Discover the Fresh Taste of the Seto Inland Sea
Shiosai Market Hofu is a vibrant roadside station located in the historic port city of Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, where the rhythm of the sea meets the warmth of local hospitality. Nestled along the coast, this modern market celebrates the region’s rich fishing heritage, offering visitors a curated selection of fresh, seasonal seafood sourced directly from local fishermen. From delicate sea bream to prized sea bass, every catch is displayed with pride, reflecting the commitment to quality, safety, and sustainable practices.
More than a marketplace, Shiosai Market Hofu is a cultural destination featuring hands-on experiences like live fish auctions, touch pools, and seasonal events such as the popular Hofu Fish Festival. Visitors can enjoy freshly prepared seafood dishes, shop for premium local products, or simply relax in the seaside atmosphere. With its welcoming ambiance and authentic coastal charm, this roadside station is a must-visit for anyone seeking the true flavor of Japan’s maritime tradition.
Why Visit
Visit Shiosai Market Hofu to experience the region’s only public fish auction where visitors can participate in live bidding on fresh, daily-caught sea bream and sea bass from the Seto Inland Sea. The market is also home to the only on-site fish cooking school in the area, where guests can learn to prepare traditional local dishes using seasonal catches. For a unique treat, try the exclusive salted horse mackerel ice cream made from locally sourced fish, a flavor you won’t find anywhere else.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh, seasonal seafood and local flavors at Shiosai Market Hofu roadside station.
Hamachi Grill House
はまちグリルハウス
Specialty
Fresh sea bream grilled to perfection
A cozy restaurant specializing in grilled sea bream, offering a relaxed dining atmosphere with a focus on seasonal seafood. The menu highlights the natural flavor of fresh fish, prepared simply to enhance its quality.
Seafood Noodle Bar
海鮮うどん屋
Specialty
Fresh seafood udon with a clear broth
A casual dining spot offering hearty bowls of udon with a clear, flavorful broth made from fresh fish. The atmosphere is welcoming and ideal for a quick, satisfying meal.
Local Fish Market Café
地魚市場カフェ
Specialty
Light meals and snacks with local fish ingredients
A casual café offering light meals and snacks made with fresh, locally sourced fish. The atmosphere is bright and airy, perfect for a relaxed break.
Fresh Fish Food Stall
新鮮魚フードスタンド
Specialty
Quick, on-the-go seafood snacks
A fast-service food stall offering quick, fresh seafood snacks. Ideal for visitors looking for a quick bite while exploring the market.
Shopping Highlights
Discover a variety of local goods and fresh produce at Shiosai Market Hofu roadside station.
Fresh Fish Market
新鮮魚市場
A fresh fish market offering a wide variety of seasonal seafood directly from local fishermen.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh Sea Bream
Seafood Basket
渚のバスケット
A specialty shop offering fresh seafood and fish products, including live fish and prepared dishes.
Products
Must-Try Item
Live Sea Bream
Oyster House
ウミコヤ38
A seasonal oyster shop offering fresh oysters and related seafood products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh Oysters
Local Seafood Souvenir Shop
地魚お土産屋
A shop specializing in locally produced seafood souvenirs and gift items.
Products
Must-Try Item
Seafood Gift Box
Featured Products
Explore signature seafood specialties and regional delicacies at Shiosai Market Hofu roadside station.
Sea Bream Sashimi Pack
はまち刺身パック
Pre-packaged fresh sea bream sashimi, perfect for home consumption
Oyster Gift Box
カキギフトボックス
A premium gift box containing fresh oysters and local seafood snacks
Fish Broth Base
魚出汁ベース
A concentrated fish broth base for making homemade seafood soups
Seafood Seasoning Mix
海鮮スパイスミックス
A blend of traditional Japanese seasonings for enhancing seafood dishes
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities and comfortable spaces at Shiosai Market Hofu roadside station.
Information Center
The roadside station provides information about local seafood, events, and tourism in Hagi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture. It serves as a hub for promoting fresh, seasonal, and safe seafood and fish-related knowledge.
Main entrance area
Parking
Parking facilities are available for visitors arriving by car.
Front of the roadside station
Restroom
Public restrooms are available for visitors.
Inside the facility, near the main entrance
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the premises for visitors.
Throughout the facility
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available for visitors using electric cars.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors to withdraw cash.
Near the entrance
Play Area
A play area is available for children, especially during events such as the Hagi Fish Festival.
Near the touch tank area
Onsen
Hot spring baths are available for visitors to enjoy relaxation.
Adjacent to the facility
Nursing Room
A private nursing room is available for mothers with infants.
Inside the facility, near restrooms
Activities & Experiences
Participate in seasonal events, hands-on workshops, and unique experiences at Shiosai Market Hofu roadside station.
Fish Auction Demonstration
模擬競り
Participants can experience a simulated fish auction, where they can witness the lively bidding process typical of traditional fish markets.
Duration
30 min
Live Fish Shopping
活魚販売
Visitors can purchase fresh, live fish directly from the market, experiencing the authenticity of a traditional seafood market.
Duration
60 min
Touch Pool Experience
タッチングプール
Participants can touch and interact with live sea creatures in a shallow pool, offering a hands-on educational experience.
Duration
45 min
Crab House Opening Season
カキ小屋OPEN
During the crab season, visitors can enjoy fresh oysters and learn about their harvesting process in the seasonal crab house.
Duration
90 min
Best experienced during dry, cool weather
Fishing Boat Ride Experience
はしご車体験
Participants can experience riding on a traditional fishing boat, known as a 'hashiguruma', and learn about its use in local fishing culture.
Duration
60 min
Weather-dependent; best in calm conditions
Police Car Exhibition
パトカーの展示
Visitors can view and learn about police vehicles on display, including interactive information about their use in local law enforcement.
Duration
30 min
Rice Cake Throwing Festival
もちまき
During the annual fish festival, visitors can participate in a traditional rice cake throwing event, a popular cultural activity.
Duration
60 min
Outdoor event; weather-dependent
Local Fish Festival
防府さかな祭り2025
An annual festival celebrating local seafood with events including fish auctions, live fish sales, touch pools, and cultural demonstrations.
Duration
180 min
Outdoor activities; check weather conditions before attending
Insider Tips
Find local insights and practical advice to make the most of your visit to Shiosai Market Hofu roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit on weekdays between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to catch the daily fresh catch delivery at the fresh fish counter, where the day’s catch is displayed and sold within hours of being landed
- Hidden Gems: Stop by the "Umikoya 38" oyster shack on the second floor during November and December to try freshly shucked oysters from local beds, available only during the peak season
- Weekend Special: On the last Sunday of each month, visit the "Hamō no Mise" (Black Porgy Shop) between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to sample free grilled black porgy (hamo) skewers during the seasonal promotion
- Best Value Purchase: Buy the "Seasonal Fish Combo Box" from the 1st floor fish counter on Fridays, as it includes three different monthly catch fish at a discounted price only available that day
- Off-Peak Access: Visit the ice sales stand near the entrance between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM on weekdays to purchase large blocks of ice at a 20% discount, available only during this window
- Exclusive Experience: Attend the monthly "Fish Talk" session at 2:00 PM on the second floor, where local fishermen explain how to prepare the current month’s featured fish, such as mackerel or sea bream
- Special Event Tip: On the day of the "Hagi Sakanamatsuri 2025" festival (November 30), arrive by 10:00 AM to participate in the live auction of fresh fish and claim one of the limited "mochi distribution" tickets offered at the entrance
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available April to May; peak season for early catch fish like sea bream.
Summer (June-August): Peak sea bream and horse mackerel season; summer seafood festivals feature live fish auctions.
Autumn (September-November): Oyster season begins in October; annual Fish Festival held on November 30.
Winter (December-February): Best time for sea bream and horse mackerel; ice sales and seasonal seafood dishes available.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a touch tank and seasonal events like the fish festival with hands-on activities. Child-friendly food options available. Well-maintained, stroller-accessible layout with clear signage and restrooms. Educational fish displays enhance the experience for families.
Food Lover Review
Features a wide range of fresh seafood, seasonal fish, and local specialties like hamo dishes. High-quality produce and daily fish auctions ensure freshness. Offers unique regional cuisine and artisanal food items, creating a rich culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides clean restrooms and vending machines. Parking is available but not designated for overnight stays. Quiet during off-hours but lacks dedicated camping facilities. Not clearly marked for car camping use.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located near the sea with views of the harbor and surrounding natural landscape. Offers scenic viewpoints and photo opportunities, especially during seasonal events. Seasonal beauty enhanced by seafood festivals and coastal scenery.