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.
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.
Mie
A Wide Variety of Ise-Shima Souvenirs
There is a wide selection of products, from classic souvenirs that are synonymous with Ise - Shima to niche rare items. There are 4 stores in total, and the Toba Flagship Store also has a restaurant where you can enjoy the blessings of Ise - Shima, and a spacious parking lot is also a great feature. If you come to Ise - Shima, this is a place you definitely want to stop by.
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.
Chiba
Enjoy Grilled Seafood With a Focus on Fresh Local Seafood
Hamachaya Amimoto is a restaurant located in Kujukuri Town, Chiba Prefecture, where you can enjoy grilled seafood and Japanese cuisine while looking out at the Kujukuri sea. In the spacious space with large windows and high ceilings, you can enjoy local turban shells, clams, abalone, and more in a hamayaki style. Kujukuri's famous sardines, which are extremely fresh, not bitter, and reasonably priced, are also popular, as is the tuna bukkake bowl, which is available in limited quantities. I'm happy that my beloved family members, my beloved dogs and cats, can spend time with me in the companion seat of the tatami room. Groups with dogs are also welcome.
Kagawa
A Seafood Restaurant Operated by a Fresh Fish Store That Focuses on Local Production and Local Consumption
This seafood restaurant is located within the Toyohama Roadside Station and is run by a local fish shop that has been in business for three generations. With a focus on local production and local consumption, you can enjoy a variety of menus using fresh fish from the Seto Inland Sea and seasonal local ingredients. "Yamachi Zukedon (Shi)", which is a combination of thick hamachi marinated in homemade sauce and rich "Running Egg", and "O - shan Bento Shichifuku", a large bowl filled with seasonal fish, which is popular among women. All of the dishes, such as "Wan", are plentiful and reasonably priced. The daily set meals are also popular. Kanonji brand products such as the all - purpose soup stock used in the cafeteria, Ibuki sardine, and shrimp miso can also be purchased at the shop.
Search for Restaurants Where You Can Eat Gourmet Seafood by Area
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.
Hokkaido
Pop In Anytime: A Casual Robatayaki Experience
Located approximately a 6-minute walk from JR Obihiro Station, "Robata Tokachibanya" sits within "Tokachi-no-Nagaya", a lively row of food stalls known for their cozy and welcoming vibe. Here, you can enjoy both food and conversation in the intimate setting unique to stall-style dining. Focusing on ingredients from the Tokachi region, the menu features over 50 dishes, including robatayaki grilled items and a wide variety of a la carte options. Highlights include oysters from Akkeshi Town, shishamo from Hiroo Town, and fresh meat, vegetables, and seafood sourced from across Hokkaido—all prepared to showcase the natural flavors of the ingredients.The carefully curated selection of Japanese sake is another draw, featuring local varieties from Hokkaido as well as regional brews from all over Japan. Whether you’re traveling solo, on a business trip, or simply looking for one more drink to wrap up your evening, this is the perfect spot to casually drop in and unwind.
Hokkaido
Savour the Best of Hokkaido's Fresh Seasonal Produce in Tomakomai
"Shunkashuto Katsugyo Ryori Hokkai", a long-established Japanese restaurant, is located in Nishiki Town, a vibrant area, just a 10-minute walk from JR Tomakomai Station. They offer sashimi and creative dishes using fresh, seasonal seafood mainly sourced from Hokkaido. In the center of the restaurant, there is a large fish tank surrounded by counter seats where you can observe rare seasonal fish like Matsukawa flounder, a premium fish known for its thick white meat, swimming around. The seafood is caught from the tank and cooked to order, ensuring freshness. The restaurant also provides private rooms, ideal for hosting guests or celebrating special occasions such as anniversaries.
Osaka
A Vibrant Yatai-Style Tavern with Cherry Blossoms and Windmill Décor
Opened in June 2024, this Japanese-style izakaya with a gorgeous Japanese-style display including a windmill is easily accessible from the nearest station such as Osaka Metro Namba Station, where you can enjoy barbecue, grilled oysters, takoyaki, and Japanese beef indoors.
Hiroshima
Taste the Seasons With Hiroshima Specialties and Sake
Izakaya "Yakuro" is conveniently located about a 4-minute walk from Hiroshima Electric Railway Tatemachi Station. This warm and welcoming restaurant serves dishes that showcase the rich flavors of Hiroshima’s local ingredients, including oysters, conger eel, local chicken, beef corne, and okonomiyaki. Signature items include "Uni Horen" (sea urchin and spinach), charcoal-grilled skewers of "Hiroshima Akadori Momo Niku" (red chicken thigh), and their original "Shirunashi Dandanmen-style Okonomiyaki". The menu also features a wide variety of a la carte dishes. A highlight is the "Yakuro Platter", a seasonal appetizer assortment with nine small dishes—perfect with a glass of local sake. It's an ideal spot to enjoy the flavors of Hiroshima after a day of sightseeing, with both table seating and semi-private rooms available.
Search for Pubs Where You Can Eat Gourmet Seafood by Area
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.
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.
Osaka
Authentic Edomae Sushi in Kitashinchi , Osaka
Sushi Hiromi in Kitashinchi, Osaka, reopened in September 2023.The menu offers three courses of omakase, "Yo," "Katsu," and "Haru," featuring a wide variety of fresh fish from the Osaka Kizu Wholesale Market served with sweet rice.The owner himself has completed this course through repeated trial and error until he was satisfied with the results, and the large number of items, including red and white fish, gunkan, and a la carte dishes, will satisfy your appetite.Another feature of the restaurant is the combination of seasonal ingredients.Enjoy the warm personality of the owner, and enjoy the finest sushi in a cozy and relaxed atmosphere.
Osaka
A Hideaway Sushi Restaurant for Adults Near Namba Station
An Edomae sushi restaurant that opened in Namba, Osaka in July 2022. The restaurant is particular about not only the quality of its sushi, but also its private space with the warmth of wood that makes you forget the hustle and bustle of the city as soon as you step inside.
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.
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.
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.
Kyoto
A Culinary Spot Featuring Locally Sourced Seasonal Delicacies
"Kyokaido Gourmet Market" is a culinary destination showcasing seafood and agricultural products from Miyazu City, Kyoto - also known as the "Kyoto of the Sea". This multi-purpose facility offers a convenient way to enjoy the flavours of the region all in one place. The "Kyokaido Bakery" is known for its soft French bread, approximately 60 cm in length, baked fresh throughout the day. The retail section features ham and sausages produced by Tango Foods, the local company that operates the facility. At "Kyokaido Cafe", visitors can enjoy dishes made with ingredients from Miyazu City. On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays after 5:00 P.M., the café transforms into an Italian night bar, offering craft beer and wine alongside its seasonal fare.
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.
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.
Search for Italian and French Restaurants Where You Can Enjoy Gourmet Seafood by Area
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
Savour the Best of Hokkaido's Fresh Seasonal Produce in Tomakomai
"Shunkashuto Katsugyo Ryori Hokkai", a long-established Japanese restaurant, is located in Nishiki Town, a vibrant area, just a 10-minute walk from JR Tomakomai Station. They offer sashimi and creative dishes using fresh, seasonal seafood mainly sourced from Hokkaido. In the center of the restaurant, there is a large fish tank surrounded by counter seats where you can observe rare seasonal fish like Matsukawa flounder, a premium fish known for its thick white meat, swimming around. The seafood is caught from the tank and cooked to order, ensuring freshness. The restaurant also provides private rooms, ideal for hosting guests or celebrating special occasions such as anniversaries.
Kyoto
A Culinary Spot Featuring Locally Sourced Seasonal Delicacies
"Kyokaido Gourmet Market" is a culinary destination showcasing seafood and agricultural products from Miyazu City, Kyoto - also known as the "Kyoto of the Sea". This multi-purpose facility offers a convenient way to enjoy the flavours of the region all in one place. The "Kyokaido Bakery" is known for its soft French bread, approximately 60 cm in length, baked fresh throughout the day. The retail section features ham and sausages produced by Tango Foods, the local company that operates the facility. At "Kyokaido Cafe", visitors can enjoy dishes made with ingredients from Miyazu City. On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays after 5:00 P.M., the café transforms into an Italian night bar, offering craft beer and wine alongside its seasonal fare.
Hokkaido
Enjoy Sushi and Small Bites in a Cozy, Inviting Space
Just about a 2-minute walk from Kotoni Station on the Sapporo Municipal Subway, "Sushidokoro Misao" offers a warm welcome and masterfully crafted sushi. The owner, who trained for over 10 years at sushi restaurants in Sapporo and says he “loves sushi so much he could eat it every day," prepares each piece with great care, showcasing the rich flavors of fresh fish. During the day, guests can enjoy sushi at reasonable prices, while in the evening, the chef’s choice course and nigiri sets come highly recommended. The bright, clean, and cozy interior features both counter and table seating, making it perfect for solo diners, families with children, or a special meal with someone important.
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