If you’re planning a family trip to Miyajima and wondering what to eat on the island, this long-loved okonomiyaki restaurant is a perfect lunch stop. Popular with locals and visitors alike, it offers a relaxed, kid-friendly atmosphere and a menu that blends classic toppings with island favorites like oysters. After visiting several times with my elementary school kids, we found that even at peak lunch hours the turnover is quick. Watching the okonomiyaki sizzle on the hot griddle right in front of you sparks instant excitement—and the inevitable promise: “Let’s come back and eat here again in Miyajima.” Since the island entrance tax of 100 yen started in October 2023, please prepare it along with the ferry fare.
For access to Miyajima, I recommend the JR Ferry that takes you close to the great torii gate! It’s safe even for families with children.
The Miyajima Ferry is more than simple transport—it's a short scenic c...
Miyajima’s Long-Established Okonomiyaki Spot: “Kurawanka”
Kurawanka, a Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki restaurant, welcomes you with an eye-catching wooden ladle sign that hints at the comforting, home-style flavors inside.
Established in 1991, it has been a local favorite for 34 years. Look closely and you’ll notice slightly retro lanterns adding to the nostalgic charm—just the kind of cozy detail travelers love discovering on Miyajima. When my eldest daughter first saw it, her eyes went wide and she asked, “Do we eat with that giant paddle?” The excitement was immediate!
Fun Fact ~ Hiroshima Okonomiyaki History ~
Okonomiyaki took root in Hiroshima after World War II.
During the war, it was a simple griddle snack: a thin flour batter cooked on an iron plate, topped with tempura flakes and green onions.
As life recovered, people added cabbage and pork, experimented with toppings, and the dish evolved into what we now know as Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki—a regional comfort food that represents Hiroshima’s soul.
Stepping Inside “Kurawanka”
The interior has a cozy, old-fashioned warmth that feels instantly welcoming. We were lucky—it was a weekday just before lunch, so it wasn’t crowded, and I was quietly pleased to spot handy coat hooks along the wall. By the way, weekdays from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM tend to be the least crowded, so if you want to avoid the rush, keep this in mind.
Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki differs from the Kansai style, where ingredients are mixed into the batter. Here, the signature is careful layering: cabbage, pork, crispy tempura bits, squid tempura, and your choice of soba or udon are stacked between thin crepes of batter and then grilled. The result is a deliciously structured cake with a glossy fried egg on top. When choosing noodles, soba tends to be slightly more popular among regulars.
After lunch, strolling through Omotesando Shopping Street is also recommended. There are plenty of street food options to enjoy.
Omotesando Shopping Street stretches from Miyajima Pier to Itsukushima...
Let’s enjoy authentic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki!
I ordered the classic squid tempura soba (¥1,050). It’s cooked to order and came out promptly. The cabbage stays pleasantly crisp, and everything arrives piping hot. Thoughtful cut lines make it easy to share, and the aroma of the house sauce is irresistible. Even with a generous pour, the sauce isn’t too spicy, so don’t be shy about adding more. In addition to squid tempura soba, there’s okonomiyaki topped with Miyajima’s emblematic oysters, plus playful variations like mochi, shrimp, cheese, and scallops—a seafood-friendly lineup perfect for foodies searching for the best okonomiyaki in Miyajima.
It’s the kind of dish you’ll polish off quickly yet still find satisfying in volume. I was driving, so no beer this time, but a cold draft alongside Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki would be spot on. This is a place that easily earns a spot on the “Miyajima gourmet” shortlist.
My kids were fascinated: “Mom, listen to that sizzling sound on the griddle!” They’re always excited to watch the cooking process. When we ordered the cheese version, my youngest daughter exclaimed with delight, “Wow, look how it stretches!”
After enjoying okonomiyaki, be sure to visit the World Heritage Site Itsukushima Shrine.
When you think of Miyajima, you think of Itsukushima Shrine. Cradled b...
A diverse array of eateries you can’t cover in just one day♪
Go find your favorite spot.
Speaking of Miyajima specialties, you can’t miss the conger eel rice. You can enjoy a different kind of Miyajima deliciousness from okonomiyaki.
When visiting Miyajima, you absolutely must try anago-meshi (anago ric...
The Shop’s Atmosphere
Established in the early Heisei era, Kurawanka still radiates a homey vibe where locals and travelers mingle comfortably. With family in tow, the wait while your okonomiyaki cooks becomes part of the entertainment—like watching a live show at the teppan. Kids light up when they see the big wooden paddle sign, a fun welcome that makes you feel like you’ve truly arrived on the island.
My eldest daughter always says, “This restaurant is like a stage with the griddle!” Indeed, watching the chef flip the okonomiyaki with their spatula is like witnessing a performance. My youngest also claps her hands and watches intently, saying “Amazing!”
Basic Information (Address, Hours, Regular Holidays)
Address: 589-5 Miyajimacho, Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture 739-0559. Phone: 0829-44-2077, Fax: 0829-44-2099. Business hours are 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with Tuesdays as regular closing days (open if Tuesday is a holiday). Additionally, May, August, and November have irregular closures, so arriving early is recommended during long weekends and peak seasons. Despite the short hours, turnover is quick, and even if there’s a line at lunchtime, it tends to move smoothly. If you’re visiting with small children, arriving right after opening or choosing a slightly late lunch around 2:00 PM usually makes for an easier, calmer seating.
Seating, Facilities, and Child-Friendly Points
Seating consists of 13 counter seats + 22 table seats = 35 total seats. The restaurant is non-smoking, and folding strollers at the entrance keeps the flow smooth. Pets are not allowed, but guide dogs, hearing dogs, and service dogs are permitted. The simple addition of coat hooks is genuinely helpful—no need to juggle outerwear. Diaper changing sheets are available in almost all public restrooms, so families with children can visit with peace of mind.
Our family usually sits at the counter to watch the chef at work while we wait. The kids get so into it that they start memorizing the steps and whispering, “Next up, the egg!” Since the griddle is hot, it’s safest to keep bags and belongings tucked by your feet once seated. My eldest daughter says she wants to try making okonomiyaki herself next time—she seems to really enjoy watching the process.
If you plan to climb Mount Misen after your meal, you can access it easily via the ropeway. The sacred fire that has been burning for 1200 years is very popular with children!
The definitive one-day guide to "Mt. Misen sightseeing." Rising behind...
Menu & Prices (Soba, Udon, Oyster Options)
The specialty here is okonomiyaki. Choose soba or udon noodles, and the toppings transform the flavor profile. The classic “Kurawanka Okonomiyaki” is ¥780. The popular squid tempura version is ¥890, the cheese version for added richness is ¥940, the shrimp version to savor the sea’s aroma is ¥1,150, the scallop version packed with umami is ¥1,250, and the premium selection with luxurious ingredients is around ¥1,300. Prices vary by noodle type, portion size, and topping combinations, but an okonomiyaki featuring Miyajima’s oysters is a feast that truly says “this is why you eat in Miyajima.”
For quick bites, there’s chicken karaage (¥590), edamame (¥590), and scallop karaage (¥640). Drinks include draft, bottled, and non-alcoholic beer, sake, chuhai, and various soft drinks—easy to match to everyone’s tastes.
Our family favorite is to share one “oyster + soba” and one “cheese + udon” so we can compare. Kids love the creamy cheese, while adults savor the briny umami of oysters—guaranteed smiles all around. My husband always marvels, “Oyster okonomiyaki is such a luxury!”
Payment Methods & Takeout
We accept a wide range of credit cards (ALOC, DC, Diners, JCB, UFJ, MasterCard, Nicos, UC, VISA). For takeout, even during busy times, letting staff know your pickup time keeps things smooth. You’ll often see travelers grabbing a box to enjoy while waiting for the ferry. To fully appreciate the fresh-off-the-griddle aroma, we recommend eating soon after pickup. Kids love the mini adventure of “okonomiyaki on the boat!”—a fun way to end a day on Miyajima.
Access & Parking
By car: Approximately 30 minutes (about 28 km) from Hatsukaichi IC or Ono IC. Use coin parking near Miyajimaguchi or the parking lot on the island (¥200, additional ¥100). A local tip: if you can get up early, the parking behind “Momiji Honpo” near Miyajimaguchi is often available before 8:00 AM—definitely worth trying if you’re an early riser!
By public transport, it’s about 70 minutes (fare approx. ¥280) from Hiroden Hatsukaichi Station to Miyajimaguchi. Combine the trip with a ferry ride and a stroll along Machiya Street for a full day of sightseeing. For families with young children, visiting Itsukushima Shrine and the shopping street in the morning, then having a late lunch around 2:00 PM, helps avoid fatigue and crowds.
For rainy days, the nearby Miyajima Aquarium is also a great option. The aquarium offers free stroller rentals, which is very convenient.
Located at the gateway to the World Heritage island of Miyajima, Miyaj...
Daisho-in Temple, which actually has a longer history than Itsukushima Shrine, is also within walking distance. It’s famous locally as a power spot.
Your complete guide to Daishō-in Temple on Miyajima: history, what to do, spiritual experiences (sand stepping, fire walking, Kaidan Meguri), annual events, access, barrier-free info, and how to get a goshuin (temple stamp).
Senjokaku, associated with Toyotomi Hideyoshi, is also a hidden gem where children can run around freely. It’s walking distance from Kurawanka.
Highlights and Views at Miyajima's Hōkoku Shrine (Senjōkaku) Perched ...
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation?
Seating is generally first-come, first-served. During peak seasons, arriving right after opening or around 2:00 PM can minimize wait times.
Can portions be divided for children?
Yes. Okonomiyaki is served with pre-cut sections for easy sharing, and both soba and udon noodles are a manageable thickness for kids.
Is takeout available?
Yes. Informing staff of your pickup time ensures a smoother process and is convenient while waiting for the ferry.
What payment methods are accepted?
Major credit cards are accepted. During busy periods, checkout may take a little longer.
Is smoking permitted?
The restaurant is non-smoking, so families with children can dine comfortably.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are not permitted, but guide dogs, hearing dogs, and service dogs are welcome.
Are oysters available year-round?
There’s a year-round selection. During peak oyster season, the flavor deepens for a taste that truly represents the island.
Summary
Blending seamlessly into Miyajima’s relaxed rhythm, “Kurawanka” is a friendly, family-ready spot for Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. The time spent watching the griddle becomes part of the meal’s charm. With island-inspired toppings like oysters, squid tempura, and cheese, you’ll have fun discovering your favorite combination. Asking the kids, “Which topping should we try next?” turns eating here into a tradition you’ll look forward to each season.
After the meal, soft-serve ice cream at Omotesando is less crowded after 5:00 PM, making it perfect for dessert time. Our family always heads home talking about “Let’s come to Miyajima again!” – that’s become our tradition.
