Hirome Market: The Energy of the Food Stall Village Where Kochi's Food Culture is Concentrated

Hirome Market: The Sacred Ground of Kochi's Food and Sake Culture

"Hirome Market" on Otesujimotomachi in central Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture, is Kochi's largest food stall village with approximately 60 restaurants and retail shops gathered. It is the information hub of food culture rooted in Kochi residents' lives, where cuisine using local ingredients and Kochi's local sake and craft beer can be enjoyed.

Katsuo no Tataki and Tosa Cuisine

The specialty of Hirome Market is none other than "katsuo no tataki" (seared bonito). Katsuo no tataki generously seared over straw, eaten with garlic, salt, and ponzu — Kochi's pride. Additionally, unique Kochi food culture can be enjoyed including Tosa hot pot (shamo chicken), sarabachi cuisine, and fried moray eel.

"Drinking Communication" Culture

Kochi residents are active in "nomication (communication through drinking parties)," and Hirome Market is a cultural exchange venue where tourists and locals drink and eat together. The fact that it gets busy even in the morning is particularly Kochi-like.

Kochi Sunday Market

Within walking distance from Hirome Market, the "Kochi Sunday Market (Otesujimotomachi Morning Market)" is held every Sunday, one of Japan's longest running regular markets. The market with vegetables, fruits, flowers, and folk crafts lined up has over 300 years of history.

Access

Located near Kochi Castle (Otemon gate), approximately 15 minutes on foot from JR Kochi Station, approximately 10 minutes by streetcar (Tosa Electric Railway).