What is Sasa Kamaboko?
Sasa kamaboko is a traditional seafood product representing Miyagi Prefecture: a fluffy, savory kamaboko made by grinding white-fleshed fish and grilling it.
Its name comes from the fact that its shape resembles a bamboo grass (sasa) leaf.
This food, enjoyed in Miyagi since the Edo period, is still a classic Sendai souvenir and a popular item among tourists.
It’s delicious eaten as-is, and grilling it brings out even more flavor, making it perfect as a snack or accompaniment to drinks!
In this article, we introduce the appeal, varieties, recommended shops in Miyagi, and places where you can try making sasa kamaboko yourself.
The Appeal of Sasa Kamaboko
1. A traditional Miyagi flavor
Sasa kamaboko is said to have originated when samurai of the Sendai domain wrapped fish paste around bamboo sticks and grilled it.
Today it is widely loved as a specialty of Miyagi Prefecture and is a popular gourmet item for both locals and visitors.
The fish used are mainly white-fleshed varieties such as Alaska pollock (suketoudara), flounder (hirame), and greenling (ainame), which have a mild flavor that releases more umami the more you chew.
Many makers use minimal preservatives and additives, making sasa kamaboko a healthy choice for those conscious of their diet.
2. Delicious as-is or seared!
Sasa kamaboko is tasty eaten straightaway, but searing it enhances its flavor.
Searing gives the surface a light char and adds a toasty aroma, making it even more delicious.
Recommended ways to enjoy
- As-is: Enjoy the simple, natural taste of the ingredients
- Sear it: Lightly grill over direct heat and dip in soy sauce or wasabi soy sauce
- Snack with drinks: Pairs excellently with sake or beer
- In recipes: Slice sasa kamaboko and add to salads or clear soups (osuimono)
3. Types and characteristics of sasa kamaboko
There are many varieties of sasa kamaboko sold across Miyagi Prefecture.
From the classic plain type to cheese-filled, kombu (kelp) flavored, and even fried versions, the range is wide!
Main varieties
- Plain sasa kamaboko (simple, classic flavor)
- Cheese-filled sasa kamaboko (popular for its rich cheese filling)
- Kombu (kelp) sasa kamaboko (adds a Japanese-style kelp flavor)
- Fried sasa kamaboko (a unique item with a crispy coating)
- Wasabi-flavored sasa kamaboko (for a sharp, spicy kick)
Each shop has its own unique variations, so trying several and comparing them can be a fun experience!
Recommended Sasa Kamaboko Shops in Miyagi Prefecture
1. 阿部蒲鉾店 (Sendai)
Abe Kamaboko is a long-established kamaboko maker representing Miyagi, with a history of more than 90 years.
They are also famous for their freshly fried sasa kamaboko called “hyōtan-age.”
Recommended items：
- Traditional sasa kamaboko
- Hyōtan-age (a corn-dog-style fried sasa kamaboko)
Access: About a 10-minute walk from Sendai Station
2. 佐々直 (Sendai)
This shop is known for hand-made sasa kamaboko by skilled artisans; their simple preparations that highlight the ingredients’ natural flavor are characteristic.
Recommended items：
- Thick-cut sasa kamaboko (meaty and juicy)
- Cheese-filled sasa kamaboko (great as a snack with drinks)
Access: About a 15-minute drive from Sendai Station
3. 白謙蒲鉾店 (Ishinomaki / Shiogama)
A long-standing shop since the Meiji era, known especially for their popular “Gokujō sasa kamaboko” (premium sasa kamaboko).
Recommended items：
- Gokujō sasa kamaboko (noted for its moist texture)
- Fried sasa kamaboko (a new-sensation sasa kamaboko with a crispy coating)
Access: About a 5-minute walk from Ishinomaki Station
Sasa Kamaboko Making Experience Spots
You can try it at 阿部蒲鉾店 main store or the Matsushima Teramachi store
Experience fees are around 300 yen per piece, but details and prices vary by shop.
Please check the official websites for the latest fees and availability.
Useful Information for Travelers
Access information
By train
- About 90 minutes from Tokyo to Sendai by Shinkansen
- From Sendai Station, you can reach the various kamaboko shops by walking or by local train
By car
- About 1 hour from central Sendai to Matsushima or Ishinomaki
Hours & price guide
- Price per piece of sasa kamaboko: Around ¥100–¥300
- Souvenir sets: Around ¥1,000–¥2,000
Wi‑Fi
- Free Wi‑Fi is available at Sendai Station and major tourist facilities
Language support
- Some shops offer English menus
- Sendai tourist information centers provide English and Chinese pamphlets
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
Sasa kamaboko is one of Miyagi Prefecture’s traditional food cultures, offering a simple yet deeply satisfying taste.
When visiting Sendai, be sure to try several kinds and find your favorite sasa kamaboko!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can I buy sasa kamaboko?
A: You can buy it at Sendai Station, Matsushima, Ishinomaki, and other tourist spots.
Q: Can I take it home as a souvenir?
A: Yes. Vacuum-packed sasa kamaboko can be kept for about one week.
Q: Can I try making sasa kamaboko in Sendai?
A: Yes — experiences are available at Abe Kamaboko and Matsushima Kamaboko Honpo (advance reservations recommended).
Please enjoy Miyagi’s specialty, sasa kamaboko!
