Tabelog ratingKobuchisawa Izutsuya offers a singular take on unagi (freshwater eel) from its setting in a century-old house with a small garden in the Yamanashi highlands. The restaurant's specialty is 'jukusei' or aged unagi, a process of low-temperature maturation that concentrates the eel's umami. This is then grilled over charcoal, giving it a crisp skin while keeping the flesh fluffy and tender.
The signature dish, praised by many visitors, is the Jukusei Take-meshi, where the eel is presented inside a carved bamboo tube. Reviewers consistently highlight the quality of the grilling, the restrained, not-too-sweet tare sauce, and the excellent local rice. Other popular choices include the Jukusei Kame-shio, a simple white-grilled version seasoned with mountain salt, and the premium Jukusei Jubako box set. The experience is noted as being very welcoming to international visitors, with English menus available.
While the quality is high, the experience comes at a price, and some diners find the portions, particularly the rice, to be modest. A few have also noted that the eel can occasionally lack the rich fattiness they expected. The main consideration for diners is to plan ahead, as reservations are strongly prioritised and the fresh grilling process means a wait of 20–40 minutes is standard.
Reviewers in 2024–2026 reported paying around ¥6,050 for the signature Jukusei Take-meshi Ni-no-u (a combination of grilled and plain eel) and ¥9,130 for the top-tier Jukusei Jubako (Tokujo). The white-grilled Jukusei Kame-shio was around ¥5,500. A typical meal costs between ¥5,000 and ¥6,000 per person, which most feel is fair value for the unique preparation and atmosphere.
- Reservations: Booking is strongly recommended and can be done online or by phone. It is common to pre-order your main dish when booking to reduce waiting time. During busy periods, seating may be limited to 90 minutes.
- Getting There: The restaurant is a 4-minute walk from Kobuchizawa Station (JR Chuo Main Line and Koumi Line).
- Payment: Major credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, Amex, Diners) and PayPay are accepted. Electronic money is not. A service charge is added to the bill.
- Parking: Free parking is available for 15 cars, but be aware that the access road and parking spaces are narrow.
- Families: Children are welcome, and a limited number of high chairs are available if requested in advance.
- Accessibility: The dining area is shoes-off and has steps, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
