Shizuoka, blessed with a long coastline along Suruga Bay and the Pacific Ocean, is a paradise for seafood lovers. Here, vibrant fishing ports are not only places where fresh catches arrive daily—they’re also lively food destinations where you can stroll, taste, and savor the flavors of the sea. From tender raw shirasu (whitebait) to crispy sakura shrimp fritters, melt-in-your-mouth tuna, and smoky grilled dried fish, every port offers its own specialties and atmosphere. Whether you choose the bustling stalls of Shimizu, the scenic charm of Numazu, or the local vibes of Yaizu and Yui, you’ll find delicious bites just steps from the ocean. In this guide, we’ll introduce the best fishing ports for food strolling in Shizuoka, must-try dishes, practical travel tips, and nearby sightseeing spots so you can plan a flavorful and unforgettable coastal adventure.
The Charm of Enjoying a Food Stroll at Shizuoka’s Fishing Ports
Shizuoka’s Fishing Port Culture — A Treasure Trove of Seafood
Shizuoka’s long coastline along Suruga Bay and the Pacific Ocean has nurtured a rich fishing tradition for centuries. Each port has its own specialty catch, from the delicate shirasu (whitebait) to the vibrant sakura shrimp and world-class tuna. The fishing ports are not just working harbors; they are vibrant community hubs where fishermen, local vendors, and visitors come together. Early in the morning, the smell of the sea mixes with the aroma of fresh seafood being prepared for the day, creating an atmosphere that is both lively and authentic.
The Luxury of Eating Fresh Seafood On the Spot
One of the greatest pleasures of visiting a Shizuoka fishing port is enjoying seafood at its absolute freshest. Here, “from ocean to plate” can mean just minutes. You can savor shirasu caught that morning, still glistening with ocean freshness, or bite into warm sakura shrimp fritters fried right before your eyes. Tuna slices, thick and buttery, melt on your tongue, while grilled dried fish releases a smoky aroma as you pass by. Eating these delicacies in the salty sea breeze elevates the flavor and turns each bite into a memorable experience.
Why You Can Enjoy Sightseeing and Food Strolling at the Same Time
Shizuoka’s fishing ports are often located near scenic coastal views, historical landmarks, and charming local streets. This means you can combine your food stroll with sightseeing—perhaps enjoying a panoramic view of Mount Fuji from Numazu, visiting historic temples in Shimizu, or strolling along the picturesque coastline of Yui. Many ports also host weekend markets or seasonal festivals, adding cultural and visual excitement to your trip. This combination of delicious flavors and beautiful surroundings is what makes Shizuoka’s fishing port food strolls so uniquely appealing.
Five Recommended Fishing Ports in Shizuoka for Food Strolling
Shimizu Port — Tuna, Seafood Bowls, and Sweets
Shimizu Port is one of Japan’s leading tuna hubs, receiving fresh catches from around the world as well as local waters. The Shimizu Fish Market Kashi-no-Ichi is the perfect place to sample thick slices of fatty tuna (otoro) in sashimi form or piled generously over a seafood bowl. Beyond tuna, you’ll find seasonal seafood, tempura, and even local sweets such as matcha ice cream or Japanese-style parfaits. The port’s location also offers stunning views of Mount Fuji on clear days, making it an ideal spot to combine dining with sightseeing.
Numazu Port — Dried Fish, Shirasu, and Sushi
Numazu Port is famous for its wide variety of dried fish (himono), often grilled to perfection right at the market stalls. Shirasu—both raw and boiled—is another must-try, often served over steaming rice or in delicate sushi. The port is lined with restaurants and food stalls, so you can taste small portions from multiple vendors. Don’t miss the observation deck for a panoramic view of Suruga Bay, or the aquarium nearby for an extra dose of coastal charm.
Yaizu Port — Bonito, Tuna, and Direct Sales Markets
Yaizu Port is renowned for its high-quality bonito (katsuo) and tuna, landed fresh daily. The Yaizu Sakana Center is a lively market where you can enjoy sashimi, grilled skewers, or seafood bowls right on the spot. The market’s direct-sales style means you can also buy fresh fillets or dried seafood to take home. Seasonal events, such as the bonito festival, add even more reasons to visit and taste your way through the local delicacies.
Yui Port — Sakura Shrimp Fritters and Local Delicacies
Yui is the best place in Japan to enjoy sakura shrimp, a rare delicacy found only in Suruga Bay. The classic dish here is sakura ebi kakiage—crispy fritters made from the tiny pink shrimp, served hot from the fryer. Local eateries also offer sakura shrimp rice bowls, tempura, and seasonal side dishes made from vegetables and seaweed. The small-town charm and picturesque harbor views make Yui Port a delightful stop for slow-paced exploration.
Omaezaki Port — Shirasu Rice Bowls and Seafood Markets
Omaezaki Port is known for its fresh shirasu, often served raw or boiled over rice with soy sauce and grated ginger. The seafood market here offers a variety of freshly caught fish, shellfish, and processed seafood products, making it a great place for both eating and shopping. The nearby lighthouse and coastal walking trails offer scenic photo opportunities, allowing you to enjoy a balance of delicious food and seaside views during your visit.
Must-Try Shizuoka Delicacies at the Fishing Ports
Raw Shirasu and Boiled Shirasu
Shirasu, or whitebait, is one of Shizuoka’s signature specialties, especially along Suruga Bay. In spring and autumn, when the fishing season is at its peak, you can enjoy nama shirasu (raw shirasu) so fresh that it’s caught and served within hours. Its delicate texture and mild ocean flavor pair perfectly with soy sauce and grated ginger. For those who prefer a softer, sweeter taste, kama-age shirasu (boiled shirasu) is gently cooked to bring out its natural sweetness and is often piled high over warm rice for a comforting local dish.
Sakura Shrimp Fritters
Sakura shrimp, unique to Suruga Bay, is celebrated for its vivid pink color and rich umami flavor. The most popular way to enjoy them is as sakura ebi kakiage—crispy fritters made by mixing the tiny shrimp with batter and deep-frying until golden brown. The result is a fragrant, crunchy treat that’s perfect to eat on the go. Some stalls also serve sakura shrimp in rice bowls, miso soup, or tempura assortments, offering multiple ways to savor this rare delicacy.
Tuna Sashimi and Marinated Tuna Rice Bowls
Shizuoka’s fishing ports, particularly Shimizu and Yaizu, are famous tuna landing sites. Thick slices of sashimi-grade tuna melt in your mouth with a buttery richness, while zukedon—rice topped with soy-marinated tuna—offers a deeper, savory flavor. Depending on the season and market, you might also find luxurious otoro (fatty tuna) or leaner cuts for a lighter taste. Served fresh from the market, these dishes showcase tuna at its very best.
Freshly Grilled Dried Fish and Seaside BBQ
Dried fish, or himono, is a staple of Shizuoka’s coastal cuisine. At many fishing ports, vendors grill the fish over open flames right in front of you, filling the air with a smoky aroma that’s impossible to resist. Popular choices include horse mackerel, mackerel, and squid, all of which develop a rich, concentrated flavor during the drying process. Some ports also offer hamayaki (beachside BBQ), where you can choose fresh shellfish or fish from the market and have them grilled on the spot—a simple yet deeply satisfying way to enjoy the day’s catch.
Practical Information for Enjoying a Fishing Port Food Stroll
Access to the Fishing Ports (By Car or Train)
Many of Shizuoka’s fishing ports are easily reached by car, with coastal roads offering scenic drives along Suruga Bay. For example, Shimizu Port is about a 15-minute drive from central Shizuoka City, while Numazu Port is roughly 30 minutes from Mishima Station. Traveling by train is also possible—local bus services connect nearby JR stations to the ports. If you plan to visit multiple ports in one day, renting a car is the most convenient option, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
Parking and Tips to Avoid Crowds
Most major fishing ports offer public parking lots, often located near the markets and food stalls. Fees are usually reasonable, but spaces can fill up quickly on weekends and during special events. To avoid the busiest times, aim to arrive before 10 a.m. or visit on weekdays. Early mornings not only guarantee easier parking but also let you enjoy the freshest catches of the day with fewer crowds.
Estimated Budget and Time for Food Strolling
Food strolling at a fishing port can be as budget-friendly or indulgent as you like. Small bites such as shirasu croquettes or grilled dried fish may cost just a few hundred yen, while a full seafood bowl or tuna sashimi set can range from ¥1,000 to ¥2,500. On average, expect to spend about ¥2,000–¥3,500 per person for a satisfying experience. As for time, plan for 1.5 to 3 hours to explore the market, sample different dishes, and enjoy the atmosphere.
Morning Markets and Event Dates
Many fishing ports in Shizuoka host morning markets where fishermen sell their catch directly to the public. These events often start around 8 a.m. and feature not only fresh seafood but also seasonal produce and local snacks. Some ports hold annual festivals, such as Yui’s Sakura Shrimp Festival or Yaizu’s Bonito Festival, which draw large crowds and offer special dishes available only during the event. Checking the local tourism websites or port schedules in advance will help you plan your visit for the most vibrant experience.
Nearby Attractions to Enjoy Alongside Fishing Port Gourmet
Relax in Hot Springs (Atami, Ito, Yaizu)
After indulging in fresh seafood, nothing beats unwinding in one of Shizuoka’s famous hot springs. Atami offers ocean-view baths and luxurious ryokan experiences, while Ito’s hot spring town has a more traditional atmosphere with public foot baths scattered along its streets. In Yaizu, you can soak in seaside onsen while gazing out over Suruga Bay—a perfect way to end a day of walking and eating at the fishing ports. Many of these hot spring towns are just a short drive or train ride from major ports, making them easy to include in your itinerary.
Scenic Spots (Mount Fuji Views and Coastal Drives)
Shizuoka is home to some of Japan’s most iconic views of Mount Fuji, and several fishing ports offer prime vantage points. Numazu Port’s observation deck and coastal promenades are ideal for capturing photos of the mountain framed by the bay. For a relaxing coastal drive, Route 150 along Omaezaki and Suruga Bay provides endless ocean views, with occasional pull-off spots for photos or a quick snack. These scenic routes pair beautifully with a day of food strolling, offering both culinary and visual delights.
Recommended Souvenirs — Processed and Preserved Seafood
Shizuoka’s fishing ports are treasure troves for seafood souvenirs. Popular choices include himono (dried fish), vacuum-packed shirasu, and sakura shrimp products like flavored rice crackers. For something more indulgent, look for marinated tuna or bonito in soy sauce, which can be enjoyed at home over rice. Many stalls also sell gift-ready assortments, making it easy to share a taste of Shizuoka’s coast with friends and family. Picking up these souvenirs at the end of your visit is a delicious way to extend your fishing port experience long after you’ve left.
