Begin your culinary journey in Kawagoe, a charming town just a 30-minute train ride from central Tokyo. Known for its historic streets and traditional eel restaurants, Kawagoe offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s rich food culture.

Meet your friendly English-speaking guide and head to a local restaurant where live eels are cooked right in front of you—a rare experience even for many Japanese people. Watch as a skilled craftsman with over 40 years of experience prepares the eel, sharing unique ways to enjoy this delicacy.

Savor “shirayaki” (grilled eel without sauce), allowing you to appreciate the natural umami of the eel. Grate fresh wasabi yourself, pairing it with several condiments to experience different flavors.

For an additional fee, enjoy a special sake and food pairing, selected by the head of the only sake brewery in Kawagoe, “Kagoyama Shuzo.” This carefully curated pairing enhances the flavors of the eel, making for a memorable dining experience.

The highlight of the tour is enjoying unaju (eel rice bowl) made with a superb sauce passed down for generations and eels grilled by skilled craftsmen. As you dine, learn about the history and culture of eel cuisine from your guide.

After your meal, take a stroll through Kawagoe’s old-fashioned streets, reminiscent of Kyoto or Kamakura, giving you the feeling of having time-traveled back to the Edo period.