Shikanoshima Island’s Turban Shell Rice Bowl
I was in the mood for some delicious seafood, so my girlfriend and I drove to Shikanoshima Island and visited the famous Nakaniishi Shokudo.
Introduction to Shikanoshima Island
Shikanoshima is an island located about a 30-minute drive from Fukuoka City. It is connected by land, making it ideal for driving and cycling. Surrounded by nature, the island offers a quiet atmosphere and beautiful scenery.
Shikanoshima Island features wide beaches and the Shikaumi Shrine on its mountainside, offering a stunning view of Fukuoka City’s beautiful cityscape across the sea.
Source：ブルーノ・プラス, CC BY 4.0
Nakanishi Shokudo, famous for its turban shell rice bowl.
Nakanishi Shokudo is famous for its affordable and fresh turban shell dishes. Their specialties include the Turban Shell Rice Bowl and the Akebono Bowl. The Turban Shell Rice Bowl is a luxurious dish with turban shell, shrimp, and seaweed simmered in egg. The Akebono Bowl contains 2.5 times the amount of turban shell compared to the regular bowl. When I visited, the Akebono Bowl was sold out, so I ordered the Turban Shell Rice Bowl and a grilled turban shell instead.
Source：From the official website of TV Nishinippon (TNC).
The Origin of the Name ‘Akebono Don’
The name ‘Akebono Don’ comes from the sumo wrestler Akebono, who was a popular wrestler, rising to the rank of yokozuna. Akebono, originally from Oahu, Hawaii, was a regular customer at Nakanishi Shokudo, where a special large serving of Sazae Don was created for him. With his permission, it was named ‘Akebono Don’ in his honor.
In memory of Akebono Tarō.
Unfortunately, Akebono Tarō passed away at the age of 54 in April 2024.
His passing brought sadness to many fans. Akebono was not only known for his strength during his active years but also for his charming and kind personality, which I believe was a secret to his popularity.
Inside the restaurant, there are many photos and memorabilia of Akebono displayed, allowing visitors to remember him while enjoying their meal.
Cycling in Shikanoshima
Shikanoshima is an island with abundant nature, making it an ideal place for cycling. Near the Nakanishi Shokudo, there is a stylish rental cycle shop called Shikashima Cycle. It’s recommended to drive to Shikanoshima, enjoy a meal at Nakanishi Shokudo, and then rent a bicycle from Shikashima Cycle to explore the island by cycling.
Please enjoy cycling on Shikanoshima with courses that let you appreciate the island’s mountainous nature or leisurely ride along the coast, feeling the pleasant breeze as you immerse yourself in nature.
The location of the Nakanishi Shokudo is?
| Shop name | Nakanishi Shokudo |
| Access | By car: About 30 minutes from Fukuoka City with parking available. By boat: A 3-minute walk from Fukuoka City Ferry “Shikanoshima Ferry Terminal.” |
| Business hours | 11:00～17:00 |
| TEL | 092-603-6546 |
| Closed days | Tuesday (Open on holidays) |
| Dining format | Dine-in → 〇 To go → × Food delivery → × |