Menu
Hiroshima has a deep history that influences its food. Many people know that Hiroshima is famous for its unique style of okonomiyaki, a savory pancake made with layers of ingredients like cabbage, pork, and noodles. However, there is much more!
Street food is a big part of Hiroshima’s food culture. Walking through the streets, you’ll find many food stalls offering a variety of tasty treats. While our Hiroshima Travel Guide contains general tips, here we will help you complete your food plans!
Hiroshima food tours are a fantastic way to enjoy the city’s culinary delights. These tours let you taste a variety of local dishes, from savory okonomiyaki to fresh seafood. Joining the Best Of Hiroshima Food Tour means you get to sample the best food Hiroshima has to offer, guided by experts who know all the best spots. These tours are great for meeting new people, learning about the culture, and of course, trying delicious food. Everyone should participate to experience Hiroshima in a fun and tasty way.
You get to try a wide range of foods without the stress of planning and booking a seat in Hiroshima restaurants. The tour guides take care of everything, so you just need to show up and enjoy. These tours often include hidden gems that tourists might miss on their own. You get insider knowledge and recommendations. Plus, food tours are social events where you can meet fellow travelers and locals, making the experience even more enjoyable.
Everyone should participate in the Best Of Hiroshima Food Tour to truly appreciate the city’s food culture. It’s about understanding the flavors, traditions, and people that make Hiroshima’s food so special. Don’t miss out on the chance to taste the best of Hiroshima – book your tour with Hiroshima food guide today and enjoy a culinary adventure like no other! If you would rather craft your own Hiroshima food tour, here is the list of the most popular dishes.
Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is a popular dish that stands out from its Osaka counterpart due to its unique preparation and ingredients. This version is known for its layered structure, which includes a base of batter, a generous amount of cabbage, and yakisoba noodles. The result is a hearty and flavorful meal that can be topped with various ingredients like Hiroshima oysters or squid.
People from outside of Hiroshima call it Hiroshimayaki, to differentiate it from the Osaka-style okonomiyaki.
The process of making Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki begins with spreading a thin layer of batter on a hot griddle. Unlike the Osaka style, where all ingredients are mixed together before cooking, Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is carefully layered. After the batter is spread, a mound of shredded cabbage is piled on top. The cabbage shrinks as it cooks, creating a deliciously soft and slightly sweet base.
Next, a serving of yakisoba noodles is added. These noodles add a unique texture and help make the dish more filling. Once the noodles are in place, any additional ingredients, such as oysters, squid, pork, or cheese, are added. The choice of toppings allows for a great deal of customization, making each okonomiyaki unique.
A key component of Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is the special sauce that is brushed on top. This sauce is sweet and savory, adding a burst of flavor to each bite. It is often topped with a sprinkle of green onions and a handful of bonito flakes, which dance in the heat from the griddle. The finished dish is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, from the crispy bottom layer to the soft cabbage and chewy noodles.
For those looking to try authentic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, Okonomimura (Okonomiyaki Village) in downtown Hiroshima is the place to go. This area is famous for its concentration of okonomiyaki restaurants, each offering their own take on this beloved dish. The experience of visiting Okonomimura is almost as enjoyable as the food itself. With multiple vendors to choose from, you can sample different versions and find your favorite. If you are not in the area, search for okonomiyaki near me, which will show plenty of options nearby.
Hiroshima is Japan’s top oyster producer, known for offering oysters (called “kaki” in Japanese) in a variety of delicious ways. If you love seafood, you will be thrilled with the options available in this region.
Oysters are farmed in the clean waters of Hiroshima Bay, which provides an ideal environment for them to grow. This area has a long history of oyster farming, and the locals take great care to ensure the highest quality. The result is fresh, flavorful oysters that can be enjoyed in many different styles.
One of the most popular ways to eat oysters in Hiroshima is raw. Freshly shucked oysters are served on the half shell, often with a squeeze of lemon. The taste is briny and rich, offering a true taste of the sea. This simple preparation highlights the freshness and natural flavor of the oysters.
If you prefer cooked oysters, Hiroshima offers that, too. Grilled oysters are a favorite, often served at street stalls or restaurants. The oysters are placed on a grill until they are cooked through, which enhances their natural sweetness. Sometimes they are topped with a bit of soy sauce or other seasonings to add an extra layer of flavor.
Deep-fried oysters, known as “kaki furai,” are another must-try. These oysters are coated in breadcrumbs and fried until golden and crispy. They are usually served with a wedge of lemon and a side of tartar sauce, making for a crunchy, satisfying bite.
Oysters are also a common ingredient in hot pot dishes. These are perfect for colder months, providing warmth and comfort. The oysters are added to a simmering broth along with vegetables, tofu, and other ingredients. The result is a flavorful and hearty meal that showcases the versatility of oysters.
For the best oyster experience, visit Miyajima Island, just a short ferry ride from Hiroshima city. This beautiful island is famous for its oysters and has many restaurants and food stalls where you can try them prepared in various ways. The island itself is a lovely place to explore, with scenic views and cultural sites.
Tsukemen is a popular dish in Hiroshima known for its spicy, flavorful taste. Unlike traditional ramen, tsukemen noodles are served cold, and the dipping sauce is served separately. This allows diners to dip each bite into the rich, spicy sauce, adjusting the flavor to their liking. The dipping sauce is typically made with red pepper, adding a kick that can be adjusted from mild to very spicy, depending on your preference.
The experience of eating tsukemen is unique. You begin by taking a portion of the cold noodles and dipping them into the hot, spicy sauce. This contrast between the cold noodles and the warm, flavorful sauce is part of what makes tsukemen so enjoyable. The sauce often includes a variety of ingredients such as sesame seeds, green onions, and sometimes slices of meat or boiled eggs, adding layers of flavor and texture to each bite.
Hiroshima’s version of tsukemen is particularly well-known for its spicy red pepper sauce. This sauce can range from a gentle warmth to a fiery heat that challenges even the bravest spice lovers. Restaurants often allow you to choose your spice level, so you can start mild and work your way up if you’re new to spicy foods.
If you’re in Hiroshima and want to try tsukemen, there are several specialized shops around Hiroshima Station. These shops focus on creating the best tsukemen experience, often using fresh, local ingredients to ensure high quality.
Momiji Manju is a delightful treat that holds a special place in the hearts of Hiroshima’s residents and visitors. These cakes are shaped like maple leaves, reflecting the natural beauty of the region. They are traditionally filled with sweet red bean paste, offering a perfect balance of flavors that has made them a beloved local dessert.
The origin of Momiji Manju dates back to the early 20th century. The idea was inspired by the beautiful autumn leaves of the Momijidani Valley, a popular spot on Miyajima Island known for its stunning maple trees. The maple leaf shape of the cakes is a tribute to these iconic leaves, making Momiji Manju not only delicious but also a charming souvenir that can remind you of Hiroshima.
While the classic Momiji Manju is filled with red bean paste, there are now many variations to suit different tastes. For those who enjoy a bit of variety, you can find Momiji Manju filled with matcha (green tea) paste, cheese, and chocolate. Each variation offers a unique twist on the traditional treat, making it enjoyable for everyone, whether you prefer traditional flavors or something more modern.
If you’re wondering where to try these delightful cakes, Miyajima Island is one of the best places to start. Numerous shops on the island sell freshly made Momiji Manju, often right in front of you. Watching the skilled artisans craft these cakes is a treat in itself. The aroma of freshly baked cakes fills the air, tempting you to try just one more.
Besides Miyajima, you can also find Momiji Manju at various confectioneries throughout Hiroshima. Many of these shops have been making these cakes for generations, preserving the traditional methods while also embracing new flavors. It’s easy to spot a Momiji Manju shop by the displays of maple leaf-shaped cakes in their windows, often beautifully packaged, making them perfect gifts for friends and family back home.
Hiroshima Ramen is a delicious treat. It’s known for its rich, soy-based broth, which has a deep flavor that keeps you wanting more. The broth is the star of the show, carefully made with a blend of soy sauce and other secret ingredients that give it a unique taste. This soup base is hearty and warm, perfect for any time of the year.
Green onions add a fresh and sharp contrast to the rich broth, making each bite interesting. Chashu, or braised pork, is another key component. The pork is cooked slowly until it becomes tender and flavorful, practically melting in your mouth. Bean sprouts provide a nice crunch, balancing the textures in the bowl.
If you’re looking to try this delicious dish, the best places are the popular ramen shops around downtown Hiroshima. One area you shouldn’t miss is around Hiroshima Station. Here, you’ll find a variety of ramen shops, each offering their own take on this classic dish. The atmosphere in these shops is casual and welcoming, perfect for enjoying a bowl of ramen.
Each shop around Hiroshima Station has its own version of the soy-based broth, some with a slightly sweeter taste, others with a more savory profile. This variety ensures that there’s a perfect bowl of ramen for everyone. When you sit down at one of these shops, you’ll often see the chef working hard behind the counter, preparing each bowl with care.
The green onions, chashu, and bean sprouts aren’t just for taste and texture. They also make the ramen look beautiful. The bright green onions, tender slices of pork, and crunchy bean sprouts create a bowl that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Anago Meshi is a delightful dish from the Hiroshima region, featuring grilled conger eel served over rice. It originates from the nearby Miyajima Island, and it’s popular as Miyajima food you can’t miss.
Conger eel, or “anago” in Japanese, is different from the more common unagi (freshwater eel). Anago has a lighter and milder taste, making it a favorite among those who enjoy seafood but prefer a subtler flavor. The preparation of Anago Meshi is simple yet flavorful. The eel is grilled to perfection, giving it a slightly crispy exterior while remaining tender inside. It is then placed over a bed of steamed rice, which absorbs the savory juices from the eel, creating a harmonious blend of tastes and textures.
The origins of Anago Meshi can be traced back to Miyajima Island, where the local chefs have perfected the art of grilling conger eel, ensuring that each bite is a memorable experience.
When visiting Hiroshima, there are several places where you can try Anago Meshi. The best spots are, of course, on Miyajima Island itself. Many restaurants there specialize in this dish, often serving it with a variety of side dishes and pickles. The freshness of the eel, combined with the skillful preparation by local chefs, makes dining on Miyajima Island a special treat.
In Hiroshima city, you can also find eateries that serve Anago Meshi. These places bring the island’s specialty to the urban setting, allowing more people to enjoy this unique dish. Whether you are on Miyajima Island or in Hiroshima city, you are sure to find a delicious serving of Anago Meshi that will leave a lasting impression.
When you walk through the streets, especially in areas like the Hondori Shopping Arcade and the paths leading to the Peace Memorial Park, you’ll find a wide variety of street food stalls offering mouth-watering snacks.
One of the must-try street foods in Hiroshima is korokke, or croquettes. These are breaded and deep-fried patties filled with ingredients like mashed potatoes, meat, or vegetables. The crispy exterior and soft, flavorful filling make them a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. You can find korokke in many stalls, and each vendor might have their unique twist on this classic snack.
Another iconic street food is takoyaki, which are small, round balls filled with pieces of octopus. They are cooked in a special mold and topped with a variety of sauces and garnishes, such as mayonnaise, takoyaki sauce, and bonito flakes. Watching the vendors skillfully flip the takoyaki in their molds is almost as enjoyable as eating them. The combination of the crispy outside and the soft, savory inside creates a delightful bite.
Grilled skewers, or yakitori, are also a staple of Hiroshima’s street food offerings. These skewers can be made from various types of meat, including chicken, beef, and pork, as well as vegetables. The skewers are grilled over charcoal, giving them a delicious smoky flavor. Some popular choices include chicken thighs, meatballs, and grilled green peppers. These skewers are often brushed with a savory sauce that enhances their flavor even more.
When you’re exploring the Hondori Shopping Arcade, you’ll find that it’s a great place to sample these and many other street foods. The arcade is a covered shopping street, which means you can enjoy the food stalls regardless of the weather. The vendors here are friendly and often offer samples to passersby, making it easy to try a variety of snacks.
It’s very hard to say what is the best food in Hiroshima. Exploring the local food markets, small restaurants, and street vendors gives visitors a full picture of what Hiroshima has to offer.
Don’t just stick to the well-known dishes. Take time to explore the hidden gems. Small street stalls and family-run eateries often serve the most memorable meals. Trying different foods from various vendors can be an exciting way to experience the local flavor.
For those who want a more in-depth food experience, consider joining a street food tour. Best Of Hiroshima Food Tour showcases the best of what the city has to offer. Experienced guides know all the best spots and can introduce you to foods you might miss on your own. It’s a great way to learn more about Hiroshima’s culinary traditions and enjoy some delicious food along the way.
