Hiroshima is one of Japan's most historically significant cities, forever linked to the atomic bombing of August 6, 1945, yet reborn as a vibrant modern metropolis and a global symbol of peace and resilience. The city sits on the delta of the Ota River where six channels meet the Seto Inland Sea, giving it a lush, island-laced setting. Beyond its profound memorial sites, Hiroshima offers excellent cuisine — including the iconic layered Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki — beautiful Seto Inland Sea islands like Miyajima with its floating torii gate, and a warm, welcoming local culture.
Hiroshima's culinary identity is defined by three ingredients: oysters (kaki), Hiroshima-style layered okonomiyaki, and conger sea eel (anago) from Miyajima. The city's position on the Seto Inland Sea also makes fresh seafood of every kind a daily reality. Hiroshima Prefecture produces over 60% of Japan's oysters, and October–April is the prime oyster season when they are fattest and most flavorful.
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
Japanese
Café
Hiroshima Okonomiyaki
Hiroshima Ramen
Italian
Seafood
Specialty Coffee
Tsukemen
Food tours & tastings in Hiroshima
Eat your way through Hiroshima with a guide.
Browse food experiences in HiroshimaWe may earn a commission from bookings made through these links.
Street food
Local flavours at affordable prices.
Momiji Manju
Find it at: Miyajima Omotesando shopping street
Price: ¥80–¥150 ($0.54–$1) each
Grilled Oysters
Find it at: Miyajima street stalls and Otemachi area
Price: ¥500–¥800 ($3.35–$5.40) per oyster
Takoyaki
Find it at: Hatchobori area and Hondori arcade vicinity
Price: ¥400–¥600 ($2.70–$4) per 6 pieces
Kaigara-yaki (shell-grilled seafood)
Find it at: Miyajima Omotesando
Price: ¥600–¥1,200 ($4–$8) per serving
Food markets
Where locals shop and graze.
Nagarekawa Night Food Stalls
The city's evening street-food hub with yakitori, gyoza, and cold beer along the entertainment strip.
Ujina Morning Market
Early-morning fresh seafood market at the port, with direct-catch products and fresh-cooked breakfast bowls.
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
The Okonomimura building on Shintenchi has ~25 identical tiny okonomiyaki stalls — seat yourself at any counter and watch the chef cook in front of you.
Oyster season is October–April. During summer months, most oyster restaurants serve cooked-only preparations; raw oysters are seasonal.
Anago-ya Ueno on Miyajima often sells out by 1PM — go before noon for their anago-meshi bento.
Lunch sets (teishoku) at Japanese restaurants typically offer the best value — many include soup, rice, and a side dish for ¥1,000–¥1,800 ($6.70–$12).
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $5-15/meal | Street food, local eateries, and simple restaurants. |
| Mid-range | $15-40/meal | Sit-down restaurants with good service and varied menus. |
| Upscale | $40+/meal | Fine dining, international cuisine, and premium experiences. |