Hamachi and Kanpachi Yellowtail Explained

"Yellowtail" on a sushi menu usually means one of two related amberjacks. Hamachi is rich, buttery and pale; kanpachi is leaner, firmer and cleaner. They look similar but taste noticeably different.

At a glance. Hamachi (ハマチ): Japanese amberjack, rich and fatty, soft texture. Large, wild fish are called buri; winter buri (kanburi) is the most prized. Kanpachi (カンパチ): greater amberjack, leaner, crisp and clean, best in summer to early autumn. Cousin: shima-aji (striped jack).

Hamachi and buri

Hamachi and buri are the same species at different sizes — a classic Japanese "promotion fish" that changes name as it grows. Farmed hamachi is available all year. Wild kanburi in winter is fattier and more intense. It is excellent raw, and also popular seared or as buri daikon (simmered with radish).

Kanpachi

Kanpachi is a different species with a firmer, snappier bite and a cleaner finish. Many chefs prefer it in summer, when hamachi is less fatty.

Shima-aji

Striped jack (shima-aji) is a close relative, prized for sweet, delicate flesh. Itacho's Set F and Set C include striped jack alongside yellowtail. See Itacho menu.

Where to try it in Hong Kong

Yellowtail appears on nearly every chain menu — Sushiro's 4-kind sashimi platter includes it — and at omakase counters. Kerry Hotel's Japanese seafood buffet features Kagoshima hamachi on weekdays until 30 November 2026. sen-ryo's premium platter uses Japanese yellowtail.

Taste them side by side. Order hamachi and kanpachi together: you'll notice the difference in fat and texture immediately.

Pairing: hamachi loves ponzu, yuzu or jalapeño; kanpachi shines with a pinch of salt and citrus.

Names get mixed up. Some menus use "yellowtail" for any amberjack. Ask which fish it is if it matters to you.

Common questions

Is hamachi the same as yellowtail?

Yes — hamachi is Japanese amberjack, often called yellowtail.

Which is fattier?

Hamachi.

Where else can I look?

See our sushi fish guide and seasonal fish calendar.

Compiled by our editorial team from Japanese seafood and sushi references, chain and restaurant menus, and Hong Kong food safety guidance, retrieved September 2026. Seasons vary by region and year. General information only, not medical or dietary advice.