Hiroshima Oysters: The King of Winter Seafood

For the most up-to-date details, check Japan Travel - Hiroshima Guide before you go.

For current hours, prices, and announcements, start with Dive! Hiroshima.

For a unique experience, visit a temporary oyster hut along the coast. These huts often open in late November and stay busy until March. You can grill your own oysters over an open flame. This interactive dining style is perfect for families or groups of friends. You can learn more about these spots at Dive! Hiroshima.

If you prefer a sit-down meal, try Kaki no Dote-nabe. This is a traditional miso-based oyster hot pot. The thick miso paste lines the rim of the pot. As it melts, it creates a savory broth for the seafood. It is one of the most comforting meals available in the city.

Most oyster dishes are very affordable during the winter months. A plate of grilled oysters usually costs between 1,000 and 1,500 yen. Check out the Hiroshima oyster hut experience guide for specific locations. Always look for shops with high turnover to ensure maximum freshness.

Winter Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki Variations

Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is a year-round favorite but tastes better in winter. Chefs layer cabbage, noodles, and pork on a thin crepe base. Winter versions often include seasonal seafood or extra spicy sauce for warmth. The steam rising from the hot iron griddle is very inviting.

During the 2026 winter season, look for "Kaki-oko" on the menu. This version adds large, juicy oysters to the standard layers. The oysters steam inside the cabbage, releasing incredible flavor. It is a hearty meal that provides plenty of energy for sightseeing.

Visit top-rated winter okonomiyaki shops to see the chefs in action. Watching them flip the heavy layers is part of the fun. Many shops are located in the Okonomimura building near the city center. This building houses dozens of small stalls under one roof.

Prices for a standard okonomiyaki start around 900 yen. Adding premium winter toppings like oysters may increase the price to 1,600 yen. Most shops offer English menus to help international travelers. It is a casual and friendly way to dine like a local.

Bishu Nabe: The Ultimate Sake Hot Pot

Bishu Nabe is a unique sake-based hot pot from the nearby Saijo district. It uses salt, pepper, and premium sake instead of heavy soy sauce. This dish features chicken, pork, and plenty of winter vegetables. It is a fantastic way to experience the local sake culture.

The alcohol evaporates during the cooking process, leaving a rich flavor. This makes the dish suitable for everyone to enjoy. The clear broth highlights the natural sweetness of the seasonal cabbage and leeks. It is considered a very healthy and warming winter meal.

You can find this dish in specialized restaurants near Hiroshima Station. It pairs perfectly with warming winter drinks like hot local sake. A typical serving for two people costs about 4,000 yen. It is a great choice for a cold January evening.

Anago Meshi: Savory Grilled Conger Eel

Conger eel, or anago, is a local delicacy served over warm rice. The eel is grilled with a sweet glaze that caramelizes perfectly. This dish provides a hearty and comforting meal during the chilly 2026 winter season. The texture of the eel is incredibly soft and flaky.

Many restaurants near the Miyajima ferry terminal specialize in this recipe. They use a secret sauce passed down through many generations. The rice is often cooked in eel broth for extra depth. This creates a cohesive flavor that warms you from the inside out.

Most restaurants charge about 2,000 to 3,000 yen for a full meal. This price usually includes soup, pickles, and a large bowl of eel rice. It is a popular lunch option for those visiting the Great Torii Gate. Be sure to arrive early to avoid long winter queues.

Fried Momiji Manju: A Warm Winter Treat

Fried momiji manju is a popular snack and one of the best seasonal winter dishes to eat in Hiroshima city. These maple-leaf-shaped cakes are filled with sweet bean paste or custard. Deep-frying them creates a crispy exterior and a molten, warm center. They are the perfect street food for cold days.

You can find many of these stalls near the historic Hiroshima Castle. The cakes are served on a small wooden stick for easy eating. In 2026, many shops are introducing new flavors like chocolate and cream cheese. They cost only 200 yen each, making them a cheap treat.

Pair your fried cake with a hot cup of Japanese green tea. The bitterness of the tea balances the sweetness of the fried dough. It is a simple pleasure that defines the winter experience in Hiroshima. Look for shops with a long line to find the freshest batches.