[Latest 2025 Japan Shopping Street] Tokocho Yokocho (Rukawa, Hiroshima City)
🏮Complete introduction to Hiroshima City Rukawa "えびすyokocho"
This time, I'm going to take you to one of Hiroshima's most lively nightlife areas—Ebisu Yokocho. This isn't just an alley, but a gathering place where you can experience the atmosphere of the Showa era while enjoying delicious food and drinks. 🍶🍢
🌸 What is "えびすyokocho"?
Located in Narukawa, Naka Ward, Hiroshima City, Ebisu Yokocho is a narrow alleyway (food street) dominated by izakayas and small eateries. Its name comes from Ebisu, one of Japan's Seven Lucky Gods, symbolizing prosperity and business. The area is home to a diverse selection of unique eateries, offering everything from traditional Japanese cuisine, yakitori (grilled skewers), and oden (hot pot stew) to innovative dishes and ramen.
When I first walked in, I felt like I was traveling back to Showa-era Japan. The narrow alleys, the eaves covered with red lanterns, and the shops full of fireworks made me want to stay longer. ✨
🍢 The charm of food paradise
🔥 Must-try dishes
- Ookami Yaki : One of Hiroshima's representative dishes, it is a generous portion of noodles and cabbage stacked in layers with a rich sauce.
- Skewers : Charcoal grilled chicken and beef skewers, perfect with beer. 🍺
- Oyster cuisine : Hiroshima is rich in oysters, whether grilled, fried or oyster hotpot, you can find them here.
- Oden : A bowl of hot oden at night warms your stomach and heart.
🍶 Alcohol selection
The shops here usually offer a wide variety of sake, shochu, and local beer. I personally recommend everyone to try Hiroshima sake, which has a refreshing taste and pairs well with seafood dishes.
🎉 Atmosphere and Features
Although Ebisu Yokocho is small, it brings together the essence of Hiroshima's nightlife. When you walk in, you will find:
- Red lanterns and wooden decorations create a nostalgic atmosphere.
- Friendly staff : Many restaurants are friendly, making it easy for even foreign tourists to order.
- Diverse choices : You can try different flavors on one street without worrying about making a bad choice.
The best part is that whether you want to have a drink alone or have a meal with friends, you can always find a suitable shop. 👯
🗺️ Transportation
Ebisu Yokocho is located in the Nakawa area in the heart of Hiroshima City and is very conveniently located.
- It is about a 5-minute walk from **Hiroshima Electric Railway 「Konomachi Station**.
- There are many commercial facilities and restaurants around, which is very convenient for tourists.
💡 Editor's Friendly Suggestions
- It is recommended to go during dinner time : it starts to get lively after about 18:00 and the atmosphere is the best.
- You can visit multiple stores : Don’t just stop at one store, the fun of Yokocho is to eat while walking.
- Prepare cash : Some small shops may not accept credit cards.
- Avoid the weekend rush : Friday and Saturday nights are packed with people, so if you want to relax and enjoy the place, choose weekdays.
🌟 Summary
Ebisu Yokocho is like a microcosm of Hiroshima's nightlife, where you can experience traditional Japanese izakaya culture and taste authentic local cuisine. I think if you come to Hiroshima and miss this place, you'll miss out on an opportunity to immerse yourself in local life. Next time you visit Hiroshima, remember to spend a night at Ebisu Yokocho! 🍻✨