A Must-Try on Your Japan Trip: Unforgettable Unajū at Unagi no Naruse
Planning a trip to Japan? Here’s something you won’t want to miss!
Of course, sightseeing in Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka and enjoying all the shopping is great fun—but let’s be honest, the real joy of traveling is the food. Among all the incredible dishes Japan has to offer, there’s one you simply must try at least once: unajū, a traditional grilled eel rice box.
In this feature, we’ll introduce Unagi no Naruse, a restaurant where you can truly experience the essence of Japanese cuisine. It’s loved by both locals and travelers alike for offering top-quality eel dishes at surprisingly reasonable prices.
Do you know about Japan’s unique “unagi culture”?
For Japanese people, eating unagi isn’t just a meal—it’s almost a seasonal ritual.
Especially in summer, during Doyō no Ushi no Hi (the “Day of the Ox”), there’s a long-standing tradition of eating eel to restore energy and beat the heat. Unagi has come to symbolize stamina and vitality in Japan.
The magic of unajū lies in the perfect harmony between the fluffy, tender grilled eel and the rich, sweet-savory sauce that coats it.
When that glossy sauce seeps into the warm rice and you take the first bite, you can’t help but think, “This is the true taste of Japan.”
Unagi no Naruse: Premium Flavor at a Surprisingly Affordable Price
If you’ve ever wanted to try unajū during your trip to Japan but hesitated because of the price, you’re not alone.
But at Unagi no Naruse, there’s no need to worry.
With the concept of “making delicious eel accessible to everyone,” the restaurant serves fresh, high-quality unagi at prices that will truly surprise you.
First-time visitors often can’t believe how affordable such authentic flavor can be.
Menu Highlights
Unajū (Grilled Eel over Rice)
A classic favorite: tender, fragrant grilled eel served over warm rice. The rich, sweet-savory sauce perfectly complements the smoky flavor of the eel.
Kabayaki (Grilled Eel Fillet)
Expertly grilled eel served on its own, allowing you to fully savor its natural flavor. Simple yet luxurious—an excellent choice to enjoy with a glass of sake!
★ Premium dishes feature Japanese domestic eel for an extra-special experience.
★ All unajū menu options come with the same portion of rice.
Staff Tips: How to Enjoy Your Unajū Even More
Your unajū comes with condiments like sanshō pepper, green onions, and wasabi—but the staff recommends starting with the eel as it is.
First, savor the pure flavor of the grilled eel, then add a touch of wasabi or green onion to discover a deeper, more refined taste.
See It for Yourself: Watch “Unagi no Naruse” in Action!
Some things can’t be captured by words alone—so why not experience it through video?
Watch the introduction clip showcasing the restaurant’s inviting atmosphere and mouthwatering unajū, and you’ll definitely find yourself thinking, “I have to try this!”
▶Unagi no Naruse Introduction Video
Payke Staff Tried It Out!
Our editorial team visited Unagi no Naruse to see what all the buzz is about—and here’s what we experienced!
The moment we stepped in, we were greeted warmly by the staff in a calm, welcoming atmosphere that instantly made us feel at ease.
The Staff’s Top Pick, the “Jō no Matsu” set.
It’s especially popular among both businesspeople and travelers for its perfect balance of volume, flavor, and price—a dish that leaves you completely satisfied.
And so, we decided to tried it…
The rich flavor and savory aroma filled our mouths, and we couldn’t help but think, “This is the taste of Japan.” The outside was perfectly crisp and fragrant, while the inside remained soft and fluffy.
The eel’s gentle fattiness and the slightly sweet—but never heavy—sauce paired beautifully with the rice. (Even the small bones were tender enough to eat without worry!)
You can also enjoy Unagi no Naruse through their convenient takeout option.
You can savor the taste of Unagi no Naruse at home, at work, or even in your hotel room. When we tried the takeout ourselves, the packaging was clean, tidy, and carefully prepared—beautifully presented and just as delicious as dining in.
The containers are microwave-safe too, so you can reheat and enjoy your meal anytime without losing flavor. Every detail reflects their thoughtful commitment to letting customers enjoy great unagi anywhere.
※ Please note: takeout orders do not include green onions.
What Makes “Unagi no Naruse” Special?
Unagi no Naruse has expanded across Japan and even overseas to places like Korea, Hong Kong, and Taiwan—earning recognition as the world’s largest unagi restaurant brand. Its biggest strength lies in its consistency: thanks to a unique operation system and advanced grilling techniques, every location serves the same authentic flavor without compromise.
Another highlight is its incredible speed—your meal is typically served within 10 minutes of ordering. During lunchtime, the restaurant buzzes with office workers and families who love being able to enjoy authentic unajū even on a busy schedule.
Five Reasons to Love “Unagi no Naruse”
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Enjoy premium unagi without worrying about the price.
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Fast service—perfect for those on a busy schedule.
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Consistent, authentic flavor at every location nationwide.
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A special house-made sauce that appeals to both kids and adults.
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Seasonal limited-time menus that bring something new with every visit.
Save Even More with a Payke Coupon!
Smart shopping is one of the best parts of traveling, right?
And here’s the good news—you can only get this special deal through Payke!
Use the Payke app to enjoy an exclusive discount when dining at Unagi no Naruse.
【Coupon Details】
・Get ¥200 off each unajū order.
【How to Use】
・Payke users, please show this coupon image at the register before payment.
(Coupons shown after checkout cannot be accepted.)
・Valid for both dine-in and takeout orders.
【Discount Terms】
・The discount applies to the coupon holder (one person) or to all members of the same group.
・Each person can receive a discount for one unajū only; discounts cannot exceed the actual number of dishes ordered.
・This special offer is valid only at the five designated stores listed below.
※ Please do not use screenshots of the coupon.
【Coupon Expiration Date】
〜31st December 2025
Coupon Store Information
This special coupon can only be used at the five locations introduced in this article.
Please note that it cannot be used at other branches.
When visiting any of the stores below during your trip to Japan, be sure to show your coupon and enjoy a special discount!
📍Hokkaido | Sapporo Chuo Branch
〒064-0809 Hokkaido, Sapporo-shi, Chuo-ku, Minami 9-jo Nishi 3-1-17 B1F
Conveniently located within walking distance south of Susukino, Sapporo’s lively entertainment district.
📍Tokyo | Roppongi Branch
〒106-0032 Tokyo, Minato-ku, Roppongi 5-16-52, Imperial Roppongi Building No. 2 B1
Easily accessible, just a short walk from Roppongi Station on the subway.
📍Kyoto | Arashiyama Branch
〒616-8381 Kyoto, Ukyo-ku, Saga Tenryuji Ryumoncho 20
Perfectly located for a relaxing meal in between sightseeing spots around Arashiyama.
📍Osaka | Abeno Branch
〒545-0052 Osaka, Abeno-ku, Abenosuji 4-2-17
Conveniently situated in the heart of Osaka’s shopping and sightseeing area.
📍Fukuoka | Watanabe-dori Branch
〒810-0004 Fukuoka-shi, Chuo-ku, Watanabe-dori 3-1-16, Abitare Excella 1F
Located right in the city center, offering excellent access.
Tip:
Before your visit, try searching “Unagi no Naruse” on Google Maps to easily check opening hours and directions.
Make Your Japan Trip Even More Memorable with ‘Unagi no Naruse’
Experiencing Japan’s unique food culture is one of the best ways to make your trip truly unforgettable. Guided by the idea that “everyone should be able to enjoy authentic unagi with ease,” Unagi no Naruse serves each dish with care, combining genuine hospitality with meticulous preparation.
With its perfect balance of flavor, atmosphere, and price, Unagi no Naruse is a must-visit gourmet destination for any Japan traveler.
Don’t forget to use your Payke coupon and enjoy an unforgettable unajū at a special price.