Fishing with Mt. Fuji Views and Japanese Home Cooking Experience

Discover Yokohama’s Hidden Gem: Fishing with Mount Fuji Views and Japanese Home Cooking

Imagine standing on a boat, feeling the gentle sea breeze, with Mount Fuji looming in the distance—if the weather cooperates—and catching your own fresh fish. For just over eight hours, this tour offers a wonderful blend of relaxing fishing, hands-on cooking, and authentic Japanese seaside scenery. Led by Naomi, a warm and knowledgeable guide, you’ll start at Kanazawa-Hakkei Station and wind up with a hearty homemade meal based on your catch.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the beginners-friendly approach means no prior fishing skills are needed, making it accessible for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to try something new. Second, the culinary aspect—learning to clean and cook your catch—adds a delicious, hands-on touch that turns a day on the water into a genuine Japanese food experience. The only potential consideration? Since weather can impact visibility of Mount Fuji and fishing success, it’s best to go with flexible expectations and some waterproof gear.

This tour is perfect if you’re after a relaxing, authentic day that combines outdoor activity with local flavors, and if you’re happy to share the boat with others. It’s especially suited for those curious about Japanese fishing, cooking, or simply looking to add a memorable highlight to their Yokohama stay.

Key Points

• Beginner-Friendly: No experience needed; guides are patient and clear.
• Authentic Cooking: Learn to prepare dishes like sashimi, tempura, or grilled fish using your own catch.
• Scenic Views: On clear days, enjoy stunning Mt. Fuji views from the water.
• All-Inclusive Gear: Full fishing equipment, cooking tools, and lunch are provided.
• Group Size: Small group experience with a maximum of three travelers for personalized attention.
• Weather Dependence: Visibility and fishing success depend on weather conditions; flexibility is key.

Exploring the Full Experience: A Detailed Review

Starting Point and Duration

The adventure kicks off early at Kanazawa-Hakkei Station at 6:30 am. This early start is typical of fishing trips, designed to catch the best fish when they’re most active. The tour lasts about 8.5 hours, giving plenty of time to relax, fish, cook, and enjoy your meal without feeling rushed. The small group size—up to three people—means you’ll get lots of personalized guidance, which is great whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small family.

The Journey to the Fishing Lodge

From the station, it’s only a short walk to Arakawaya, a cozy fishing lodge that feels more like visiting a friend’s seaside home than a tourist trap. Naomi, your guide, greets you warmly and will walk you through the plan, making sure everyone feels comfortable. The lodge’s friendly atmosphere sets the tone for a laid-back, enjoyable day.

The Boat and Fishing Experience

Boarding the boat, you’ll feel the fresh sea air and the gentle rocking of the water—an experience that immediately connects you to Japan’s maritime culture. Naomi and the captain will guide you in setting bait and casting your line. Expect to try catching Japanese whiting (shirogisu), a popular local fish; however, depending on the day’s conditions, other species might also be caught.

Many reviews highlight how approachable the guide is. For instance, Natsuki from the reviews shared, “Naomi and the captain guided me how to set the bait by myself,” and emphasized how she enjoyed her first fishing experience. The boat’s safety gear, including life jackets, is provided, and following instructions is straightforward.

Scenic Views and Mount Fuji

On clear days, you might catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji in the distance—an iconic photo opportunity that elevates the experience. However, weather can be unpredictable, and Fuji’s visibility isn’t guaranteed. Still, even without the mountain, the tranquil waters and surrounding scenery make for a peaceful escape from city life.

The Cooking Part: From Catch to Table

After about three hours of fishing, you’ll return to shore, where the real fun begins: learning to clean and cook your catch. Naomi and her team will teach you easy techniques, turning fish into sashimi, tempura, or grilled fillets—dishes that are authentic, simple, and full of flavor.

The menu varies daily, but reviews frequently mention how delicious the fresh fish tastes. Shiori, another happy participant, said, “Naomi taught me how to cook the fish I caught. Since we caught a lot, we cooked a lot and got full.” The meal is served with soft drinks, and you get to enjoy the fruits of your labor, directly connecting your efforts on the boat to the meal on your plate.

The Value and Practical Aspects

At $248.52 per person, this experience offers substantial value. It includes full fishing gear, cooking tools, boat experience, and a home-style Japanese lunch—something you’d pay extra for if booking separately. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the focus on beginner-friendly activities makes it accessible to most travelers.

Additional costs, like the boat fee (around 5,000–7,000 JPY), are payable on the day, and it’s wise to bring seasickness remedies if you’re prone to motion sickness. Rain gear and seasonal clothing are recommended, especially since weather can be unpredictable.

Authenticity and Reviews

The reviews echo a sense of genuine warmth and fun. One traveler remarked, “The weather was nice, and Naomi’s tour plan was very well-organized,” while another said, “The guide was very kind and explained everything clearly.” Another important note from reviews: “The view of Mt. Fuji depends on weather and location,” so don’t bank on perfect mountain vistas, but focus on the overall experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers who love outdoor activities, want to try fishing without prior experience, and enjoy authentic food. It’s ideal for families with children over 16, couples, or solo travelers interested in a laid-back, hands-on day. If you’re looking for a high-adventure, high-end fishing charter, this might not be the right fit—think of it more as a relaxing, educational, and delicious day by the sea.

Final Thoughts: Why This Tour Could Be a Highlight of Your Yokohama Trip

This tour offers a genuine taste of local life—fishing, cooking, and sharing a beautiful seaside setting with others. Naomi’s friendly guidance makes it approachable, even if you’ve never held a fishing rod before. The chance to catch your own fish, then turn it into a meal, is a rare and rewarding experience that sticks with you long after the last bite.

The views of Mount Fuji, while weather-dependent, add a special allure to the day, and the homemade Japanese dishes bring a true sense of place to your table. It’s an opportunity to step outside typical sightseeing and participate in a traditional, hands-on culinary adventure.

Overall, we think this experience is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, authentic, and engaging day—those eager to learn, taste, and enjoy Japan’s coastal charm. It’s a memorable way to connect with the local culture, and the small-group setting ensures a personalized adventure.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 16, as it involves handling live bait and fishing gear. It’s best for older kids, teens, and adults who enjoy outdoor activities.

What if the weather isn’t clear?
Visibility of Mount Fuji depends on weather, so don’t expect a guaranteed mountain view. Fishing success also varies, but Naomi’s team will contact you the day before if conditions look unfavorable, and you can reschedule or receive a full refund.

Do I need to bring my own fishing equipment?
No, all fishing gear including rods, reels, bait, and life jackets are provided. You only need to bring personal items like seasickness remedies, seasonal clothing, and snacks.

How much does the boat fee cost?
The boat fee varies between 5,000 and 7,000 JPY, payable on the day by cash or credit card.

Is this a private experience?
No, it’s a shared boat with other participants, but group size is limited to three travelers for a more personalized experience.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, prepare for wind and splashes with waterproof clothing, and bring sun protection like a hat and sunglasses.

Can I take home the fish I catch?
Eating or cleaning the fish on the boat isn’t allowed, but you’ll learn how to do it after returning to shore, and you can enjoy your catch in the meal prepared for you.

What’s included in the price?
Full fishing gear, boat experience with an English-speaking guide, fish cleaning and cooking instruction, and a lunch of your freshly caught fish with soft drinks.

What if I get seasick?
Seasickness medication is recommended and should be taken beforehand. The boat may rock or be windy—adequate preparation helps make the experience more comfortable.

This fishing and cooking tour in Yokohama offers a slice of authentic Japanese seaside life, wrapped in a friendly, approachable package. Whether you’re a fishing novice or a food lover eager to try fresh, home-style dishes, Naomi’s tour promises a memorable, hands-on day that combines nature, culture, and cuisine in one delightful package.