New Muslim-Friendly Branches Open In Hokkaido And Saitama, Including One Just A 5-Minute Walk From Misato Mosque

Finding halal Japanese food while traveling is becoming easier—but finding authentic local dishes beyond ramen remains a challenge.

If you’ve been hoping to try one of Japan’s most beloved comfort foods, there’s good news.

Ginza Itsuki, a halal-certified tempura rice bowl (tendon) specialty restaurant, has expanded with two new branches in 2026. One opened earlier this year in Hokkaido, while the newest location celebrated its grand opening today in Saitama, making its halal tendon available to even more Muslim travelers and residents.

For anyone planning a trip to Hokkaido or staying around Tokyo and Saitama, these are two spots worth saving for your next meal.

Ginza Itsuki Tendon (*image)

A Halal Tempura Restaurant That Continues To Grow

Since opening its first restaurant in Ginza in 2017, Ginza Itsuki has become known for serving generous tempura rice bowls featuring freshly fried seafood, vegetables, and halal chicken.

Unlike many tempura restaurants in Japan, Ginza Itsuki is a halal-certified restaurant, allowing Muslim diners to enjoy one of Japan’s classic dishes with greater peace of mind.

Each bowl is prepared using freshly fried tempura with the restaurant’s signature frying oil blend, creating a light, crispy texture that pairs with their sweet and savory tendon sauce.

 

New In Hokkaido: Mitsui Outlet Park Sapporo-Kitahiroshima

Earlier this year, Ginza Itsuki opened its first Hokkaido branch inside Mitsui Outlet Park Sapporo-Kitahiroshima, making it easier for Muslim travelers exploring Hokkaido to enjoy halal tendon during a shopping trip.

Popular menu items include:

  • Large Shrimp Tendon
  • Premium Conger Eel Tendon
  • Golden Tendon with shrimp, squid, chicken, conger eel, and crab claw
  • Chicken Tempura Tendon

Whether you’re heading to or from New Chitose Airport, the outlet has become a popular stop for both shopping and dining.

The First in Saitama! Just 5 Minutes From Misato Mosque

On July 29, 2026, Ginza Itsuki has officially opened inside LaLaport Shin-Misato in Saitama. For many Muslims living in Japan—or travelers exploring the Greater Tokyo area—this location offers something especially convenient.

The restaurant is only about a 5-minute walk from Misato Mosque, making it easy to enjoy a halal Japanese meal before or after visiting the mosque.

This is one of the few places where you can comfortably combine prayer and an authentic Japanese tendon experience in the same outing.

Crispy Tempura Over Rice

At Ginza Itsuki, the focus is on freshly fried tempura served over steaming rice.

Depending on the bowl you choose, you’ll find combinations of:

  • Large shrimp
  • Conger eel
  • Squid
  • Chicken tempura
  • Fresh seasonal vegetables
  • Soft-boiled egg tempura

Each ingredient is fried just before serving, giving the batter its signature crispness while keeping the inside tender and flavorful.

Why This Is Worth Saving

Many Muslim visitors to Japan hope to experience more than sushi and ramen.

Tempura is one of Japan’s most iconic dishes, yet halal versions are still relatively uncommon.

With new branches now available in both Hokkaido and Saitama, Ginza Itsuki has become an even more practical choice whether you’re:

  • Shopping in Hokkaido
  • Exploring the Tokyo metropolitan area
  • Visiting Misato Mosque
  • Looking to try a classic Japanese dish without leaving your halal dining list

Instead of wondering where to eat after sightseeing or prayer, you’ll already have a dependable option waiting.

One More Place To Add To Your Japan Food List

Sometimes, the best travel memories begin with finding a restaurant you didn’t expect.

Whether you’re planning your first visit to Hokkaido or spending time around Tokyo and Saitama, Ginza Itsuki’s newest locations make it easier than ever to enjoy one of Japan’s classic comfort foods.

The Hokkaido branch brings halal tendon to one of the country’s most popular shopping destinations. The brand-new Saitama branch adds another welcome option just steps from Misato Mosque.

If authentic Japanese tempura has been on your Japan food wishlist, these are two places you’ll want to save before your next trip.

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