What is Enoshima's shirasu?
Enoshima, located in Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is easy to reach from Tokyo and is an area known for its beautiful sea and tourist attractions.
One of Enoshima's specialties is shirasu!
Shirasu are juvenile sardines (whitebait). Fresh ones have a sweet flavor and a plump, springy texture.
Especially, shirasu landed in the nearby waters of Enoshima are exquisite, and the local-only "nama-shirasu" (raw shirasu) is hugely popular with tourists!
Shirasu from the Shonan area boast top-class quality in the Kanto region, and local fishermen provide fish caught that very morning in fresh condition.
They can be enjoyed in many dishes, including the popular "shirasu-don" (shirasu bowl).
Why Enoshima's shirasu are so tasty
1. Fresh shirasu caught in Sagami Bay
Sagami Bay around Enoshima is an area with strong tidal currents and rich nutrients.
This environment helps produce delicious shirasu.
Shirasu are very delicate, and being able to eat them right after they're caught is a privilege unique to Enoshima.
2. You can eat "nama-shirasu" (raw shirasu)!
Usually shirasu are boiled and processed, but in Enoshima you can taste freshly landed "nama-shirasu" (raw shirasu)!
Nama-shirasu are translucent, with a slight sweetness and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
However, nama-shirasu may not be available depending on the weather and fishing conditions, so it's recommended to check in advance.
3. Many ways to prepare shirasu
In Enoshima, you can enjoy many shirasu dishes besides nama-shirasu.
① Kama-age shirasu
Fresh shirasu quickly boiled, known for its fluffy texture.
It brings out the natural sweetness of shirasu.
② Shirasu-boshi (sun-dried shirasu)
Shirasu dried in the sun, with concentrated savory flavor and a pleasant saltiness.
Perfect with rice or as a snack with drinks!
③ Shirasu kakiage (shirasu fritter)
A tempura-style fritter of shirasu in a crispy batter — a perfect balance of savory crunch and shirasu flavor!
Where to eat shirasu in Enoshima: 3 recommended shops
1. Tobiccho
The most famous shirasu specialty shop in Enoshima.
A popular spot with often long lines, where you can enjoy fresh shirasu bowls.
- Recommended menu: Nama-shirasu bowl, kama-age shirasu bowl, shirasu kakiage bowl
2. Uomitei (pronounced "Uo-mi-tei")
An established eatery on the hill of Enoshima where you can eat while enjoying a spectacular view.
- Recommended menu: Nama-shirasu bowl, shirasu tempura bowl, seafood bowl
3. Shirasuya
Run by local fishermen, this shop offers fresh shirasu at reasonable prices.
- Recommended menu: Half-and-half bowl of nama-shirasu and kama-age shirasu
Best season to enjoy Enoshima's shirasu
The shirasu fishing season runs from March to December, with spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) being the best seasons.
Shirasu caught during these times are fattier and very delicious!
Note: From January 1 to March 10 is the closed season for fishing, so shops offering nama-shirasu are limited.
How to get to Enoshima
By train
- Tokyo Station → Fujisawa Station (JR Tokaido Line, about 50 minutes)
- Fujisawa Station → Katase-Enoshima Station (Enoden or Odakyu Line, about 10 minutes) or Enoshima Station (Enoden, about 10 minutes)
- Both Katase-Enoshima and Enoshima stations are about a 10-minute walk to the Enoshima area
By car
- From the Shuto Expressway via the Tomei Expressway (Atsugi IC), about 1 hour 30 minutes
- Parking: There are many paid parking lots around Enoshima, but they can be crowded on weekends, so taking the train is recommended.
Useful information for travelers
Wi‑Fi information
- Some tourist areas in Enoshima offer free Wi‑Fi
- Many cafes and restaurants also offer Wi‑Fi
Language support
- Major tourist spots have signs in English, Chinese, and Korean
- Some popular restaurants offer English menus
Summary and FAQ
Summary
Enoshima's shirasu are a delicious specialty where you can enjoy fresh nama-shirasu and kama-age shirasu.
They are especially at their best in spring and autumn, making them perfect to enjoy along with sightseeing.
When visiting Enoshima, be sure to try shirasu dishes!
Frequently asked questions
Q: Can you eat nama-shirasu any time?
A: Shirasu availability depends on the weather and fishing conditions, so some days it may not be served. It's recommended to check the shop's official website or social media.
Q: Are there dishes that are good even if I'm not a fan of shirasu?
A: Kama-age shirasu and shirasu kakiage have less of the distinctive shirasu flavor and are easier to eat, so they're recommended.
Q: How much does shirasu food usually cost?
A: A nama-shirasu bowl typically costs around ¥1,000–¥1,800. Some restaurants offer set menus.
Q: What shirasu products are recommended as souvenirs?
A: Sun-dried shirasu (shirasu-boshi) and shirasu rice crackers are popular souvenirs. You can buy them at Enoshima souvenir shops!
When sightseeing in Enoshima, be sure to enjoy the fresh shirasu!
