Eel Fishing and Cooking Experience in Kyoto

Set out on a captivating culinary journey through Kyoto’s time-honored eel fishing and cooking traditions. This immersive experience allows visitors to witness the art of catching live eels, observe the meticulous preparation techniques, and participate in the grilling process. Savoring the perfectly grilled eel, accompanied by a delectable soy-based sauce, offers a unique glimpse into the practices that define the city’s renowned eel-based cuisine. Alongside this, the opportunity to catch and salt-grill the prized ayu sweetfish adds depth to this authentic culinary adventure. With its rich history and refined techniques, this experience promises to tantalize the senses and leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• Participants can learn traditional eel fishing and preparation techniques, including catching live eels, cleaning, and grilling eel fillets.
• The experience includes observing expert chefs demonstrate the process of preparing and seasoning eel fillets for optimal texture and flavor.
• Along With eel, the activity also features catching and salt-grilling of ayu (sweetfish), providing a glimpse into traditional Uji culinary practices.
• The activity is located at the Eel Shiotomi Restaurant in Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture, and is available from January 2024 to July 2025.
• The experience includes a delicious lunch featuring eel rice, miso soup, and dipping sauce, allowing participants to savor the eel dishes they have learned to prepare.

Activity Overview

The eel fishing and cooking experience in Uji, Kyoto allows participants to engage in various activities, including eel fishing, observing eel preparation and grilling, as well as catching and salt grilling ayu (sweetfish).

During the experience, guests will enjoy a delicious lunch featuring eel rice, miso soup, and a dipping sauce. They’ll also have the opportunity to observe the intricate process of preparing and grilling the eels.

In addition, the experience includes catching and salt grilling the ayu. This activity provides a unique and immersive culinary adventure, allowing visitors to learn about traditional Japanese eel and sweetfish cooking techniques firsthand.

Location and Duration

The meeting point for this eel fishing and cooking experience is Eel Shiotomi Restaurant, located at 40 Rokujizocho, Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture 611-0001, Japan.

The activity is available from 1/19/2024 through 7/27/2025, operating Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 06:00 PM. This gives travelers plenty of flexibility to schedule their visit.

Whether you’re looking to learn about traditional eel preparation and tasting, or try your hand at catching the elusive ayu sweetfish, this experience is open for over a year and a half, ensuring you can find the perfect time to participate.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This eel fishing and cooking experience includes the actual eating of eel and ayu, as well as the opportunity to participate in eel fishing and catching, observe eel preparation and grilling, and experience ayu catching and salt grilling.

However, transportation to and from the meeting point isn’t included.

Participants will have the chance to savor the delectable flavors of eel rice, miso soup, and dipping sauce, all while seeing the traditional methods of eel preparation and grilling.

The ayu catching and salt grilling experience adds an extra layer of cultural enrichment to the overall activity.

With these inclusions, visitors can expect a well-rounded and authentic culinary adventure in Uji, Kyoto.

Accessibility and Policies

Wheelchair and stroller users can access the eel fishing and cooking experience, as the venue is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Public transportation is available near the meeting point at the Eel Shiotomi Restaurant.

Infants must sit on laps during the activity, and it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems due to the nature of the experience. Participants will join a private tour, with only their group taking part in the eel fishing and cooking session.

The eel fishing and cooking experience is a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in traditional Japanese culinary traditions. Participants will have the chance to observe the preparation and grilling of eels, as well as try their hand at catching and salt-grilling ayu (sweetfish). This activity is a must-try for those seeking an authentic and memorable cultural experience in Kyoto.

Cancellation Policy

Canceling the eel fishing and cooking experience can be done with a full refund if done at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time. However, no refunds are provided for cancellations less than 24 hours prior to the activity.

Plus, the experience may be canceled due to poor weather conditions or an insufficient number of participants, in which case an alternative date or full refund will be offered.

The cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility for participants while also ensuring the viability of the experience. By requiring 24 hours’ notice for cancellations, the organizers can better manage bookings and minimize disruptions. Likewise, the ability to cancel due to weather or low enrollment helps maintain the quality and enjoyment of the activity for all involved.

Eel Fishing and Preparation

Participants begin the eel fishing and cooking experience by learning how to properly catch and prepare the eels.

Under the guidance of expert instructors, they venture out to the nearby river and try their hand at catching live eels using traditional fishing techniques.

Once the eels are caught, the group returns to the restaurant where they observe the chefs expertly clean and prepare the eels for grilling. This includes removing the bones, slicing the eel into fillets, and seasoning it with a special soy-based marinade.

The participants then have the opportunity to assist in the grilling process, learning the nuances of achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

This hands-on experience provides a unique insight into the traditional eel-based cuisine of Kyoto.

Eel Grilling and Tasting

After the eels are prepared, participants grill the delicate fillets over a charcoal fire, perfecting the crispy, caramelized exterior and tender, juicy interior.

They then savor the grilled eel, dipping the succulent morsels into a flavorful soy-based sauce that enhances the natural sweetness of the fish.

The rhythmic sizzle of the eel on the grill fills the air, as the group eagerly anticipates their first bite.

Each slice reveals the delicate, buttery texture and rich, umami flavors that make eel a prized delicacy in Japanese cuisine.

This hands-on experience allows participants to fully appreciate the skill and care that goes into preparing this beloved dish.

Ayu Catching and Grilling

The saltwater-sweetfish catching and salt-grilling activity allows visitors to experience the traditional riverside fishing techniques of Kyoto’s Uji region.

Ayu, or sweetfish, are a prized catch in the area, known for their delicate, sweet flavor. Guests will have the chance to try their hand at using traditional long-handled nets to catch the agile ayu as they swim in the shallow waters.

Once caught, the ayu will be expertly cleaned and salt-grilled over a charcoal fire, resulting in a delightfully crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful interior.

This hands-on experience provides a unique glimpse into the culinary heritage of Uji and the time-honored methods of preparing these beloved local fish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Season to Participate in This Experience?

The best season to participate in this eel fishing and cooking experience is during the summer months, as the warm weather and long daylight hours provide ideal conditions for catching and preparing the eels.

Can We Bring Our Own Eel Fishing Equipment?

No, participants cannot bring their own eel fishing equipment. The experience includes all necessary equipment and materials for eel fishing, preparation, and cooking. Guests focus on the hands-on activities and learning from the experts provided.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Accommodations Available?

The activity accommodates various dietary needs. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request. Guests with food allergies or restrictions should notify the provider in advance to ensure appropriate arrangements.

How Difficult Is the Eel Fishing and Catching Process?

The eel fishing and catching process can be moderately challenging, requiring patience and some skill. Participants will learn proper techniques from experienced guides to increase their chances of successfully catching the elusive eels.

Is There an Option to Purchase Additional Eel or Ayu to Take Home?

Yes, the experience allows participants to purchase additional eel or ayu to take home. Guests can buy extra portions of the caught and grilled seafood at the end of the activity.

Recap

Enjoy the rich culinary traditions of Kyoto with an unforgettable eel fishing and cooking experience.

Learn the art of catching live eels, observe the meticulous preparation techniques, and savor the grilled eel with a delectable soy-based sauce.

Explore the parallel experience of catching and salt-grilling the prized ayu sweetfish, offering a unique glimpse into the time-honored practices that define Kyoto’s renowned eel-based cuisine.