Best food in Hiroshima: 2 must‑try spots

The One Japanese Food You Can’t Eat Raw! – Hiroshima Oyster Adventure

Welcome to Hiroshima, Japan—the oyster capital of the world where 2/3 of Japan’s oysters come from its nutrient‑rich bay. In this bite‑size guide we’ll walk you through the best oyster spots in Hiroshima and show you why local chefs turn these shellfish into culinary gold.

Overview: Why Hiroshima Loves Oysters

Hiroshima boasts a mild climate, centuries‑old farming traditions, and massive floating platforms that haul up to 50 000 oysters per day. Two must‑visit places capture the full oyster experience: Shimada Suisan Oyster Farm for raw farm tours, and Shimada Suisan Oyster Hut for an all‑you‑can‑eat buffet straight from the factory.

Best Fish & Seafood in Hiroshima

• Shimadaso Suisan Oyster Farm – walk among thousands of Magaki oysters on floating platforms.
• Shimadaso Suisan Oyster Hut – enjoy fresh, grilled, or raw oysters served directly from the boat’s kitchen.
• Local fish markets – sample other Pacific delights like sea urchin and scallops.

Things to Do in Hiroshima

1. Take a guided oyster tour – learn how Magaki oysters are cultivated from seed to plate.
2. Visit the floating platform – see the engineering that moves 30 000–50 000 oysters daily.
3. Sample the buffet – try grilled, raw, and steamed varieties in one visit.

Where to Eat in Hiroshima

• Shimada Suisan Oyster Hut is a must‑visit for anyone craving the freshest oysters straight from the sea.
• The restaurant’s all‑you‑can‑eat style lets you savor every flavor without breaking the bank.
• Don’t miss the signature grilled Magaki oyster—soft, buttery, and briny.

Pro Tips From the Show

• Arrive early – the farm opens at sunrise, and the freshest oysters are harvested first.
• Ask for a tour guide – local experts like Shimada explain the life cycle and best tasting moments.
• Try the Magaki variety – known for its mild flavor and firm texture, it’s the flagship oyster of Hiroshima.

Hidden Gems Worth Visiting

While the farm and hut dominate the scene, nearby spots offer quieter experiences:

• A small fishing village just outside the bay where you can see traditional nets in use.
• Sunset walks along the coast, perfect for reflecting on your oyster adventure.

Final Thoughts

Hiroshima’s oysters are more than a food; they’re a cultural treasure that showcases Japan’s mastery of marine cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just curious about why these shellfish can’t be eaten raw elsewhere, Hiroshima offers an unforgettable tasting journey.

Ready to dive into the world of Japanese oysters? Book your trip to Hiroshima today and taste why this city is truly the oyster capital of the world.