Hiji Shiroshita Karei

At a glance

NameHiji Shiroshita Karei (Shiroshita Karei)
PrefectureOita
RegionKyushu & Okinawa
TypePremium marbled sole caught below Hiji Castle

What is it?

Shiroshita karei is the local name for marbled sole caught in Beppu Bay off Hiji, where spring water wells up from the seabed. Its thick, clean-tasting white flesh is served as sashimi, thin usuzukuri, simmered fish, grilled fish or karaage.

History and local context

The name means flounder below the castle, referring to the shore beneath former Hiji, or Yokoku, Castle. It was prized as a domain gift in the Edo period and remains celebrated during Hiji's May festival.

How to enjoy it

At a specialist restaurant, compare delicate raw slices with cooked preparations that reveal the flesh's sweetness. Raw fish requires expert handling and continuous refrigeration; check bones and seasonal availability.

Availability varies by maker, season, and destination.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Hiji Shiroshita Karei from?

It is associated with Oita, in the Kyushu & Okinawa region of Japan.

What kind of food is Hiji Shiroshita Karei?

This guide classifies it as premium marbled sole caught below hiji castle. See the overview for its defining ingredients and texture.

Can I order Hiji Shiroshita Karei online?

Use the Rakuten Japan search link on this page. Confirm the maker, ingredients, storage requirements, and international shipping before ordering.

Order from Japan

Search Rakuten Japan using the original Japanese food name. Search results and product pages may be available only in Japanese.

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