Shopping in Asia can be compared to riding the Revenge of the Mummy ride at Universal Studios Singapore or the Rialto theater at the Philippines’ Enchanted Kingdom. You’ll test your energy as crowds can get really thick, and you’ll max out your bargaining skills with vendors who just won’t say, “Deal!”
But, it is very exciting. In East Asia, the most famous shopping spots are Myeong-dong in South Korea, Shibuya in Tokyo, and Mong Kok in Hong Kong. This guide is about Hiroshima, but you won’t think of shopping in this city most of your time here. Yet, Hiroshima can be a shopper’s paradise, too. Here are the best spots for shopping in this destination in no particular order.
1. YouMe Town Hiroshima
When you think of Japan, you immediately think of Uniqlo and MINISO, but widen your horizons because these are not the only stores in this country. In Hiroshima, there’s YouMe Town, a large shopping mall managed by the IZUMI Corporation. It is easy to spot YouMe Town because it is at the heart of the city, facing the Kyobashi River.
This vast site, comprising three floors, is home to shops selling food, fashion, stationery, and sundries, as well as clinics where you can get a consultation for your health.
Hours: 9 AM-10 PM
Contact: +81 82-252-8000
Address: 2 Chome-8-17 Minamimachi, Minami Ward, Hiroshima, 734-0007, Japan
2. LECT
LECT opened only recently and is located on Hiroshima’s western side. This shopping mall is quite isolated. It requires you to take a car or taxi, then a shuttle bus ride that isn’t for free. However, LECT is upscale, attracting the sophisticated market across Japan, and features shops that offer apparel, dining, and supermarkets.
Hours: 9 AM-9:30 PM
Contact: +81 82-270-0051
Address: 2 Chome-1-45 Ogi, Nishi Ward, Hiroshima, 733-8509, Japan
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3. ekie Hiroshima
If you wish to save your money for splurging as you shop, you can take the train to ekie Hiroshima as this shopping mall is directly connected to the JR Hiroshima Station, a fantastic spot where you find delectable food, souvenirs, and so much more. There’s also a tax-free shop here, so you won’t need to wait until you get to shop at the airport.
Hours: 8 AM-9 PM
Contact: +81 82-567-8011
Address: 1-2 Matsubaracho, Minami Ward, Hiroshima, 732-0822, Japan
4. The Outlets Hiroshima
This shop is a bit unique because it is located on your way to a mountain on the western outskirts of Hiroshima. It is easy to reach this place. Simply take the train, then the streetcar, then a bus.
The upper floor of The Outlets Hiroshima is an outdoor setting, so you can relax and be in synergy with nature. On that same level, you can find shops selling discount clothes, watches, and kitchen goods. You may even chance upon street performers who can make the whole family groove to their steps.
Hours: 10 AM-8 PM
Contact: +81 82-567-8011
Address: 4-1-1 Ishiuchihigashi, Saeki-cho, Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan
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5. Hondori Central Shopping District
This shopping district, more popularly known as Hondori, is the main shopping destination in beautiful Hiroshima. It has been present since the Edo period when it flourished as the main route of the Sanyo Road, crossing under Hiroshima Castle.
Its arcade links its central area with the illustrious Peace Memorial Park. Making your way here, you can find shops, restaurants, and even pharmacies. If you want to experience this shopping district, you may prefer to shop during weekdays as weekends in this place can get really crowded.
Hours: 10 AM-8 PM
Contact: +81 82-248-1518
Address: 7 Hondori, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0035, Japan
6. Hiroshima PARCO
The most stunning fashion finds are here at Hiroshima PARCO. Also accessible from the Hatchobori Station on the Hiroshima Electric Railroad, this shopping haven may also be reached via your own car as parking here is easy.
Hiroshima PARCO is organized. The first two floors are dedicated to beauty shops. From the second to sixth levels, you’ll find shoes, hair care products, men’s items, and women’s goods. Further up are children’s products, restaurants, sports items, and the CLUB QUATTRO entertainment spot.
Hours: 10 AM-8:30 PM
Contact: For information, visit their official website
Address: 7 Hondori, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0035, Japan
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7. AEON Mall Hiroshima Fuchu
Hondori may be the most popular shopping destination in Hiroshima, but it is AEON Mall Hiroshima Fuchu that outshines all of those above. If the Philippines has SM Supermalls and Ayala Malls, and the United States has Walmart, it is Aeon Mall that holds the biggest share of the shopper target market in Japan.
Aeon traces its origins to the Edo period in the 18th century when it was a tiny sundry goods store. Today, this chain has mall branches not only in Japan but also globally in Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia, China, and Taiwan.
Overall, there is no reason why you shouldn’t shop in Hiroshima. There’s no other way to shake off those weary limbs from touring around the city’s major attractions than via retail therapy.
Hours: 10 AM-9 PM
Contact: +81 82-561-0001
Address: 2 Chome-1-1 Osu, Fuchu, Aki District, Hiroshima 735-8588, Japan
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Looking to dive deeper into Hiroshima’s rich culture and history? Join our local tour guides for our Hiroshima Free Walking Tour!
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