[Miyagi specialty, Sasakamaboko] A traditional taste! A local delicacy you definitely want to try in Sendai

What is Sasakamaboko?

Sasakamaboko is a traditional fish product representative of Miyagi Prefecture, made by grinding white fish and grilling it into a fluffy and aromatic fish cake.

The name comes from its shape, which resembles a bamboo leaf.

This food has been cherished in Miyagi Prefecture since the Edo period and is now a classic Sendai souvenir, popular among tourists.

It's delicious as is, and grilling it enhances its flavor, making it a perfect snack with drinks or a light meal!

This article will introduce the charm and varieties of sasakamaboko, recommended shops in Miyagi Prefecture, and spots where you can experience making it!

The Charm of Sasakamaboko

1. A Traditional Taste Unique to Miyagi

Sasakamaboko is said to have originated from the samurai of the Sendai domain who wrapped fish paste around bamboo sticks and grilled it.

Today, it is widely loved as a specialty of Miyagi Prefecture, popular not only among locals but also tourists.

The fish used are primarily pollock, flatfish, and greenling, known for their mild flavor and the umami that spreads with each bite.

Many products are made with minimal preservatives and additives, making them a healthy choice for the health-conscious.

2. Delicious Both as Is and Grilled!

Sasakamaboko is tasty on its own, but grilling it brings out even more umami.

Grilling gives a light char to the surface, enhancing its aroma and making it even more delicious.

Recommended Ways to Enjoy

• As is: Enjoy the simple taste of the ingredients
• Grilled: Lightly grill over direct heat and enjoy with soy sauce or wasabi soy sauce
• As a snack with drinks: Pairs wonderfully with sake or beer
• In creative dishes: Slice sasakamaboko and add to salads or clear soups

3. Varieties and Features of Sasakamaboko

Various types of sasakamaboko are sold throughout Miyagi Prefecture.

From the classic plain type to cheese-filled, kelp-filled, and even fried sasakamaboko, there is a wide variety!

Main Varieties

• Plain Sasakamaboko (simple flavor)
• Cheese-filled Sasakamaboko (rich cheese inside, popular)
• Kelp-filled Sasakamaboko (with added kelp flavor, giving a Japanese taste)
• Fried Sasakamaboko (with a crispy coating, a unique item)
• Wasabi-flavored Sasakamaboko (enjoy a spicy kick)

Each shop has its own unique twist, so trying and comparing them can be fun!

Recommended Sasakamaboko Shops in Miyagi Prefecture

1. Abe Kamaboko Shop (Sendai City)

A long-established kamaboko shop representing Miyagi, with over 90 years of history.

The grilled-on-the-spot sasakamaboko "Hyotan-age" is also a specialty!

Recommended Products:

• Traditional Sasakamaboko
• Hyotan-age (fried sasakamaboko in an American dog style)

Access: About 10 minutes on foot from Sendai Station

2. Sasano (Sendai City)

A shop known for handcrafted sasakamaboko by skilled artisans, featuring a simple taste that brings out the flavor of the ingredients.

Recommended Products:

• Thick-grilled Sasakama (thick and juicy)
• Cheese-filled Sasakama (perfect as a snack with drinks)

Access: About 15 minutes by car from Sendai Station

3. Shiroken Kamaboko Shop (Ishinomaki City, Shiogama City)

A long-established shop from the Meiji era, especially known for the "Premium Sasakamaboko".

Recommended Products:

• Premium Sasakamaboko (known for its moist texture)
• Fried Sasakama (sasakamaboko with a crispy coating, offering a new experience)

Access: About 5 minutes on foot from Ishinomaki Station

Sasakamaboko Making Experience Spots

1. Abe Kamaboko Shop Sendai Factory (Sendai City)

You can experience grilling and eating sasakamaboko yourself!

Experience Fee: 1,500 yen (reservation required)

2. Matsushima Kamaboko Honpo (Matsushima Town)

A spot where you can enjoy making sasakamaboko along with sightseeing in Matsushima.

Experience Fee: 1,000 yen (approximately 30 minutes)

Convenient Information for Travelers

Access Information

Access by Train

• About 90 minutes by Shinkansen from Tokyo to Sendai Station
• From Sendai Station, you can walk or take a train to each kamaboko shop

Access by Car

• About 1 hour from Sendai City to Matsushima or Ishinomaki

Business Hours & Price Guide

• Price of one sasakamaboko: around 100 to 300 yen
• Souvenir set: around 1,000 to 2,000 yen

Wi-Fi Information

• Free Wi-Fi available at Sendai Station and major tourist facilities

Language Support

• Some shops offer English menus
• English and Chinese pamphlets available at Sendai Tourist Information Center

Summary and Frequently Asked Questions

Sasakamaboko is a traditional culinary delight of Miyagi Prefecture, offering a simple yet profound taste.

When visiting Sendai, be sure to try a variety and find your favorite sasakamaboko!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where can I buy sasakamaboko?

A: You can purchase it at tourist spots like Sendai Station, Matsushima, and Ishinomaki.

Q: Can I take sasakamaboko home as a souvenir?

A: Yes, vacuum-packed sasakamaboko can be stored for about a week.

Q: Can I experience making sasakamaboko in Sendai?

A: You can experience it at Abe Kamaboko Shop and Matsushima Kamaboko Honpo (reservation recommended).

Enjoy the specialty of Miyagi, sasakamaboko!