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uni oyster

Ekiben available in Tokyo 3

Ekiben (lunch box) available in Tokyo 3 english list   This is the third post in a series of special features on ekiben available in Tokyo. This time, we purchased ekiben only at Shinjuku Station. There are two ekiben stores in Shinjuku Station. The first, which sells a larger variety of ekiben, is the Ekiben-ya Itadaki. It is located between Lines 11 and 12 and Lines 9 and 10 in the South Exit ticket gates of Shinjuku Station. It is open from 6:30 to 21:00 (as of 15:00 on 30 August 2022), which is a long opening hour, making it a good ekiben shop for travelers. Next is the Ekiben-ya Shinjuku 5 kiosk. It is located in the middle of platforms 9 and 10 where Chuo Line limited express trains arrive and depart. It is open from 6:30 to 20:00. Shinjuku Station has the highest number of passengers in the world, and many limited express trains arrive and depart from the station, so demand for ekiben is strong. Why not choose from a wide variety of ekiben at Shinjuku Station? The average daily number of passengers at Shinjuku Station, including JR, Odakyu, and Keio lines, is approximately 3.53 million (2017),read moreEkiben available in Tokyo 3

sashimi

Delicious season for 300 seafood in Japan

Delicious season for 300 seafood in Japan   1. Introduction We want foreign visitors to eat a variety of Japanese seafood at the best time of year and in the best places. With this in mind, we have created a seasonal calendar of approximately 300 different types of seafood, prefecture by prefecture. This list is based on the PRIDE FISH website, selected by the Japan Fisheries Co-operative. PRIDE FISH is a list of “really tasty fish selected by fishermen”. Therefore, by referring to this list, you should be able to eat the most delicious seafood. Many Japanese people do not know the details of the season for Japanese seafood. And for foreigners, it can be even more difficult to understand. We hope that this list will be of some help to foreign visitors when they visit and dine in various parts of Japan. Only the English version of Hokkaido is shown here as an example. For more information, see the English and Traditional Chinese versions.   2. Search by Prefecture Hokkaido & Tohoku Hokkaido, Aomori, Iwate, Miyagi, Akita, Yamagata, Fukushima   Hokkaido & Tohoku Hokkaido 真つぶ、Ezo-neptune / Whelk Prefectures, Region : Hokkaido, Hidaka Delicious season : April, May, June, Julyread moreDelicious season for 300 seafood in Japan

crane

Summary of July itinerary in Japan (Hokkaido)

Summary of July itinerary in Japan (Hokkaido) From Saturday, July 2 to Monday, July 4, I traveled to Hokkaido (Kushiro and Akkeshi). On this trip, I was able to eat more seasonal seafood and local cuisine than on any previous trip. I was also able to enjoy the great national parks at Lake Akan and the Kushiro Marshland, as well as the wonderful flora and fauna, including nationally protected species like the marimo and the Japanese (tancho) crane. Even in early July, when it was extremely hot in Japan, the temperatures in Kushiro and Akkeshi were 5 to 10°C cooler than in Honshu, making it the perfect summer vacation. I strongly recommend this itinerary for July in Japan. Here is a summary of the trip and some notes.   Table of contents 1.”100 best of local dishes” and “Local dishes loved by the nation” by this itinerary in Japan 2. Seasonal “PRIDE FISH” by this itinerary in Japan 3. Travel precautions for the itinerary in Japan 4. Travel in a light style 5. July 2 (Saturday) Day 1 6. July 3 (Sunday) Day 2 7. July 4 (Monday) Day 3   Again, each time, this itinerary was also created withread moreSummary of July itinerary in Japan (Hokkaido)

Oyster

July itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Hokkaido Meal edition)

July itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Hokkaido Meal edition) (Sunday, July 3)   Table of Contents 1.  Oyster Bar Pitresk (Conchiglie) 2. Charcoal Grill Aburiya (Conchiglie) 3. Azumaya Kawakita Branch   1.  Oyster Bar Pitresk (Conchiglie) After finishing sightseeing in Akkeshi in the morning, I had raw oysters at Oyster Bar Pitresk in the Akkeshi Taste Terminal “Conchiglie” while drinking Akkeshi Whiskey. It is an alternative to a waiting bar before lunch. “Oysters from Akkeshi” (season: May-August, December-February) are Hokkaido’s summer “PRIDE FISH” as selected by Japan Fisheries Co-operative. The year-round low sea water temperature in Akkeshi makes it possible to ship oysters year-round. There is an island called Oyster Island (officially Benten Island) in Lake Akkeshi where oysters are cultivated. “Oysters from Akkeshi” are actually delicious from fall to winter when the meat becomes plump and tasty, but since Akkeshi is the only area where oysters can be eaten in summer, it is chosen as the “PRIDE FISH” of summer. The whisky produced at the Akkeshi Distillery is also a specialty of Akkeshi. Akkeshi Distillery started distilling whisky in October 2016 with a strong desire to “make whisky like Islay malt using traditional Scottish methods. Two years after theread moreJuly itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Hokkaido Meal edition)

Sumiyoshi taisha

Summary of June itinerary in Japan ( Osaka, Kyoto )

Summary of June itinerary in Japan ( Osaka, Kyoto )   I traveled to Osaka, Kyoto, and Aichi Prefectures from Wednesday, June 8 to Friday, June 10. On this trip, I was able to eat a lot of seasonal seafood and local cuisine such as sea bass and sweetfish, and visit wonderful sightseeing spots such as world heritage sites, national treasures, and national important cultural properties. I strongly recommend that you travel in June, especially in Osaka, Kyoto, and Aichi Prefectures, which are not suitable for travel in July and August due to the extremely hot weather. Here is a summary of our trip and some notes.   Table of contents 1.”100 best of local dishes” and “Local dishes loved by the nation” by this itinerary in Japan 2. Seasonal “PRIDE FISH” by this itinerary in Japan 3. Travel precautions for itinerary in Japan 4. Travel in a light style 5. June 8 (Wednesday) Day 1 6. June 9 (Thursday) Day 2 7. June 10 (Friday) Day 3   Again, each time, this itinerary was also created with the objective of “eating all the seasonal seafood and local cuisine”. Food is the first priority, and sightseeing spots are second. Nevertheless,read moreSummary of June itinerary in Japan ( Osaka, Kyoto )

mackerel sushi

June itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Osaka Meal edition)

June itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Osaka Meal edition) (Wednesday, June 8)   Table of contents 1. Soraben 2. Okonomiyaki “Abeton” 3. Sushi “Abaraya”   1. Soraben For breakfast on June 8, I had a “Soraben (Sky bento)” at Haneda Airport. This trip to Osaka/Kyoto has nothing to do with Fukuoka Prefecture, but I bought a “Yamaya Mentai Saizen” (Yen 1,350) from Fukuoka Prefecture. The “Yamaya Mentai Saizen” is one of the more expensive “Soraben” sold at Haneda Airport. However, when I opened the lid of the bento, I found that the coloring was very plain. I was disappointed after opening the lid, because I think coloring is very important for both “Ekiben” and “Soraben”. The taste was good, but it was not good enough to make up for the very plain coloring. Considering the price, I felt that it was a very overpriced “Soraben”. I knew I shouldn’t have bought a Fukuoka bento at Haneda Airport.   2. Okonomiyaki “Abeton” After sightseeing at Shitennoji Temple, I had okonomiyaki at “Abeton“, which is located a little more than 5 minutes away on foot. “Abeton” is located in an underground shopping mall called “Abechika”. It is located on the Shitennoji Templeread moreJune itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Osaka Meal edition)

sweatfish

Summary of May itinerary in Japan (Kumamoto trip)

Summary of May itinerary in Japan (Kumamoto trip) I travelled to Kumamoto Prefecture (partly Fukuoka Prefecture) from Tuesday, 17 May to Thursday, 19 May. On this trip I was able to eat a lot of seasonal seafood and local cuisine and visit wonderful tourist attractions such as World Heritage Sites, national treasures and national important cultural properties. As my main objective was to eat local cuisine, I was able to eat more local dishes than I have on previous trips. I would strongly recommend this May Japan itinerary to everyone. A summary of this trip and some notes are reported below.   Table of contents 1.”100 best of local dishes” and “Local dishes loved by the nation” by this itinerary in Japan 2. Seasonal “PRIDE FISH” by this itinerary in Japan 3. Travel precautions for itinerary in Japan 4. Travel in a light style 5. May 17 (Tuesday) Day 1 6. May 18 (Wednesday) Day 2 7. May 19 (Thursday) Day 3   As I repeat every time, this itinerary was also created with the purpose of “eating out seasonal fish and shellfish and local dishes.” Food is the highest priority, and tourist destinations are the second priority. However, Iread moreSummary of May itinerary in Japan (Kumamoto trip)

Japanese tiger prawn

Seafood in season in June

Seafood in season in June We will introduce the fish and shellfish that will be in season in June by dividing them into the whole of Japan and the prefectures ranked at the top. Please note that the season may vary depending on the region and year depending on the landing conditions due to climate change, so please consider it as reference data only.   Table of contents 1. Fish and shellfish that are in season in June (whole Japan) 2. 1st place Miyagi prefecture (9 types) 3. 2nd place Nagasaki prefecture (8 types) 4. 3rd place Hokkaido (7 types) 5. 3rd place Shimane prefecture (7 types) 6. 5th place Ehime prefecture (6 types)   1. Fish and shellfish that are in season in June (whole Japan) The number of fish and shellfish that will be in season in June is 33 out of the 87 species surveyed, which is the second highest in a year. The following is a list of 33 types of fish and shellfish in no particular order. Fish horse mackerel, conger eel, sweetfish, chicken grunt, sardine, marlin, barracuda, flatfish, filefish, great amberjack, sillago, silver-stripe round herring, spanish mackerel, striped jack, Japanese sea bass, loach, flyingread moreSeafood in season in June

sashimi

April itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Ehime Meal edition)

April itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Ehime Meal edition) (Wednesday, April 20)   Table of contents 1. JR Hotel Clement Uwajima “Sirene” 2. Local cuisine “Hozumi-tei” 3. Izakaya “Oiri-tei” 4. Yakiyaki Iron Plate Grill “Himawari Ichibancho Train Street Store”   1. JR Hotel Clement Uwajima “Sirene” I had breakfast at the restaurant “Sirene” of “JR Hotel Clement Uwajima” which was near the hotel where I was staying on April 20th (Wednesday). We can eat Uwajima’s unique meals using local ingredients such as “Uwajima Tai-meshi”, “Kama-age shirasu (straight-from-the-pot young sardine which is freshly boiled) “, “Grilled dried local fish”, and “local vegetables” since the morning at “Sirene”. Even those people who are not staying at JR Hotel Clement Uwajima can have breakfast at “Sirene”. I had “Tai-meshi Breakfast Set” (Yen 1,800 including tax) that I hadn’t eaten since I came to Uwajima. “Uwajima Tai-meshi” is the “100 selections of local cuisine” in Ehime prefecture selected by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. “Uwajima Tai-meshi” is a dish of red sea bream sashimi caught in the Uwa Sea, mixed with soy sauce, raw eggs, seaweed, etc. over rice. Simply put, it is a raw egg over rice with sashimi of red searead moreApril itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Ehime Meal edition)

eel rice

April itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Kochi, Ehime Meal edition)

April itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Kochi, Ehime Meal edition) (Tuesday, April 19)   Table of contents 1. Sakoya 2. Yokoyama meat shop 3. Local cuisine “Hozumi-tei”   1. Sakoya I cycled from Nakamura Station on the downstream Shimanto River to Ekawasaki Station on the upstream from 8 am on April 19th (Tuesday). For breakfast, I had a rice bowl topped with grilled natural eel at “Sakoya”, which is a short distance across the Sada Chinka-bashi Bridge (Imanari Bridge). When I made a request to “eat the natural eel of the Shimanto River”, I was told “Sakoya” by the Shimanto City Tourism Association at Nakamura Station. “Sakoya” is open from 7:00 to 14:00, so we can have a a rice bowl topped with grilled natural eel as breakfast. Locals were eating breakfast such as ham and eggs at “Sakoya”. “Sakoya” goes to the Shimanto River every morning to catch natural eels, and if they cannot catch natural eels, they will provide farmed eels. Since eel fishing in the Shimanto River is limited to April 1st to September 30th, you can also eat Sakoya’s natural eels only from April to September. In the Shimanto River, river shrimp fishing can only beread moreApril itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Kochi, Ehime Meal edition)

Tanaka Fresh Fish Store

April itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Kochi Meal edition)

April itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Kochi Prefecture Meal edition) (Monday, April 18)   Table of contents 1. Hirome Market Chinmi-do 2. Craft beer TOSACO 3. Tanaka Fresh Fish Store 4. Okamura Kamaboko store 5. Izakaya Kihachi   1. Hirome Market Chinmi-do I had to wait for about 2 hours for the limited express train from Kochi Station to Tosakure Station, so I had breakfast at “Chinmi-do” in “Hirome Market“. “Hirome Market” is open from 10 am to 10 pm, so it is a very convenient market for tourists. “Chinmi-do” is the largest store in “Hirome Market”. They have so many seafood and food of the mountains that are unique to Kochi that we can’t imagine them in the market. I ate “Noresore”, “Dorome (raw whitebait)”, “Crab innards”, “Whale sinewy meat”, “Grilled mackerel sushi” and drank a sake “Senchu Hassaku”. “Noresore” is a fry of conger eel (juvenile conger) and is a marine delicacy in Kochi prefecture. “Noresore” has a white and transparent body, and is also called a water fairy because of its mysterious appearance. The season for “Noresore” from Kochi prefecture is from February to May. In addition, “Noresore” is the name spread all over the country inread moreApril itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Kochi Meal edition)

sea urchin

Seafood in season in May

Seafood in season in May We will introduce the fish and shellfish that will be in season in May by dividing them into the whole of Japan and the prefectures ranked at the top. Please note that the season may vary depending on the region and year depending on the landing conditions due to climate change, so please consider it as reference data only.   Table of contents 1. Fish and shellfish that are in season in May (whole Japan) 2. 1st place Miyagi prefecture (8 types) 3. 2nd place Nagasaki prefecture (7 types) 4. 3rd place Hyogo prefecture (6 types) 5. 3rd place Shimane prefecture (6 types) 6. 5th place Hokkaido (5 types) 7. 5th place Mie prefecture (5 types) 8. 5th place Fukuoka prefecture (5 types)   1. Fish and shellfish that are in season in May (whole Japan) The number of fish and shellfish that will be in season in May is 24 out of the 87 species surveyed, which is the second lowest in a year. The following is a list of 24 types of fish and shellfish in no particular order. Fish horse mackerel, conger eel, chicken grunt, sardine, bonito, flatfish, silver-stripe round herring, spanishread moreSeafood in season in May

Myooin

Summary of March itinerary in Japan (Hiroshima, Okayama)

Summary of March itinerary in Japan (Hiroshima, Okayama)   I traveled to Hiroshima and Okayama prefectures from March 22nd (Tuesday) to March 25th (Friday). I was able to eat a lot of seasonal fish and shellfish and local dishes, and visited wonderful tourist destinations such as World Heritage Sites, National Treasures, National Important Cultural Properties, and National Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings on this trip. It was the most visited tourist destination in the four-day domestic trip so far. I was able to enjoy fresh seafood such as seasonal oysters and agricultural products unique to the production areas such as Kuwai (sagittaria rhizome, Fukuyama City) and Yellow Chinese chives (Kurashiki City), which are overwhelmingly produced in Japan on this trip. In addition, I was able to eat Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki and Onomichi ramen, which are typical local gourmet foods. This is the March Japan itinerary that I highly recommend to everyone. Here is a summary of this trip and some notes.   Table of contents 1.”100 best of local dishes” and “Local dishes loved by the nation” by this itinerary in Japan 2. Seasonal “PRIDE FISH” by this itinerary in Japan 3. Travel precautions for itinerary in Japan 4.read moreSummary of March itinerary in Japan (Hiroshima, Okayama)

ramen

March itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Hiroshima, Okayama Meal ed.)

March itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Hiroshima, Okayama Meal ed.) (Friday, March 25)   Table of contents 1. Onomichi Ramen Iccho 2. Local cuisine Hamayoshi   1. Onomichi Ramen Iccho I returned to Fukuyama Station from Tomonoura, Myo-in and Kusado Inari Shrine, and had lunch at “Onomichi Ramen Iccho”. As I posted on the BLOG on April 19, there are two types of Onomichi ramen, and Hiroshi Iwaoka, the founder of the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum says, “Onomichi ramen should be called Onomichi / Fukuyama ramen.” Therefore, Onomichi ramen eaten in Fukuyama City can be called local ramen. Many customers lined up at “Onomichi Ramen Iccho” even after 13:00. There is no doubt that it is a popular ramen shop in Fukuyama City. With a high score of 3.62 in Tabelog, it is listed as the top ramen shop in Fukuyama City. I ordered “ramen” (Yen 650). The ramen of “Onomichi Ramen Iccho” was a typical “Onomichi ramen” with a lot of fatty upper part of roast pork floating in black soy sauce soup. The taste of ramen was one of the best ramen I ate recently. The noodles were a little soft at “Kukai” in Onomichi City the day before,read moreMarch itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Hiroshima, Okayama Meal ed.)

Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki

March itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Hiroshima Meal edition)

March itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Hiroshima Meal edition) (Wednesday, March 23)   Table of contents 1. Soba restaurant “Tonbo” 2. MIYAJIMA BREWERY 3. Hiroshima Gyoza Hiroshima Station ekie store 4. Izakaya Shin 5. Micchan Sohonten Hatchobori Main Store   1. Soba restaurant “Tonbo” While sightseeing in Miyajima, I had lunch at Soba restaurant “Tonbo”. At first, I was thinking of eating while walking after buying fried Momiji Manju (sweet bun) at Soba restaurant “Tonbo”. However, it took a long time to make the fried Momiji Manju, so I decided to eat soba at Tonbo as well. I had fried Momiji Manju for the first time, but it was hot and delicious. By the way, the next day I bought raw Momiji Manju at Hiroshima Station and ate it at the hotel. In conclusion, I found that I like the traditional and ordinary Momiji Manju the most. However, I think that both the fried Momiji Manju and the raw Momiji Manju were good experiences. At Soba restaurant “Tonbo”, I ordered “Conger eel tempura soba,” “Mini Anago-meshi,” and “Steamed oysters” in addition to the fried Momiji Manju. “Conger eel tempura soba” was delicious, but it wasn’t so impressive. However, I wasread moreMarch itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Hiroshima Meal edition)

Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki

March itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Hiroshima Meal edition)

March itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Hiroshima Meal edition) (Tuesday, March 22)   Table of contents 1. Denko Sekka Ekimae Hiroba store 2. Beer stand Shigetomi 3. Takenoshita 4. Henkutsuya Main Store   1. Denko Sekka Ekimae Hiroba store After arriving in Hiroshima city, I went to the “Denko Sekka Ekimae Hiroba store” near Hiroshima station and ate Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. “Denko Sekka Ekimae Hiroba store” is a popular restaurant that has been selected as one of the 100 Tabelog restaurants. Unlike regular Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, the specialty is “Denko Sekka,” which wraps the okonomiyaki dough with fluffy eggs. I ordered “Denko Sekka” (Yen 1,100). It’s delicious, but in conclusion, I prefer the traditional Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. However, I think it is just right for those who are tired of traditional Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. I think that Hiroshima citizens who eat Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki every week need such a slightly unusual new version. Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is a “Local dishes loved by the nation” of Hiroshima prefecture selected by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. The biggest feature of Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is “Kasane-Yaki (layered grill),” which is baked without mixing the dough and ingredients. It is said that Isao Ise of “Micchan” and Zenjiro Nakamuraread moreMarch itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Hiroshima Meal edition)

Octopus sashimi

Seafood in season in April

Seafood in season in April We will introduce the fish and shellfish that will be in season in April by dividing them into the whole of Japan and the prefectures ranked at the top. Please note that the season may vary depending on the region and year depending on the landing conditions due to climate change, so please consider it as reference data only.   Table of contents 1. Fish and shellfish that are in season in April (whole Japan) 2. 1st place Hyogo prefecture (9 types) 3. 2nd place Hokkaido (7 types) 4. 3rd place Miyagi prefecture (5 types) 5. 3rd place Fukuoka prefecture (5 types) 6. 3rd place Nagasaki prefecture (5 types)   1. Fish and shellfish that are in season in April (whole Japan) The number of fish and shellfish that will be in season in April is 25 out of the 87 species surveyed, which is the third lowest in a year. The following is a list of 25 types of fish and shellfish in no particular order. Fish horse mackerel, sand lance, bonito, flatfish, halfbeak, spanish mackerel, Japanese icefish, whitebait, sea bream, tuna, trout, black rockfish Shellfish round clam, asari clam, oyster, Japanese egg cockleread moreSeafood in season in April

snow crab

Summary of February itinerary in Japan (Hyogo, Tottori, Shimane)

Summary of February itinerary in Japan (Hyogo, Tottori, Shimane trip)   I traveled to Hyogo, Tottori, and Shimane prefectures from Wednesday, February 23rd to Sunday, February 27th. I was able to eat a lot of seasonal fish and shellfish and local dishes, and I was able to visit wonderful tourist destinations such as national treasures and national important cultural properties on this trip. Since this trip was mainly on the Sea of ​​Japan side of Hyogo, Tottori, and Shimane prefectures, I was able to enjoy the fresh seafood of the Sea of ​​Japan such as live snow crab. In addition, I was able to fully eat food of the mountains such as “Botan nabe (wild boar meat hot pot)”. This is the February Japanese itinerary that I highly recommend to everyone. Here is a summary of this trip and some notes. I will comment repeatedly every time, but this itinerary was also created with the purpose of “eating out seasonal fish and shellfish and local dishes.” Food is the highest priority, and tourist destinations are the second priority. However, we aimed to visit as many tourist spots as possible, such as national treasures and national important cultural properties.   Tableread moreSummary of February itinerary in Japan (Hyogo, Tottori, Shimane)

Kani (crab) sushi

February itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Tottori Meal edition)

February itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Tottori Meal edition) (Saturday, February 26)   Table of contents 1. Kitaro beer and 20th century pear chu-hi at Tottori Sand Dunes 2. Ekiben / Kani (crab) sushi 3. Kurayoshi craft beer 4. Washoku Izakaya Shunmon 5. Ramen Yamato   1. Kitaro beer and 20th century pear chu-hi at Tottori Sand Dunes I drank a pale ale of “Kitaro Beer” at “Sakyu Center View Hill” while looking at Tottori Sand Dunes. “Kitaro Beer” is a Kitaro label version of the popular craft beer “Daisen G Beer“. “Daisen G Beer” is a beer manufactured by Daisen Brewery. At the foot of Daisen National Park (elevation 300m), beer is produced using underground water from Daisen and barley and hops from Daisen. The Kitaro label is affixed, but the contents are “Daisen G Beer”, so it was a very delicious beer. After drinking “Kitaro Beer”, I drank “20th century pear (Asian pear) Chu-hai”. “20th century pear Chuhai” is a pear chu-hai that uses 11% of Tottori’s 20th century pear juice. It is produced by Hayashi Kentaro Shoten in Tottori City. When I tried “20th century pear Chu-hai”, it tastes like 20th century pear. The harvest time forread moreFebruary itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Tottori Meal edition)

blackthroat seaperch

February itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Hyogo, Tottori Meal edition)

February itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Hyogo, Tottori Meal edition) (Friday, February 25) Table of contents 1. Oishiya Shokudo 2. Aji-goyomi Anbe 3. Goen   1. Oishiya Shokudo I had brunch at Oishiya Shokudo after finishing the walk in Toyooka city. Oishiya Shokudo is a Taishu Shokudo (cheap restaurant) that has been opened in front of Toyooka Station since the early Showa period. It is a typical Taishu Shokudo inside and outside the restaurant. It’s open from 8am to 9pm, so I think it’s a popular Taishu Shokudo for people who arrive at Toyooka Station or depart from Toyooka Station. A very elderly couple was cooking and serving. Being very old, it is slow to move and takes a long time to cook and serve. I think that is also a good part of Oishiya Shokudo. I ordered “Oden” and “Crab bowl” at Oishiya Shokudo. “Oden” has been stewed in an oden pot, so it came out soon. It was a delicious “oden” with the taste soaked in the ingredients. I waited for about 20 minutes until it came out after ordering the “Crab bowl”. The impression is that it took a long time. However, the taste of “crab bowl”read moreFebruary itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Hyogo, Tottori Meal edition)

red bream

Seafood in season in Mar (No.2)

Seafood in season in Mar (No.2)   Table of contents 1. 5th place Aomori prefecture (5 types) 2. 5th place Ibaraki prefecture (5 types) 3. 5th place Chiba prefecture (5 types)   1. 5th place Aomori prefecture (5 types) Aomori Prefecture (5 types of fish and shellfish) was ranked 5th in the prefectures with the highest catches and types of fish and shellfish that are in season in March. Aomori Prefecture has been in the top 5 for 4 consecutive months since December. In Aomori Prefecture, the following five types of fish and shellfish are in season in March. Fish Japanese icefish, trout, pond smelt Shellfish scallop Other seafood spear squid “PRIDE FISH” Japan Fisheries Cooperatives has selected “Aomori Hokki-gai (Sakhalin surf clam)” (season: January-March) as the winter “PRIDE FISH” in Aomori Prefecture. As I wrote last time, I went to Misawa in December 2021 and ate “Misawa Hokki Don”. “PRIDE FISH” is said to be in season from January to March, but Misawa City’s “Hokki Don” can be eaten from December 1st to March 31st.   2. 5th place Ibaraki prefecture (5 types) Ibaraki Prefecture (5 types of fish and shellfish) was ranked 5th in the prefectures with theread moreSeafood in season in Mar (No.2)

Japanese horse mackerel

Seafood in season in Mar (No.1)

Seafood in season in March (No.1) We will introduce the fish and shellfish that will be in season in March by dividing them into the whole of Japan and the prefectures ranked at the top. Please note that the season may vary depending on the region and year depending on the landing conditions due to climate change, so please consider it as reference data only.   Table of contents 1. Fish and shellfish that are in season in March (whole Japan) 2. 1st place Hokkaido (11 types) 3. 2nd place Hyogo prefecture (8 types) 4. 3rd place Shimane prefecture (7 types) 5. 3rd place Nagasaki prefecture (7 types)   1. Fish and shellfish that are in season in March (whole Japan) The number of fish and shellfish that will be in season in March is 25 out of the 87 species surveyed, which is the third lowest in a year. The following is a list of 25 types of fish and shellfish in no particular order. Fish horse mackerel, sand lance, flatfish, halfbeak, spanish mackerel, Japanese icefish, whitebait, sea bream, Japanese amberjack, gurnard, trout, pond smelt Shellfish round clam, ark shell, asari clam, oyster, hard clam, scallop Other seafood octopusread moreSeafood in season in Mar (No.1)

Five-Story Pagoda

Summary of January itinerary in Japan (Yamagata trip)

Summary of January itinerary in Japan (Yamagata trip)   I traveled to Yamagata prefecture (Tohoku region) from January 25th (Tuesday) to January 28th (Friday). On this trip, I was able to eat a lot of seasonal fish and shellfish and local dishes, and I was able to visit wonderful tourist destinations such as the national treasure and national important cultural properties. Although it was a trip within the same prefecture, Yamagata Prefecture had different cultures and food cultures depending on the region, so it was a very satisfying trip. This is the January itinerary in Japan that I highly recommend to everyone. In addition, I will report a summary of this trip and some notes.   Table of contents 1.”100 selections of local dishes” and “Local dishes loved by the nation” by this itinerary in Japan 2. Seasonal “PRIDE FISH” eaten in this Japanese itinerary 3. Travel precautions (local trains) for itinerary in Japan 4. Travel in a light style 5. January 25 (Tuesday) Day 1  6. January 26 (Wednesday) Day 2 7. January 27 (Thursday) Day 3 8. January 28 (Friday) Day 4   As I repeat every time, this itinerary was also created with the purpose of “eatingread moreSummary of January itinerary in Japan (Yamagata trip)

liver of monkfish

Ibaraki’s local cuisine recommended in February

Ibaraki Prefecture’s local cuisine recommended in February Table of contents 1. Introduction 2. Monkfish cuisine 3. Soboro Natto 4. Paita-yaki   1. Introduction The recommended local dishes in Ibaraki prefecture in February are “Monkfish cuisine” and “Soboro natto”. Both have been selected as one of the “100 selections of local dishes” selected by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. “Monkfish cuisine” in Ibaraki prefecture is famous all over the country, and natto is also famous under the “Mito natto” brand. It is natural that “Monkfish cuisine” and “Soboro natto” are selected as “100 selections of local dishes”. In addition, “Soboro Natto”, which is also a preserved food, can be eaten all year round. 2. Monkfish cuisine The National Federation of Fisheries Cooperatives has selected “PRIDE FISH” in winter in Ibaraki Prefecture, “Ibaraki monkfish” (season: December-February) and “Ibaraki Joban Masaba (chub mackerel)” (season: November-January). Since they use this “Ibaraki anglerfish”, there is no reason why the “anglerfish dishes” in Ibaraki prefecture are not delicious. “Monkfish cuisine” is a dish such as “Anko Nabe”, “Tomozu-ae”, and “Dobu jiru (soup)”. Anko Nabe is a hot pot containing monkfish fillets. Dobu jiru is a miso hot pot made only with monkfish and vegetableread moreIbaraki’s local cuisine recommended in February

asari clam

Seafood in season in Feb (No.2)

Seafood in season in Feb (No.2) Table of contents 1. 4th place Hyogo prefecture (6 types) 2. 5th place Miyagi prefecture (5 types) 3. 5th place Ibaraki prefecture (5 types) 4. 5th place Fukuoka prefecture (5 types) 5. 5th place Nagasaki Prefecture (5 types)   1. 4th place Hyogo prefecture (6 types) Hyogo Prefecture (6 types of fish and shellfish) was ranked 4th in the prefectures with the highest catches and types of fish and shellfish that are in season in February. In Hyogo prefecture, the following 6 types of fish and shellfish will be in season in February. Fish flatfish, sea bream Shellfish oyster Other seafood spear squid, snow crab, laver “PRIDE FISH” Japan Fisheries Co-operative has selected “Hyogo Flathead flounder” (season: December-March), “Hyogo laver” (season: December-May), and “1 year oysters from Harima Nada” (season: December-February) for “PRIDE FISH” in winter in Hyogo Prefecture. In addition, “Ikanago (sand lance) in the Seto Inland Sea” (season: February-April) and “Hyogo Hatahata (Japanese sandfish)” (season: February-April) have been selected for “PRIDE FISH” in the spring of Hyogo Prefecture. Flathead flounder is a fish caught in the Sea of ​​Japan in Hyogo Prefecture. It can be caught not only in Hyogo prefecture, butread moreSeafood in season in Feb (No.2)

snow crab

Seafood in season in Feb (No.1)

Seafood in season in Feb (No.1) We will introduce the fish and shellfish that will be in season in February by dividing them into the whole of Japan and the prefectures ranked at the top. Please note that the season may vary depending on the region and year depending on the landing conditions due to climate change, so please consider it as reference data only. Table of contents 1. Fish and shellfish that are in season in February (whole Japan) 2. 1st place Hokkaido 3. 2nd place Shimane prefecture 4. 3rd place Aomori prefecture   1. Fish and shellfish that are in season in February (whole Japan) The number of fish and shellfish that are in season in February is 25 out of the 87 species surveyed, which is the third lowest in a year. The following is a list of 25 types of fish and shellfish in no particular order. Fish monkfish, flatfish, red bream, shark, spanish mackerel, Japanese icefish, sea bream, flounder, blowfish, Japanese amberjack, gurnard, pond smelt Shellfish round clam, ark shell, asari clam, oyster, freshwater clam, hard clam, scallop Other seafood northern shrimp, octopus ocellatus, spear squid, snow crab, king crab, laver   The prefectures withread moreSeafood in season in Feb (No.1)

Kiritanpo

Summary of December itinerary in Japan (Aomori / Akita trip)

Summary of December itinerary in Japan (Aomori / Akita trip)   In Tohoku (Aomori and Akita prefectures), where I traveled from Saturday, December 11th to Tuesday, December 14th, I was able to eat a lot of seasonal fish and shellfish and local dishes, which was a very satisfying trip. This is the December Japan itinerary that I highly recommend to everyone. In addition, I was able to visit many wonderful tourist destinations such as national important cultural properties. Here is a summary of this trip and some notes.   Table of contents 1.”100 selections of local dishes” and “Local dishes loved by the nation” by this itinerary in Japan 2. Seasonal “PRIDE FISH” eaten in this Japanese itinerary 3. Travel precautions (local trains) for itinerary in Japan 4. Travel in a light style 5. December 11 (Saturday)  Aomori Prefecture Day 1 6. December 12 (Sunday)  Aomori Prefecture Day 2 7. December 13 (Monday)  Aomori Prefecture Day 3 8. December 14 (Tuesday)  Akita Prefecture Day 1   This itinerary was also created with the purpose of “eating out seasonal seafood and local dishes.” Food is the highest priority, and tourist destinations are the second priority. However, we aimed to visit asread moreSummary of December itinerary in Japan (Aomori / Akita trip)

Inaniwa udon

December itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Akita Day 4 Meal edition)

December itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Akita Day 4 Meal edition) (Tuesday, December 14th)   Table of contents 1.Kanbun Gonendo Akita store 2. Inaniwa Udon Mugendo Akita Ekimae Store 3. TO-MART 4. Akita local fish, large kamado rice Isabaya. 5. Akita sour   1. Kanbun Gonendo Akita store The meal on the 4th day (final day) of the Aomori / Akita trip was from “Inaniwa udon”. Inaniwa udon is one of the “three major udon noodles in Japan” along with “Sanuki udon” from Kagawa and “Mizusawa udon” from Gunma. In addition, instead of Gunma’s “Mizusawa Udon”, Nagasaki Prefecture’s “Goto Udon” is sometimes referred to as “three major udon noodles in Japan”. “Kanbun Gonendo” is a udon shop that offers raw noodles of “Inaniwa udon”, which is one of the few udon shop in Akita prefecture. It has also been selected as one of the 100 Tabelog restaurants. Of course I knew “Inaniwa udon” and had eaten it. “Inaniwa udon” with a smooth texture is my favorite. However, I didn’t know that “Inaniwa udon” is almost exclusively dried noodles. The reason why it is almost exclusively dried noodles is that it is difficult to spread because it has been eaten asread moreDecember itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Akita Day 4 Meal edition)

Hatahata

December itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Aomori / Akita Meal edition)

December Itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Aomori / Akita Meal edition) (Monday, December 13th)   Table of contents 1. Nakamiso 2. BRICK A-FACTORY 3. Craft beer 4. Toppin Pararinopu 5. Akita Kiritanpoya   1. Nakamiso While visiting sightseeing spots, I had miso ramen at “Nakamiso” in the basement of the Nakasan Hirosaki store. The unusual store name “Nakamiso” was changed to “Nakamiso” because it was “Miso Ramen” that was born in the basement of “Nakasan Department Store”. “Nakamiso” was originally called “China Doll”. It’s interesting to change the store name to a completely different name. The reason I went to “Nakamiso” was because I found an online article saying that “Nakamiso” is a favorite local dish of Hirosaki citizens. Certainly, when I went to “Nakamiso” in the basement of the Nakasan Hirosaki store, it was crowded with many customers even after 11 o’clock. When observing the orders of local customers, there were several people who asked for two small sizes of ramen with two flavors. Also, when I looked it up after the trip, it seems that “Nakamiso won the first place in the” 1st Hirosaki Ramen Project “held from December 2020 to February 2021.” Furthermore, in May 2021, itread moreDecember itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Aomori / Akita Meal edition)

Misawa Hokki Don

December itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Aomori Day 1 Meal edition)

December itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Aomori Day 1 Meal edition) (Saturday, December 11th)   Table of contents 1. Kirakutei 2. Ajino Sapporo Onishi 3. Galetteria Da Sasino 4. Izakaya Osanai 5. BAR ENTER   1. Kirakutei As a late breakfast, I had “Misawa Hokki Don” at “Kirakutei” in Misawa City. The definition of “Misawa Hokki Don” is “uses Misawa Sakhalin surf clams (fished during the period from December 1st to March 31st when the ban on fishing is lifted)”, which is a local gourmet in Misawa City. I visited Misawa in November 2020, but I couldn’t eat it because it was before the ban on Sakhalin surf clam fishing was lifted. I really wanted to eat “Misawa Hokki Don” this time, so I’m glad I could. “Kirakutei” opened at 11 o’clock and I entered the store first. After that, more and more customers entered the store, and it was almost full after 11:10. It is a popular store. “Kirakutei” is in front of Misawa Station. “Misawa Hokki Don” (Yen 1,250) of “Kirakutei” is a two-color bowl of raw and boiled Sakhalin surf clams. The raw Sakhalin surf clams have a wonderful texture and sweetness, and the boiled Sakhalin surfread moreDecember itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Aomori Day 1 Meal edition)

Munakata Taisha

Summary of November itinerary in Japan (Nagasaki / Fukuoka trip)

Summary of November itinerary in Japan (Nagasaki / Fukuoka trip)   In Kyushu (Nagasaki and Fukuoka prefectures), where I traveled from November 15th to November 20th as best itinerary in Japan, I was able to eat a lot of seasonal fish and shellfish and local dishes as well as the trips in September and October, which was a very satisfying trip. I was also able to visit many wonderful tourist destinations such as World Heritage Sites and National Treasure Buildings. Here is a summary of this trip and some notes.   Table of contents 1. “100 selections of local dishes” and “Local dishes loved by the nation” by this itinerary in Japan 2. Seasonal “PRIDE FISH” by this itinerary in Japan 3. Travel precautions (local trains, buses, hotels) for itinerary in Japan 4. Travel in a light style 5. November 15 (Monday) Nagasaki Day 1 6. November 16 (Tuesday) Nagasaki Day 2 7. November 17 (Wednesday) Fukuoka Day 1 8. November 18 (Thursday) Fukuoka Day 2 9. November 19 (Friday) Fukuoka Day 3 10. November 20 (Saturday) Fukuoka Day 4   Following the itinerary in September and October, this itinerary was created with the purpose of “eating out seasonal fishread moreSummary of November itinerary in Japan (Nagasaki / Fukuoka trip)

Daiheizan ramen

November itinerary in Japan Day 5 (Fukuoka Day 3 Meal edition)

November itinerary in Japan Day 5 (Fukuoka Day 3 Meal edition) (Friday, November 19th) Table of contents 1. Originator Kawara soba “Takase” 2. MOJIKO BEER 3. Daiheizan Mojiko Main Store 4. Kagoshima highball 5. Izakaya Hikari   1. Originator Kawara soba “Takase” Immediately after arriving at Mojiko, I had the Kawara Soba Mentaiko Chazuke set (Yen 1,760 including tax) at the Originator Kawara Soba “Takase” on the 2nd floor of the Kaikyo Plaza West Building. Kawara soba is a local gourmet in Shimonoseki City, Yamaguchi Prefecture. Kawara soba began in 1962 when Shinichi Takase, who ran an inn in Kawatana Onsen, Shimonoseki, offered it as a dish for guests. After that, Kawara soba became a specialty of Kawatana Onsen and is served not only in Shimonoseki City but also in Yamaguchi Prefecture as a whole. Shinichi Takase was inspired by the story of an old man who used tiles to bake and eat wild grass and meat during long field battles at the Satsuma Rebellion (1877), and developed Kawara soba. Kawara soba is served with beef, Kinshi-tamago (thin omelette cut into strips), seaweed, Momiji-oroshi (grated daikon and chili) , and lemon on top of tea soba. The way to eat Kawararead moreNovember itinerary in Japan Day 5 (Fukuoka Day 3 Meal edition)

live mackerel

November itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Nagasaki Day 1 Meal edition)

November itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Nagasaki Day 1 Meal edition) (Monday, November 15th)   Table of contents 1. Turkish rice 2. Yossou 3. Tarafuku Asa    1. Turkish rice The meal for this trip to Nagasaki and Fukuoka was a turbulent start. I arrived at Nagasaki Station at 10:38. The departure time of the high-speed ship “Shunkan” bound for Takashima was 11:50, so it was necessary to have lunch immediately. However, when I searched for stores that opened at 11:00 around Nagasaki Station and Nagasaki Port Terminal, I couldn’t find them, and all of them opened at 11:30. When I entered the restaurant at 11:30, I could miss the high-speed boat, so I had to choose to buy a lunch box at a convenience store. At the convenience store “Daily Yamazaki” near the Nagasaki Port Terminal, I bought a “Turkish Rice” lunch box, which is a local gourmet of Nagasaki, and decided to eat it on a high-speed boat. Turkish rice is a dish of Japanese pork cutlet, Chinese pilaf, and Western spaghetti served together on a plate. There is a theory that the name Turkish Rice was given because the mixed feeling of Japanese food, Chinese food, andread moreNovember itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Nagasaki Day 1 Meal edition)

gurnard

Seafood in season in Jan (No.2)

Seafood in season in Jan (No.2)   We will continue to introduce the prefectures that are ranked high in fish and shellfish, which will be in season in January. Please note that the season may vary depending on the region and year and the landing conditions due to climate change, so please consider it as reference data only. Here are the results for Japan as a whole and the 1st-3rd place for fish and shellfish, which will be in season in January.   Table of contents 1. 4th place Shimane Prefecture 2. 5th place Iwate prefecture (same number as Ishikawa prefecture) 3. 5th place Ishikawa prefecture (same number as Iwate prefecture)   1. 4th place Shimane Prefecture Shimane Prefecture (7 types of seafood) was ranked 4th in the prefectures with the highest catches and types of seafood that are in season in January. In Shimane Prefecture, the following seven types of fish and shellfish are in season in January.   Fish monkfish, flatfish, Spanish mackerel, Japanese amberjack, gurnard Shellfish freshwater clam Other seafood snow crab   Shimane Prefecture has the highest production of freshwater clams in Japan. The second place is Aomori prefecture, and the third place is Ibaraki prefecture.read moreSeafood in season in Jan (No.2)

ichijoji

Summary of October itinerary in Japan (Hokuriku / Kinki trip)

Summary of October itinerary in Japan (Hokuriku / Kinki trip)   In Hokuriku (Ishikawa / Fukui) and Kinki (Kyoto / Hyogo), where I traveled from October 20th to October 27th as best itinerary in Japan, seasonal seafood and local dishes were very delicious and I was very satisfied with the trip. I was also able to visit many wonderful tourist destinations such as World Heritage Sites and National Treasure Buildings. Here is a summary of this trip and some notes.   Table of contents 1. “100 selections of local dishes” and “Local dishes loved by the nation” that I was able to eat on this itinerary in Japan 2. Seasonal “PRIDE FISH” that I was able to eat on this itinerary in Japan 3. The biggest precautions for itinerary in Japan 4. Luggage free trip 5. October 20 (Wednesday) Ishikawa Prefecture Day 1 6. October 21 (Thursday) Ishikawa Prefecture Day 2 7. October 22 (Friday) Fukui Prefecture Day 1 8. October 23 (Saturday) Fukui Prefecture Day 2 9. October 24 (Sunday) Fukui Prefecture Day 3 10. October 25 (Monday) Kyoto Prefecture Day 1 11. October 26 (Tuesday) Hyogo Prefecture Day 1 12. October 27 (Wednesday) Hyogo Prefecture Day 2  read moreSummary of October itinerary in Japan (Hokuriku / Kinki trip)

Fukutei sashimi

October itinerary in Japan Day 6 (Kyoto Day 1 Meal edition)

October itinerary in Japan Day 6 (Kyoto Day 1 Meal edition) (Monday, October 25)   Table of contents 1. Craft beer “Tango Kingdom Seaside Bar” 2. Lunch “Hyoshiro” 3. Dinner “Fukutei”   1. Craft beer “Tango Kingdom Seaside Bar” After exiting the ticket gate of Amahashidate Station, turn right and you will find “Tango Kingdom Seaside Bar”, where you can drink draft beer of craft beer. Isn’t it rare to find a station where you can drink draft beer of craft beer? The craft beer provided by “Tango Kingdom Seaside Bar” is TANGO KINGDOM Beer‘s beer, which is produced at the brewery in the roadside station Tango Kingdom “Food Miyako”. The label design uses the symbol of the Tango region, “Tango Nanahime”. I think it’s a very fashionable label. There is only one type of draft beer that can be drunk at “Tango Kingdom Seaside Bar”, but many types are sold in bottles. I drank draft beer and had a bottle of “MEISTER” lent for shooting. “MEISTER” was a delicious beer with a clean and clear taste.   2. Lunch “Hyoshiro” I took a bus from Amanohashidate to Ine, and after arriving in Ine, I had lunch at “Hyoshiro”. “Hyoshiro”read moreOctober itinerary in Japan Day 6 (Kyoto Day 1 Meal edition)

sashimi

October itinerary in Japan Day 3 ( Fukui Day 1 Meal edition)

October itinerary in Japan Day 3 ( Fukui Day 1 Meal edition) (Friday, October 22)   Table of contents 1. Lunch “Sanrakutei” 2. Snack “Ikkyu” 3. Supper “Kappo Yoshijin”   1. Lunch “Sanrakutei” For lunch on the third day (October 22nd), I had “Oroshi soba” at Sanrakutei near Eiheiji temple. “Oroshi soba” is soba made by putting grated radish on soba (or putting grated radish in soba soup). I love “Oroshi soba” and it is the most favorite way to eat soba. It is famous as “Echizen Oroshi soba” in Fukui prefecture. It is said that the history of soba in Fukui Prefecture began when Takakage Asakura built a castle in Ichijodani (1473 ~). Soba can be harvested in about 75 days after sowing, so it seems to be useful as food for siege during the Warring States period. Soba in Fukui Prefecture became famous nationwide after World War II. When Emperor Showa came to Fukui prefecture in 1947, he ate two bowls of Oroshi soba. Even after returning to Tokyo, he said that “Echizen Oroshi soba was very delicious”, so it seems to have become famous. “Echizen Oroshi soba” has been selected as one of the “100 Best Localread moreOctober itinerary in Japan Day 3 ( Fukui Day 1 Meal edition)

snow crab

October Itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Ishikawa Day 2 Meal edition)

October Itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Ishikawa Day 2 Meal edition) (Thursday, October 21)   Table of contents 1. Lunch “Miyoshian” 2. Craft beer “Oriental Brewing” 3. Dinner “Yumeri” 4. Dinner “Menya Taiga” 5. Dinner “Oden Izakaya Miyuki”   1. Lunch “Miyoshian” Lunch on October 21st was at “Miyoshian” in Kenrokuen. I had a tea kaiseki-style bento (Yen 3,300). Lunch while looking at the garden at Kenrokuen, a national special place of scenic beauty, was a luxurious experience. Also, I was very satisfied with the meal that included plenty of seasonal ingredients from Ishikawa prefecture. The contents of the meal are konbu maki of spanish mackerel and northern shrimp sashimi (sashimi), which is a seasonal fish, Jibu-ni, which is a local dish of Ishikawa prefecture, and Koubako crab (however, it was from Niigata. fishing in Ishikawa prefecture start on November 6th), grilled Japanese amberjack, tempura of Kaga vegetables, etc. In Ishikawa Prefecture, male snow crabs are called Kano crabs and females are called Koubako crabs. Kano crab is a brand crab that is landed at the fishing port of Noto from Kaga. Koubako crab is generally called Seiko crab. Koubako crab is smaller than the Kano crab, but it isread moreOctober Itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Ishikawa Day 2 Meal edition)

blackthroat seaperch

October itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Ishikawa Day 1 Meal edition)

October itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Ishikawa Day 1 Meal edition) (Wednesday, October 20)   Table of contents 1. Lunch “Kappo Sushi Yonehachi” 2. Snack “Hanayamatei” 3. Dinner “Chohachi Kanazawa Katamachi store”   1. Lunch “Kappo Sushi Yonehachi” After visiting “Komatsu no mori”, I had lunch at “Kappo Sushi Yonehachi“, the oldest sushi restaurant in Komatsu City. It was about 10 minutes on foot from JR Komatsu Station. The sushi is very delicious and the service is good, so it is a recommended sushi restaurant. Many sushi restaurants in Kanazawa are so popular that it is difficult to make reservations due to the increase in tourists from Tokyo after the opening of the Hokuriku Shinkansen, and the prices are very high. Komatsu City’s “Kappo Sushi Yonehachi” offers delicious sushi at a reasonable price, so I liked it so much that I wanted to revisit Komatsu City for “Kappo Sushi Yonehachi”. The sushi course I ate this time was 6,500 yen, which was a great deal. When you enter “Kappo Sushi Yonehachi”, you will be surprised at the “stage board of hinoki cypress (Noh stage)” in Itaba ( Sushi kitchen ). Their master explained “If the best stage for the actor is theread moreOctober itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Ishikawa Day 1 Meal edition)

Seafood in season in Dec(5th place Ishikawa)

Seafood in season in Dec(5th place Ishikawa)   Table of contents 1.Introduction 2.Fish 3.Other seafood 4.”PRIDE FISH”   1.Introduction Ishikawa Prefecture (6 types of seafood) was ranked 5th in the prefectures with the highest catches and types of seafood that will be in season in December. In Ishikawa Prefecture, the following six types of fish and shellfish will be in season in December.   2.Fish Spanish mackerel, codfish, sailfin sandfish, blowfish, atka mackerel   3.Other seafood spear squid 4.”PRIDE FISH” Japan Fisheries Cooperatives has selected “Codfish” (season: November-February) and “Natural Noto Japanese amberjack” (season: December-February). “Kano crab” (season: November-March) as Ishikawa Prefecture’s winter “PRIDE FISH“. We can eat autumn “PRIDE FISH” “Blackthroat seaperch” (season: September-December) and “Northern shrimp” (season: September-December) when visiting Ishikawa prefecture in December.  It is worth considering visiting Ishikawa Prefecture in December to eat delicious fish and shellfish. In Ishikawa Prefecture, two types of cod, Pacific cod and Alaska pollack, are caught. “cod soft roe in vinegar” and “roe of cod sashimi” are local dishes of Ishikawa prefecture. In Ishikawa Prefecture, the Japanese amberjack that weighs more than 7 kg is called “Natural Noto Japanese amberjack” and is branded. The fat content is more than 30%, whichread moreSeafood in season in Dec(5th place Ishikawa)

flounder sushi

Seafood in season in Dec(3rd place Aomori)

Seafood in season in Dec(3rd place Aomori)   Table of contents 1.Introduction 2.Fish 3.Shellfish 4.Other seafood 5.”PRIDE FISH” 6.Postscript   1.Introduction Aomori Prefecture (7 types of seafood) ranked third among the prefectures with the highest catches and types of seafood that will be in season in December. In Aomori Prefecture, the following seven types of fish and shellfish will be in season in December.   2.Fish monkfish, broadbanded thornyhead, codfish, flounder, atka mackerel 3.Shellfish scallop 4.Other seafood spear squid   Aomori Prefecture is surrounded by the Sea of Japan, the Tsugaru Straits, and the Pacific Ocean, and many types of fish and shellfish are landed. In the center of Aomori Prefecture, there is Mutsu Bay, which is a huge inner bay, and the scallop aquaculture industry is thriving. Due to the existence of Mutsu Bay, Aomori Prefecture has the highest production of aquaculture scallops in Japan. Hokkaido is the largest producer of natural scallops in Japan.   5.”PRIDE FISH” Japan Fisheries Cooperatives has selected “Yamato Shijimi (corb shell) from Lake Jusanko” (season: July-December) and “Aomori Flounder” (season: September-December) for “PRIDE FISH” in autumn in Aomori Prefecture. The season of “Aomori Sakhalin surf clam”, which was selected as “PRIDE FISH” inread moreSeafood in season in Dec(3rd place Aomori)

scallop

Seafood in season in Dec(1st place Hokkaido)

Seafood in season in Dec(1st place Hokkaido)   Table of contents 1.Introduction 2.Fish 3.Shellfish 4.Other seafood 5.”PRIDE FISH”   1.Introduction Hokkaido (12 types of seafood) ranked first in the prefectures with the highest catches and types of seafood that will be in season in December. Hokkaido has been in the top 3 for 6 consecutive months. In Hokkaido, the following 12 types of fish and shellfish will be in season in December.   2.Fish flatfish, broadbanded thornyhead, shark, codfish, herring, flounder, blowfish, Japanese amberjack, atka mackerel 3.Shellfish scallop 4.Other seafood spear squid, king crab   5.”PRIDE FISH” “PRIDE FISH” in winter in Hokkaido selected by Japan Fisheries Cooperatives, “Sea of Japan / Funka Bay Scallops” (season: December-March) and “Hakodate Gokko (smooth lumpsucker)” (season: December-April) Month) is selected. About 80% of Japanese scallops are caught in Hokkaido. The fishing method for scallops in the Sea of Japan and Funka Bay is the hanging method, and the fishing method for scallops in the Sea of Okhotsk is the sowing method. It seems that the fishing method differs depending on the area. The season of scallops in the Sea of Okhotsk is from early summer to autumn, which is different from that ofread moreSeafood in season in Dec(1st place Hokkaido)

Sakhalin surf clams

September itinerary in Japan Day 7 (Hokkaido Day 2 Meal edition)

September itinerary in Japan Day 7 (Hokkaido Day 2 Meal edition) (Saturday, October 2)   Table of contents Breakfast Lunch Dinner izakaya “Uodoraku” “Itadakimasu.”   Breakfast As planned in the itinerary, I ate “Uni-Ikura-don (sea urchin salmon roe bowl)” at “Kikuyo Shokudo” in Hakodate Morning Market. It is Hokkaido’s “Local dishes loved by the nation” announced by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. https://edokagura.com/en/local-cuisine/327/ https://edokagura.com/en/local-cuisine/516/ Besides “Uni-Ikura-don (sea urchin salmon roe bowl)”, I also ate live Japanese flying squid sashimi. Squid is famous for Hakodate Morning Market. It was in season for Japanese flying squid, so I felt it was even more delicious. In particular, the liver of squid, which can only be eaten with live squid, is the most delicious, and I would like everyone to eat it. In Hakodate, there was a cute squid on the mailbox. https://www.maff.go.jp/j/nousin/kouryu/kyodo_ryouri/attach/pdf/190131-6.pdf http://hakodate-kikuyo.com/ https://www.uu-hokkaido.com/corporate/hakodate-asaichi.shtml   Lunch Umi-no-eki (Sea Station)  Plat Minato Ichiba (Market) (30 minutes walk from Tomakomai station, bicycle rental is recommended) As planned, I had lunch at “Kaisen (Seafood) Minato Shokudo”. I entered the store after 11 o’clock, but it was already almost full with customers. When I finished eating after 11:30 and went out of the store, there was aread moreSeptember itinerary in Japan Day 7 (Hokkaido Day 2 Meal edition)

Ezoishikagekai

September itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Iwate Day 2 Meal edition)

September itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Iwate Day 2 Meal edition) (Wednesday, September 29)   Table of contents Breakfast Lunch Craft beer Dinner   Breakfast At “Michi-no-Eki Takatamatsubara” in the Takatamatsubara Memorial Park, there are two restaurants, “Matsubara Shokudo” and “Takata no Gohan”. “Takata no Gohan” was closed, so I had a late breakfast at “Matsubara Shokudo”. I ordered “Kaisendon set”. The “Kaisendon set” includes a seafood bowl made from fish and shellfish caught in the sea near Rikuzentakata, centered on Hirota Bay, and “stem wakame” pickled in wasabi and “mekabu soba” caught in Hirota Bay. https://takata-matsubara.com/ Even if it wasn’t delicious enough to impress, it was delicious enough for the “Kaisendon set” offered at the roadside station. This shop is recommended when you go to Takata Matsubara Memorial Park. However, if you have time, you should eat at restaurants around Rikuzentakata Station. https://edokagura.com/en/local-cuisine/455/   Lunch What I absolutely wanted to eat in Rikuzentakata was the “Rikuzentakata Ezoishikagekai (Clinocardium california)“, which is the summer “pride fish” of Iwate Prefecture selected by Japan Fisheries Cooperatives. When asked at the Rikuzentakata City Tourism and Products Association next to Rikuzentakata Station, it was said that “Sushi Matsuda” was serving “Ezoishikagekai”. https://takanavi.org/gourmet/12168 “Sushi Matsuda”read moreSeptember itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Iwate Day 2 Meal edition)

tuna

Seafood in season in Oct (4th place Shizuoka)

Seafood in season in Oct (4th place Shizuoka)   Table of contents Introduction Fish Other seafood PRIDE FISH   Introduction Shizuoka Prefecture (5 types of seafood) was ranked 4th in the prefectures with the highest catches and types of seafood that will be in season in October. In Shizuoka Prefecture, the following five types of fish and shellfish will be in season in October.   Fish sardine, mackerel, whitebait, tuna Other seafood Japanese spiny lobster   Shizuoka prefecture has the highest catch of tuna in Japan. Shimizu Port is particularly famous, and the landing of frozen tuna accounts for about 50% of the landing amount in Japan, making it the largest in Japan. By the way, Miyazaki Prefecture is the second largest tuna catch, and Kagoshima Prefecture is the third. The Japanese are famous for their love of tuna and consume about one-fifth of the world’s tuna.   PRIDE FISH The autumn “PRIDE FISH” in Shizuoka prefecture selected by Japan Fisheries Cooperatives is “Suruga Bay Hon-ebi (Haliporoides sibogae)” (season: September-May) and “Nishina Yariika (spear squid) ” (season: October-March). Also, when introducing the summer “PRIDE FISH”, “Nishina no Maika (Japanese flying squid)” (season: June-October) is selected. When you go to Shizuokaread moreSeafood in season in Oct (4th place Shizuoka)

northern shrimp

Seafood in season in Oct (4th place Ishikawa)

Seafood in season in Oct (4th place Ishikawa)   Table of contents Introduction Fish Other seafood PRIDE FISH   Introduction Ishikawa Prefecture (5 types of seafood) was ranked 4th in the prefectures with the highest catches and types of seafood that will be in season in October. In Ishikawa Prefecture, the following five types of fish and shellfish will be in season in October.   Fish Spanish mackerel, semifasciatus, sailfin sandfish, atka mackerel Other seafood Japanese flying squid   Ishikawa Prefecture has the highest catch of “Nigisu (semifasciatus)” in Japan. When “semifasciatus” is written in Chinese characters, it becomes “similar sillago”, and it seems that it was named “semifasciatus” because it resembles “sillago”. However, it is a different strain of fish from “sillago”. “semifasciatus” is often sold as dried fish, but sashimi is also very delicious. When we go to Ishikawa prefecture, we may be able to eat sashimi “semifasciatus”.   PRIDE FISH Japan Fisheries Cooperatives has selected “Spanish mackerel” (season: May-October), “Nodoguro (Blackthroat Seaperch) “ (season: September-December), “Amaebi (northern shrimp) “ (season: September-December) as “PRIDE FISH” in autumn in Ishikawa Prefecture. Spanish mackerel is said to be a spring fish, as the name contains the letters spring. However, theread moreSeafood in season in Oct (4th place Ishikawa)

abalone

Seafood in season in Sep (3rd place Iwate)

Seafood in season in Sep (3rd place Iwate)   Table of contents 1.Introduction 2.Fish 3.Shellfish 4.Other seafood 5.PRIDE FISH 1.Introduction In Iwate Prefecture, the following six types of fish and shellfish are in season in September. 2.Fish yellowtail, salmon, pacific saury. 3.Shellfish abalone 4.Other seafood Japanese flying squid, kelp 5.PRIDE FISH “Iwate’s autumn salmon (salmon roe)” has been selected as the “PRIDE FISH” for autumn in Iwate Prefecture announced by Japan Fisheries Cooperatives. Iwate Prefecture has the third largest amount of salmon landed in Japan, so when you visit Iwate Prefecture in September, which is the season for salmon, you must not forget to eat salmon. There are four places where the amount of landing is large: Kuji, Miyako, Kamaishi, and Ofunato. The season for “Iwate’s autumn salmon (salmon roe)” is September-January. In addition, “Rikuzentakata’s Clinocardium californicus ( Ezoishikage shellfish )” has been selected as the summer “PRIDE FISH” in Iwate Prefecture. The season is from July to October, so you can eat deliciously in September as well. According to the “Pride Fish” site, it is the “phantom shellfish” that is cultivated in an industrial-level only in Hirota Bay, Rikuzentakata. It seems that it is a member of Fulvia muticaread moreSeafood in season in Sep (3rd place Iwate)

Seafood in season in Jul (3rd Miyagi)

Seafood in season in Jul (3rd Miyagi)   Table of contents 1.Fish 2.Shellfish 3.Other seafood 4.”PRIDE FISH”   In Miyagi prefecture, the following 10 types of fish and shellfish are in season in July. 1.Fish conger eels, sardines, marlin, Japanese sea perch, tuna, 2.Shellfish abalone and scallops   3.Other seafood sea urchin, sea squirt, common octopus.   4.”PRIDE FISH” Miyagi Prefecture’s summer “PRIDE FISH“ selected by Japan Fisheries Cooperatives are “sea squirts” and “Omotehama conger eels”. The delicious season for “sea squirts” is from June to August. According to the statistics of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, the catch of sea squirts in Miyagi prefecture were the highest in Japan in 2019. I love sea squirts, and I love the unique taste and texture that is completely different from other foods. “Omotehama conger eel” is a conger eel unloaded in the Omotehama area of Ishinomaki city. The delicious season is from June to August. Miyagi Prefecture is the 5th largest catch in Japan. The fluffy conger eel sushi is irresistible.    

chicken grunt

Seafood in season in Jul (1st place Nagasaki)

Seafood in season in Jul (1st place Nagasaki)   Table of contents 1.Fish 2.Shellfish 3.Other seafood 4.”PRIDE FISH”   In Nagasaki Prefecture, the following 11 types of fish and shellfish are in season in July. 1.Fish horse mackerel, conger eel, chicken grunt, yellowtail, sardine, hairtail, flying fish, brownstriped mackerel scad   2.Shellfish turban shell   3.Other seafood Japanese flying squid, sea urchin 4.”PRIDE FISH” Nagasaki Prefecture’s summer “PRIDE FISH“ selected by Japan Fisheries Cooperatives is chicken grunt. The delicious season is from June to September, but the spawning season, June to July, is exceptionally delicious, and it seems to be called “rainy season chicken grunt”. Nagasaki Prefecture has the largest catch of chicken grunt in Japan, with a market share of about 30%. I would like to visit Nagasaki Prefecture from June to July and try the special taste of “rainy season chicken grunt”.