Yobuko Squid: Fishing Port Gourmet Where Fresh Squid from Genkai Sea Can Be Enjoyed

Yobuko Squid: Fresh Live Squid Sashimi with Transparent Sweet Flesh

Yobuko, a small fishing port town facing Genkai Sea in Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture, is famous for "live squid sashimi (ikidzukuri)" — raw sashimi from live squid characterized by transparent white flesh and sweetness. It is a premium gourmet food loved by food connoisseurs throughout Japan.

Yobuko Morning Market

Yobuko morning market is one of "Japan's Three Great Morning Markets alongside Katsuura and Wajima." Held every morning from approximately 7:00 to 12:00, fresh seafood, vegetables, pickles, and processed products are lined up. It is a lively market where tourists can also participate.

Squid Live Sashimi

Restaurants in Yobuko feature "squid live sashimi" as a specialty. Squid prepared while still alive is transparent, with the body and legs often served separately — the body as sashimi and the legs as geso (squid tentacle) tempura. The sweetness and texture are exceptional, a taste you won't forget once eaten.

Ika Shumai (Squid Shumai)

Another Yobuko specialty "ika shumai" is shumai (steamed dumpling) using ground squid. Popular as a souvenir, purchasable at Yobuko souvenir shops.

Access

Approximately 30 minutes by bus from JR Karatsu Line "Karatsu Station." Or approximately 20 minutes by car from central Karatsu. Karatsu Castle and Niji no Matsubara can also be combined for tourism.