🗺️ Kushiro Washo Market釧路和商市場

When it comes to the kitchen of Eastern Hokkaido's Kushiro, the first thing to mention is the "Kushiro Washo Market." Established in 1954, it is the oldest market in Kushiro and one of the three major markets in Hokkaido. The market mainly features seafood, along with grocery and fruit shops, gathering about 40 stores in total. From professional buyers to everyday people shopping for dinner ingredients, the market is bustling with crowds eager to purchase fresh ingredients, creating a lively atmosphere. The famous "Katte Don" is a major highlight of the Washo Market. Here, you can select your desired seafood on-site and have it placed over a bowl of rice, creating your own unique seafood donburi. This ordering method is unique to the market, which is rich in fresh seafood ingredients. In spring, you might find salmon; in summer, squid; in autumn, sanma (mackerel pike); and in winter, crabs and cod. The seasonal seafood caught at the fishing port guarantees freshness and deliciousness. The price of the donburi varies depending on the selected ingredients. You can hold a bowl of rice in one hand and lavishly pile on your favorite seafood, indulging in the delightful taste of fresh seafood.

One of the so-called "Three Major Markets of Hokkaido." The "Kattakaisan" (勝手蓋飯), where you can select seafood on-site and have it served over rice, is a local specialty. The rice bowl allows you to sample a variety of fresh seafood in small portions, showcasing the market's rich seafood ingredients. Inside the market, you can also enjoy crab, sashimi, bento, ramen, soft serve ice cream, Italian gelato, and fruits.