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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Washo Market is a locally-run public wholesale market and shopping street in the center of Kushiro City, Hokkaido. With the development of fishing and distribution after the war, it grew as the local kitchen, and is now a popular spot for tourists as well. It is particularly famous for its "Kattedon," a seafood bowl where you buy white rice and top it with your favorite seafood from each store. The appeal of this experience is the opportunity to choose fresh seafood and have it served on the spot.
Highlights
- Kattedon experience: Purchase a bowl or rice from the rice sales corner in the market, then choose your favorite toppings from each fishmonger. You can choose from a wide variety of toppings, including salmon roe, sea urchin, scallops, crab, and salmon, and customize it to your liking.
- A variety of fresh seafood: You can see and purchase the fresh seafood (fresh fish, shellfish, processed products, dried fish, etc.) caught that day. You can often see the fish being filleted and processed into sashimi right in front of the store.
- Opportunity to experience local food culture: Enjoy conversations with fishermen and shopkeepers and learn about cooking methods and seasonal fish. Tastings and simple cooking are also available for tourists.
- Lively morning atmosphere: Right after opening, you can feel the energy and excitement of the store as it stocks fresh produce from early morning catches and freshly delivered goods (business hours vary by store).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Within walking distance of JR Kushiro Station (Kushiro City) (approximately 10 minutes on foot).
- Bus: Take a local bus or sightseeing bus to the city center of Kushiro. The nearest bus stop is just a few minutes' walk away.
- By car: As the hotel is located in the city center, there are paid parking lots nearby, but the number of spaces is limited, so we recommend using public transportation when it is crowded.
- Note: Specific locations, business hours, and closing days vary by store, so please check official information and local guides before visiting.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short tour: If you just want to have a quick look around the market and take some photos, it will take about 30 minutes.
- Meals + Shopping: If you take your time eating, including the Katte-don, and choosing souvenirs, it will take about 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Take your time: If you plan to talk to shop owners and shop around multiple stores, allow yourself about two hours to browse.
Nearby spots
- Kushiro Fisherman's Wharf MOO: A commercial facility housing restaurants and souvenir shops, it's an easy spot to stop by along with the market.
- Nusamai Bridge: A bridge over the Kushiro River, it is a popular photo spot with beautiful evening and night views.
- Kushiro Marsh National Park: One of the largest marshes in Japan, accessible by car or bus. There are also spots to observe red-crowned cranes, and you can enjoy nature walks (although it is a little far from the city center).
- The city's food district: There are many restaurants and snack bars where you can taste the seafood you bought at the market, making it easy to stop by.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Payment: Some stores only accept cash. Although an increasing number of stores accept credit cards and electronic payments, it's best to have cash on hand.
- Business hours and regular holidays: Opening hours and regular holidays vary by store. We recommend checking in advance as stores often have irregular business hours, especially during the New Year holidays and public holidays.
- Crowds: It gets crowded on weekends and during tourist seasons (summer vacation, Golden Week, New Year's holiday, etc.). Popular items may sell out early.
- Photography: When taking photos of the storefront or work scenes, it is good manners to always ask permission from the staff. In particular, please refrain from taking photos while cooking or serving customers.
- Garbage and eating while walking: Hygiene is important within the market. Please dispose of your trash in the designated area after your purchases, and be considerate of other visitors and shops when eating while walking or standing in the aisles.
- Seasonal Note: Winter in Hokkaido can be very cold and slippery, so we recommend taking measures to protect yourself from the cold (waterproof shoes, gloves, hat) and to prevent falls when walking (slip-resistant clothing). In summer, the sea breeze can make the ground chilly.
Washo Market is a tourist spot where you can experience the freshness of the seafood and the warmth of the local people. Enjoy experiences such as kattedon, and combine your visit with other sightseeing spots in the area. Please check the official website or the market for information on opening hours and temporary closures before visiting.
