Himeji City is not only famous for its majestic castle but also for its vibrant food scene. This culinary gem offers a delightful array of flavors that tantalize both locals and visitors alike. From savory snacks to sweet treats, Himeji’s street food captures the essence of Japanese cuisine while reflecting the city’s unique character. Here are some of my personal favorites.
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EKI-SOBA
Eki-soba, literally “station noodles,” is a common sight at major train stations across Japan. However, Himeji’s version stands out with its distinctive style and flavor. Celebrating 75th anniversary this year, this local specialty offers a unique twist on the traditional soba, featuring yellow Chinese noodles with a Japanese style broth. More than just a quick meal for commuters and students, Himeji’s eki-soba has become a sought-after destination for street food enthusiasts.
188-1 Ekimaecho, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0927, Japan
HIMEJI ODEN
Oden is a quintessential Japanese winter dish, best described as a hearty hot pot. This comforting soup features an array of ingredients simmered in a flavorful dashi broth. Typical components include daikon radish, konnyaku (konjac), hard-boiled eggs, and various types of fish cakes.Believed to have originated in Edo (present-day Tokyo), oden has since spread throughout Japan, evolving into numerous regional variations. Each area has put its own spin on this beloved dish, adapting it to local tastes and available ingredients.Himeji-style oden is characterized by its light Kansai-style broth, served with a generous drizzle of ginger-infused soy sauce. This unique condiment enhances the umami of each ingredient, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. While the dish features traditional oden components, Himeji’s version stands out with its inclusion of beef tendon, an uncommon yet delicious addition.
188-1 Ekimaecho, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0927, Japan
HIMEJI TAKOYAKI
Takoyaki, a culinary gem that emerged from the vibrant streets of Kansai, has captivated palates worldwide. These delectable spheres, crafted from a flour-based batter, each cradle a morsel of octopus—the “tako” that lends its name to this iconic dish. The preparation of takoyaki is a mesmerizing spectacle, as the batter is poured and skillfully rotated in a specially designed pan, creating perfect golden orbs.In Himeji, a distinctive variation known as Akashi-style takoyaki has gained renown. This iteration boasts a lighter, more ethereal texture and is traditionally served with a savory dashi broth, elevating the dish to new heights of gastronomic pleasure.For over half a century, “Takopy” has been a bastion of this beloved street food, preserving its authenticity while serving generations of enthusiasts.
188 banchi１ Ekimaecho, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0927, Japan
KEIRAN MANJU
Isshikido’s Keiran Manju is a culinary masterpiece that marries the rich, fluffy texture of castella cake with the subtle sweetness of white bean paste. This bite-sized delicacy is crafted with an abundance of eggs, resulting in a golden, moist sponge that envelops a core of velvety smooth anko (white bean paste).The confection’s petite size makes it an ideal snack or gift. Available at the basement floor of Sanyo Department Store, Keiran Manju offers not just a taste sensation but also a visual spectacle.Visitors to the store are treated to the mesmerizing sight of skilled artisans at work. Given its popularity, Keiran Manju often draws substantial crowds, particularly on weekends and holidays. To ensure you don’t miss out on this local delicacy, it’s advisable to secure a numbered ticket in advance. This sweet embodies the essence of Himeji’s culinary craftsmanship, making it a must-try for both locals and visitors alike.
〒670-0913 Hyogo, Himeji, Nishiekimaecho, 1 Banchi Sanyo Department store
GOZASORO
Gozasoro, a beloved street snack from Himeji, has been delighting locals and visitors alike for 65 years. This traditional Japanese confection consists of a wheat flour dough generously filled with sweet bean paste and baked in a metal mold. The result is a delectable treat that has become one of the city’s most iconic street foods.While Gozasoro pairs perfectly with green tea, it also complements other beverages such as black tea and coffee. Its subtle sweetness offers a gentle respite for weary travelers, soothing their fatigue and providing a moment of comfort.
〒670-0913 Hyogo, Himeji, Nishiekimaecho, 1 Banchi Sanyo Department store B1
Did I miss any of your favorite spots? Feel free to share them in the comments!
