The area around JR Yokogawa Station in Hiroshima’s Nishi Ward has, in recent years, transformed into a deep ‘Little Asia,’ with an increasing number of international students and long-term residents from China, Vietnam, and other Asian countries, leading to an array of authentic food stores and restaurants. In this vibrant area, ‘Xuân Shop Việt Nhật Hiroshima’ has garnered overwhelming support from Vietnamese residents and local ethnic food enthusiasts.
Xuân Shop Việt Nhật Hiroshima
📍 Address: 1-7-26 Misasa-machi, Nishi Ward, Hiroshima, Hiroshima Prefecture, 733-0003 Japan (Dia Palace Misasa 2, 102)
This supermarket, quietly nestled in Misasa-machi within walking distance of Yokogawa Station, is an authentic Vietnamese grocery store run by a friendly Vietnamese gentleman. What appears to be a small shop from the outside transforms into a local Vietnamese market the moment you step inside. The shelves are filled with local packages bearing no Japanese labels, and an exotic aroma fills the air.
From staples like seasonings, spices, fresh spring roll wrappers, and pho noodles, to rare frozen ingredients, meats, fresh Asian vegetables, and local snacks that are hard to find in Japan, it boasts one of the best selections in Hiroshima Prefecture. Not only has it become a vital hub for international students and technical interns seeking a taste of home, but it’s also highly praised for its prices and service, with customers remarking, ‘It’s cheaper than any other store’ and ‘Perfect for bulk business purchases.’
The Appeal of Local Items You Can Only Buy Here
The biggest draw of this store is encountering unique ingredients not typically available in regular Japanese supermarkets. For those who wish to recreate authentic Vietnamese dishes at home, it’s a treasure trove, featuring items like Nuoc Mam (fish sauce), local chili sauces, and Sa Te Tom (shrimp-flavored spicy seasoning).
Furthermore, it offers a rich selection of popular local snacks, perfect for snack time or as small gifts, such as coconut crackers, mung bean cakes, and sunflower seeds. The pricing is very reasonable, and it’s not uncommon to see local young people buying in bulk or splurging. If you’re unsure how to use an unfamiliar ingredient or seasoning, the friendly staff member will eagerly guide you.
Tips for Shopping at a Local Vietnamese Supermarket
While you can enjoy an atmosphere and energy just like in Vietnam, there’s also a ‘local relaxedness’ that differs from Japan’s meticulously organized chain supermarkets. The staff are enthusiastic and very friendly, but rare instances of pricing errors at the register can occur due to manual handling. While this is part of the charm of an overseas local market, it’s a smart move 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 procuring ingredients. Through the conversations of international students you pass in the aisles and the vibrant energy of locals gathering on weekends to seek a taste of their homeland, you can truly feel the atmosphere of a real community. This shop, which offers a sense of a ‘mini-trip’ to Vietnam while still in Hiroshima, is undoubtedly recommended for both locals looking to add a little spice and exotic flair to their daily lives, and long-term residents yearning for the flavors of home.
