Okonomimura - a sign that is on the side of a building
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Okonomimura

4.2
·8k reviews·Hiroshima, Japan

A multi-story food hall dedicated to Hiroshima's iconic savory pancake, offering a vibrant and delicious culinary experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Vibrant atmosphere

CrowdHigh
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Okonomimura - a sign that is on the side of a building

Okonomimura

Best Time

Evenings

Vibrant atmosphere

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A multi-story food hall dedicated to Hiroshima's iconic savory pancake, offering a vibrant and delicious culinary experience.

4.2
(8k reviews)

"A must-visit in Hiroshima! Okonomimura has tons of small stalls serving delicious, sizzling okonomiyaki made right in front of you."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Pick a Friendly Stall

If you're unsure, choose a stall with a welcoming vibe or where other tourists are seated. :smiley:

🍜 Try with Noodles

The Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki often includes noodles, adding a delicious texture. :ramen:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki

Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki

A savory pancake layered with cabbage, noodles, pork, and egg, cooked to perfection. A must-try Japanese comfort food!

TikTok
Interactive Griddle Cooking

Interactive Griddle Cooking

Watch skilled chefs prepare your meal right before your eyes on a sizzling hot plate. It's a culinary performance!

Reddit
Syo-Chan Stall

Syo-Chan Stall

Third Floor

Praised for its welcoming atmosphere and English menu, making it a tourist favorite.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Choose Your Okonomiyaki Adventure

Okonomimura is a multi-story building packed with okonomiyaki stalls. Don't be afraid to explore and pick the one that looks most appealing or has a friendly vibe. Some travelers suggest looking for stalls with English menus or where other foreigners are dining to ensure a welcoming experience. Reddit

Embrace the Sizzle and Share

Okonomiyaki is cooked fresh right in front of you on a hot griddle. Portions are generous, so consider sharing if you have a smaller appetite. Be prepared to cut your own meal with a spatula and enjoy the interactive dining experience. Reddit

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Lunchtime
Why
Less crowded than dinner
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

hiroshima okonomiyaki🥢#LockdownKitchen #rainydaytreats #tiktokeatsph #okonomiyaki #japanesefood #asmr #fy
@beakooks
47K likes • 793.2K views

🎯 Pick a Friendly Stall

If you're unsure, choose a stall with a welcoming vibe or where other tourists are seated. Reddit :smiley:

🍜 Try with Noodles

The Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki often includes noodles, adding a delicious texture. Reddit :ramen:

#okonomiyaki :)
@groovyfoodiess
32.1K likes • 703.2K views
Okonomiyaki is a soft, round symbol of harmony🫶Many different ingredients come together in one warm circle🚌💞Gluten-free&high protein Okonomiyaki👉Ingredients (serves 3-4): – 2 cups chickpea flour – 1 cup water – 4 eggs – 4 tbsp UMAMI SAUCE @umami_kimonomom – ½ of cabbage (chopped into 1cm cubes) – Sliced pork belly or enoki mushrooms – Sauce: ketchup + UMAMI SAUCE How to make it: Chop the cabbage...
@kimonomom
30.3K likes • 436.3K views

🤝 Consider Sharing

Portions are generous, so sharing is a great way to sample more or manage appetite. Reddit :handshake:

🗣️ Use Translation Apps

Communication can be a barrier; have a translation app ready. Reddit :iphone:

What’s your favorite Japanese food? 📍Nara #okonomiyaki #japanesefood #japan
@bokksu
11.8K likes • 133K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Pick a Friendly Stall

If you're unsure, choose a stall with a welcoming vibe or where other tourists are seated. Reddit :smiley:

🍜 Try with Noodles

The Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki often includes noodles, adding a delicious texture. Reddit :ramen:

🤝 Consider Sharing

Portions are generous, so sharing is a great way to sample more or manage appetite. Reddit :handshake:

🗣️ Use Translation Apps

Communication can be a barrier; have a translation app ready. Reddit :iphone:

🚫 No Takeaways

Okonomiyaki is meant to be enjoyed fresh off the griddle; no takeaway options available. Reddit :noentrysign:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(8k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Okonomimura is a beloved spot for its delicious and filling Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, cooked fresh before your eyes. While many praise the food and interactive experience, some visitors have noted occasional language barriers or a less welcoming reception at certain stalls. Overall, it's a highly recommended culinary adventure in Hiroshima. Reddit+1

"Fantastic place! Go to Syo-Chan on the third floor for a welcoming atmosphere and delicious meal. Tourist friendly, they have an English menu. After having a bad experience at another stall we found our way here and were so glad!!! Would recommend them highly and we even came back the next day. 10/10"

Lindsay Jacques

"I had both good and bad experiences here. I’ve had this food before but nothing like this. The taste was amazing and I went two days straight for dinner.
Now to the bad side, there are many shops to choose from. And many of them dont want to serve to foreigners. Some say they’re booked and even had one shop wave their hands and shoo me away. So I had no choice but just stick to shops where I could see foreigners sitting inside.
Could not visit any of the shops that were highly rated online and I planned for."

Vignesh Selvasundar

"One dining experience in Hiroshima that you definately to try is the Hiroshima style Okonomiyaki at Okonomimura which is a 4 level building with small counter seating style restaurants only serving Okonomiyaki.

First of all what is Okonomiyaki - it is like a Japanese filled savoury crepe/ pancake with a crepe at the bottom topped with lots of Cabbage, bean sprouts, egg, meat, spices and other additional ingredients based on your choice.

Out of all the restaurants at Okonomimura, I went to Yama Chan (Right at the end on the 2nd floor on the right) which is highly recommended (You can also try out the others which offer a similar experience). There was an old lady making the Okonomiyaki, but don't be fooled by her age, she is extremely professional and can give some of the heavy weights lifters a run for their weights 🤣.

I ordered the Basic Okonomiyaki which comes with Crepe, Cabbage, Bean Sprouts, Eggs and bacon, Bbq Sauce and topped it with Cheese and Noodles.

The lady chef prepares the Okonomiyaki right in front of you and once done places it on a warm griddle in front of you. You are then required to cut it into smaller pieces with your spatula and serve it on your plate and enjoy. No fuss but brilliant and extremely filling.

Although it may be considered rude to not finish your food in Japan but because of my small appetite, I wasn't able to and apologised sincerely and they understood. They don't do takeaways.

Communication could be a problem, so be prepared to use Google translate.

All in all, I had a wonderful experience. Am I a big fan of Okonomiyaki - not really but definitely give it a try atleast once.

Arigato Gozaimasu 🙏🏻"

Saurav Chattoraj

What People Like

Delicious okonomiyaki
Interactive cooking
Affordable prices

What People Dislike

Language barriers
Inconsistent welcome

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Okonomimura is easily accessible in Hiroshima's city center. You can reach it by walking from the Peace Memorial Park or by taking a streetcar to the Haccho-bori or Ebisucho stops. It's a short walk from either. TikTok

Yes, Okonomimura is very close to public transport. The nearest streetcar stops are Haccho-bori and Ebisucho, both within a few minutes' walk. This makes it convenient to reach from various parts of Hiroshima. TikTok

While you can drive to the area, parking directly at Okonomimura is limited. It's generally recommended to use public transportation or a taxi to avoid parking hassles. There are public parking garages nearby. TikTok

Look for the distinctive building with multiple floors dedicated to okonomiyaki restaurants. It's a well-known landmark in the entertainment district. Many locals and tourists recognize it easily. TikTok

Yes, Okonomimura is quite walkable from several key attractions, including the Peace Memorial Park and the Hondori shopping arcade. It's a pleasant stroll through the city. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, you do not need to purchase tickets to enter Okonomimura. You simply walk in and choose a restaurant to dine at. Payment is made directly to the restaurant for your meal. Reddit

Okonomimura generally operates from late morning to late evening, typically around 11 AM to 10 PM or 11 PM. However, individual restaurant hours may vary slightly, so it's good to check if you have a specific place in mind. TikTok

There is no entrance fee to walk around Okonomimura. You only pay for the food and drinks you order at the individual okonomiyaki stalls. Reddit

Reservations are generally not accepted at most Okonomimura stalls, especially the smaller ones. It's a walk-in establishment, and you might have to wait during peak hours. Reddit

While there aren't typically advertised special events or discounts, the affordability of okonomiyaki itself is a major draw. The experience of dining in a lively food hall is part of the appeal. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is a savory pancake made with a thin crepe base, layered with cabbage, bean sprouts, meat (usually pork), noodles (yakisoba or udon), and egg, all topped with a special sauce. TikTokReddit

Many stalls are highly recommended, including Syo-Chan (3rd floor) for its welcoming service and English menu, and Yama-chan (2nd floor) for its professional chefs. It's often recommended to pick a stall that looks friendly or busy. Reddit+1

Yes, you can usually customize your okonomiyaki by adding ingredients like cheese, extra pork, or seafood. Some stalls may offer vegetarian options like mushrooms. TikTok

While traditional okonomiyaki contains pork and egg, some stalls might offer vegetarian options like using mushrooms instead of pork. Vegan options are rare, but it's worth asking at individual stalls. TikTok

Okonomiyaki at Okonomimura is very affordable, typically ranging from ¥800 to ¥1500 per person, depending on the ingredients chosen. It's considered a great value for a filling meal. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant atmosphere of the bustling food hall, the sizzling okonomiyaki being cooked on the griddle, and the close-ups of the delicious layered pancake. The chefs at work are also great subjects. TikTokInstagram

Generally, it's acceptable to take photos of the food preparation, but it's always polite to ask the chef before taking close-up portraits. Many chefs are used to tourists taking pictures. TikTok

Evenings offer a lively, atmospheric glow with all the cooking stations lit up. However, daytime can provide clearer shots of the ingredients and cooking process without as much crowd. TikTok

The Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki itself, with its distinct layers and toppings, photographs beautifully. Close-ups of the sizzling ingredients on the griddle are also very appealing. TikTok

Use a faster shutter speed to capture the action on the griddle and a wider aperture for low-light conditions. Consider a tripod if you're shooting in dimmer areas to avoid blur. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Okonomimura offers a fun and engaging dining experience for families. The interactive cooking process right in front of the children can be a major highlight, keeping them entertained. The savory flavors of okonomiyaki are generally well-liked by kids, and the generous portions mean everyone can get their fill. TikTok

Look for stalls that seem spacious enough for a family or have a more relaxed atmosphere. While communication might be a slight challenge, pointing at ingredients or using translation apps can help. Sharing a large okonomiyaki is also a great way for families to try different variations without ordering too many individual dishes. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Okonomimura is a fantastic destination for budget-conscious travelers. Okonomiyaki is known for being an affordable and filling meal, with most dishes costing between ¥800 and ¥1500. This makes it an excellent option for experiencing local cuisine without breaking the bank. Reddit

By choosing to dine at Okonomimura, you're getting a substantial meal that can often be shared, further reducing costs. It's a great alternative to more expensive restaurant meals, offering authentic flavors and a memorable experience at a fraction of the price. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Hiroshima Okonomiyaki

Okonomimura is the epicenter for experiencing authentic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. Unlike its Osaka counterpart, Hiroshima's version is a layered creation, not a mixed batter. It begins with a thin crepe base, followed by a generous pile of shredded cabbage, bean sprouts, and your choice of protein, typically pork belly. This is then topped with noodles (either yakisoba or udon), more cabbage, and finally, an egg. The entire stack is cooked on a large, flat griddle right in front of you. TikTokReddit

What makes it truly special is the interactive dining experience. You'll often be seated at a counter surrounding the griddle, where you can watch the chefs skillfully assemble and cook your meal. Once prepared, it's placed on a warm plate in front of you, and you're usually provided with a small spatula to cut and eat it. This hands-on approach is a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

Beyond the preparation, the flavor profile is distinct. The savory pancake is slathered with a sweet and tangy okonomiyaki sauce, often complemented by a drizzle of Japanese mayonnaise. The combination of textures—the soft crepe, crunchy cabbage, chewy noodles, and savory pork—makes for a deeply satisfying and filling meal. TikTokReddit

Navigating Okonomimura: Tips from Travelers

Okonomimura can seem a bit overwhelming at first glance, with its multiple floors and numerous okonomiyaki stalls. A common piece of advice from travelers is to not be afraid to explore and choose the stall that appeals to you most. Some Redditors suggest looking for a friendly atmosphere or a place where other tourists are already dining, as this can sometimes indicate a more welcoming experience for foreigners. Reddit

While many stalls are accommodating, a few reviews mention instances where non-Japanese speakers felt less welcome. To mitigate this, having a translation app on your phone can be incredibly helpful for ordering and communicating. Reddit Some stalls, like Syo-Chan on the third floor, are specifically noted for having English menus and being very tourist-friendly, making them a great starting point if you're feeling apprehensive. Reddit

Remember that okonomiyaki is meant to be enjoyed fresh and hot off the griddle. Most stalls do not offer takeaway options, so be prepared to dine in. Also, portions are quite generous, so if you're not a big eater, consider sharing a dish with a companion to sample more flavors or simply manage your appetite. Reddit

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