If you want your heart captured with a “crisp, juicy” bite during your Miyajima sightseeing, head to the popular curry bread specialty shop Hiroshima Curry Bread Lab. True to its lab name, they craft inventive curry bread (curry pan) using different doughs tailored to each filling—think Wagyu beef, soft-boiled eggs, oysters, and cheese. Their sweet-to-medium spice profile is family-friendly, making it easy for kids to enjoy. We’ve gathered everything you need to know—from why lines form and tips for buying, to easy eating-on-the-go spots from a local mom’s perspective—based on real experiences and reliable information. If you’re debating what to eat in Miyajima beyond grilled anago rice (conger eel) and Hiroshima oysters, this is a must-try piece of local food in Japan.
What kind of shop is Hiroshima Curry Bread Lab? (Store Overview)
Born in Hiroshima, this curry bread specialty shop runs several locations: the Noborimachi store in Hiroshima City, the Koyo Factory (a Curry Bread Grand Prix award-winning shop) that serves as its production base, and the Miyajima Main Store. On Miyajima, the gateway to sightseeing, it focuses on takeout and is about a 7-minute walk from the ferry terminal—super convenient between temple visits and seaside strolls. Loved by everyone from students to families, they sell up to 2,500 pieces on busy days. The signboard boldly declares, “A one-of-a-kind curry bread, unconstrained by convention.” Its strength is a research-lab approach: collaborating with experts in Japanese and Western cuisine and with spice specialists to refine recipes that stay delicious even when cool. Five distinct doughs are matched to the fillings—classic curry bread dough, white bread dough, tomato dough, black dough, and spicy chili dough—each balanced for a chewy bite and rich aroma. Backed by over 40 years of baking expertise, this is Hiroshima’s first authentic curry bread specialty shop.
Local tips from residents: weekdays from 2-4 PM tend to be the quietest hours if you want to avoid the weekend rush!
We Visit the YouTube Sensation: Hiroshima Curry Bread Lab!
The shop’s fame has surged thanks to YouTube buzz and award wins. The Miyajima main store often has lines on weekends and holidays, but turnover is quick. The flat path from the ferry exit makes it stroller-friendly, and the location fits perfectly into a street-food tasting route around the island. Cash is the primary payment method, so bring small change. If you catch a batch fresh from the fryer, enjoy it hot—just open the paper bag slightly if sharing with kids so steam can escape. Popular flavors sell out fast on busy days, so aim for morning to early afternoon. Spot the staff member featured in videos? It’s a fun moment for kids to recognize the local celebrity!
Our youngest daughter got so excited when we met the YouTube-famous staff member, waving enthusiastically—and they kindly waved back! It made the whole experience even more special for the kids.
This is the well-known curry bread specialty shop in Hiroshima. Passersby stop in their tracks, drawn by the irresistible aroma—curry bread curiosity activated.
This shop is highly acclaimed, having won the Curry Bread Grand Prix and been featured on YouTube.
On the day I visited, I met the shop’s star employee—famous from YouTube—holding down the fort as the store’s friendly face. They looked busy, so I sent silent cheers.
Purchased Wagyu Beef Curry Bread
This rich, sweet, and intensely flavorful Wagyu beef curry bread (¥600) feels just a bit indulgent in the best way.
It’s a generous size, so it feels like great value. Mine was freshly fried and still warm—the perfect comfort bite on a chilly day.
I loved the clever visual cues that tell you what’s inside even later. The Wagyu version sparkles with colorful arare sprinkles on the coating.
Rating
・Taste …………………………………. ★★★★★
・Visual Impact ………………………. ★★★★☆
・Addictiveness ………………………. ★★★★☆
Purchased Soft-Boiled Egg Curry Bread
This popular Soft-Boiled Egg Curry Bread (¥600) pairs a tomato-based curry with a soft-boiled egg inside a roll topped with chunky croutons.
The outside is ultra-crispy, and the mildly sweet curry mingles with the jammy egg for a mellow, one-of-a-kind flavor.
The spice level is mild, making it ideal for those who prefer gentle heat and for children. Its large size is just right when you get peckish while sightseeing in Miyajima.
Rating
・Taste ……………………………. ★★★★☆
・Visual Impact ……………………. ★★★★☆
・Addictiveness ……………………. ★★★★☆
Information is subject to change. Please check the shop’s official website for the latest details before visiting.
Popular Menu & Taste Impressions (Local Mom’s Perspective)
Miyajima’s famous Miyajima Oyster Curry Bread features two plump oysters from Hiroshima Prefecture. The spice blend softens the briny punch, making it a great choice even if someone in your group isn’t usually into oysters—just like my husband, who’s typically picky about seafood! Cheese lovers will adore the Stretchy Mozzarella and the tomato-cheese varieties loaded with five cheeses—especially popular with kids. Our eldest always goes for cheese varieties without fail.
Craving something meaty? Go for Wagyu Beef, Beef Tendons in Black Sauce, or Braised Pork Belly in Whey. Many flavors lean slightly sweet, so you won’t have to pause mid-bite from too much heat while exploring. Each bun is substantial, so we usually buy two or three kinds to share—our go-to is to sit on a seaside bench, cut them in half, and compare. Popular items sell out early, so buying first thing in the morning or before noon is recommended.
The adjacent Omotesando Shopping Street is also perfect for food walks and just a short stroll away!
Omotesando Shopping Street stretches from Miyajima Pier to Itsukushima...
How to Buy / Avoiding Crowds & Tips for Families with Kids
On weekends and holidays, aim for right after opening until just before noon. Lines move quickly, but if you’re with kids, decide what you want as soon as you arrive for a smoother experience. Freshly fried items are extremely hot, so for small children, first tear off a bite-sized piece from the outside to check the temperature—learned this the hard way after a close call with a burn!
Since takeout is the main style here, it’s handy to request extra paper bags and napkins. Payment is typically cash only, so having small change ready speeds checkout and keeps the line moving. As a courtesy when eating while walking, consider the island’s scenery and the free-roaming deer—benches or designated areas are ideal. If you plan to pick up more before your return ferry, buy while stock lasts to avoid sellouts.
A local tip: the soft serve ice cream at Omotesando Shopping Street is less crowded after 5 PM, perfect for dessert after your curry bread!
For another crispy morning treat, check out the fresh agemomiji tempura—best enjoyed first thing when they’re at their crispiest.
Planning a Miyajima food tour and wondering what to eat in Miyajima be...
Awards and the “Research Lab’s” Commitment
The Luxury 5-Cheese Tomato Cheese Curry made at the Koyo Factory won the Gold Prize in the Q.B.B. Award category of the Curry Bread Grand Prix 2024, announced on July 15, 2024. The Q.B.B. Award is a sponsor prize recognizing entries that use Rokko Butter cheese to the highest level of quality and flavor—an award for skillful cheesework. Behind the win is a design philosophy that adjusts the dough recipe to suit each ingredient and a product development system that collaborates with specialists in Japanese cuisine, Western cuisine, and spices. With the motto “delicious even when cold,” every detail is tuned—from the clean finish and viscosity of the frying oil to lingering spice notes. Rather than chasing trends, their steady, lab-like improvements—built on over 40 years of bread-making expertise—create a truly distinctive taste.
If you’re interested in more artisanal bread experiences, the island’s hidden gem Shimauma Pan also offers locally beloved specialty breads.
Just a 1-minute walk from Miyajima Pier, "Shimauma Pan" is an authenti...
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Where is the Miyajima Main Store located? How do I get there?
A. It’s about a 7-minute walk from the ferry terminal along the island’s main sightseeing route, making it easy to stop by as you explore.
Q. What payment methods are accepted?
A. Currently, cash only. Cards, e-money, and QR payments are not accepted. Having small change ready will make your visit smoother.
Q. What time is best to buy? Do items sell out?
A. On weekends, right after opening until just before noon is relatively smooth. Popular items often sell out early, so arriving early is recommended.
Q. Are the items suitable for children? How spicy are they?
A. Most items range from mild to medium. Soft-boiled egg and cheese varieties are especially gentle and easy to eat. Freshly fried items are very hot, so let them cool slightly before sharing.
Q. What are the signature items?
A. Miyajima Oyster Curry Bread (with two oysters), Wagyu Beef Curry Bread, tomato-cheese varieties, and mozzarella. Meat options are hearty, while cheese items are kid favorites.
Q. Have you won any awards?
A. Yes. The Tomato Cheese Curry with 5 Luxurious Cheeses, produced at the Koyo Factory, won the Gold Prize in the Curry Bread Grand Prix 2024 (Q.B.B. Award).
Q. What are the features of the Noborimachi Store?
A. Located near Ginzan-cho Station, this city shop has a small eat-in area. Open from morning, it’s convenient for commuters and shoppers.
Spots to Enjoy Together with Curry Bread
Once you’ve gotten your curry bread from Hiroshima Curry Bread Lab, let’s explore more of Miyajima’s attractions! First stop should be the world heritage Itsukushima Shrine. It shows completely different faces at high tide and low tide, so visiting twice at different times is highly recommended.
When you think of Miyajima, you think of Itsukushima Shrine. Cradled b...
For families who love hands-on experiences, Yamadaya’s momiji manju making workshop is perfect. You can eat freshly baked ones while the kids have a blast with the experience!
Handmade Momiji Manju Experience at "Yamada-ya Miyajima Main Store" ...
Food lovers should definitely check out Miyatoyo, a local favorite. This renowned anago rice restaurant is so good you’ll finish every bite even after the curry bread!
Miyatoyo Main Store is the only shop in Miyajima specializing in hand-baked momiji manju. Since 1984, this long-standing confectioner has delighted visitors with Cheese Momiji Manju, Belgian Chocolate, Belgian White, and classic Koshian. Discover the shop’s atmosphere, flavor tips, and how to buy for souvenirs.
Summary
For an easy taste of “Hiroshima-ness” in Miyajima, the inventive, award-winning curry breads from this lab are a must. Their popularity comes from clever fillings paired with custom doughs, craftsmanship recognized by national awards, and traveler-friendly prices. They’re easy to share on family trips, and the line moves quickly—a big plus. Bring cash, arrive early, and bite into a fresh one as you enjoy the sea breeze. Our kids always ask “When are we going again?” every time we visit—it’s become that much of a favorite!
If you’re compiling a list of what to eat in Miyajima—alongside grilled anago rice (conger eel) and oysters—Hiroshima Curry Bread Lab deserves a top spot for street food in Miyajima.
