Zakoya Kiyomaru

If you are looking for the true gastronomic soul of Izu-Oshima Island, then the establishment called Zakoya Kiyomaru is a must-visit on your itinerary. This popular traditional Japanese restaurant, located in the picturesque village of Oshima-machi, offers every guest a chance to experience the culinary traditions that Japan is famous for.

The restaurant's main specialization is the freshest seafood caught in local waters. Oshima is known for its unique delicacy—bekko fish. This is a white fish marinated in a special sauce with the addition of spicy island pepper, which gives it a unique amber hue and a savory taste. Zakoya Kiyomaru is considered one of the best places to try this dish in its authentic form.

Zakoya Kiyomaru. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The cozy atmosphere and recognition from experts (the restaurant is a Travelers’ Choice winner on Tripadvisor) make it a magnet for foodies. Here you can order the famous Zako set, which includes various types of prepared and marinated fish, or try the Shima-don—a generous portion of tuna and seasonal catch on a bed of rice. This is a place where the simplicity of the interior is compensated by the incredible quality of the products and the skill of the chefs.

For those planning a visit to Zakoya Kiyomaru, it is useful to have the latest contact information on hand. While the establishment does not have its own website, it is active on social media.

The main reason to visit Zakoya Kiyomaru is to sample the unique island flavors. Be sure to order the signature Zako set: it is the perfect way to get acquainted with several types of local fish at once. Pay special attention to the bekko sashimi — marinated pieces of white fish. An interesting fact: on the island, wasabi is traditionally not served with sashimi, replaced by the spiciness of the marinade, which creates a completely different taste experience.

If you prefer more filling dishes, look for the Shima-don or the unusual bekko-don, which is served in a heated stone bowl similar to bibimbap. The crispy rice combined with tender fish is a true gastronomic delight. As a side dish, they often serve ashitaba — a local medicinal plant that grows only in this region.

After your meal, you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Motomachi port, which is within walking distance. The restaurant is perfect for a relaxed lunch between walks to the History Museum or a break at Izumihama Beach. Don't forget to notice the local sauces on the tables—many of them are produced right on the island and highlight the freshness of the catch.

Zakoya Kiyomaru is located in the Motomachi Umanose area. If you arrive on Izu-Oshima Island via the Motomachi port, the walk to the restaurant will take about 15–17 minutes heading north. This is a great opportunity to stretch your legs after the sea voyage and explore the coastal part of the town.

The journey to the island itself usually begins in Tokyo. You can take a high-speed ferry from Takeshiba Port (the trip takes 1.5 to 2 hours) or choose a flight from Haneda Airport, which lasts only about 30 minutes. From Oshima Airport, the Motomachi area is most conveniently reached by taxi or local bus in 10–15 minutes.

For those who prefer maximum precision in navigation, the coordinates of the establishment are: 34.7603324, 139.3592832. The restaurant is located very close to the port area, making it an extremely convenient spot for lunch right after arrival or before the ferry departure.

While Zakoya Kiyomaru is a modern gastronomic project, its concept is deeply rooted in the centuries-old fishing traditions of Izu-Oshima Island. Historically, this region has been famous for its rich catch and special ways of preserving the freshness of seafood in conditions of remoteness from the mainland.

One of the historical features of the local cuisine that the restaurant carefully preserves is the use of white fish varieties and unique marinades. In an era when access to spices was limited, the island's inhabitants learned to use island chili and soy sauce to create spicy dishes that are now considered the hallmark of Oshima-machi.

Interestingly, the cultural background of the establishment is also linked to the general history of the island, known for its Mihara volcano and camellia oil production. In the past, these lands were a site for the extraction of unique natural resources, and today Zakoya Kiyomaru continues this line by promoting the concept of "locavorism"—the use of exclusively local, seasonal ingredients.

A visit to Zakoya Kiyomaru usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. This is plenty of time to leisurely browse the menu, enjoy the food presentation, and appreciate the authentic taste of the island's delicacies.

Since the restaurant is popular with both tourists and locals, it may take a little longer to wait for your order during peak hours (lunchtime). If you are short on time, it is best to arrive right at opening or on weekdays.

The restaurant operates on a split schedule, catering to lunch and dinner times. Doors are typically open from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM for lunch, and on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, the establishment also welcomes guests in the evening from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM. On Sundays, the restaurant is only open during the day.

Please note that Thursday is most often a day off. As the schedule may change depending on the season or holidays, it is recommended to check the current opening hours on the establishment's Instagram account before your visit.

A visit to Zakoya Kiyomaru can be easily combined with exploring the historical and natural monuments of the island. The Motomachi area is rich in small but atmospheric locations that allow you to better understand the region's past and its legends.

A walk through the surroundings will reveal ancient monuments and ruins of ancient settlements that are harmoniously integrated into the modern landscape. Here are some interesting places located nearby: