Fresh Fish in Kansai 10 Seafood Markets in Osaka Kobe

Fresh seafood is a staple of Japanese cuisine, and the Kansai region, which includes Osaka, Kobe, and Kyoto, is renowned for its vibrant seafood markets. These markets offer not only the freshest catches but also a unique cultural experience that combines traditional practices with modern convenience.

Kuromon Market in Osaka

Kuromon Market, located in the Minami area of Osaka, is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts. This covered public market stretches about 600 meters parallel to Sakaisujidori Street and features around 150 shops selling a variety of fresh seafood, meat, produce, and traditional sweets.

• Variety of Seafood: Kuromon Market offers a wide range of seafood, including grilled seafood like crab legs and oysters, yakitori, sea urchin, sushi, and eel. You can also find seasonal fruits and street food staples like takoyaki.
• Street Food Culture: One of the charms of Kuromon Market is the ability to eat smaller portions of food on the spot. However, it's important to follow local etiquette by not walking while eating, not obstructing traffic, properly disposing of garbage, and handling food carefully to avoid soiling others' clothes.
• Accessibility: The market is conveniently located near Nipponbashi Station on the Sennichimae and Sakaisuji subway lines, or it's a ten-minute walk from Namba Station.

Uonotana Fish Market in Akashi

Uonotana Fish Market, situated in Akashi just west of Kobe, has been a crucial provider of seafood to the local community for over 400 years. The market's name, "fish shelf," reflects its role in supplying fresh marine produce directly from the Akashi Straits.

• Early Morning Trade: Restaurant owners and representatives arrive as early as 3:30 a.m. to purchase the freshest catch. For regular visitors, the market is open from 9:30 a.m. on weekends and 10:00 a.m. on weekdays.
• Local Delicacies: Besides seafood, you can find other local specialties such as Akashiyaki, a variation of takoyaki with a dashi broth, and various small shops selling kitchenware, tea, and kimono.
• Accessibility: The market is a 5-minute walk from JR or Sanyo Akashi train stations.

Izumisano Aozora Market

Located opposite Kansai International Airport, Izumisano Aozora Market is another significant seafood market in the region. This market is known for supplying a large quantity of seafood, making it one of the biggest suppliers in Japan.

• Restaurant Options: On the second floor of the market, you'll find Iruka, a popular restaurant serving set meals and grilled dishes made from the fresh seafood available at the market. Be prepared for long queues, especially on weekends.
• Selection: Despite its relatively small size, the market offers a huge selection of seafood, making it a great place to try various fresh catches.

Tajiri Port

Tajiri Port, open only on Sundays from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., is a unique destination for seafood lovers. This market is ideal for a weekend visit, allowing you to combine it with other Osaka attractions.

• Sunday Market: The limited hours make it a special event, and the market's focus on fresh seafood ensures that visitors get the best quality produce.

Kyoto Central Wholesale Market

Kyoto Central Wholesale Market is a major hub for seafood, vegetables, meat, and other supplies. The market features an early morning auction starting at 5:20 a.m. every day, with the second Saturday of the month being the best time for regular consumers to visit.

• Sushi Market: Inside the market, you'll find Kyo Suzaku Sushi Ichiba, a sushi restaurant that uses fresh seafood from the market. The restaurant offers both conveyor belt sushi and the option to order directly from the menu.

Maizuru Port Toretore Center

Maizuru Port Toretore Center, located in one of Kyoto's biggest fishing ports, offers a unique dining experience. The food court allows you to select the type of seafood you want, and it will be cooked right in front of you.

• Fresh Seafood: The center is known for its fresh seafood, including seafood dons and sushi. If you're an oyster fan, visiting in November is particularly recommended.

Kobe City Central Wholesale Market

Kobe City Central Wholesale Market is another significant seafood market in the Kansai region. The market is known for its variety of seafood, and the nearby Kaisendon no Ekimae restaurant offers delicious seafood dons at reasonable prices.

• Affordable Options: The Tokujyo Kaisen Don at Kaisendon no Ekimae is a standout, offering a rich variety of seafood for just ¥1000.

Each of these markets in the Kansai region offers a unique experience, from the bustling streets of Kuromon Market to the early morning auctions at Kyoto Central Wholesale Market. Whether you're looking for a quick street food snack or a sit-down meal with the freshest seafood, these markets are must-visit destinations for any seafood lover.