Amami City, nestled in the subtropical paradise of Kagoshima Prefecture, is a hidden culinary treasure trove waiting to be explored by seafood aficionados. With its crystal-clear coastal waters, abundant marine life, and deep-rooted fishing traditions, Amami offers an authentic and unforgettable gastronomic journey. From fresh sashimi to grilled delights and fermented island specialties, every bite tells a story of nature, culture, and craftsmanship.
Amami’s Unique Location: A Gateway to Pristine Seafood
Located between Kyushu and Okinawa, Amami Oshima is blessed with rich coral reefs and ocean currents that bring in nutrient-dense waters, resulting in a bountiful harvest of seafood. The island’s subtropical climate fosters a biodiverse marine ecosystem, making it a haven for fishers and chefs alike. The fusion of Ryukyuan, Japanese, and island-specific influences reflects in every dish served across the region.
The Morning Catch: Where Freshness Begins
Each morning in Amami, local fishermen dock their boats at the Naze Port with their overnight catch. This seafood is swiftly delivered to markets and restaurants, ensuring unparalleled freshness. Among the standout catches are:
- Aori-ika (Bigfin Reef Squid) – prized for its delicate sweetness and tender texture.
- Tobiuo (Flying Fish) – a staple in Amami cuisine, often served grilled or dried.
- Irabucha (Parrotfish) – known for its vibrant color and lean meat.
- Tuna – including local varieties such as Katsuo (Bonito) and Maguro, which are often seared or served as sashimi.
Top Local Dishes You Must Try in Amami City
1. Keihan: A Traditional Chicken Rice Dish with Local Flair
Though not seafood-based, Keihan is Amami’s signature dish and often paired with seafood appetizers. It combines steamed rice, shredded chicken, shiitake mushrooms, pickles, and egg strips, topped with hot chicken broth and sometimes garnished with dried shrimp or seaweed. It’s a perfect introduction to the region’s unique food culture.
2. Sashimi Platters Featuring Local Catch
Local izakayas and restaurants serve up artisanal sashimi platters, showcasing the catch of the day. Expect to find:
- Katsuo Tataki – lightly seared bonito with citrus-soy sauce.
- Shimaaji (Striped Jack) – prized for its firm flesh and rich flavor.
- Squid and octopus varieties – served raw or slightly blanched for texture contrast.
Paired with a glass of local shochu, this is a must-have Amami experience.
3. Grilled and Dried Flying Fish (Tobiuo Yaki)
Tobiuo, or flying fish, is a delicacy in Amami. Grilled whole over charcoal, it offers a rich umami taste with crispy skin and juicy meat. Some eateries also offer himono-style (dried and grilled) Tobiuo, a local preservation method that intensifies flavor.
Hidden Gems: Best Places to Eat Seafood in Amami City
1. Umi No Sachi (海の幸)
Located near the port, this cozy, family-run restaurant specializes in daily catch sashimi sets, seafood rice bowls, and grilled parrotfish. Don’t miss their uni (sea urchin) when in season – it melts in your mouth with a briny sweetness.
2. Kaisen Izakaya Aji-no-Kura (海鮮居酒屋 味の蔵)
A favorite among locals, Aji-no-Kura offers a full menu of tapas-style seafood dishes, from octopus tempura to simmered snappers in soy-based broth. Their assorted nigiri sets feature fish sourced that same morning.
3. Amami Yakiniku Kuroiwa
While known for grilled meats, Kuroiwa also serves a curated seafood menu, including charcoal-grilled shellfish, abalone, and salted sardines – a tribute to Amami’s diverse coastal bounty.
Experience the Local Markets
Naze Central Market
The Naze Market is where chefs, locals, and curious travelers mingle. Stalls overflow with:
- Live lobsters
- Fresh shellfish
- Seaweed varieties used in traditional island soups
- Bento boxes with sashimi and local condiments
This market is more than a place to shop – it’s a living museum of Amami’s coastal culture.
Try Local Seafood Shochu Pairings
Amami’s culinary culture is not complete without kokuto shochu – a brown sugar-based spirit unique to the Amami Islands. Its mild sweetness and smooth finish pair perfectly with umami-rich seafood dishes. Popular brands include:
- Nejime Distillery’s Ryukyu Shochu
- Mizuho Shuzo’s Tokusen Kokuto
Restaurants often offer shochu tasting sets, enhancing the seafood experience with each sip.
Seasonal Seafood Festivals and Culinary Events
Amami Marine Festival (August)
Showcasing live cooking demonstrations, seafood BBQ stations, and fishermen’s stalls, this annual event is a paradise for seafood lovers. Sample everything from grilled squid skewers to sashimi on ice while enjoying coastal music and traditional dance.
Kagoshima Food Fair (Held Annually in Naze)
Amami-based vendors participate in this regional celebration, bringing island seafood specialties to the forefront. It’s a great opportunity to try rare dishes like fermented fish roe, salt-pickled seaweed, and tuna sushi rolls.
Sustainable Fishing and Eco-Cuisine
Local fishers in Amami practice sustainable fishing techniques, using selective netting and seasonal rotations to preserve marine biodiversity. Many chefs emphasize zero-waste cooking, using every part of the fish – from bones for broth to liver for pâté. These ethical practices not only protect Amami’s waters but also enhance flavor through traditional, time-tested methods.
Plan Your Culinary Journey to Amami City
Whether you’re dining seaside under the stars or tucking into a hot bowl of soup in a family-run inn, Amami City delivers a world-class seafood experience with authenticity, freshness, and heartfelt hospitality. The harmony between island life, culinary tradition, and marine richness creates an unforgettable destination for seafood lovers from across the globe.