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April of 2023 was one of many quickest months of my life. After a whirlwind cherry blossom journey by means of Japan, I headed again to the US, the place I accompanied my in-laws on an equally manic journey round my very own nation.
We ended up in San Francisco, the place I discovered myself chatting with a model consultant contained in the Union Sq. Macy’s. After briefly dialogue the surprising and blatant shoplifting throughout the retailer (which was the rationale I wanted to have interaction her in any respect—she needed to unlock the jacket my brother-in-law needed to attempt on), the dialog shifted east.
“Akashi,” she mentioned to my absolute shock, once I requested her the place she’d been in Japan other than Tokyo. I used to be shocked not solely as a result of so few foreigners go to the town, however as a result of my very own current go to to the Akashi Fish Market (often known as Uo-no-tana) was so recent in my thoughts.
Tips on how to Attain Uo-no-tana (and Why)
I wasn’t on the hunt for a foodie day journey from Osaka once I visited Uo-no-tana. Quite, I used to be assembly my pricey good friend Eriko, who appeared shocked that I’d by no means been there. This fish market was so well-known amongst residents of the Kobe metropolitan space, she defined, that she’d by no means seen how few foreigners have been there. Eriko later confessed to me that she was afraid I wouldn’t take pleasure in it, though these fears rapidly dissipated when she noticed how instantly my eyes lit up upon strolling alongside the principle promenade.
So far as the best way to attain this well-known Kansai fish market? It’s simple, though one of the best technique of getting there’ll depend on the place you journey begins. When you’re coming from Kyoto or Osaka, it’s greatest to experience the Shinkansen to Nishi-Akashi, then backtrack to a neighborhood or categorical JR Sanyo Line practice and experience it to Akashi Station. From Kobe, in the meantime, you may merely experience the JR Sanyo Line all the way in which from Sannomiya.
What to Do on the Akashi Fish Market Uo-no-tana
Queue up for Akashiyaki
Each customer to the Kansai area finally ends up understanding (and, hopefully, loving) takoyaki octopus fritters. However Akashi has its personal tackle them—recognized, appropriately, as Akashiyaki—which sees chunks of tako mixed with anago or saltwater eel. Like most eel, the style is an acquired one, although it’s nonetheless value attempting even for those who don’t find yourself loving it.
(Or simply its fundamental ingredient)
After all, Uo-no-tana market is a seafood market on the finish of the day, which implies which you can simply purchase substances for those who’re so inclined—you don’t should spring for ready meals. Each octopus and eel are bought in uncooked and cooked kind all through the market, which is ideal for those who’re within the temper for one thing a bit purer and lighter than Akashiyaki (which is heavy, I’ll be trustworthy).
Folks-watch
As Eriko famous, Uo-no-tana is extraordinarily standard amongst native residents, which implies that it’s mainly at all times crowded. Whereas I in all probability wouldn’t advocate getting up in folks’s faces to {photograph} them, it’s definitely enjoyable to watch each patrons and shopkeepers as they go about their enterprise.
Hone your images abilities
No journey to the Kobe fish market is full with out not less than a couple of dozen “keeper” pictures for social media or your individual assortment. Personally, I couldn’t maintain my finger off my digital camera shutter as I explored the market, whether or not I used to be photographing my meals, my good friend and even establishing a tripod and photographing myself!
Store for seafood omiyage
I at all times have a little bit of hassle shopping for items in Japan, on condition that I carry small luggage, and like to differ my outfits (which implies my luggage are at all times full of garments). Nonetheless, for those who’re searching for seafood-related omiyage on your mates or household, Uo-no-tana has you coated.
Different Issues to Do in and Close to Akashi
Being unable to discover a fish market in Kyoto shouldn’t be your solely motivation for making the journey to Akashi. When you’re going to come back all the way in which right here, take into account visiting these different points of interest:
- Akashi Fort: Though it’s not certainly one of Japan’s unique castles, it’s nonetheless a delight to go to, particularly throughout cherry blossom season.
- Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and Museum: Go to one of many world’s largest suspension bridges, and study the shop of its building.
- Awaji Island: Extra of a full-day (and even in a single day journey) than an add-on, this will likely encourage you to spend longer in Hyogo prefecture than you’d deliberate.
- Kobe: This underrated metropolis is a lot greater than its well-known beef, though you must completely have a Wagyu meal once you’re there.
Different FAQ About Uo-no-tana Market
What’s the most well-known fish market in Japan?
On the entire, Tokyo’s Tsukiji Outer Market might be nonetheless essentially the most well-known fish market in Japan, even when the legendary “internal market” (the place the tuna auctions as soon as befell) is now closed. Nonetheless, you must make a degree of visiting different seafood markets, together with Hokkaido’s Hakodate Morning Market, Omicho Market in Kanazawa and Uo-no-tana in Akashi, close to Kobe.
Is there a fish market in Osaka?
You’ll be able to eat scrumptious seafood many locations in Osaka, specifically in Kuromon Market not removed from Namba. Nonetheless, if you wish to soak up a very distinctive fish market expertise, it’s greatest to make a half-day journey to Uo-no-tana, a neighborhood seafood market close to Akashi Station in Kobe.
Is Tsukiji Market nonetheless open?
Tsukiji Outer Market remains to be open for vacationers who want to eat scrumptious seafood and get an genuine window into Tokyo’s culinary tradition. You’ll be able to e-book a tour to achieve much more perception! Nonetheless, the “internal market” the place the well-known tuna auctions as soon as befell is now closed; these have been moved to Toyosu Market, which for my part is sterile and lacks character, and isn’t actually value visiting.
The Backside Line
Not everybody could have the time or inclination to go to the Akashi Fish Market, however for those who do, you gained’t go away disenchanted. Also referred to as Uo-no-tana, this underrated spot is a wonderland not just for adventurous foodies, but in addition for photographers, people-watchers and some other curious traveler. Keep some time after exploring the market to find underrated Akashi, or just come as a fast tour from Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe or elsewhere within the Kansai area. Want personalised assist curating superb day journeys from main cities in Japan? Fee a customized Japan itinerary at this time!
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