What is Tokishirazu?
At Hokkaido Uni Shop, we’re always chasing after the best of Japan’s seasonal ingredients. Just last week, I found myself back in Shiretoko, Rausu, and Utoro, deep in the northeastern corner of Hokkaido.
It’s April, technically spring, but up there the air still bites like winter.
Cold as it was, these are the conditions that make the fish amazing—and that’s what we came to check out: the elusive Tokishirazu (as expected, thet season has not started yet but we found the Sakramasu in frozen pack)
What is Tokishirazu?
Tokishirazu (literally “unaware of the season”) is a type of chum salmon, but don’t confuse it with the regular autumn variety. These salmon are caught in early summer—long before their bodies begin preparing for spawning. That means no eggs, no milt—just pure, fat-rich flesh.
They’re the same species as regular salmon, but the timing makes all the difference. They’re still out in the open ocean, actively feeding, and their bodies haven’t started diverting nutrients for reproduction. The result? Richly marbled meat, especially in the belly (harasu), and flavor that’s on a completely different level.
Why We’re Obsessed with Tokishirazu
- The Fat – Tokishirazu has nearly three times the fat of autumn salmon, but not the heavy kind. It’s clean, oceanic, and elegant. You’ll notice it the second it hits the grill—or your tongue.
- The Taste & Texture – Grilled, it crisps up on the outside while staying juicy inside. As sashimi, it’s tender, sweet, and buttery-soft.
- It’s Wild, Always – No farms here. These salmon come from the cold waters off Russia’s Amur River, passing by Hokkaido’s coast on their natural migration. That purity shows in every bite.
- It’s Rare – In places like Rausu, you only catch Tokishirazu if you're lucky enough to be there when they pass by. This makes it a kind of quiet treasure—one even many locals never get to try.
How We Recommend Enjoying It
- Salt-Grilled (Shioyaki) – Just a touch of salt and time on the grill. Simple and perfect.
- Sashimi or Sushi – Let that fat speak for itself. It’s all you need.
- Harasu Don – A bowl of rice topped with the fatty belly. You’ll wonder why you haven’t had this before.
Now Available—But Only in Very Limited Quantity
So now this is our very first time offering Tokishirazu, and it’s not something you’ll see again soon. Even in Japan, this fish is rare, but thanks to our connections with the processors and fishermen in Rausu, we managed to bring a small batch for our overseas customers.
If you’ve been looking for something truly seasonal, wild, and uniquely Hokkaido—this is it.
Have questions? Just email us at hokkaidounishop@gmail.com.
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