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Itoigawa Rough Wave Monkfish Fair
Experience the winter's finest catch at the Itoigawa Rough Wave Monkfish Fair. This event celebrates the prized 'Itoigawa Rough Wave Monkfish,' known for its firm, nutritious flesh developed in the deep, rough waters off the coast. Over 20 participating restaurants and hotels offer a diverse range of monkfish dishes, from hearty hot pots and set meals to exquisite full-course experiences. Don't miss the special Itoigawa Rough Wave Monkfish Festival, featuring live cutting demonstrations and large-scale hot pots.
What to Expect
Seasonal 'Itoigawa Rough Wave Monkfish' culinary festival
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$
- Pets: No pets allowed
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Foodies, seafood lovers, cultural explorers
Vibe
Festive, culinary, local
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Special Events & Promotions
- Live monkfish cutting demonstrations
- Large-scale monkfish hot pots
- Monkfish weighing games
- Special monkfish full-course meals
- Monkfish burgers and take-home packs
Tags
Featured Video
Website & Socials
Location
Event Details
Duration
3 months
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Itoigawa City Tourism Association
Food & Drink
Monkfish dishes, local specialties, beverages, and food trucks available at festival venues.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Make reservations in advance, especially for full-course meals and during peak times, as many restaurants require advance booking.
- Check the specific operating hours and reservation policies for each participating restaurant, as they can vary.
- Confirm availability by phone before visiting, as some restaurants may have limited supply or be affected by weather conditions.
- Consider utilizing the free shuttle buses offered on specific festival dates to easily travel between venues.
- Explore the different parts of the monkfish, as each 'seven tools' offers a unique flavor and texture, making for a varied culinary experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Itoigawa Rough Wave Monkfish'?
It refers to large monkfish (over 10kg) caught in the deep waters off Itoigawa, known for their firm, nutritious flesh due to the harsh winter sea conditions.
Are there specific festival dates or locations?
Yes, the main festival is held across three locations: Itoigawa Station area (March 8), Omi (March 15), and Nou (March 22-23), with specific activities at each.
Can I buy monkfish to take home?
Yes, several vendors like Isobe Fish Market and Gyosho no Mise Denbei Suisan offer monkfish packs for sale.
What are the typical dishes served?
Dishes include monkfish hot pot, set meals, full courses featuring various parts like sashimi, tempura, and liver, as well as monkfish burgers.
Is there a cost for the festival activities?
While many restaurant dishes have a price, the festival itself often features free entry to the venue, with specific costs for items like monkfish hot pot soup (e.g., 500 JPY per bowl) and activities.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
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