KAWASAKI, Japan—Visitors to the Tokyo area with an interest in fishing would be well served to visit a unique tackle shop called Tsurisuke Kawasaki, which translates to fishing assistant.
Known among local fishers for its excellent selection of gear and personalized customer service, Tsurisuke Kawasaki promised more than just fishing equipment. It offered an authentic experience steeped in passion and expertise.
My trip to this shop turned out to be far more memorable than I expected, especially after meeting the owners, Eiichi and Kanako Koyanagi, a husband and wife team whose warmth and knowledge made the visit truly special.
The shop itself is settled in a quiet corner of Kawasaki, surrounded by small local businesses and a calm neighborhood. As I approached, the storefront caught my eye immediately. It is neat and inviting, with large windows displaying an array of fishing rods, reels and colorful lures that I haven’t seen in America.
The signage bore the name “Tsurisuke Kawasaki” in elegant, traditional Japanese characters, hinting at the shop’s deep roots in the fishing community.
Upon entering, I was greeted by the owners with a welcoming atmosphere that was filled with the subtle scent of wood and rubber from the gear lining the shelves. The walls are covered with photographs of fishing trips, trophies and even maps pinpointing famous fishing spots in the region.
It was clear that this was not just a retail store, but a hub for fishing enthusiasts who shared a genuine love for the sport.
What truly stood out was meeting the owners, a friendly couple who clearly lived and breathed fishing. Eiichi Koyanagi, the founder, is a seasoned angler with decades of experience, and his wife, Kanako Koyanagi, manages the shop’s day-to-day operations with remarkable warmth and efficiency. They welcomed me with genuine smiles and immediately engaged me in conversation about my fishing interests and journey that started with my fiancé’s joy of fishing with his family.
Eiichi Koyanagi shared stories about how he started the shop 23-years ago, beginning with just a small collection of rods and gradually expanding into the well-stocked, reputable business it is today. His passion for fishing was contagious; he spoke about different types of fish found in nearby rivers and the best seasons and techniques to catch them.
I found myself completely immersed in the discussion, learning new tips about lure selection and casting methods.
Kanako Koyanagi offered insightful advice on the latest tackle technology and helped me choose the right gear suited to my fishing- loving fiancé’s and my fishing styles. She explained the subtle differences between various fishing lines and reels, something I had never given much thought to before. Her expertise made me feel confident in my purchases, knowing I had the best tools for my next fishing trip.
Beyond the gear, what impressed me the most was the couple’s dedication to building a community. They shared how they organize regular fishing events and workshops, encouraging newcomers and veterans alike to share their experiences and grow together. They even offered me to take my fiancé and me on a guided tour if we should return to Japan.
I felt a twinge of sadness leaving the warmth and hospitality of Tsurisuke Kawasaki, but I also felt inspired and equipped to pursue fishing with renewed enthusiasm.
Meeting the owners transformed a simple shopping trip into a meaningful encounter that connected me with a rich tradition of Japanese fishing culture. I look forward to returning, not just for the gear, but to continue learning from and supporting this remarkable local business.