Shimonoseki in Yamaguchi Prefecture is often regarded as Japan's fugu (pufferfish) capital, and an annual festival at the Nanfu Tomari Fishing Port celebrates this. There are spot sales on fugu products, a wide variety of other seafood dishes to enjoy, a lottery to win luxury prizes, and the pièce de résistance: a giant fugu nabe (hot pot) which is sold for the bargain price of only 100 yen per serving. If you've ever wanted to give fugu a try, this is your event!
Shimonoseki Fugu Festival 2025
Celebrate all things pufferfish in Japan's fugu capital
Venue:
Shimonoseki Nanfu Tomari Market
When:
Mid Feb 2025
Getting there
The Nanfu Tomari Fishing Port is located around 10 minutes by taxi from Shimonoseki Station, which is served by the Sanyo Main Line. Buses are also available from the station: head to bus stop No. 7, and take the Takenokojima line bus until you reach the Watase stop.
Parking is available at the venue, but it does typically get crowded during the festival date. As a result, public transportation is advised wherever possible.
Shimonoseki is cool. Highly enjoyed my time there!