The area around JR Yokogawa Station in Nishi Ward, Hiroshima City, has transformed into a deep ‘Little Asia’ in recent years, with an increase in international students and mid- to long-term residents from Asian countries like China and Vietnam, leading to a cluster of authentic grocery stores and restaurants. In this vibrant area, ‘Xuân Shop Việt Nhật Hiroshima’ has garnered overwhelming support from Vietnamese residents and local ethnic food enthusiasts alike.
Xuân Shop Việt Nhật Hiroshima
📍 Address: 102 Daiya Palace Misasa 2, 1-7-26 Misasa-machi, Nishi Ward, Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture, 733-0003 Japan
This supermarket, quietly nestled in Misasa-machi, within walking distance from Yokogawa Station, is an authentic Vietnamese grocery store run by a friendly Vietnamese gentleman. At first glance, it might appear small, but step inside, and you’re immediately transported to a local Vietnamese market. The shelves are packed with products in their original packaging, with no Japanese labels, and the air is filled with exotic aromas.
Beyond staples like seasonings, spices, fresh spring roll wrappers, and pho noodles, the store boasts one of Hiroshima Prefecture’s best selections, including rare frozen foods and meats not easily found in Japan, fresh Asian vegetables, and local sweets. It serves as a vital hub for international students and technical trainees seeking the taste of home. Moreover, it’s highly praised for its prices and service, often described as ‘cheaper than any other store’ and ‘perfect for business procurement.’
The Charm of Local Items You Can Only Buy Here
The greatest appeal of this store is the encounter with unique ingredients not available in typical Japanese supermarkets. For those who wish to recreate authentic Vietnamese dishes at home, it’s a treasure trove of items like nước mắm (fish sauce), local chili sauces, and Sate Tôm (a spicy shrimp-flavored condiment).
Additionally, you’ll find a wide variety of snacks popular among local youths, such as coconut crackers, mung bean cakes, and sunflower seeds, perfect for snack time or as small souvenirs. The pricing is very reasonable, and it’s not uncommon to see young locals buying in bulk. If you’re unsure how to use unfamiliar ingredients or seasonings, don’t hesitate to ask the friendly staff member, who will enthusiastically guide you.
Things to Note When Shopping at a Local Supermarket
While you can enjoy the authentic energy and atmosphere, there’s also a ‘local looseness’ that differs from Japan’s meticulously organized chain supermarkets. The staff are enthusiastic and very friendly, but occasional billing errors at the register might occur due to manual processing. This is part of the charm of an overseas local market, but to be on the safe side, it’s wise to quickly check your receipt and the number of items after payment when shopping in such an authentic environment.
Experience the Vietnamese Community Around Yokogawa Station
Shopping at ‘Xuân Shop Việt Nhật Hiroshima’ is more than just sourcing ingredients. Through the conversations of international students you pass in the aisles and the vibrant energy of locals gathering on weekends for a taste of home, you can genuinely feel the atmosphere of a real community. This shop, which offers a mini-trip to Vietnam while in Hiroshima, is undoubtedly a recommended spot for locals seeking a touch of spice and exoticism in their daily lives, as well as for long-term residents craving the flavors of their homeland.
