[Gourmet Experience Report] Recommended for sightseeing in Kansai! I caught and grilled my own eel and ate it as unaju.

Trapol Editorial Department

The Trapol editoral department introduces fascinating places across Japan, including regions visited by Trapo staff who have traveled to 47 prefectures and 600 cities. We present them in an easy-to-understand manner, focusing on locally popular spots, gourmet food, and unique ways to enjoy these places as experienced by the locals.

Sudden question, but have you ever held an eel with your own hands? Eels are incredibly popular with everyone, from adults to children. You might have eaten them on days like Doyo no Ushi no Hi, but how many of you have actually experienced fishing or grilling them? So, this time, we went on an experience to "catch," "grill," and "eat" eels, truly "receiving life"! If you're looking for a place to go this weekend with your family or as a couple, this is a must-see!

DATE POSTEDMAY 202317

It was a struggle just to get them on the hook! I tried fishing for eel.

The experience is held about a 10-minute walk from JR Rokujizo Station in Kyoto.

Upon arrival, the owner, Shiomi-san, greeted me with a kind smile!

As soon as the experience began, I immediately used a special fishing rod to catch an eel.

However, it's quite difficult to get the needle to catch! The eel slips away with a wriggle, so I struggled for about 30 minutes to get it hooked properly. For comparison, I'm told that skilled people can do it in about 5 minutes.

Next, the caught eel is transferred to the bucket by hand. This also looks easy, but they're so slippery you can't grab them at all! If you don't grip them firmly, they'll slip right out of your hands.

The irresistible aroma of the secret sauce is divine! Truly feel the artisan's skill.

Before grilling the eel, I experienced the process of skewering the caught eel.

I thought it would be as simple as "just threading the eel meat onto skewers" since the shop owner prepared it, but the difficulty was shocking! The eel meat is thick and quite elastic, so it's hard to get the skewers through. Even when I finally managed to get a skewer through, it wouldn't go in straight.

Looking at the owner's demonstration, I was surprised by how skilled they were! I felt the "craftsman's skill" in each step of the experience.

Even so, I was able to enjoy the baking process casually!

The shop owner first taught me how to grill and the best way to do it, and I was able to experience it with their guidance (and their jokes!). When dipping and grilling, I was moved by the "This must be the legendary secret sauce!" The savory, delicious smell made me incredibly hungry.

Freshly caught eel is exceptional! Enjoy the process of food "being born."

The eel is grilled, and finally, time to eat!

It was so delicious, I was speechless. The fluffy texture of the fish, the rich flavor of the sauce, and most importantly, the fact that I was involved in the cooking process myself, made the taste even more special.

Normally, we only encounter food at the moment we "consume" it. However, I was reminded of the process of receiving life and partaking in it. Gratitude for food and gratitude for those who prepared it arose, making it a truly precious experience. Whether you come with family, as a couple, or with friends, you're sure to enjoy it!

In conclusion

The owner, Shiomi-san, is incredibly friendly and teaches you patiently, occasionally throwing in some jokes.

From catching the eel to "grabbing it," "smelling it as it grills," and "savoring the freshly made unadon," it was truly an experience where you could enjoy eel using all five senses.

It's highly recommended because you can also experience the owner's wonderful personality in this warm atmosphere!

Click here for eel fishing plans like this.

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