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MUST TRY! Spring Delicacies in Kanazawa: Discover the Charm of Firefly Squid


Kanazawa Geisha (Geisha) Experience
　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　

When spring arrives in Kanazawa, so does a wave of fresh, seasonal seafood. Among the most anticipated spring delicacies is the firefly squid, or hotaru ika—a small, glowing squid that lights up the waters of Toyama Bay and the menus of local restaurants.


Whether you’re a food lover or a curious traveler, tasting firefly squid in Kanazawa is a uniquely Japanese experience you shouldn’t miss.


■ Table of Contents

  • What Is Firefly Squid?

  • The Firefly Squid Season and Toyama Bay

  • Enjoying Firefly Squid in Kanazawa

  • Popular Ways to Eat Firefly Squid

  • Where to Try Firefly Squid in Kanazawa

  • A Few Tips for First-Time Tasting

  • Final Thoughts: A Spring Experience to Remember





　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　
　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　

■ What Is Firefly Squid?


Firefly squid are tiny cephalopods, about 7 cm long, known for their bioluminescence. When seen in the dark waters of Toyama Bay, especially during spawning season in spring, their bodies glow a magical blue, creating one of nature’s most stunning light shows.


But these fascinating creatures aren’t just beautiful—they’re delicious too. In spring, they become a beloved spring delicacy in Kanazawa and neighboring coastal towns.



　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　
　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　

■ The Firefly Squid Season and Toyama Bay


Located just an hour from Kanazawa, Toyama Bay is one of Japan’s richest fishing grounds, and it’s especially famous for firefly squid fishing.


In the small fishing town of Namerikawa, boats set out at night from March to May to catch firefly squid using traditional fixed nets. If you’re lucky, you can even witness this mystical scene—where the sea glows with the light of thousands of squid. Namerikawa also has a museum dedicated to the firefly squid, offering light shows and fishing tours for visitors.


Hotaruika Fishing Tour in Namerikawa: https://visit-toyama-japan.com/en/places-to-go/50004



　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　
　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　

■ Enjoying Firefly Squid in Kanazawa


You don’t need to go all the way to Toyama to enjoy firefly squid. In Kanazawa, the best place to experience this seasonal treat is at the Omicho Market—a lively food market known as “Kanazawa’s kitchen.” Here, you’ll find a variety of seafood vendors and restaurants serving firefly squid in many different ways.



　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　
　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　

■ Popular Ways to Eat Firefly Squid


Firefly squid is both flavorful and versatile. Here are some common and tasty preparations:


• Boiled with Vinegared Miso (Sumiso-ae)

This is one of the most popular ways to eat firefly squid. The squid is lightly boiled and served with a sweet and tangy miso-vinegar sauce that brings out its natural sweetness.


• Sashimi

Ultra-fresh squid is sometimes served raw as sashimi. The taste is rich and creamy, but it must be properly prepared to remove any parasites.


• Tempura

Deep-frying firefly squid creates a crispy outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. It’s a fun and delicious option for those trying it for the first time




■ Where to Try Firefly Squid in Kanazawa


Several local restaurants and izakaya in Kanazawa serve firefly squid during the spring season. Some recommendations:


• Omicho Market Restaurants – Many of the eateries inside the market offer seasonal specials featuring hotaru ika. Just walk through the market and follow your nose!


• Izakaya Itaru – A well-known spot among locals, this traditional pub offers seasonal seafood dishes including firefly squid sashimi and grilled versions.


• Kanazawa Oden Spots – Some oden restaurants even include firefly squid in their simmered offerings during spring.



■ A Few Tips for First-Time Tasting


If you’re trying hotaru ika for the first time:


• Be sure to enjoy it during March to May, its peak season.

• Choose restaurants or markets that clearly mark their squid as fresh and properly prepared.

• If you’re not comfortable with raw seafood, try the boiled or tempura versions first—they’re equally delicious!


■ Final Thoughts: A Spring Experience to Remember


Kanazawa in spring is full of seasonal beauty—from blooming cherry blossoms to limited-time seafood delicacies. Tasting firefly squid is more than a meal—it’s a way to connect with the traditions, flavors, and rhythms of coastal Japan.

So, if you’re planning to visit Kanazawa between March and May, make sure to head to Omicho Market, ask about hotaru ika, and take your taste buds on a journey through one of Japan’s most unique spring delights.


Firefly squid: a bite of spring, a spark of magic.


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