Suzuhiro Kamaboko Museum

Fishcake is a modest but almost essential ingredient in Japanese culture, known all the way since the Middle Ages. It can be found in many varieties such as chikuwa, datemaki, naruto, crab sticks, and of course, kamaboko.

Founded in 1865, Suzuhiro is considered an authority in the manufacture of kamaboko and other fishcakes. It has its main factory in the Kazamatsuri neighborhood of Odawara City, as well as a museum dedicated to the history and culture of kamaboko.

Free to enter, the museum welcomes its visitors with unique displays on the development of fishcake, including a replica of medieval kamaboko (which is more similar in appearance to today’s chikuwa) recreated from historical texts, and an exhibit on the science behind this food.

Upstairs, the museum even showcases artistic potential that lies in kamaboko. The company regularly holds competitions in which locals and children create artworks out of kamaboko boards, some impressively inventive.

If you’re willing to delve deeper into the culture, the museum also offers kamaboko-making experience on the first floor (note: reservation required). And, of course, you can buy actual fishcakes at the gift shop and bring them back home if you’d like.