FOOD

Savoring Hiroshima’s Local Delights at Okonomimura: A Culinary Haven for Okonomiyaki Enthusiasts

2023.11.02

Okonomimura stands out as a remarkable culinary destination in Hiroshima, boasting an impressive assembly of 23 okonomiyaki restaurants. This food haven is home to a myriad of delicious eateries, ensuring that visitors are spoilt for choice!

The current building was completed in 1992, but Okonomimura carries a rich history spanning 40 years, dating back to its origins as a collection of food stalls nestled in a park. After World War II, Shin-Tenchi Square in central Hiroshima became a bustling hub with over 50 okonomiyaki stalls. These stalls were not just places to enjoy delicious food; they were also filled with warmth and a communal spirit, reflecting the city’s determination to rebuild.

The name “Okonomimura” was inspired by the vibrant atmosphere of this food hub. Noted author Kida Minoru, upon witnessing the lively scene of stalls centered around okonomiyaki, remarked that it resembled a “village of okonomiyaki,” giving birth to the name Okonomimura.

In 1963, when the square was transformed into a park, the food stalls were relocated. They found a new home in a two-story prefabricated building in front of the park, named “Okonomimura.” The popularity of this food village soared, capturing the hearts of locals, students on school trips, and tourists from all over the country. It quickly established itself as one of Hiroshima’s must-visit destinations.

Even after undergoing a transformation into a high-rise building in 1992, Okonomimura has preserved its original flavors, vibrancy, and welcoming atmosphere.

For those keen to dive into the world of Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, Okonomimura is an unmissable destination.

For directions, refer to Google Maps and visit the official Okonomimura website at [http://www.okonomimura.jp/] to plan your culinary adventure.