Tokyo is famous for its bustling streets, unique fashion, and late night entertainment, but Hideyasu Suzuki from ATSUKU wants to show you a different side of the city from the deck of a boat on the bay. While many visitors come for the incredible shopping or the high-energy neighborhoods, his Catch to Cuisine program offers a unique way to spend the day by taking you from the morning’s first cast out at sea to an authentic feast. This experience bridges the gap between the thrill of sport fishing and the skill and quality of Japanese cooking, as guests head out on the bay to reel in their own fish before a professional chef transforms the day’s haul into a spectacular meal. It is a fantastic way to enjoy the local waters, share a few laughs, and discover just how delicious Tokyo can be when you are the one bringing home the ingredients.
Ready to trade the city streets for the bay? Join us to learn how you can spend a morning on the water and an afternoon enjoying the freshest sushi in Tokyo.
Hi Suzuki san, could you tell us a bit about your own background as well as your role at ATSUKU?
I have been fascinated by the abundance of the sea for many years, and fishing has truly become my life’s work. Previously, I worked as a consultant in the corporate world. However, through my involvement in tourism-related projects, I realized that Japan still has many hidden charms that have yet to be discovered by the world. This inspired me to share those unique experiences myself. Currently, as the representative of ATSUKU, I serve as both an instructor and an “Activity Provider,” dedicated to sharing the joy of fishing and the rich “Edomae” (Tokyo Bay) food culture with all our guests.
Out on the water with guests – Photo Credit: ATSUKU
Could you also introduce the company, explaining how it got started, and the meaning behind the name ATSUKU?
Tokyo is full of famous sightseeing spots, but it also has many other fascinating layers. I wanted to create more opportunities for international visitors to experience these lesser-known sides of the city. The name “ATSUKU” comes from the Japanese word for “passionately” or “hotly.” It represents our passion to further energize Japan, our commitment to serving guests with heartfelt enthusiasm, and our hope that the experiences we provide will truly move our guests’ hearts and get them “fired up” with excitement.
Having fun while fishing – Photo Credit: ATSUKU
Could you explain the different services you provide, and how do you tailor these for international travelers and first-time fishers?
Our primary services include guided boat fishing packages: one where your catch is prepared at a partner restaurant, another where you experience sushi-making with your catch, and a unique package where we fry the fresh fish into tempura right on the boat. To ensure beginners and international travelers can enjoy themselves with peace of mind, we provide high-quality rental tackle and dedicated instructors who offer personalized lessons, from baiting the hook to reeling in the fish. We also provide insights into Japanese fisheries culture. Furthermore, we offer full support in English, allowing guests to experience Japanese “Omotenashi” (hospitality) without any language barriers.
A family showing off their catch – Photo Credit: ATSUKU
What does the full experience look like for a guest, beginning with the morning pick-up and ending with dinner at the restaurant?
Tokyo Fishing Adventure with Fresh Catch Cuisine: We pick you up at a designated location in the morning and head to the marina. After boarding, we cruise to prime spots in Tokyo Bay for several hours of fishing. After returning to the port in the afternoon, we head to a partner restaurant with your fresh catch. While your dinner is being prepared, you will visit the world’s oldest fishing tackle shop. Afterward, you will enjoy a full-course meal centered around the fish you caught, prepared by a professional chef.
Guests with their catch before its cooked – Photo Credit: ATSUKU
Tokyo Fishing Adventure and Sushi Making with Your Catch: After meeting at Shiomi Station in the morning, we head to a dining space located just a short walk away. From there, you board the boat directly and head into Tokyo Bay. After a few hours of fishing, we return to the dining space to fillet the fish. A professional sushi master will then lead a sushi-making workshop. In addition to your sushi, you can enjoy traditional Tokyo Edomae dishes as side pairings.
Goby Fishing on a Yakatabune Houseboat & Tempura Lunch: We pick you up in the morning and head to the marina to board a traditional “Yakatabune” houseboat. We cruise to a scenic spot in the bay where you can enjoy goby fishing for a few hours. Afterward, you will savor a Japanese meal featuring tempura made from the goby you just caught. You can enjoy these exquisite dishes while taking in the stunning views of metropolitan Tokyo.
Sashimi prepared by a pro chef – Photo Credit: ATSUKU
Tokyo Bay is a lively ecosystem, so what are some of the favorite seasonal fish guests usually reel in, and what are they allowed to keep for the restaurant visit?
We target Japanese Horse Mackerel (Aji) throughout the year as our main catch. Other “lucky guests” include Red Sea Bream and Mackerel in the spring, Sea Bass in the summer, and trophy fish like Flounder and Black Sea Bream from autumn through winter. You might even hook a shark; they can be caught year-round, though we don’t recommend eating them! Generally, any edible fish caught during the trip can be taken to the restaurant. Our professional chefs will transform them into sashimi, sushi, tempura, grilled dishes, or “nitsuke” (simmered fish) using expert techniques.
Tempura from a fresh catch – Photo Credit: ATSUKU
How do you ensure everyone stays safe and comfortable on the water?
Regarding safety, we work closely with boat operators to monitor the latest weather information, prioritizing guest safety above all else in case of inclement weather. We mandate the use of government-approved life jackets for everyone on board. Our boats are meticulously maintained and clean, featuring cabins and restrooms to ensure guests can relax. We specifically select vessels designed for stability to minimize rocking. During fishing, our instructors are assigned to small groups, allowing them to remain constantly attentive and ensure a safe, accident-free environment.
One of the luxury meals – Photo Credit: ATSUKU
Could you share more about the restaurant you partner with and the chefs who turn the morning’s catch into such a high-end dining experience?
We partner with highly experienced Japanese restaurant chefs and sushi masters. They don’t just “slice” the fish; they treat each species with the specific techniques required to turn a fresh catch into a masterpiece. This is a luxurious culinary experience led by professional skills that simply cannot be replicated at home.
A large haul – Photo Credit: ATSUKU
After the experience, what is the main memory or feeling you hope guests carry home with them after a day out on the water with your team?
I want our guests to feel the fundamental joy of “securing your own food and then savoring it.” I hope they experience the uniquely Japanese aspect of fishing, which is at the very root of Japanese cuisine. By fishing against the backdrop of Tokyo’s modern skyscrapers, a truly extraordinary setting, I would be honored if they are moved by the unexpected natural abundance of this great metropolis and the profound depth of Japan’s food culture.
A guest satisfied with their fish – Photo Credit: ATSUKU
Finally, is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?
As a new standard for Tokyo sightseeing, we propose a journey where you don’t just “see,” but “experience and taste.” Whether you are traveling solo, with family, or with friends, ATSUKU is here to support you fully. Let’s feel the breeze of Tokyo Bay together and create an unforgettable dinner that will last a lifetime!
A great day on the bay – Photo Credit: ATSUKU
Thank you so much, Suzuki san, for giving us a look at the passion and hard work that goes into making every trip on the bay a unique and memorable experience in Japan. It is clear that ATSUKU offers much more than a simple boat ride, providing a truly local way to appreciate the flavors and hospitality of Tokyo.
Read more about ATSUKU on:
Website: https://atsuku.com/fishing/en/englishhome/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/shorts/QKkEIPh-1ws?feature=share
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suchan_fishingprovider/
Featured Photo Credit: ATSUKU
