Suzuhiro Kamaboko Museum

Overview

The Suzuhiro Kamaboko Museum, operated by a kamaboko producer founded in 1865, is an interactive museum dedicated to the art and science of making this traditional Japanese fish cake. Visitors can learn the history and try their hand at crafting their own.

Highlights

• Hands-On Workshop: Make your own kamaboko or chikuwa under expert guidance and eat your creation fresh — booking essential.
• Production Process: Exhibits explaining how fresh fish is processed into the springy, delicate fish cake that has been an Odawara-area specialty for centuries.
• Tasting Shop: A retail area where visitors can sample and purchase dozens of kamaboko varieties, from classic to creative flavors.

History

Suzuhiro was founded in 1865, during the final years of the Edo period. The company has been producing kamaboko for over 160 years and opened the museum to educate visitors about this underappreciated aspect of Japanese culinary culture.

Visitor Tips

• Workshop Booking: Book the hands-on experience online in advance — sessions fill quickly on weekends.
• Location: It is in Kazamatsuri near Odawara, just before entering Hakone proper — a natural first or last stop.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.