Kesennuma Shark Cuisine: Food Culture of Japan's Largest Shark Landing Port

Kesennuma's Shark Culture

Kesennuma, Miyagi, is known as Japan's largest shark landing port. While shark fins (fukahire) are synonymous with high-end Chinese cuisine, in Kesennuma they have been developed into more accessible dishes like fukahire ramen.

Signature Food

- Fukahire Ramen: Ramen topped with shark fin — an accessible fukahire experience unique to Kesennuma - Braised Whole Shark Fin: Premium dish with fin braised whole - Shark Sashimi and Simmered Dishes: Fresh shark from the Sanriku sea - Kesennuma Horumon: Grilled meat using local seafood and livestock

Attractions

- Kesennuma Fish Market: Early morning market tours (inquire in advance) - Umi no Ichi: Shopping mall handling Kesennuma seafood and shark fin products - Shark Museum (inside Umi no Ichi): Hands-on facility to learn about sharks

Getting There

- From JR Ofunato Line Kesennuma Station to city center - From Sendai by highway bus: about 2 hours

Tips

"Fukahire Ramen" is an accessible way to enjoy shark fin unique to Kesennuma. The Shark Museum is enjoyable for all ages.