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.
Kouchi
A Restaurant with a Wide Variety of Menu Items Located Close to the Scenic Katsurahama Beach
Located near Katsurahama Beach, a popular tourist spot in Kochi City, this restaurant offers hearty set meals (note: side dishes shown in the photo are not included) and a wide selection of local seafood at reasonable prices. Non-seafood options are also available, making it a flexible choice for all diners. The space includes both table seating and raised tatami seating, making it family-friendly for those visiting with young children. With its relaxed atmosphere and strong local character, it’s an ideal stop for lunch during a visit to Katsurahama.
Hokkaido
Street Corner Bites of Freshly Grilled Local Oysters
This restaurant serves live seafood from Hokkaido. Outside, grilled items are served in a casual, stall-style setting, while inside, the menu features regional dishes such as "Oyster Soba" and "Oyster Chazuke." The oysters, known for their large size and satisfying texture, are served raw in summer and freshly grilled in winter. The broth that collects in the shell is also part of the experience, with lemon or Tabasco added for extra flavor. Oysters from various regions—including Akkeshi, Senposhi in Kushiro, Shiriuchi, and Lake Saroma—are offered seasonally, allowing a comparison of different origins. Another highlight of the grill is scallops, served as large pieces with concentrated umami.
Kouchi
Heartwarming Cuisine Made With Ingredients From Sakawa Town, Kochi
"Nishimura Shoten", a popular restaurant serving fresh seafood, has opened at "Makino-san Roadside Station Sagawa". The restaurant has a wide range of menu items, including sashimi, sushi, and seafood bowls. It also offers meat dishes, fried foods, and stir-fries, making the restaurant popular with guests of all ages. Generously portioned set meals are also well-loved, and the reasonably priced take-out options add to the appeal. The warm, wood-accented interior creates a relaxing atmosphere, and group reservations are also accepted.
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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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.
Shiga
A Stylish Casual Izakaya Known for Food and Drinks
Located approximately a 5-minute walk from JR Kusatsu Station, "Izakaya Kujira" is a casual pub known for its extensive food and drink menu. A highlight is the wide selection of homemade dishes prepared by the proprietress, including the recommended "Arancini-Style Potato Croquette," served with tomato sauce. The beverage lineup, curated by the owner, also stands out, featuring options such as the sake "Biwako no Kujira" and the zero-carbohydrate "Perfect Suntory Beer." Whether stopping by for a full meal or visiting later in the evening for drinks, the restaurant offers a flexible dining experience. With counter seats, table seating, and an outdoor area, it accommodates a variety of occasions, from gatherings with friends to solo visits. The cheerful and welcoming service provided by the staff is also well-regarded.
Hiroshima
A Hidden Retreat for Charcoal-Grilled and Seafood Specialties
"Yakitori and Fish Iwaiya" is a yakitori restaurant specializing in charcoal-grilled skewers and fresh seafood. Carefully hand-skewered by skilled chefs and grilled over charcoal, the yakitori is crisp and aromatic on the outside while remaining juicy within. In addition to grilled chicken, the menu features a wide variety of seafood dishes, including sashimi, allowing both meat and seafood to be enjoyed in one meal. Counter seats provide a comfortable setting for solo dining and dates, while table seating and sunken kotatsu seating are well-suited to gatherings and casual get-togethers with friends. The calm atmosphere invites relaxed dining, making it an ideal choice for occasions ranging from an after-work drink to a special evening.
Ishikawa
A Quaint Izakaya Where You Can Enjoy Seasonal Ingredients from Hokuriku
An izakaya with a modern brick exterior, located in a prime spot about a 5‑minute walk from the Kenrokuen exit of JR Kanazawa Station. Nestled in a quiet alley, this hidden gem is popular with both locals and tourists. Seafood is sourced from Omicho Market, where seasonal ingredients from Hokuriku are gathered, and the restaurant insists on using only natural seafood. Driven by the president's conviction that while expensive and delicious food is expected, offering affordable yet equally delicious options is essential, high‑quality ingredients are served at a reasonable price. Notably, "Hachimaru's" specialty, Nodoguro (Akamutsu), is renowned for its generous size and affordable price. Savor your meal in an ambiance that evokes the charm of old Kanazawa.
Miyazaki
Enjoy Fresh Seafood Delivered Directly from Aburatsu Fishing Port
"Bibi" is a word for fish in the Nichinan region. "Bibin - ya" is located in front of the fishermen's cooperative in Aburatsu Port, and offers 100 types of original dishes made with fresh local "bibi". The owner's special dish, which uses yellowfin or bigeye tuna depending on the dish, is hearty and reasonably priced. The most recommended course is the tuna course, which includes sashimi and steak, as well as unusual dishes such as tuna tempura with mustard soy sauce and simmered tuna tripe called gonguri. Ise lobsters, which are in season from September, are large in size and delicious with a soft texture. Let's enjoy extremely fresh spiny lobsters made with the blessings of the Kuroshio Current at a reasonable price.
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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.
Ishikawa
A Heartfelt Japanese Hideaway in Komatsu
This Japanese restaurant in Komatsu City, Ishikawa Prefecture, primarily uses seasonal ingredients from the local area and the Hokuriku region. It serves dishes that are carefully selected for their freshness and seasonality. The tableware and setting incorporate traditional crafts from Ishikawa, and together with the food, you can immerse yourself in the "art of Japan" with all five senses. The restaurant's interior, built in the sukiya style, makes the most of the elegant building, creating a slightly more formal and sophisticated atmosphere than usual. The restaurant is renowned for its hospitality that caters to a wide range of generations. It also has a private annex, making it an ideal place to celebrate milestones in life, such as the first meal, a meeting between family members, or a longevity celebration. Many events are also held to promote the merits of Japanese cuisine to the younger generation.
Gunma
Exceptional Dishes Made With Premium Ingredients From Toyosu Market
This Japanese restaurant is approximately a seven-minute walk from Chuo-Maebashi Station on the Jomo Electric Railroad. They source fresh ingredients from Toyosu Market in Tokyo that rival those found in high-end restaurants in the city, such as bamboo shoots and wild vegetables in spring, conger eels, conger eels, and sweetfish in summer, mushrooms such as matsutake mushrooms in autumn, and pufferfish, crab, and oysters in winter. Each dish is carefully prepared to taste exceptionally well. The dignified and clean interior features counter seats and sunken kotatsu-style private rooms on the first floor, and a private room on the second floor that can accommodate 3 to10 people and is limited to one group per day, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a meal with your family, as well as entertaining loved ones, celebrating anniversaries, and more.
Yamagata
Artfully Crafted Dishes Showcasing Yamagata Produce
"Souen Shingetsu" is located approximately a 12-minute walk from JR Sakuranbo Higashine Station. The owner, a Japanese chef, draws on over 25 years of experience to serve colorful, creative dishes that generously feature local vegetables and ingredients from Yamagata Prefecture. The restaurant is renowned for its meticulously crafted dishes, which seamlessly combine beautiful visuals with unexpected flavors. The spacious dining room seats approximately 81 guests and includes private rooms, allowing flexible use for everything from casual meals to anniversaries and banquets, depending on group size and occasion. The restaurant is often lively during the daytime and draws after-work diners and groups in the evening, making reservations recommended.
Tokyo
Proudly Serving Eel "Prepared With the Utmost Care in Japan"
Located near Kabukiza Tower, this long-established Japanese restaurant boasts a history of approximately 150 years. It is renowned as a discreet destination for celebrities from the world of kabuki and beyond. Selected in the "Michelin Guide Tokyo 2024", the restaurant’s eel, prepared with traditional flavours and meticulous care, is a masterpiece passed down through generations. Upholding the belief of being "Prepared With the Utmost Care in Japan," no compromises are made across the seven stages of preparation, from selecting ingredients to the final grilling. Preparing a single eel, including the removal of fine bones, takes approximately two hours. With a dedication to excellence in ingredients, culinary technique, tableware, and atmosphere, the establishment offers an experience akin to visiting a small museum where both food and artistry can be savoured.
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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.
Miyagi
Casual Italian Restaurant That You Can Drop In to Easily
Located approximately a 1-minute walk from JR Matsushima Station, "Bene ITALIAN DINING" is a casual Italian restaurant offering a relaxed dining experience. A wide selection of dishes is available for both lunch and dinner, featuring seasonal local ingredients at reasonable prices. The drink menu is also extensive, including wine, cocktails, and beer, allowing for delightful pairings with the diverse menu. With its warm and welcoming atmosphere, the restaurant is ideal for family meals, casual gatherings, and parties. Breakfast service is also popular, with many customers stopping by for takeaway coffee or meals on their way to work.
Shizuoka
Spend a Special Day with your Loved One in this Restaurant
Located in Tadehara, Fuji City, Shizuoka Prefecture, "Il Ponte" is a café and restaurant distinguished by its Southern European-inspired architecture and spacious terrace. Authentic European cuisine with a focus on Italian dishes forms the heart of the menu, featuring a colorful selection of pastas, meat dishes, and salads prepared with fresh vegetables. During the day, sunlight fills the flower- and greenery-lined terrace, while evenings bring a resort-like atmosphere beneath the night sky. A variety of plans and course meals are available for gatherings and special occasions, and pets are welcome in the terrace seating area.
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.
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.
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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
Hidden Izakaya in Susukino for Drinks and Small Bites
Tucked away in a back alley in the Susukino County of Sapporo, this hidden-style izakaya offers a welcoming, home-like setting. The menu features items that pair well with sake, including its specialty grilled shabu-shabu, grilled fish, and yakitori. The drink selection centers on sake from Hokkaido, along with options such as corn-based shochu from the Tokachi region.
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
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
Handcrafted Sushi Made With Deep Knowledge of Haboro’s Local Seafood
Located in Haboro Town along the scenic "Sea of Japan Ororon Line" in northern Hokkaido, this sushi restaurant is run by a chef who trained for nearly ten years in Susukino, Sapporo’s entertainment district, before returning home. Fresh seafood is sourced from local waters, including specialties like oshizushi (pressed sushi) made with "amaebi (sweet shrimp)", a local delicacy of Haboro. The menu features Hokkaido-sourced ingredients such as botan ebi (large shrimp), live scallops, "Stewed Kasube (skate), "Kajika no ko in soy sauce (marinated sculpin roe)", and "Suffolk lamb" from Yagishiri Island. Course meals may also include off-menu items upon request. With counter seats, tatami rooms, and private rooms available, the relaxed setting welcomes both solo diners and groups.
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