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Bones turned golden brown — Osaka’s Chihaya River serves up melt-in-your-mouth trout “caught and cooked on the spot”

Published: 2026-09-24 👁 100 views
Last updated 2026-09-24 — Nestled in the mountainside of Osaka’s Kongō region, the pristine and cool waters of the Chihaya River provide an ideal habitat for trout. To promote tourism, the residents of Chihaya Village have built nearly 50 fishing spots along the stream, and set up four distinct angling zones catering to different visitors. Visiting in autumn not only allows you to enjoy fishing amid beautiful scenery but also offers the chance to have freshly caught live fish grilled or fried through their cooking service. The crispy outside and tender inside create a taste so good you’ll want to eat three in one go.

▲ At the “Chihaya River Trout Fishing Spot,” you can catch and cook your fish on-site. The fried trout is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with even the bones fried to a golden hue — the most popular dish among visitors.

Reported and photographed by Yan Yuncen / Osaka

Located in the mountainside of Osaka’s Kongō region, the pristine and cool waters of the Chihaya River provide an ideal habitat for trout. To promote tourism, the residents of Chihaya Village have built nearly 50 fishing spots along the stream, and set up four distinct angling zones catering to different visitors. Visiting in autumn not only allows you to enjoy fishing amid beautiful scenery but also offers the chance to have freshly caught live fish grilled or fried through their cooking service. The crispy outside and tender inside create a taste so good you won’t feel satisfied even after eating three.

The Chihaya River Trout Fishing Spot offers four types of packages. The first is the “Standard Fishing Zone,” which costs 3,600 yen for a full day and 2,800 yen if you go in the afternoon. Visitors can take the fish they catch home to eat. The second zone is the “Measuring Fishing Zone,” ideal for those short on time or who just want to enjoy the food. Catch at least 100 grams within 30 minutes for just 220 yen, and the trout you catch can be prepared by the chefs for an additional fee.

%An ideal option for those who want to experience fishing while enjoying a peaceful setting.

The third option is the “Group Fishing Zone,” located separately from general anglers, further downstream, and is suitable for group tours or small gatherings of friends. The zone has large and small areas: the large zone accommodates up to 30 guests for 38,000 yen, while the small zone is 17,000 yen for up to 10 people. The group fishing zone fee includes fishing rods, bait, nets, and other equipment. Staff will also release about 120 “hungry trout” into the water to ensure everyone catches something.

%A small group fishing zone that accommodates up to 10 people offers a tranquil atmosphere.

The final option is the “LURE FLY Zone,” where visitors can fish in a 30-meter stretch of natural river. Fees are based on entry time: 8:30 AM (4,000 yen), 12 PM (3,200 yen), and 3 PM (2,500 yen). However, fishing here uses “artificial lures,” and any fish caught must be released — they cannot be taken home or eaten.

%The trout here are not easily hooked, but they put up quite a fight. You may need to adjust your tactics.

%Even beginners who know little about fishing can have fun.

Trout bait comes in two types: larvae and salmon eggs. The reporter tried fishing in the group zone and found that just 10 seconds after casting, they could feel the rod twitch slightly. If you don’t reel in quickly, the trout might “steal the bait and run,” leaving only the black hook behind. “Fast, fierce, and accurate” are the three keys to trout fishing. Once you’ve caught a plump trout flopping on the line, simply use tweezers to remove the hook and place it in a net submerged in water until you’re ready to leave.

%The trout display a variety of expressions as they’re caught.

If you’d like to eat your freshly caught live fish, you can bring it back to the log cabin’s first floor to purchase a meal ticket, then head upstairs to the restaurant to choose your cooking method or a set meal, and wait for your freshly cooked fish to arrive. The signature dish here is “fried trout,” with a crispy outside and tender inside that you can hold whole and eat from the back. Since even the bones are golden and crisp, there’s almost no need to spit out bones — you can even crunch down on the tail. Another highlight is “salt-grilled trout,” with thin, crispy skin and tender meat. It’s even more delicious when ordered as part of a set meal.

%Visitors can choose freely between freshly caught fish or regular menu options.

 

%Most visitors opt for freshly caught fish for the unique experience.  

The Chihaya River Fishing Park is nestled in the mountains, offering a serene environment. In the morning, you can see mist lingering over the valley, and in the afternoon, the sunlight filters through the trees. Because the area is surrounded by nature and forests, it offers a peaceful fishing experience. It’s recommended to spend about two hours here to fully enjoy trout fishing.

Chihaya River Fishing Park
Address: 1262-4 Chihaya, Chihayaakasaka Village, Minamikawachi District, Osaka Prefecture 585-0051
Business Hours: 8:30–17:00   Year-round
Admission: Adults & Children — 3,900 yen for a full day, 3,100 yen for half a day
Transportation: Take the Nankai Kōya Line to “Tondabayashi Station,” then board a Nankai bus bound for “Cable Car” and get off at “Trout Fishing Spot.”
Phone: 0721-74-0116

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