Calling Hiroshima a "craft city" may not carry the same prestige as Kanazawa or Wajima, but this city boasts a unique vitality in its craft culture—it's not found in bustling large markets, but hidden in the artisans' tiny shops tucked away in alleyways, craft experience workshops, and the creative industries born around the theme of peace.
Hiroshima's craft culture is inseparable from the city's history. During the post-war reconstruction, Hiroshima channeled their longing for peace into various forms of creative expression, from woodcarving to pottery, from dyeing to lacquerware—every piece carrying a wish for "hope." This gives Hiroshima's craft culture a depth and warmth rarely found in other cities.
When it comes to Hiroshima's most representative traditional craft, "Miyajima wood carving" is definitely on the list. Originating from the shrine and temple carvings of Miyajima, this technique uses natural wood to craft intricate prayer amulets and ornaments—a unique local tradition. To experience this technique, both Fukuya JR Hiroshima Station Front Shop and Shimoachigai Underground Street offer experience workshops open to visitors, with basic体验 fees around ¥2,000-5,000 (including materials), taking about 1-2 hours—perfect for those wanting a unique travel souvenir.
Another must-mention is Hiroshima's lacquerware industry. When talking about Japanese lacquerware, most people think of Wajima-nuri or Kiso lacquerware, but Hiroshima is actually one of Japan's major lacquerware production hubs. After the war, Hiroshima became a center for Japan's lacquerware industry, with many lacquerware artisans settling and establishing their craft here. "Hiroshima lacquerware" is renowned for its warm luster and exquisite techniques. In central Hiroshima, you can find many lacquerware specialty stores, including "Saka Craft Hiroshima" near Tenjinmachi, known for affordable lacquerware small items that even students can easily purchase.
If you're looking for not just traditional crafts but more creative lifestyle goods, the area around "Hon-dori Shopping District" in Hiroshima has many quality boutique stores. This shopping street running from Kitcho to Hachibori has recently gathered many select shops selling lifestyle goods and handmade crafts. Among them, "Outi" is personally highly recommended—the owner carefully selects crafts from across Japan, including ceramics, glassware, and fabric goodies, with prices ranging from ¥1,000-10,000, perfect for souvenirs. Additionally, "EF GALLERY" focuses on showcasing works by local young Hiroshima creators, making it a great place to observe Hiroshima's contemporary creative scene.
Speaking of craft experiences in Hiroshima, you can't miss the "experience-style" itineraries. While Hiroshima-yaki script grilling is a cuisine, it actually requires a "craft" spirit as well. Now many businesses offer Hiroshima-yaki making experiences, teaching visitors how to personally make this representative Hiroshima dish, with experience fees around ¥1,500-3,500. It's very popular among family travelers as you can taste authentic flavors while acquiring a new skill. Additionally, oyster farming experiences can also be booked in the Onomichi area—interested readers can explore further.
Finally, if you're interested in the history behind the crafts, "Woodone Hiroshima" near the Hiroshima Prefectural Art Museum showcases many woodwork artworks, with tickets at ¥500 and extended evening hours on Fridays. The museum regularly hosts themed exhibitions related to Hiroshima crafts, making it a great place to understand the local culture.
Hiroshima's crafts aren't found in noisy markets, but in the everyday streets and alleys. If you want to truly feel this city's craft warmth, I suggest slowing your pace and stepping into those small shops hidden in the alleyways—you'll be pleasantly surprised.
