Station Maizuru Port Toretore Center

Savor the Freshest Catch from Japan’s Sea of Wonders

Maizuru Port Toretore Center is a vibrant roadside station nestled along the scenic shores of Maizuru Bay, where the rhythm of the sea meets the charm of Kyoto’s historic Kansai region. Located at the heart of Kyoto Prefecture’s largest fishing hub and a key international trade port, it serves as both a gateway to the scenic Dan'no and Wakasa regions and a culinary destination unlike any other.

Renowned for its expansive 480-square-foot seafood market, the station features live fish vendors from the Maizuru Fish Market, offering an unmatched selection of freshly caught seafood. Visitors can enjoy on-the-spot grilling, sashimi, or handmade sushi, while exploring specialty shops for local kama-boko, chikuwa, and seasonal produce from the "Aguri" farmers’ market. With convenient access from the Maizuru West Interchange and nearby attractions like the Five Elders Sky Tower and Tadabe Castle Ruins, this roadside station blends authentic local flavor with seamless travel convenience.

Maizuru Port Toretore Center stands out as the only roadside station in Kyoto Prefecture where you can experience the full rhythm of a working fishing port. Home to Japan’s largest sea-facing fish market—480 square meters—this station features four live auctioneers from the Kyoto Prefecture Fisheries Cooperative, offering the freshest catches of Japanese sea bream, snow crab, and local uni, all available for immediate on-site grilling or sashimi. The only place in the region to taste hand-made kama-boko and chikuwa made from locally caught fish, it’s a true seafood lover’s destination.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the fresh seafood counter where the four fish wholesalers from Kyoto Prefecture Fisheries Cooperative Maizuru Fish Market begin their daily setup and offer first-choice fish selections before the midday rush.

• Hidden Gems: Visit the "Agrī" farmers market located within the Maizuru Port Toretore Center to buy seasonal vegetables exclusively grown in northern Kyoto Prefecture, available only on weekdays between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, head to the seafood grill counter between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to enjoy freshly grilled sea urchin and local scallops prepared on-site using fish caught that morning.

• Dining Tip: Order the "Maizuru Kama-boko Special Set" at the dedicated kama-boko and chikuwa specialty shop to get a full tasting of traditional Japanese fish cake products made from locally caught fish, available only until 3:00 PM.

• Local Insight: Use the information desk between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to request the "Tōkai and Wakasa Region Tourist Brochure" — this collection includes detailed maps and walking routes to nearby historical sites like Tadahara Castle Ruins and the Ansho-hime Tomb.

• Photography Tip: For the best views of Maizuru Bay and the surrounding coastline, walk the 5-minute path from the Maizuru Port Toretore Center to the base of the Goro Sky Tower, arriving before 4:00 PM to catch the sunset over the sea without crowds.

• Shopping Strategy: Purchase the "Maizuru Seafood Gift Pack" at the souvenir shop before 5:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, as this limited-edition pack includes seasonal fish snacks and is only restocked on Mondays.

Spring (March–May): Peak season for fresh bamboo shoots and local canola flower picking (late March–April).

Summer (June–August): Best time for fresh sea urchin and summer seafood festivals at the market.

Autumn (September–November): Prime period for crab harvest and local chestnut harvests.

Winter (December–February): Ideal for enjoying hot seafood stews and seasonal kama-boko.