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Why You Must Try Unagi During Your Trip to Japan

2025/09/18

• Unagi
• JapaneseFood
• JapaneseCuisine
• GrilledEel
• Foodie

During your trip to Japan, trying local foods is one of the highlights. One dish that stands out is unagi, or grilled eel—a delicacy rarely found outside Japan. With its rich, savory flavor, crispy skin, and tender meat, unagi offers a truly unique culinary experience. Dining on authentic unagi is not just a meal; it’s a special Japanese experience you won’t want to miss.

What is Unagi?

Unagi is freshwater eel, usually grilled over charcoal and brushed with a sweet soy-based sauce called kabayaki. It is commonly served over rice in dishes like unadon (eel over a bowl of rice) or unaju (eel in a lacquered box). Another specialty, hitsumabushi, comes from Nagoya and is enjoyed in multiple steps: first as-is, then with condiments, and finally with dashi broth poured over.
In Japan, “unagi” refers specifically to freshwater eel, while in English it is often simply called “eel.” This makes it a fascinating dish to try for international visitors.

Why You Should Try Unagi in Japan

While eel can sometimes be found abroad, Japan offers unparalleled freshness, traditional preparation methods, and specialty restaurants. Many establishments have been perfecting their craft for generations, offering seasonal specialties such as dishes served on Doyo no Ushi no Hi, the Midsummer Day of the Ox.
In 2025, there will be two such days: July 19 (Saturday) and July 31 (Thursday). When there are two in the same summer, the first is called “Ichi no Ushi” and the second “Ni no Ushi.” Experiencing unagi on these special dates allows you to enjoy the cultural and culinary traditions that make this dish truly unique in Japan.

How to Eat Unagi

• Unadon

  

  Simple and satisfying, grilled eel over rice.

• Unaju

  

  A more luxurious presentation in a lacquered box.

• Hitsumabushi

  

  A Nagoya specialty eaten in three stages—first plain, then with toppings, and finally with broth.

Tip for first-timers: Try hitsumabushi to fully enjoy the layers of flavor and the different ways unagi can be enjoyed.

Where to Eat Unagi in Japan

1Sumiyaki Unafuji Tokyo Midtown Yaesu

• A sister restaurant of the famous Nagoya eatery “Sumiyaki Unafuji,” with a 25-year history and multiple Michelin recognitions.
• Features “jiyaki” grilling without steaming, using rare blue unagi for an authentic taste.
• The fragrant sauce and traditional Japanese interior create an unforgettable dining experience. Private tables for 3–6 guests are available, as well as counter seating.

Sumiyaki Unafuji Tokyo Midtown Yaesu – Official Site

2Unagi Mejiro Zorome

• Serves rare Kyosui unagi from Yaizu, Shizuoka—available in only about 30 restaurants nationwide.
• Highlights include Kyosui Unaju and Shirayaki (plain grilled) to fully savor the eel’s flavor.
• Located just 1 minute from Mejiro Station, offering a serene escape from the city with elegant wooden interiors and a sensory-rich counter experience.

Unagi Mejiro Zorome – Official Site

3Shinbashi Unagi no Oyado

• A direct supplier restaurant from Shizuoka, offering high-quality, high-volume eel at great prices.
• Lunch: thick, juicy unagi over rice.
• Dinner: rare eel skewers perfect for pairing with drinks.

Shinbashi Unagi no Oyado – Official Site

Travel tip: From Haneda or Narita Airport, you can go straight to these restaurants. Trains or buses can be tricky with luggage, but with a chauffeur services or chartered bus, a professional driver ensures you arrive on time and stress-free, making the most of your Japan trip.

Tips for Tourists

• Ordering & English support: Many restaurants provide English menus; reservation is recommended, especially on weekends.
• Pricing & portions: Lunch sets are usually more affordable; dinner can be pricier. Portions vary, so check in advance.
• Takeout: Some restaurants allow takeout, but unagi is best enjoyed hot.
• Eating etiquette: Be cautious of small bones; eat promptly while hot for best flavor.

Make Unagi Part of Your Japan Experience

Unagi is more than just a delicious meal—it is a gateway into Japanese culture, history, and tradition. From savoring tender grilled eel to learning about seasonal customs like Doyo no Ushi no Hi, enjoying unagi in Japan will give you an unforgettable travel memory.

Whether you are dining at a renowned restaurant in Tokyo or discovering hidden gems, this experience is truly worth including in your itinerary. And to make the most of your trip, consider using a private car or chartered bus service—perfect for stress-free travel from Haneda or Narita Airport directly to the restaurant. By saving time and avoiding complicated transfers, you can focus on what matters most: enjoying the authentic flavors of Japan.