By うどんそば 広島 岡山 Udonsoba
This immersive food-focused journey takes viewers through the vibrant nightlife and local dining culture of Hiroshima and neighboring cities, showcasing hidden culinary gems that remain bustling even in the dead of night. The video begins at Ryuou (龍王), located in the heart of Hiroshima’s lively nightlife area Yagenbori (薬研堀). The narrator dives into a hearty bowl of ramen and fried rice at 2am, emphasizing how packed the small diner is despite the late hour — a testament to its local popularity. Ryuou offers a classic 'machi chuka' (town-style Chinese) experience, emblematic of Japanese take on Chinese comfort food.
Next, the host visits Isshintei (一心亭) in Higashi-Kanonomachi (東観音町), another part of Hiroshima. The scene captures the nostalgic vibes of the Showa era, reinforced by the retro decor and sizzling woks behind the counter. The affordable menu brims with fried rice, gyoza, and ramen, reinforcing the old-school charm of local Chinese eateries.
The adventure continues to Idehara (いではら) in Kasaoka, Okayama Prefecture, highlighting the regional ramen traditions specific to Kasaoka. Known for their soy-sauce-based broth with chicken oil, this variation delivers a taste unique to the area, offering a contrast to the Hiroshima fare previously sampled.
The host then shifts focus to Kure City (呉市), returning to Hiroshima Prefecture, visiting two popular yatai (street food stalls). First is Yatai Kasa (屋台 かさ), a cozy stall famed for its comforting bowls of ramen served in a lively, communal setting. Lastly, at Fuji-san (富士さん), another yatai just blocks away from the previous stop, viewers get a sense of the strong late-night food culture in Kure. Despite being simple stalls, these spots are filled with patrons enjoying freshly-made food into the early morning hours.
This video is a deep dive into the enduring appeal of 'machi chuka' — showcasing how these establishments not only fuel local night owls but serve as cultural touchstones of Japanese urban life. Whether packed diners in Hiroshima or nostalgic yatai in Kure, the journey offers savory insights into the culinary soul of western Japan.