What is Toyama's Proud Seafood "Shiroebi"?
Toyama Prefecture is famous for its fresh seafood, but the particularly rare "Shiroebi" (white shrimp) stands out among them.
With its beautiful appearance, it is also known as the "Jewel of Toyama Bay" and is a precious shrimp that can hardly be tasted outside Toyama.
Shiroebi is characterized by its translucent white body, with a strong sweetness and a melt-in-your-mouth softness.
It can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes such as tempura, sashimi, kakiage, and sushi.
This time, we will introduce the charm of Toyama's Shiroebi, recommended ways to enjoy it, and famous restaurant information in detail!
Characteristics and Charm of Shiroebi
1. A Rare Shrimp Only Found in Toyama Bay
Shiroebi is a special shrimp that is only caught in Toyama Bay within Japan.
It inhabits the deep sea at depths of 200–300 meters and, unlike regular shrimp, has a translucent white body.
Toyama Bay is so rich in marine life that it is called a "natural fish tank,"
and Shiroebi is at its best and most delicious from spring to summer.
2. Delicious Ways to Eat Shiroebi
Due to its delicate flavor, simple cooking methods best enhance the taste of Shiroebi.
Typical Shiroebi Dishes:
- Shiroebi Sashimi: A luxurious dish that lets you savor fresh Shiroebi as it is. The sweetness spreads in your mouth.
- Shiroebi Tempura: Crisp batter encases the melt-in-your-mouth sweet Shiroebi, making it exquisite.
- Shiroebi Kakiage: Fragrantly fried Shiroebi pairs perfectly with rice or soba.
- Shiroebi Sushi: Great compatibility with sushi rice, a specialty sushi you can only taste in Toyama.
- Shiroebi Senbei: A popular souvenir. Packed with the savory taste of Shiroebi.
Recommended Shiroebi Specialty Restaurants in Toyama
1. Kitokito Sushi
A sushi restaurant that uses fresh seafood from Toyama. Their Shiroebi nigiri sushi is popular.
- Recommended Points: Enjoy the strong sweetness of Shiroebi
- Access: 10-minute walk from JR Toyama Station
2. Shiroebitei
A Shiroebi specialty store located within Toyama Station. Known for its sashimi and tempura rice bowls.
- Recommended Points: Directly connected to the station for excellent access! Enjoy Shiroebi casually
- Access: Inside JR Toyama Station
3. Sushitama Toyama Station Branch
Although a conveyor belt sushi restaurant, the Shiroebi nigiri is as delicious as that from a high-end sushi restaurant.
- Recommended Points: Excellent value for money, and enjoy Toyama's seafood easily
- Access: 5-minute walk from JR Toyama Station
Convenient Information for Travelers
Where Can You Eat Shiroebi?
- Sushi shops and set meal restaurants around Toyama Station
- Markets at Shinminato Fishing Port (also available for purchase at direct sales outlets)
- Roadside stations and restaurants at Toyama Airport
Can Shiroebi Be a Souvenir?
Shiroebi doesn't keep well when raw,
but "Shiroebi Senbei" and "Shiroebi Tsukudani" are easy to bring back as souvenirs!
Recommended Season?
The fishing season for Shiroebi is from April to around November, but the peak season is May to July when it is sweetest.
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
Summary
Shiroebi is a rare shrimp found only in Toyama Bay, characterized by its strong sweetness.
It can be enjoyed in various dishes such as sushi, tempura, and kakiage, and is a must-try when traveling to Toyama!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can you eat Shiroebi?
A: Enjoy it at Toyama Station, Shinminato Fishing Port markets, and sushi restaurants!
Q: Where is the best place to eat Shiroebi sushi?
A: "Kitokito Sushi" and "Shiroebitei" are recommended!
Q: Can Shiroebi be taken home as a souvenir?
A: Fresh Shiroebi is difficult, but "Shiroebi Senbei" or "Shiroebi Tsukudani" is perfect as a souvenir.
Q: When is Shiroebi in season?
A: Caught from April to November, with May to July being the most delicious.
When visiting Toyama, be sure to try the exquisite gourmet "Shiroebi"!
