What it is
Located near Kushiro Station, this market is said to have been founded in 1954 by local shopkeepers under the motto "wa shite akinau" — commerce done in harmony. Today it's said to gather around 50 shops selling seafood, produce, and prepared foods, and is sometimes counted among Hokkaido's three major markets alongside Hakodate Morning Market and Sapporo's Nijo Market.
How to shop and eat
Washo Market is said to be one of the birthplaces of katte-don, where you first buy a bowl of plain rice, then walk the seafood stalls choosing sashimi, salmon roe, sea urchin, or other toppings to build your own seafood bowl. Seafood can often be bought by weight or by the piece, and what's in season is said to change through the year.
When to visit
Many shops are open from morning into the afternoon, with hours shifting by season — said to close on Sundays from January to March, and open daily from April to December. If you're after seasonal seafood, visiting earlier in the morning is recommended.
Kushiro is known for its frequent fog, and even summer days can turn chilly, so it's said to help to bring something to layer on. Nearby, Nusamai Bridge crosses the Kushiro River, and a walking route combining the two is sometimes suggested. Souvenir shops and restaurants are also scattered around the market, making it an easy stop between sightseeing spots. From Kushiro Airport, taking a bus into the city center is said to be the common route, so it's worth checking the travel time to the market as well. For katte-don, some stalls are said to let you choose a smaller or regular portion of rice, making it easier to adjust to your appetite.