Overview
Restaurant Overview and Charm - Discover the Allure of Hajime
Hajime is a notable unagi (eel) restaurant nestled near Lake Hamana in Hamamatsu. Since its opening on May 17, 2016, this establishment has garnered a reputation for its exceptional quality, earning a place among the "100 Famous Eel Restaurants" in 2024. The restaurant is owned and operated by Chef Hiroaki Kamo, who honed his skills with a local eel wholesaler before establishing this intimate eatery. With 23 seats, including counter, table, and tatami seating options, Hajime offers a cozy atmosphere where diners can witness the art of unagi preparation through its glass-enclosed kitchen.
Culinary Appeal and Recommended Menu - Experience Flavors Rooted in Tradition
The culinary appeal of Hajime is highlighted by its focus on traditional Kanto-style grilling methods, renowned for enhancing the natural flavors of the eel. Among its most celebrated dishes are the unaju (eel over rice) and unadon (eel rice bowl), featuring a generous serving of filleted eel grilled to perfection. The restaurant's signature unagi is distinguished by its crispy skin while remaining tender and juicy inside, resulting from the careful charcoal grilling process. Complementing the meal are house-made dipping sauces that bring out the eel's rich taste, as well as a selection of finely crafted side dishes, including pickles and liver soup, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Cuisine Genres - Traditional Eel Dishes That Emphasize Quality
Hajime specializes in Japanese cuisine, particularly focusing on unagi, which is celebrated for its texture and flavor. Using only fresh, high-quality eel sourced locally, the restaurant showcases preparations that honor the ingredient's natural qualities. Guests can expect both unagi dishes served over rice and grilled variations, allowing for diverse tasting experiences that respect culinary tradition while offering a unique local twist.
Reviews
"On our last day in Shizuoka, we enjoyed an amazing unagi meal with charcoal-grilled eel that was perfectly cooked. The flavor was delightful and satisfying. A memorable dining experience overall."
"The unagi was impressively large, tender, and flawlessly grilled, offering a fantastic balance of taste and texture. The ambiance made the meal even more enjoyable."
"We visited during the evening and experienced excellent service with delicious, well-cooked unagi. The restaurant's charm and the quality of the meal left a wonderful impression."
"The eel we had was perfectly grilled and paired beautifully with flavorful rice. The atmosphere was relaxed, making it a great place to unwind while enjoying delicious food."
"Dining here was a delight! The charcoal-grilled eel was exquisite, and the overall experience was enhanced by the lovely environment. Highly recommended for anyone who loves unagi."
Opening Hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM
How to Get There
Train / Subway
2.1km (1.31mi) from Maisaka Station
3.2km (2.01mi) from Bentenjima Station
4.5km (2.79mi) from Hamana Port
3.2km (2.01mi) from Bentenjima Station
4.5km (2.79mi) from Hamana Port
Bus stop
817m (0.51mi) from Ubumiasaba Bus Stop - about a 13-minute walk
1.0km (0.64mi) from Ubuminishigasaki Bus Stop
1.0km (0.65mi) from Ubuminishigasaki Bus Stop
1.0km (0.64mi) from Ubuminishigasaki Bus Stop
1.0km (0.65mi) from Ubuminishigasaki Bus Stop
Map
9690 Yūtōchō Ubumi, Chūō-ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 431-0102, Japan
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Things to Do in the Area
Shizuoka - A Gateway to Nature and Scenic Wonders
Shizuoka is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, including the iconic Mount Fuji, lush tea plantations, and beautiful coastlines. This region offers tourists a unique blend of cultural experiences and outdoor activities.
- Shizuoka Sengen Shrine: This historic shrine, dedicated to the deity of Mount Fuji, showcases exquisite traditional architecture and picturesque gardens, making it a serene spot for visitors seeking spiritual solace. The site also hosts vibrant festivals that celebrate local traditions.
- Miho no Matsubara: Famous for its breathtaking views of Mount Fuji framed by a picturesque pine grove, this scenic area offers delightful walking paths and a sense of tranquility. It was even recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its stunning natural beauty.
- Kunozan Toshogu Shrine: Nestled on a hillside, this shrine is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. Visitors can explore its magnificent architecture adorned with intricate carvings and enjoy the surrounding lush forest.
Hamamatsu - A City of Music, Engines, and Innovation
Hamamatsu is a vibrant city known for its rich musical history and innovation in the musical instrument industry, as well as its automotive manufacturing prowess. The city blends modernity with cultural heritage, providing a unique experience for travelers.
- Hamamatsu Castle: This historic castle offers not only a glimpse into Japan's feudal past but also panoramic views of the surrounding city and mountains. The castle grounds are a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in spring.
- Hamamatsu Musical Instrument Museum: A must-visit for music enthusiasts, this museum features a wide array of musical instruments from around the world, along with interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience the sounds firsthand. It's a celebration of Hamamatsu's legacy as a hub for instrument manufacturing.
- Hamanako Garden Park: This expansive park is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic, featuring beautifully manicured gardens and seasonal flowers. It also boasts attractions like a tea house, a greenhouse, and fantastic views of Lake Hamana.