Top 5 Places to Eat in Himeji

Written by Alexander Kopp, Sandra Frank, Sophie King
21/08/2025
Beautiful view of Himeji Castle with a scenic foreground in Hyōgo, Japan.
Salvador Chinchilla, Pexels

Himeji's dining scene offers a delightful journey through traditional Japanese cuisine, with a strong emphasis on fresh local seafood, regional specialties like conger eel and Himeji Oden, and options for various tastes and budgets.

1. Yamayoshi (Sumiyaki Anago Yamayoshi)

Cuisine: Conger Eel (Anago)

Stepping into Yamayoshi, one immediately notices the inviting aroma of charcoal-grilled eel. This restaurant specializes in anago, offering dishes like Anago Meshi, where grilled and steamed conger eel is generously served over seasoned rice. The Anago Wappa, featuring various eel preparations, is another recommended choice. The interior offers a cozy, retro Japanese atmosphere, and it is a popular spot for both lunch and dinner. Expect a line, as it is a highly sought-after local experience.

Price: Lunch: ~2,000 JPY (~13 USD), Dinner: ~2,000 JPY (~13 USD)

Getting There: A brief 3-minute walk from Himeji Station. Exit north and enter Omizosuji shopping street, walking north for about one minute.

2. Himeji Sushi Ichi

Cuisine: Sushi and Seafood (especially Conger Eel)

At Himeji Sushi Ichi, the focus is on showcasing the natural flavors of seasonal fish sourced fresh from the Seto Inland Sea daily. While grilled eel sushi is common in Himeji, this establishment offers a unique steamed anago nigiri sushi, known for its plump and fluffy texture, perfectly complementing the sushi rice. The restaurant features a chic and serene ambiance with counter seats that allow a view of the artisans at work, alongside private rooms ideal for a more intimate setting.

Price: Lunch: ~5,000 JPY (~32 USD), Dinner: ~12,000 JPY (~77 USD)

Getting There: Located conveniently near Himeji Castle. From JR Himeji Station, head towards Himeji Castle, then turn left at the sixth corner, finding the restaurant on the left before Prefectural Road 62.

3. Yakiniku Senzankaku

Cuisine: Yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) with Wagyu Beef

Yakiniku Senzankaku provides an opportunity to enjoy carefully selected Japanese Black Wagyu beef at reasonable prices. The Premium Tongue and Premium Loin are highly recommended for their quality cuts, often enjoyed with a squeeze of lemon. The Jar Kalbi, marinated in a special sauce, is another popular choice. The restaurant offers both sunken kotatsu seating and traditional table seating, making it comfortable for various groups, including families.

Price: Dinner: ~3,000-5,000 JPY (~19-32 USD)

Getting There: Situated just a 5-minute walk from Himeji Station on the Sanyo Main Line.

4. Memme (Sanuki Udon Menme)

Cuisine: Udon Noodles

Memme is a fantastic choice for those seeking authentic and comforting udon noodles. The broth is rich, and the noodles possess a delightful chewiness. It is a favored spot for a quick, satisfying, and affordable meal, especially on a cooler day. The simplicity and quality of the udon make it a highly regarded local spot, often highlighted for its value.

Price: Lunch/Dinner: ~500-1,000 JPY (~3-6 USD)

Getting There: It is easily accessible and often listed among restaurants close to Himeji Station and Himeji Castle, indicating it's within comfortable walking distance from the main tourist areas.

5. Jigoro

Cuisine: Izakaya (Japanese Pub) with Local Seafood and Sake

Jigoro offers a relaxed Japanese-style setting to savor local delicacies and a fine selection of sake, particularly those from the Setonaikai region. The menu features fresh fish, with various preparations of conger and Satsuma beef. The bright and spacious counter area provides a welcoming atmosphere, and private rooms are available for those desiring more privacy. Visitors can enjoy dishes like exquisite ramen with sea bream soup, alongside other traditional izakaya fare, paired with local brews.

Price: Dinner: ~3,000-5,000 JPY (~19-32 USD)

Getting There: Located near Himeji Station, accessible by walking.

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