Komagata Dojō: A Traditional “Stamina Dish”

The dojō, or loach, is a freshwater fish often served at meals in the city of Edo (present-day Tokyo) during the Edo period (1603–1868). One such dish was dojō nabe, prepared by cooking several whole fish inside a pot with other ingredients, for a nutritious, energy-boosting meal.

One restaurant specializing in the dish is Komagata Dojō, established back in 1801. This Asakusa restaurant is located in the bustling area near Sensōji, and visitors to that famous temple often drop by for a meal. The delicious dojō nabe has made Komagata Dojō a neighborhood institution. The seventh-generation owner of the restaurant, Watanabe Takashi, explains more about this popular dish:

“Sake is poured over the fish while they are still alive. Once the alcohol takes effect, they are transferred to a sweet miso mixture and gently stewed. When it is done right, even the bones become soft. The recipe we use is largely unchanged from the Edo period. Many of our patrons have been eating here for years and we have a strong connection to the local area, which I think forms part of the appeal of our restaurant. Asakusa is a lively area of Tokyo but at night, it’s actually very quiet. Of course, that changes during the Sanja Matsuri, when Asakusa is lively from morning until late at night.”

The stamina-packed dish dojō nabe from the Edo period perfectly suits Asakusa, with its rich traditions and overflowing energy.

Tatami room on the ground floor
A photo of the restaurant in 1907
The dish “dojō nabe” (¥1,750) comes with a generous portion of spring onions. It is said that a shallow pan was used so the dish could be heated up and served as quickly as possible to the busy residents of Edo.
Watanabe Takashi, the seventh-generation owner of Komagata Dojō, calls “dojō nabe” the “fast food of the Edo period,” and says that “many local peddlers visited the restaurant early in the morning to spend their earnings on a hot meal.”
The “dojō” loach fish are cultivated in quiet subterranean waters of Ōita Prefecture, then delivered to the restaurant alive to ensure freshness for customers.

 

Komagata Dojō

Address: 1-7-12 Komagata, Taitō-ku, Tokyo
Tel: 03-3842-4001
Hours: 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (every day of the year)
Reservations possible for four persons or more
English menu available
Average prices: ¥3,000 for lunch, ¥5,000 for dinner
http://www.dozeu.com/

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