Hamada Akaten

Akaten is a soul food of Hamada made by kneading chili pepper into fish paste, coating it in breadcrumbs, and frying it. The crisp surface, the chewy texture, and the lingering touch of heat make it hard to stop eating. Born in the port town of Hamada on the Sea of Japan, it is now known nationwide as a signature treat of Shimane.

Highlights

Akaten is made at long established fish cake shops, some founded in the Meiji era, and it is delicious eaten straight from the package or lightly toasted. Its hallmark is the reddish flecks of chili worked into the paste, which gives the food its name. It works as a side dish with rice, of course, but also as a snack with beer or a between meal bite. After being featured on television, it gained recognition across the whole country.

Enjoying the Seasons

Akaten is a well keeping fish product that can be enjoyed in any season. On hot days pair it with a cold beer, and on cold days toast it lightly and bite into it piping hot. Together with the fresh seafood of Hamada, it lets you fully taste the food culture of this port town.

Access and Basic Information

Akaten can be bought at fish cake shops and souvenir stores in Hamada, as well as at the local product counters around Hamada Station. The city center is within walking distance of JR Hamada Station. Visiting a long established maker direct shop lets you taste the special flavor of a freshly fried piece.

A Quick Tip

Lightly toasting akaten in a toaster oven or pan brings out its fragrance and heat. As a souvenir the long keeping packaged version is handy, and sharing the taste of Hamada with family back home makes for a pleasant moment.