One of the prefectures that make up the Tohoku Region (東北地方) in Eastern Japan is 山形 (山形県), which is synonymous with mountain ranges, ancient temples, and splendid hot springs. But do you know that the prefecture is also known for its gastronomy?

 

Yamagata: A gastronomical destination

Map of Yamagata The map of Yamagata Prefecture. | ©illustAC

 

Located on the western side of the Tohoku Region, Yamagata Prefecture is flanked by the Zao Mountains (蔵王連峰) to the east, and the Sea of Japan (日本海) to the west. Because of its location next to the sea, the prefecture is blessed with access to the freshest seafood. 

In particular, the Shonai Region (庄内地域), located in the northwestern part of the prefecture, has garnered a reputation for its gastronomy which features seafood caught off the Shonai Beach.

Yamagata's seafood cuisine A glimpse of Shonai’s seafood gastronomy. | ©Yamagata Prefecture

The Shonai Region includes two main cities: Tsuruoka (鶴岡市) and Sakata (酒田市), both of which are located close to the Shonai beach. Did you know? Tsuruoka is recognised as Japan’s first UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, and the local cuisine uses seasonal ingredients both from the surrounding mountains and the Sea of Japan.

Sakata was historically a thriving harbour town between the 17th and 19th centuries, and the city has garnered a reputation for its cuisine, which also features fresh seafood from the sea nearby. Today, Sakata is home to several historical landmarks and seafood markets, which visitors can explore to fully appreciate the city’s offerings.

 

Experience sea fishing off Shonai Beach!

Fishing off Shonai Beach Experience boat-fishing and catching your own food! | ©Linktivity

Do you know that you can experience fishing and catching your own food off the Shonai Beach in Yamagata Prefecture? There are tours where an English-speaking fishing guide will accompany you out to sea to go fishing, and bring back your haul back to shore to have them prepared straight from the sea!

Fish freshly caught at Yamagata The various types of fish you can catch from the Sea of Japan. | ©Linktivity

Up to 200 different varieties of seasonal fish can be caught off the coast of Yamagata Prefecture! This is because of the warm Tsushima currents from the Sea of Japan that flow from Hokkaido towards Kyushu, especially during summer and autumn, and the seasonal fish will ride this current during this season in search of food.

If you join such tours during this season, just imagine all the different kinds of fish you get to join when you catch them!

Fish freshly prepared
Your freshly caught fish prepared before your very eyes. | ©Linktivity

What better way to enjoy your freshly caught fish than to have them freshly prepared before your very eyes! After catching your fish, you can bring them back to have them freshly prepared by local chefs, and best of all, they will prepare the fish according to their type.

Seafood in Yamagata
Imagine having this all to yourself! | ©Linktivity

Best of all, the chef will prepare your fish in a way that best suits it. From sushi or sashimi, to grilled or tempura, each fish can be best enjoyed in a different way. Imagine what a pleasant surprise the dining experience will be!

 

See you in Yamagata soon!

The Tohoku Region is full of surprises, and Yamagata Prefecture is home to some of the region’s most delectable cuisines. Blessed with its proximity to the Sea of Japan, the prefecture allows visitors to enjoy fishing off the coastlines and feasting on the freshest seafood. Why not explore Yamagata’s gastronomical delights for your next adventure to Japan?

 

Join a Sea-to-Table Experience in Yamagata!

From the sea to your table Experience a fresh catch in Yamagata. | ©Linktivity

Want to experience a sea-to-table fishing trip off the Shonai coast in Yamagata? Then join the Sea-to-Table Experience from Yamagata, which is available at JAPAN RAIL CLUB! Simply click here and follow the steps to confirm your purchase. See you in Yamagata!