What Is Yamaguchi’s Fugu Cuisine? — Japan’s Top Fugu Region
When it comes to fugu (pufferfish) cuisine in Japan, Yamaguchi Prefecture is the place to go!
In particular, Shimonoseki is famous as the "home of fugu".
In Japan, fugu is considered a luxury ingredient, prized for its delicate, refined umami.
You can enjoy it in many forms, such as fugu sashimi (fugu-sashi), fugu hot pot (fugu-chiri / tecchiri), and deep-fried fugu.
In Yamaguchi it’s also called "fuku" (not "fugu"),
and is regarded as a lucky ingredient — literally a "fish that brings good fortune."
The History of Fugu in Yamaguchi
Fugu was legalized starting in Yamaguchi!
In fact, eating fugu was prohibited until the Edo period.
This was because fugu contains a powerful toxin (tetrodotoxin),
which can be deadly if eaten by mistake.
However, in the Meiji era, Ito Hirobumi,
Japan’s first prime minister who had ties to Yamaguchi,
ate fugu in Shimonoseki and was impressed by its taste.
Thanks to his recommendation, Yamaguchi led the way in lifting the ban on eating fugu.
Because of this history, Shimonoseki is still known as the premier fugu region.
Types of Fugu Dishes and How to Enjoy Them
1. Fugu sashimi (tessa)
Fugu sashimi, sliced so thin it can be translucent, is a visually stunning delicacy.
Unlike typical sashimi, fugu is prized for its firm, springy texture.
When eating it, it’s common to dip it in ponzu sauce and momiji-oroshi (grated daikon with chili) for a refreshing taste.
The subtle flavor of fugu pairs perfectly with the tang of ponzu!
2. Fugu-chiri (tecchiri)
A fugu hot pot that’s perfect for cold weather.
Simmering it slowly in a kelp (kombu) broth
draws out the fugu’s refined umami into the soup.
It’s standard to finish the meal with a zosui (rice porridge) made from the pot broth!
Rice soaked with fugu’s rich flavors is an absolute delight.
3. Deep-fried fugu
Deep-fried fugu offers a contrast of crispy exterior and fluffy interior.
It’s a popular dish that lets you savor the juicy umami of the fish.
Squeezing lemon over it adds a refreshing touch!
4. Fugu hire-zake (fin-infused sake)
Fugu hire-zake is made by char-grilling the fugu fins until fragrant and steeping them in hot sake.
The sake takes on a toasty aroma and deeper flavor,
making it a luxurious adult treat for winter evenings.
5. Fugu sushi
Yamaguchi’s specialty sushi includes fugu sushi.
The delicate taste of fugu and vinegared rice make an excellent match,
allowing you to fully appreciate the fish’s flavor.
5 Recommended Fugu Restaurants in Yamaguchi Prefecture
1. Fuku no Seki (Shimonoseki)
Location: Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi Prefecture
Hours: 11:00–21:30
Highlights: Popular for their tessa & tecchiri set
2. Shunpanro (Japan’s first fugu restaurant)
Location: Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi Prefecture
Hours: 11:30–22:00
Highlights: A long-established fugu restaurant dating back to the Meiji era
3. Fugudokoro Sakura (run by a fugu wholesaler) (Ube)
Location: Ube, Yamaguchi Prefecture
Hours: 17:00–23:00
Highlights: Fresh fugu at reasonable prices
4. Fukudokoro Isoman (Hagi)
Location: Hagi, Yamaguchi Prefecture
Hours: 12:00–21:00
Highlights: A beloved local hidden gem
5. Fugu Cuisine Sumi (Hofu)
Location: Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture
Hours: 17:00–22:00
Highlights: Famous for its fugu sushi
Practical Information for Travelers
1. When is fugu at its best?
Fugu is most delicious in winter (November–March).
It’s especially rich and tasty from December to February!
2. Where can you eat fugu?
You can enjoy fresh fugu dishes at Shimonoseki’s Karato Market and at fugu specialty restaurants throughout the prefecture.
Compared to Tokyo or Osaka, Yamaguchi offers the added appeal of more reasonable prices for fugu.
3. Can you buy fugu souvenirs?
At Shimonoseki’s markets and at the airport you can buy processed fugu products such as dried fugu and fugu rice crackers.
You can’t take raw fugu home, but
vacuum-packed fugu lets you enjoy authentic flavors at home!
Summary and FAQs
Summary
- Yamaguchi Prefecture is Japan’s top fugu region!
- You can enjoy a variety of fugu dishes — tessa, tecchiri, karaage, hire-zake, and more.
- Winter is the best season — experience authentic fugu in Shimonoseki!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is fugu really safe?
A: Yes. Licensed fugu chefs, who are certified by prefectural authorities, prepare the fish, so it is safe to eat.
Q: How do you eat fugu sashimi?
A: Tessa is typically eaten with ponzu and momiji-oroshi.
Eating it with green onions or citrus enhances the fugu’s flavor.
Q: Which fugu dish do you recommend?
A: If it’s your first time, order a "tessa & tecchiri set" — you can enjoy both sashimi and hot pot and fully appreciate fugu’s appeal.
If you visit Yamaguchi Prefecture, be sure to try the authentic fugu cuisine!
