Hello, fellow travelers!

For some reason, I have both black coffee and cocoa in my hands today.
This is Binako, your Sarukuma writer!

Today, I’m excited to introduce you to a hidden gem located in Wakaba, Higashi Ward, Kumamoto City:
Murasato Kamaboko Shop, a traditional Japanese fish cake (kamaboko) specialty store.

The shop is conveniently located inside Kengun Shopping Street, making it perfect to drop by while exploring the local neighborhood ♪

I arrived a bit late in the day, so several items were already sold out, but I still got to enjoy a great selection including satsuma-age (deep-fried fish cakes) and croquettes ♪

Sardine Fry — 150 yen

Aji-Burg (Horse Mackerel Patty) — 330 yen
Croquettes (3 pieces) — 250 yen
The prices are super reasonable, making this a real friend to home cooks and budget-conscious foodies!

Aji-Ten (Horse Mackerel Tempura) — 330 yen
Aji-Ten with Burdock Root — 330 yen

The burdock root version sounds especially fragrant and delicious — a must-try!

Medium Chikuwa (Tube-Shaped Fish Cake) — 140 yen
Small Chikuwa (3 pieces) — 330 yen
On the left side, you’ll spot the famous smoked sardines!

They also have a great selection of Japanese-style side dishes:
Unohana (Seasoned Okara/Tofu Pulp) — 108 to 150 yen
Kinpira Gobo (Braised Burdock Root) — 215 yen
Sunomono (Vinegared Salad) — 108 yen
A wonderful variety of authentic Japanese home-style cooking ^^

The shop staff are warm, friendly, and approachable, which makes ordering a breeze — even if you’re new to Japanese fish cake culture!

Recommended Menu Highlights

The first item I had to try was the Smoked Sardines, which had caught my eye from the moment I walked in.

Priced at just 150 yen.

The smoky aroma is irresistible, and the firm, satisfying texture makes it the perfect snack — especially as a side with drinks (otsumami).

Be warned: the addictive flavor will have you reaching for one piece after another. Absolutely delicious!

I’d happily stock up and snack on these all day long!

Next, I tried the
Unohana — 150 yen

The moist, fluffy okara (tofu pulp) gently embraces the other ingredients, making every bite easy and enjoyable. The pack is generously filled, so one container is more than enough to satisfy.

It has a gentle, comforting flavor — perfect as a side dish for your bento lunch box ♪

You’ll also find traditional items like konnyaku (konjac jelly) and tokoroten (chilled jelly noodles), so there’s something for every taste. Be sure to stop by and explore this wonderful slice of Japanese food culture!

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Frequently Asked Questions

※Information accurate as of the time of writing. Prices and hours may change. Please confirm before visiting.