Miyajima Omotesando Shopping Street
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Miyajima Omotesando Shopping Street

4.3
·2k reviews·Hatsukaichi, Japan

A vibrant, covered street brimming with local delicacies, unique souvenirs, and the charming presence of wild deer.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late Morning

Shops open, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
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Miyajima Omotesando Shopping Street

Miyajima Omotesando Shopping Street

Best Time

Late Morning

Shops open, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant, covered street brimming with local delicacies, unique souvenirs, and the charming presence of wild deer.

4.3
(2k reviews)

"A must-see on Miyajima island. Such a great street with lots of cute shops, restaurants, snacks, etc. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive After 11 AM

Most shops open around 11 AM. Plan accordingly to catch the full street experience! :clock1:

🦌 Watch for Deer

Wild deer are common. Secure your food and belongings; they can be bold! :deer:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Grilled Oysters

Grilled Oysters

Street Food Stalls

Savor the local delicacy: plump, briny oysters grilled to perfection. A must-try flavor of Miyajima!

Momiji Manju

Momiji Manju

Sweet Shops

These maple-leaf-shaped cakes, filled with sweet bean paste, are a quintessential Miyajima treat.

Souvenir Shopping

Souvenir Shopping

Various Shops

Browse unique crafts, local snacks, and charming mementos to remember your island adventure.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for the Best Experience

Most shops on Miyajima's Omotesando Street open around 11 AM. Arriving earlier means fewer crowds, but you'll miss out on the full vibrancy. Plan your visit around lunchtime for peak atmosphere, but be prepared for crowds. Reddit

Deer Encounters: Cute but Cautious

Wild deer roam freely, adding a unique charm. Keep food and paper items secure, as they are known to snatch them! While generally harmless, they can be assertive. Reddit

Best Times

When
Late Morning
Why
Shops open, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Lunchtime
Why
Peak atmosphere & food
Crowd
High
When
After Sunset
Why
Tourists leave, peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Had the best day out in Yanaka Ginza 🐱 I NEVER thought I’d join a tour group, but I actually had the best time eating and exploring with Rin. Yanaka Ginza is a shopping street with some retro Japan vibes, perfect for having some delicious and affordable street food and picking up some fun souvenirs 🍡 TOMOGO! is a company committed to introducing lesser known parts of Tokyo that you might not have ...
@blake.in.tokyo
90.1K likes • 979.6K views

🎯 Arrive After 11 AM

Most shops open around 11 AM. Plan accordingly to catch the full street experience! Reddit :clock1:

🦌 Watch for Deer

Wild deer are common. Secure your food and belongings; they can be bold! Reddit :deer:

reddit.com

Shopping in Hiroshima

☔ Covered Street

Much of the street is covered, making it a great spot even on a rainy day. Reddit :umbrella:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Parallel Streets

Consider the Machiya street for unique shops and cafes, offering a different vibe. Reddit :street_view:

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive After 11 AM

Most shops open around 11 AM. Plan accordingly to catch the full street experience! Reddit :clock1:

🦌 Watch for Deer

Wild deer are common. Secure your food and belongings; they can be bold! Reddit :deer:

☔ Covered Street

Much of the street is covered, making it a great spot even on a rainy day. Reddit :umbrella:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Parallel Streets

Consider the Machiya street for unique shops and cafes, offering a different vibe. Reddit :street_view:

💰 Bring Cash

While some places take cards, smaller stalls may prefer cash for quick transactions. :moneybag:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Miyajima's Omotesando Street for its lively atmosphere, delicious street food like grilled oysters and Momiji Manju, and the unique charm of roaming wild deer. It's considered a must-visit for its authentic island feel and souvenir shopping opportunities. Some find it quite crowded, especially during peak times, and note that food options can be limited to tourist-focused choices.

"What a great place to visit for a day & night - last ferry goes around 11pm and the tourists mostly leave after sunset

Lots of restaurants cafes and shops to explore - this island is so traditional and well worth a visit

Watch out for the locals …wild deer that roam the streets ….they really do eat anything including people’s maps and paper bags

Great adventure well worth the visit"

sandy colombo

"A must see on Miyajima island. Such a great street with lots of cute shops, restaurants, souvenir shops, snacks, etc.

Most shops only open around 11AM so check before you go. This is a good spot around lunch, do note it gets really really busy and crowded.

There were some deers walking around the streets which was funny. Do watch out for your food getting stolen by a deer they can get aggressive.

Allocate about an hour to walk this street area and stop at local shops. Most of this street is covered so a great spot to go in the case it rains!

No ticket purchase required."

Shawn

"A really authentic and lively area (the shopping area). Yet, peace and quiet on the seawall next to the beach are only a short walk away. This is a really special island with just the right level of development - not too modern yet built up enough to feel special. A 100% must visit if visiting the area."

Lance Tay

What People Like

Delicious street food
Unique souvenir shops
Charming wild deer

What People Dislike

Can be very crowded
Limited food variety

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Hiroshima Station, take the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station (approx. 25 mins), then a short walk to the ferry terminal. The JR ferry to Miyajima Island takes about 10 minutes. The shopping street is a short walk from the ferry port. Reddit

There are parking lots near the ferry terminal on the mainland, but parking on Miyajima Island itself is very limited and generally not recommended for day-trippers.

Yes, the JR ferry is covered by the Japan Rail Pass, making it a convenient option if you have one. Otherwise, a separate ticket is required for the ferry. Reddit

The island is very walkable. The Omotesando Shopping Street is easily accessible on foot from the ferry port. Many visitors also enjoy walking to Itsukushima Shrine and other nearby attractions.

The total journey from Hiroshima Station to Miyajima Island, including the train and ferry, typically takes about an hour. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Omotesando Shopping Street itself is free. You only need to pay for any purchases you make or for specific attractions like Itsukushima Shrine. Reddit

Most shops on Omotesando Street open around 11 AM and close in the late afternoon or early evening. It's best to check individual shop hours if you have specific places in mind. Reddit

The street is a public thoroughfare, so there are no entrance fees. Fees apply only to specific attractions on the island, such as the Itsukushima Shrine. Reddit

While hours vary, many shops begin to close around 5 PM or 6 PM. It's advisable to visit earlier in the day to ensure you can explore most of them. Reddit

The street is accessible, but most shops will be closed. It can be a peaceful time to walk and enjoy the atmosphere after the day-trippers have left. Reddit

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

Don't miss the grilled oysters, a local specialty! Momiji Manju (maple-leaf-shaped cakes) and various other sweet treats are also highly recommended. Reddit

You'll find a wide range of souvenirs, including traditional crafts, local snacks, Miyajima-themed items, and unique trinkets. Reddit

While oysters and eel are popular, you can find some vegetarian options like Momiji Manju and other sweets. Exploring smaller cafes might reveal more diverse choices. Reddit

Food prices vary, but street food like oysters can range from ¥500-¥1000. Souvenirs can range from a few hundred yen for small items to several thousand for more elaborate crafts.

Yes, the street offers opportunities to find unique local crafts, though some visitors suggest exploring parallel streets like Machiya Street for even more distinctive finds. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Experience

Capture the vibrant street life, the unique food stalls, and the charming shops. The interactions with the wild deer can also make for memorable photos. TikTok

Yes, Miyajima Island and its shopping street can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons and around lunchtime. Reddit

Visit early in the morning before shops open, or later in the evening after most tourists have departed. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. Reddit

Restroom facilities are available throughout the island, including near the shopping street and major attractions.

It offers a lively blend of traditional Japanese shopping street atmosphere, delicious street food, and the unique charm of wild deer roaming freely. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Miyajima's Omotesando Street offers a fun and engaging experience for families. The wild deer are a major highlight for children, providing endless fascination (just remember to keep food secure!). The street is largely covered, offering protection from sun or light rain, which is a big plus for keeping little ones comfortable. Reddit Many of the snacks, like Momiji Manju, are kid-friendly and make for delightful treats. The relatively short walking distances between attractions also make it manageable for families with young children. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Omotesando Street offers budget-friendly options for both food and souvenirs. Street food like grilled oysters and Momiji Manju are relatively inexpensive ways to sample local flavors without committing to a full restaurant meal. Reddit Look for smaller stalls and shops that offer good value. While some souvenirs can be pricey, you can find charming trinkets and snacks at more affordable price points. Remember that the street itself is free to explore, so you can enjoy the atmosphere without spending a lot. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Miyajima's Omotesando Street presents a vibrant tapestry of sights and sounds. Capture the bustling energy of the street, the colorful displays of food and souvenirs, and the unique interactions with the wild deer. TikTok The traditional architecture of the shops and the glimpses of the island's natural beauty in the background offer diverse photographic opportunities. Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' for softer light, or embrace the lively chaos of midday for dynamic shots. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Culinary Delights of Omotesando

Miyajima's Omotesando Shopping Street is a paradise for food lovers, offering a taste of local island flavors. The undisputed star is the grilled oyster, a succulent and briny treat that's a must-try for any visitor. You'll find numerous stalls grilling these fresh catches right before your eyes. Another iconic snack is Momiji Manju, delicate, maple-leaf-shaped cakes typically filled with sweet red bean paste, though modern variations include chocolate and cheese fillings. These are perfect for a sweet pick-me-up as you explore. Reddit

Beyond these staples, the street is lined with vendors selling a variety of other local delicacies. Look out for anago meshi (conger eel rice bowls), yakitori (grilled skewers), and various sweet treats like daifuku (mochi stuffed with sweet filling). Many shops also offer samples, allowing you to taste before you buy. The sheer variety ensures there's something to satisfy every palate, making the culinary journey as exciting as the shopping itself. Reddit

Navigating the Deer and the Crowds

One of the most memorable aspects of Miyajima's Omotesando Street is the presence of wild sika deer that roam freely. These gentle creatures are accustomed to visitors and often approach people, especially if they sense food. While charming, it's crucial to be mindful of them. Never feed the deer, as it can disrupt their natural diet and behavior. Keep your food, snacks, and even paper bags securely stored, as the deer are known to be opportunistic and may try to snatch them. Reddit

Omotesando Street can become extremely crowded, particularly during peak tourist seasons and around lunchtime. To avoid the thickest throngs, consider visiting early in the morning, just as shops are opening, or later in the afternoon as day-trippers begin to depart. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends. If you find the main street overwhelming, take a moment to explore the quieter, parallel Machiya Street, which offers a more relaxed atmosphere with unique shops and cafes. Reddit

Shopping for Unique Miyajima Souvenirs

Omotesando Shopping Street is the primary hub for souvenir hunting on Miyajima Island. You'll find a wide array of items, from traditional Miyajima-themed crafts to local snacks and trinkets. Look for items made from wood, such as small carved deer or decorative pieces, reflecting the island's natural beauty. Ceramics and local textiles also make for distinctive keepsakes. Many shops offer beautifully packaged local sweets, making them ideal gifts. Reddit

For those seeking something a bit more off the beaten path, venture onto the smaller side streets. Machiya Street, for instance, is often praised by visitors for its more unique and artisanal shops, offering a curated selection of goods that might not be found on the main thoroughfare. Reddit Whether you're looking for a small memento or a more significant piece of local artistry, the shopping experience on Miyajima offers plenty of opportunities to find the perfect souvenir to commemorate your visit.

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