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Every time I visit Kochi, there’s one place I never miss—Hirome Market, located right in the heart of Kochi City.
Seared bonito, local sake, cheerful voices, and an energetic atmosphere—although a tourist spot, Hirome Market feels like a natural part of everyday life. No matter how often I go, I’m always comforted by its familiar vibe.
In this article, I’ll share how I typically spend a day at Hirome Market—a place I’ve returned to time and time again. I hope you get a sense of its charm and unique ambiance.
If you’re looking for an overview of what to see and do at Hirome Market, check out the guide below.
Read more about Hirome Market
The first thing I always order at Hirome Market is the seared bonito. Each vendor has its own take, so I never get tired of trying it again and again.
On this visit, I paired it with a beer. Chargrilled over straw, the bonito has a rich, smoky aroma that perfectly complements the dipping sauce and garnishes—Kochi flavor at its finest from the very first bite.
At Hiromeya, I also enjoyed small dishes like simmered vegetables. Prepared with local ingredients, these dishes may not be flashy, but their warmth and care shine through with every bite.
Hiromeya carries all 18 varieties of Tosa sake, making it the perfect spot for sake lovers.
Each establishment at the market has its own personality—flavors, ambiance, and specialties differ. Whether you stay at one place or hop around to sample different dishes, both are fun ways to experience Hirome Market.
At Hirome Market, the standard style is to order from various stalls and eat in the shared seating areas. Some shops have seats inside, but most are takeout-style. Where you sit is entirely up to you.
Each section—whether the center or along the aisles—has its own vibe. Some people find seats first before choosing food, while others walk around with their trays in search of open seats.
Some shops serve food directly over the counter, while others hand out number cards and deliver your order to your seat. Even if it’s your first time, the staff are kind and helpful—no need to worry.
Choosing a shop with indoor seating is also an option, especially when you’re in the mood for a more relaxed atmosphere.
Mix and match whatever you feel like eating, and enjoy it at your preferred seat—that’s the Hirome Market way.
There’s no need to clean up after eating at Hirome Market. Dedicated staff roam around to collect used plates and glasses.
Unlike typical food court-style spots, Hirome Market is known for its attentive care, from cleanup to table sanitization.
Even if you order from multiple vendors, just finish eating and walk away—no need to return dishes individually. That makes it easy to try many different things without hassle.
Cleanliness and quick clearing also ensure the next guests can enjoy their time comfortably. That level of thoughtfulness really enhances the overall experience.
Hirome Market is always bustling, day and night. Dishes displayed at the stalls, laughter around the tables, the rhythmic sounds of the Tosa dialect—here, tourism blends naturally with everyday life.
Walk through the aisles and you’ll see tourists choosing dishes and regulars chatting with beer in hand. It feels less like a market and more like a small town of its own.
It’s also common to strike up casual conversations with strangers at the counter. On this visit, I chatted at length with a friendly local at the Shuntaro counter.
Lunch and dinner hours can be crowded, but by going a bit earlier or later, you can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
Hirome Market draws in people looking for great food and those wanting to unwind in good company.
Its appeal goes beyond just the seared bonito or sake—it’s the casual conversations, the spontaneous interactions with those sitting beside you. These everyday moments deepen your travel experience.
Though a tourist destination, Hirome Market has a down-to-earth feel, deeply rooted in local life. It offers a genuine look into Kochi’s culture and the warmth of its people—a place beloved by many.
When I return to Kochi, I always want to eat, talk, and laugh here again.
Hirome Market is a special place for travelers, where anyone can enjoy memorable encounters with food and people alike. I hope you get to experience it too.
