TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Karato Market is a long-established fish market located along the coast of Shimonoseki City, Yamaguchi Prefecture. It is famous for offering fresh fish caught at the local fishing port, live fish, sushi, and other seafood for takeout. Originally a wholesale market that supported the local distribution system, it has since opened to the general public and become a popular tourist spot. One of its greatest attractions is the opportunity to sample seasonal seafood on the spot, including Shimonoseki's specialty pufferfish (fugu). The market's proximity to the sea and its location overlooking the Kanmon Strait and Kanmon Bridge are also a highlight.
Highlights
- Buy fresh seafood and eat it on the spot: There are sushi stalls and seafood bowl shops lined up, and after purchasing, you can eat it in the eat-in space inside the market or on the benches facing the sea.
- Fugu cuisine: Shimonoseki is famous for its fugu, and you can enjoy fugu dishes such as sashimi and fried fugu, mainly in the winter (offering times and menus vary by store).
- Early morning auctions and lively wholesale scenes: You can sometimes see the wholesale trade in the early morning, and the lively exchanges between fishermen and middlemen are popular tourist attractions (times when you can view the auctions may vary).
- View of the Kanmon Strait: You can see the Kanmon Strait and Kanmon Bridge from the market, so you can enjoy the view while you dine.
- Bustling on weekends and holidays: Especially on weekends and holidays, there are more stalls aimed at tourists, and you can sample a wide variety of seafood in a lively food stall format.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Shimonoseki Station is the nearest major station. From the station, it is convenient to take a bus or taxi.
- Bus: Take a city bus from Shimonoseki Station bound for Karato (please check the route and timetable in advance).
- Taxi: Approximately 10 minutes by taxi from Shimonoseki Station (depending on traffic conditions).
- By car: Accessible from the Sanyo Expressway and Chugoku Expressway. There is a parking lot around the market, but it can fill up on weekends, so it is recommended to arrive early.
- From Kyushu: Accessible via the Kanmon Bridge and Kanmon Tunnel. From Mojiko Port, it is convenient to travel by car.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short tour of eating and sightseeing: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- If you want to eat and shop leisurely: 1-2 hours
- Combining your visit with sightseeing in the surrounding area (including Kaikyokan): Half a day to a full day
Nearby spots
- Shimonoseki City Aquarium Kaikyokan: A popular aquarium showcasing marine life from the Kanmon Straits. Recommended for families.
- Akama Shrine: An ancient shrine associated with Emperor Antoku. A place of worship with a historical atmosphere.
- Kanmon Bridge and Kanmon Straits: A scenic walking spot. The night view is also beautiful.
- Mojiko Retro (Kitakyushu City): If you travel across the Kanmon Strait, you can enjoy a retro townscape.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: It gets very crowded on weekends, holidays, and during tourist seasons (especially in the mornings and early afternoons). There may be long lines at popular stores, so please allow yourself plenty of time when visiting.
- Cash and payment methods: Many stores only accept cash or prefer cash. Credit cards and electronic payments may not be accepted, so it's a good idea to have some cash on hand.
- Garbage and eating etiquette: Please eat and drink in designated areas within the market. Please dispose of your trash in the designated area or take it home with you.
- Caution when eating raw fish: When eating sashimi or raw fish, please consider the freshness and your physical condition. If you are pregnant or have a chronic illness, we recommend that you refrain from eating raw fish.
- Check opening hours and closing days: As a wholesale market, it has opening hours and closing days (regular holidays), so be sure to check the latest information on the official website or local information before visiting. Sales for the general public and food stalls tend to be more active on weekends and holidays.
- Seasonal guide: Fugu is a Shimonoseki specialty, and is best enjoyed from late autumn to winter (usually from November to February). The fish species available change depending on the season, so it's best to aim for a seasonal taste.
*Opening hours, access details, and event information are subject to change. Please check the Karato Market official website or Shimonoseki City tourist information for the latest information.
