Discover the Delights of Fresh Sea Urchin at Tokyo Station's Ofunato Market
On July 8, 2025, the Ofunato Market unfolds in the bustling atmosphere of Tokyo Station, featuring the renowned fresh sea urchin from Ofunato, Iwate Prefecture. Collaboratively organized by JR East Cross Station and Kakehata Shoten, this initiative aims to not only introduce a beloved regional delicacy but also support the area's recovery following the catastrophic wildfire in February 2025.
Event Details
- - Location: JR Tokyo Station, Marunouchi Underground South Exit, Dōrin no Hiroba
- - Sales Period: July 8 (Tuesday) to July 15 (Tuesday)
- Ofunato Market dates: July 5 (Saturday) to July 15 (Tuesday)
- - Operating Hours: 10 AM to 9 PM
- - Product: Fresh sea urchin (for eating raw)
- - Ingredients: Kitamurasaki sea urchin (locally sourced from Iwate)
- - Net Weight: About 80g per bottle
The beauty of this initiative is not just in the delicious sea urchin itself but also as a testament to the resilience of Ofunato City, which faced significant damage from environmental disasters.
Freshness Guaranteed
Each sea urchin is harvested the day before the market opens, ensuring optimal freshness. However, as supplies are limited, those interested should come early to avoid disappointment. Prices may vary daily due to weather conditions and fishing yields, with the possibility of some days having no inventory, so do check back often.
Kakehata Shoten’s sea urchin is encapsulated in glass bottles reminiscent of classic milk bottles, delivering the authentic taste of freshly caught sea urchin directly to consumers.
Unique Taste Experience
Sea urchins lose their structure shortly after harvesting, making it essential to handle them properly. To maintain quality, Kakehata Shoten uses sterilized seawater from Yoshihama, ensuring a 100% natural product without any additives. This method preserves the sea urchin's natural sweetness and allows for a delightful texture, offering a flavor experience that some have described as unlike any sea urchin they've tried before.
How to Enjoy Fresh Sea Urchin
1.
On its Own: Pour the contents from the bottle into a strainer and allow the excess liquid to drain. Avoid rinsing with tap water. Enjoy it with a hint of remaining seawater in your mouth for a genuine taste of freshly harvested sea urchin.
2.
Luxury Sea Urchin Donburi: Serve the sea urchin generously on top of rice, paired with wasabi soy sauce or crumbled toasted nori for a rich umami experience. Adding perilla leaves can enhance the fresh flavor.
3.
Fisherman’s Style: Combine the drained sea urchin with miso and simmer on low heat, ensuring the juice remains. This traditional method from Yoshihama is a perfect way for those who might be hesitant about the texture of raw sea urchin.
About Kakehata Shoten
Company Name: Kakehata Shoten
Headquarters: 90-1 Mukuno, Ofunato City, Iwate Prefecture
Executive Director: Naoyuki Kakehata
Website: Kakehata
About JR East Cross Station
Company Name: JR East Cross Station
Headquarters: 6th Floor, South Gate Shinjuku Building, 5-33-8 Sendagaya, Shibuya, Tokyo
Established: April 1, 2021
President: Fumihisa Nishino
Capital: 4.1 billion yen (100% subsidiary of JR East)
Website: JR East Cross Station
Join us at Tokyo Station and indulge in the true taste of Ofunato's fresh sea urchin, supporting local recovery while treating yourself to a rare culinary delight!