What Are Hiroshima Oysters? — Seafood with Japan's Highest Production
Hiroshima Prefecture is known for having the highest oyster production in Japan.
Oysters grown in the calm waters of the Seto Inland Sea, centered on Hiroshima Bay, are characterized by their plump, springy texture and rich umami.
Oysters are also called the "milk of the sea" because they are highly nutritious, and especially in the winter season they become one of the pleasures of visiting Hiroshima.
In this article we introduce the history of Hiroshima oysters, recommended ways to eat them,
and must-visit renowned restaurants!
Characteristics and History of Hiroshima Oysters
1. Characteristics of Hiroshima Oysters
Hiroshima oysters are small but packed with concentrated flavor, which is a defining characteristic.
Compared to oysters from other regions, they have a firm, satisfying bite,
and you can enjoy their rich taste.
In particular, Hiroshima Bay is a calm, nutrient-rich marine area,
making it an ideal environment for producing high-quality oysters.
2. History of Hiroshima Oysters
Oyster farming in Hiroshima has a history of over 400 years,
and since the Edo period they have been shipped nationwide.
Today, Hiroshima Prefecture accounts for about 60% of Japan's oyster production,
captivating gourmet fans around the world as the oyster capital.
Delicious Ways to Eat Oysters — 5 Classic Dishes
1. Raw Oysters (Enjoy the fresh flavor as is)
The simplest way to fully enjoy the oyster's natural flavor is raw oysters.
Squeezing a little lemon on them brings out the creamy taste even more.
※ Food safety for raw oysters is strictly managed in Japan, but
foreign visitors may feel more comfortable eating them at a specialized fresh-oyster restaurant.
2. Grilled Oysters (A classic with a smoky aroma)
Grilling them over direct flame while still in the shell is the typical way to prepare "grilled oysters."
The oysters steam inside the shell, concentrating their flavor.
It's recommended to enjoy them simply with a little soy sauce or ponzu!
3. Kaki Fry (Crispy outside, juicy inside)
One of the most popular Japanese oyster dishes is kaki fry (deep-fried oysters).
Coating them in batter and frying until crisp brings out the juicy oyster flavor.
They are commonly eaten with tartar sauce or Worcestershire sauce.
4. Kaki Dotenabe (Oyster miso hot pot — a Hiroshima winter specialty)
A must-have dish in Hiroshima winters is the "kaki dotenabe".
It's a hot pot with plenty of oysters in a miso-based soup,
perfect for cold weather.
5. Butter-Grilled Oysters (A delicious Western-style twist)
Oysters simply grilled with butter and garlic are also popular.
The richness of the butter and the oyster's flavor match perfectly, going well with rice or bread!
Where to Eat Oysters in Hiroshima — 3 Recommended Famous Shops
1. Kakiya (Miyajima)
Location: Miyajima Town
Hours: 10:00–18:00
Highlights: Grilled oysters and kaki fry are very popular!
2. Kanawa (Hiroshima City)
Location: Naka-ku, Hiroshima City
Hours: 11:00–21:00
Highlights: A long-established shop where you can enjoy high-quality raw oysters
3. Ueno (Miyajimaguchi)
Location: In front of Miyajimaguchi Station
Hours: 10:00–19:00
Highlights: A famous shop where you can enjoy oysters along with "anago-meshi" (conger eel rice)
Practical Information for Travelers
1. When is the oyster season?
Hiroshima oysters are at their best from November to March!
Especially January and February, when oysters grow largest and their flavor is most concentrated.
2. Go to an oyster festival!
Hiroshima holds the annual "Hiroshima Oyster Festival".
There are oyster events throughout the area — Miyajima, Kure, Hiroshima city, and more —
where you can enjoy grilled oysters, oyster hot pots, and kaki fry at bargain prices!
3. Where to buy oysters as souvenirs?
If you're taking the Shinkansen → Hiroshima Station: ekie Omiyage-kan & Oyster Kitchen Maruichi
If your main sightseeing is Miyajima → Miyajima Shopping Street & Miyajimaguchi "etto"
If you're flying → Hiroshima Airport (Kurasaki, ANA FESTA, etc.)
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
- Hiroshima oysters are Japan's top producers and are known for their rich umami!
- You can enjoy a wide variety of dishes such as grilled oysters, kaki fry, and dotenabe.
- Winter (November–March) is the best season!
- There are many renowned shops in Miyajima and Hiroshima City — be sure to visit when you travel!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are Hiroshima oysters safe?
A: Yes! Hiroshima oysters are farmed under strict quality controls,
so they are safe to eat.
Q: Can I bring oysters home as souvenirs?
A: You can take home frozen oysters or oyster tsukudani (preserved in soy sauce), but
raw oysters are difficult to transport, so be careful.
Q: What Hiroshima foods are good for people who don't like oysters?
A: Local favorites such as anago-meshi (conger eel rice), okonomiyaki, and momiji manju are also popular!
If you visit Hiroshima, be sure to try the local oysters!
