Hiroshima
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Souvenir Shops
Sections
1. Types of Souvenirs in Hiroshima
Hiroshima offers a variety of souvenirs that reflect its history, culture, and local specialties. Here are some popular options:
a. Momiji Manju (Maple Leaf-Shaped Cakes)
- Description: A traditional Japanese sweet filled with red bean paste, custard, chocolate, or other flavors. The maple leaf shape is a symbol of Miyajima Island, a famous nearby attraction.
- Price Range: ยฅ500โยฅ1,500 for a box of 6โ12 pieces.
- Where to Buy: Specialty shops in Hiroshima Station, Miyajima Island, and department stores like Sogo or Fukuya.
b. Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki Goods
- Description: Hiroshima is famous for its layered-style okonomiyaki (savory pancake). You can buy okonomiyaki sauce, spatulas, or even DIY kits to recreate the dish at home.
- Price Range: ยฅ500โยฅ2,000.
- Where to Buy: Okonomimura (a building with multiple okonomiyaki restaurants) and souvenir shops in Hiroshima Station.
c. Hiroshima Carp Merchandise
- Description: Hiroshimaโs beloved baseball team, the Hiroshima Toyo Carp, has a wide range of merchandise, including jerseys, caps, towels, and keychains.
- Price Range: ยฅ1,000โยฅ5,000.
- Where to Buy: Carp Baseball Stadium (Mazda Zoom-Zoom Stadium) and official team stores in the city.
d. Local Sake
- Description: Hiroshima is one of Japanโs top sake-producing regions. Look for brands like Kamotsuru or Saijo sake, which are known for their smooth and refined flavors.
- Price Range: ยฅ1,000โยฅ5,000 per bottle.
- Where to Buy: Sake shops in Hiroshima Station, Saijo Sake Brewery District, or department stores.
e. Kokeshi Dolls and Traditional Crafts
- Description: Handcrafted wooden dolls, pottery, and other traditional Japanese crafts make for unique and authentic souvenirs.
- Price Range: ยฅ1,500โยฅ10,000, depending on the craftsmanship.
- Where to Buy: Miyajima Island and specialty craft stores in the city.
f. Hiroshima Peace-Themed Items
- Description: Items like origami cranes, postcards, and books related to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Atomic Bomb Dome.
- Price Range: ยฅ300โยฅ2,000.
- Where to Buy: Shops near the Peace Memorial Park and Hiroshima Museum of Art.
g. Oyster-Related Products
- Description: Hiroshima is famous for its oysters. You can find oyster-flavored snacks, canned oysters, or oyster sauces.
- Price Range: ยฅ500โยฅ2,000.
- Where to Buy: Local food markets like Ujina Port or Hiroshima Station.
2. Where to Find Souvenir Shops in Hiroshima
a. Hiroshima Station
- Details: The station is a hub for travelers and has numerous souvenir shops offering local specialties, sweets, and crafts.
- Recommended Shops:
- Omotenashi Hiroshima: A large souvenir store with a wide selection of local products.
- Ekie Hiroshima: A shopping and dining area within the station with many souvenir options.
- Nearby Attractions: Shukkeien Garden (a beautiful Japanese garden) and Hiroshima Castle.
b. Miyajima Island
- Details: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Miyajima is famous for the Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic "floating" torii gate. The island is also a great place to shop for traditional crafts and food items.
- Recommended Shops:
- Momiji-do: Specializes in momiji manju and other sweets.
- Miyajima Traditional Crafts Center: Offers handmade crafts and pottery.
- Nearby Attractions: Itsukushima Shrine, Mount Misen, and the Daisho-in Temple.
c. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Area
- Details: Shops near the park sell peace-themed items and books about Hiroshimaโs history.
- Recommended Shops:
- Orizuru Tower Gift Shop: Offers peace-themed souvenirs and origami crane kits.
- Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum Shop: Sells books, postcards, and other items related to the museum.
- Nearby Attractions: Atomic Bomb Dome, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, and the Childrenโs Peace Monument.
d. Hondori Shopping Arcade
- Details: A bustling pedestrian street with a mix of modern and traditional shops.
- Recommended Shops:
- Don Quijote: A discount store with a wide variety of souvenirs.
- Local Craft Stores: Scattered throughout the arcade, offering unique handmade items.
- Nearby Attractions: Hiroshima Museum of Art and Hiroshima Castle.
e. Saijo Sake Brewery District
- Details: Located in Higashihiroshima, this area is home to several historic sake breweries.
- Recommended Shops:
- Kamotsuru Sake Brewery: Offers tastings and bottles for purchase.
- Sake Plaza: A one-stop shop for various local sake brands.
- Nearby Attractions: Sake Brewery Museum and the historic streets of Saijo.
3. Cultural and Local Considerations
- Respect for History: Hiroshima has a deep historical significance due to the events of World War II. When purchasing peace-themed items, approach them with respect and understanding of their cultural importance.
- Seasonal Souvenirs: Some items, like certain flavors of momiji manju or limited-edition Hiroshima Carp merchandise, may only be available during specific seasons.
- Eco-Friendly Shopping: Many shops in Hiroshima promote eco-friendly practices. Consider bringing your own reusable bag or purchasing one as a souvenir.
- Tax-Free Shopping: Many stores offer tax-free shopping for tourists. Bring your passport to take advantage of this benefit.
4. Nearby Attractions to Combine with Shopping
- Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: A must-visit site to learn about Hiroshimaโs history and promote peace.
- Itsukushima Shrine (Miyajima Island): Famous for its "floating" torii gate and serene atmosphere.
- Hiroshima Castle: A reconstructed castle with a museum inside, offering insights into Hiroshimaโs samurai history.
- Shukkeien Garden: A tranquil Japanese garden perfect for a relaxing stroll.
- Mazda Zoom-Zoom Stadium: If youโre a baseball fan, catch a Hiroshima Carp game and shop for team merchandise.
By following this guide, youโll be able to find meaningful souvenirs that capture the essence of Hiroshima while enjoying the cityโs rich culture and history. Happy shopping!