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.
Search by Area
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.
Kanagawa
Savor Natural Bluefin Tuna and Premium Misaki Tuna
This restaurant, conveniently located just a three-minute walk from JR Kamakura Station, offers wild bluefin tuna. You can savor seafood dishes prepared with wild bluefin tuna and "Misaki tuna" directly sourced from Misaki Port in Kanagawa Prefecture while enjoying the view of the second torii gate of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, making it a popular spot for tourists visiting Kamakura. The "Superb Lean Meat" menu features a comparison of world-class quality wild bluefin tuna from Ireland and high-quality "Misaki tuna," kept fresh through advanced freezing technology immediately after being caught. Along with tuna, they also recommend the "Shirasu Donburi," limited to 10 servings per day, made with "Shonan Shirasu" from Hira Toshimaru, a whitebait fishing net maker at Sajima Port on the west coast of Yokosuka.
Tokyo
We Offer Only the Best Ingredients Selected by the Middleman's Landlady
A long - established sushi restaurant that continues from Tsukiji Market, located on the 3rd floor of Toyosu Market's Fisheries Intermediate Wholesale Building. With the motto of "Freshness First," the proprietress serves carefully selected seasonal seafood that remains fresh. The restaurant is so popular that even after its relocation, regular customers continue to visit it.
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.
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
Creative Cuisine Using Oysters From Hokkaido
A store specializing in Hokkaido oysters located about a 3-minute walk from Susukino Station on the Sapporo Municipal Subway. We purchase delicious oysters in season from various production areas in Hokkaido, such as Akkeshi Town, Shinai Town, Kushiro Town Senpoji, and Lake Saroma. In addition to "Kakiya TKG," which uses oyster soy sauce, we offer many creative dishes made with fresh oysters, such as "Hokkaido Oyster and Chive Spring Rolls" and "Oyster Kimchi". The menu created by the owner, who is from Taiwan, includes dishes with a Taiwanese twist, including "Taiwanese-style fried oysters." Along with pairing with sake and wine, this is a restaurant that you can enjoy no matter how many times you visit.
Hiroshima
Enjoy Hiroshima to the Fullest With a Variety of Dishes and Local Sake
A popular izakaya featuring Hiroshima ingredients and seasonal local sake. Known as an "accessible neighborhood restaurant," it attracts both locals and visitors from outside the prefecture who come to enjoy Hiroshima specialties like oysters and seasonal handmade dishes. They emphasize local sourcing, offering fresh locally-caught sashimi and dishes made with Hiroshima brand chicken. The diverse menu includes "shrimp shumai" steamed to order, "kamatama meatballs" with a fluffy texture served with egg, and "sesame-flavored amberjack sashimi." Their extensive drink menu features both local Hiroshima sake and selections from across Japan that pair perfectly with the food.
Hokkaido
Fresh Ingredients Unique to Crab and Live Fish Wholesalers
A seafood restaurant that focuses on freshly caught, boiled, and freshly prepared seafood. Seafood freshly caught that day swims in a huge fish tank inside the store, and you can have it processed and cooked on the spot. Enjoy the freshness that can only be found at a crab and live fish wholesaler's directly managed store.
Yamagata
Enjoy Local Delicacies from Land and Sea at This Yamagata Izakaya
You can enjoy a wide variety of local "Yonezawa beef" dishes, including teppanyaki, skewers, and hotpot. In addition to pufferfish and soft-shelled turtle, seasonal fish dishes purchased that day are also popular. Yamagata is a leading producer of rice and sake. In addition to local sake selected by the chef himself, they also have a selection of famous sake from all over the country.
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.
Gunma
Taste the Seasons in a Historic Meiji-Era Ryotei
"Ryotei Chojinso" was built in 1900 in Tsubaki Town, central Takasaki, as a businessman’s villa. It became a ryotei in 1955, named after the character "Chojin" from a calligraphy gifted by a visiting imperial family member during the Meiji era (1868–1912). The 1,000 m² garden is home to two free-roaming peacocks. The kaiseki course offers eight to eleven dishes using "Joshu beef" and local vegetables, updated every two months with occasional Western touches. All nine rooms are private and vary in size, making it ideal for celebrations, engagements, and family gatherings. Catering and lunch boxes are also available.
Shimane
A Japanese Restaurant Filled With the Flavors of Shimane Prefecture
As an official merchant of Izumo Taisha Shrine, this long - established restaurant is said to have served food to Emperor Taisho and Emperor Showa. There is a family crest next to the entrance, and the interior of the store is Japanese - style with a strong wooden impression, typical of a store near Izumo Taisha Shrine. Since it is within walking distance of Izumo Taisha Shrine, it is not only used for meals while sightseeing, but also used by locals for banquets and receptions. The menu includes "Seafood Bowl" where you can enjoy seafood from the Sea of Japan, "Uzuni" which the first generation learned at Izumo Taisha Shrine 130 years ago, and "Enmusubi Zen" which was registered as a project by the Shimane Prefecture Tourism Division. We also offer a wide variety of alcoholic beverages, with a focus on Junmai Ginjo made by a local sake brewing company. Enjoy traditional flavors with famous sake.
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.
Kouchi
Seasonal Ingredients and One-of-a-Kind Japanese Cuisine
This authentic Japanese restaurant requires reservations in advance. There are two course options available, priced at 8,800 yen and 13,200 yen, both featuring "seared bonito." The bonito is grilled over Tosa binchotan charcoal and sourced from Kochi Prefecture. The restaurant's name, "Yuinchi," comes from the Ryukyu dialect, meaning "a place full of abundance where trade goods come from all over," which reflects the thriving trade during the Ryukyu Kingdom era (the historical name of the Okinawa region). True to its name, the restaurant uses seasonal ingredients throughout the year to create unique dishes that highlight the freshest flavors. Additionally, the food is presented on a variety of tableware, including pottery and antiques collected from across the country, as well as pieces by contemporary artists, making the dining experience a visual delight.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Hokkaido
Freshly Grilled Oysters, Unique to the Area, Available on the Street Corner
A restaurant offering live seafood from Hokkaido, delivered fresh and full of vitality. Outside, grilled items can be casually enjoyed in a food stall-like setting, while inside, regional specialties such as "Kaki soba (soba noodles with oysters)" and "Kaki chazuke (rice with oysters and broth)" showcase local ways of eating. Plump, satisfying oysters are served raw in summer and grilled hot on the spot in winter. The savoury broth that pools inside the shells is also a delicacy, enhanced with a touch of lemon or Tabasco for extra flavour. Oysters are sourced from various regions depending on the season, including Akkeshi, Senposhi in Kushiro Town, Shiriuchi, and Lake Saroma - offering the opportunity to compare subtle differences in taste. Another highlight from "the grill" is the hotate (scallop), large and rich in umami, perfect for enjoying fresh off the fire.
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.
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.
Hyogo
Beloved by Locals for Authentic Japanese Cuisine
This Japanese restaurant is approximately a 10-minute drive from JR Sasayamaguchi Station. The owner and chef, who have experience training in Osaka, use their skills while considering what their customers want and only serve dishes that they themselves believe are delicious, offering dishes such as "Otsukuri Gozen (Sashimi set meal)," which features an assortment of recommended fresh fish. As they source seasonal ingredients, the menu changes depending on the season, and they aim for local production and consumption, so they use vegetables from Tanba Sasayama City as much as possible and Koshihikari rice that has been lovingly grown locally. In addition to purchasing sake from a local sake brewery in the hopes of supporting the local area, they also stock a selection of shochu carefully selected by the owner.
Search for Takeout Seafood Gourmet Food by Area
