Hiroshima

๐ŸŽ

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: ยฅ500โ€“ยฅ1,500 for a box of 6โ€“12 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: ยฅ500โ€“ยฅ2,000.
  • Where to Buy: Okonomimura (a building with multiple okonomiyaki restaurants) and souvenir shops in Hiroshima Station.

c. Hiroshima Carp Merchandise

  • Description: Hiroshimaโ€™s beloved baseball team, the Hiroshima Toyo Carp, has a wide range of merchandise, including jerseys, caps, towels, and keychains.
  • Price Range: ยฅ1,000โ€“ยฅ5,000.
  • 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 Japanโ€™s top sake-producing regions. Look for brands like Kamotsuru or Saijo sake, which are known for their smooth and refined flavors.
  • Price Range: ยฅ1,000โ€“ยฅ5,000 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: ยฅ1,500โ€“ยฅ10,000, 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: ยฅ300โ€“ยฅ2,000.
  • 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: ยฅ500โ€“ยฅ2,000.
  • 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 Hiroshimaโ€™s 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 Childrenโ€™s 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 Hiroshimaโ€™s 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 Hiroshimaโ€™s samurai history.
  • Shukkeien Garden: A tranquil Japanese garden perfect for a relaxing stroll.
  • Mazda Zoom-Zoom Stadium: If youโ€™re a baseball fan, catch a Hiroshima Carp game and shop for team merchandise.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be able to find meaningful souvenirs that capture the essence of Hiroshima while enjoying the cityโ€™s rich culture and history. Happy shopping!