Shirahama montages

Seeking Local Flavors on a Nanki-Shirahama Night

Nanki-Shirahama is known for its hot springs, beaches, and pandas, but when night falls, the bustle of sightseeing quietly fades and the warm lights of small taverns frequented by locals catch your eye. When you want to encounter "a dish that truly captures the essence of a place" while traveling, Chokyu Sakaba is the spot to remember.

Kinan's Seasonal Bounty, Grilled Over Charcoal

The appeal of Chokyu Sakaba lies above all in the chance to savor the blessings of the Kinan sea and mountains, wrapped in the fragrant aroma of charcoal. Sitting at the counter, listening to the crackle of the charcoal as you wait for that day's local catch to finish grilling, is a moment that gently unwinds the fatigue of travel.

Local Seafood and Seasonal Dishes

Fish landed from the Kumano Sea and Kii Channel change their character with each season. Enjoy them as sashimi, or lightly seared over charcoal to draw out their umami. Seasonal ingredients prepared by local chefs to suit the day's condition — this is the true delight of a tavern in a traveler's destination.

A Kinan Specialty: Moray Eel Dishes

In the Kinan region of southern Wakayama, there is a long-standing culture of eating moray eel (utsubo). Despite its intimidating appearance, the gelatinous skin and rich flesh are exquisite. Chokyu Sakaba serves moray eel dishes as well, so first-timers should definitely give it a try. A plate that connects you to the local food culture will remain in your travel memories.

A Tavern Befitting a Traveler's Evening

The glamorous restaurants in tourist areas are lovely, but time spent raising a glass at a tavern rooted in the local community, gazing at the same scenery as the locals, is truly special. For those who want to venture a little further and connect with local flavors during their Nanki-Shirahama evening, Chokyu Sakaba is a perfect choice. It will surely enrich the next day's journey onward to Kumano.

Access and Tips for Your Visit

Conveniently located within easy reach from Nanki-Shirahama Station and the Shirahama Onsen area, it's simple to drop by from your travel base. Since it's a popular spot, it's a good idea to check the opening status in advance. Sitting at the counter and enjoying conversation with the chefs is another highly recommended way to spend your evening.

Image: Shirahama montages / Photo: mti / CC BY 3.0 (via Wikimedia Commons)