[Shirasu from Enoshima] Fresh and delicious! The king of Shonan gourmet food

What is Shirasu from Enoshima?

Enoshima in Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is an area with excellent access from Tokyo, known for its beautiful sea and tourist attractions.

The specialty of Enoshima has to be Shirasu!

Shirasu are juvenile sardines. Fresh ones are sweet and have a plump texture.

Especially, Shirasu caught in the nearby sea of Enoshima are exquisite, and the "Nama Shirasu" (raw Shirasu) that can only be tasted here is extremely popular among tourists!

The Shirasu from the Shonan area boasts top-class quality in the Kanto region, with local fishermen providing fresh catches from that morning.

It is appealing because you can enjoy it in various dishes, such as "Shirasu Don" (Shirasu rice bowl).

Why Enoshima’s Shirasu is Delicious

1. Fresh Shirasu Caught in Sagami Bay

The Sagami Bay around Enoshima is a nutrient-rich area with good tidal flows.

This environment contributes to the growth of delicious Shirasu.

Shirasu are very delicate fish, and being able to eat them fresh is a privilege unique to Enoshima.

2. You Can Eat "Nama Shirasu"!

Usually, Shirasu are often boiled and processed, but in Enoshima, you can enjoy freshly caught "Nama Shirasu"!

Nama Shirasu has a translucent appearance, with a subtle sweetness and a slightly creamy texture.

However, Nama Shirasu may not be available on certain days due to weather or fishing conditions, so it is recommended to check in advance.

3. Various Shirasu Processing Methods

In Enoshima, you can enjoy many Shirasu dishes besides Nama Shirasu.

① Kamaage Shirasu

This is freshly boiled Shirasu with a fluffy texture.

The natural sweetness of Shirasu is enhanced.

② Shirasu Boushi

This is sun-dried Shirasu, with concentrated umami and a perfect salty taste.

Perfect as a side dish with rice or as a snack with drinks!

③ Shirasu Kakiage

This is tempura of Shirasu coated in a crispy batter, with a perfect balance of aroma and Shirasu flavor!

Where to Eat Shirasu in Enoshima! Top 3 Recommended Restaurants

1. Tobiccho

The most famous Shirasu specialty store in Enoshima.

A popular place with inevitable queues where you can enjoy fresh Shirasu rice bowls.

• Recommended Menu: Nama Shirasu Don, Kamaage Shirasu Don, Shirasu Kakiage Don

2. Uomitei

A long-established restaurant located on a hill in Enoshima where you can enjoy meals with a spectacular view.

• Recommended Menu: Nama Shirasu Don, Shirasu Tendon, Seafood Bowl

3. Shirasuya

A restaurant run by local fishermen where you can enjoy fresh Shirasu at a reasonable price.

• Recommended Menu: Half-and-half bowl of Nama Shirasu and Kamaage Shirasu

The Best Season to Enjoy Shirasu in Enoshima

The fishing season for Shirasu is from March to December, with the best periods in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).

Shirasu during these times are rich in flavor and incredibly delicious!

Note: During the closed season from January to February, there are limited places offering Nama Shirasu.

How to Access Enoshima

Access by Train

• Tokyo Station → Fujisawa Station (JR Tokaido Line approx. 50 minutes)
• Fujisawa Station → Katase-Enoshima Station (Enoshima Electric Railway or Odakyu Line approx. 10 minutes)
• 10-minute walk from Katase-Enoshima Station to Enoshima area

Access by Car

• Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes via Atsugi IC from the Tokyo Metropolitan Expressway to the Tomei Expressway
• Parking: There are many paid parking lots around Enoshima, but they tend to be crowded on holidays, so train access is recommended.

Useful Information for Travelers

Wi-Fi Information

• Free Wi-Fi is available in the Enoshima tourist area
• Many cafes and restaurants also offer Wi-Fi

Language Support

• English, Chinese, and Korean signage is available at major tourist spots
• Some popular restaurants offer English menus

Summary and Frequently Asked Questions

Summary

Enoshima’s Shirasu is a delicious gourmet delight where you can enjoy fresh Nama Shirasu and Kamaage Shirasu.

Spring and autumn are the best times to enjoy them, and they can be enjoyed alongside sightseeing.

Be sure to try Shirasu dishes when visiting Enoshima!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can you eat Nama Shirasu anytime?

A: Shirasu availability is affected by weather and fishing conditions, so it may not be offered on some days. It is recommended to check the store's official website or social media.

Q: Are there dishes enjoyable even if I'm not fond of Shirasu?

A: Kamaage Shirasu and Shirasu Kakiage have less of the distinctive Shirasu flavor, making them easy to enjoy.

Q: What is the budget for Shirasu dishes?

A: The typical price range for a Nama Shirasu Don is about 1,000 to 1,800 yen. Some places offer set menus.

Q: What Shirasu is recommended as souvenirs?

A: Shirasu Boushi and Shirasu Senbei are popular souvenirs. They can be purchased at souvenir shops in Enoshima!

When visiting Enoshima, be sure to enjoy the fresh Shirasu!