Tomurakawauoten
A Century-Old River Fish Shop Perfecting the Art of Eel
Taste Japan's finest eel at Tomurakawauoten, an approximately 130-year-old specialty shop in Katori City, Chiba Prefecture.

Discover the perfect eel experience, where over a century of expertise meets uncompromising dedication to quality.
Founded in 1897, Tomurakawauoten has been serving premium Japanese eel for approximately in Katori City, Chiba Prefecture. This long-established river fish specialty shop has built its reputation on shiroyaki (grilled eel without sauce), mastering the technique through generations of craftsmanship. The shop sources only the finest domestic eel from carefully selected producers across Japan, ensuring every piece meets their exacting standards.

What truly sets Tomurakawauoten apart is its remarkable location. When choosing the site for their current shop, the owner faced fierce opposition from family and fellow fish merchants—the land was inconveniently located, far from main roads and commercial districts. However, the owner insisted on this specific plot for one crucial reason: the well water. Despite being over 20 kilometers from the ocean, the shop's well draws water from just 15 meters below ground that naturally contains traces of seawater. This unique water supply fills the shop's five live tanks and four signature "eel towers," creating an environment that eliminates the muddy aroma often associated with river fish.

The result is a clean, refined flavor that wins over even those who typically avoid freshwater fish. Regular customers and first-time visitors alike praise the exceptional taste, a testament to the shop's philosophy of prioritizing quality over profit. The shop serves retail customers and also supplies prestigious department stores and renowned eel restaurants throughout the region, demonstrating their confidence in their expertise as fish selectors.

At the main shop, visitors can enjoy a unique eel-grabbing experience that has become especially popular with guests seeking an interactive connection to their food. This hands-on activity adds another dimension to appreciating the care and tradition behind every eel served. For those seeking authentically exceptional Japanese eel prepared by masters of the craft, Tomurakawauoten represents over a century of dedication to perfection. It's a beloved local institution where tradition, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to quality converge to create truly unforgettable flavors.
Phone number
+81-478-83-0678
Business hours
9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Holiday
Closed on Mondays