," premium Japanese Black Wagyu. A must-try is the "100% Japanese Black Wagyu Rare Hamburger." The outside is grilled to a crisp, while the inside remains rare and juicy, offering a rich umami flavor with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. For steaks, carefully selected rare cuts of A4 and A5 grade Japanese Black Wagyu are used, enhanced by a flavorful sauce made with plenty of Kujo green onions. The restaurant also offers an excellent selection of alcoholic beverages, including handpicked Koshu wine from Yamanashi and "Hakushu" whiskey, both perfectly paired with meat dishes. A wide variety of local wines is also available on tap.
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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.
Hokkaido
Savour Seasonal Seafood Caught Near Otaru
Located approximately a 14-minute walk from JR Otaru Station, this kappo-style restaurant serves fresh sashimi and grilled dishes featuring seafood sourced from the nearby waters of Otaru. Hearty course and kaiseki meals made with seasonal ingredients are also available, with the menu tailored upon request at the time of booking.
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
Custom Seafood Bowls for a Truly Indulgent Experience
"Japanese Eatery Donburiya" is an eatery where you can enjoy seafood bowls, conveniently located approximately one minute on foot from JR Hakodate Station. As a seafood wholesaler, it handles high-quality, fresh seafood, and you can freely choose your favorite seafood, including the recommended sea urchin and abalone, as well as tuna, squid, salmon roe, and more, and enjoy a lavishly presented seafood bowl made just for you. What's more, the reasonable prices are also attractive, and it is a popular gourmet spot for locals and visitors to Hakodate who want to enjoy seafood every day. It is close to the station and has a wide variety of seafood souvenirs, so why not stop by during a break from sightseeing?
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.
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