What other travelers are saying about Hirome Ichiba (Hirome Market)
The famous Hirome Market is one of Kochi's main tourist attractions. We love to visit the fish market and enjoy the yummy sashimi. So we were there when we visited Kochi. The market is not as organized and easy to navigate through as the other markets we have visited in Japan. Fortunately, we found three very good restaurants in there. So our trip to Hirome Market was enjoyable.
More about Hirome Ichiba (Hirome Market) from our blog
Frequently Asked Questions
Hirome Ichiba is located at 2-3-1 Obiyamachi, Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture, Japan. It’s situated near the Kochi Castle, making it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the area.
Yes, Hirome Ichiba is family-friendly and offers a variety of foods and a lively, casual atmosphere that children can enjoy. There are also non-food stalls selling souvenirs and local crafts.
Yes, there are several parking lots and facilities nearby. However, parking can be limited during peak hours, so public transportation or walking from nearby attractions might be more convenient.
The main shop that sells the bonito fish with rice and bonito sushi was delicious. But this market during weekend is packed with people hard to get a seat. Its frustrating when some local japanese seems racist and only offer their seat to their own people. But thankfully towards the end there was a helpful japanese lady that saw us holding the tray helplessly for almost 20mins and she came to us and ask us to her seat as she is leaving. In short, this market has variety of food but amount of crowd during weekend and certain racist japanese kills of the mood. Do go there during weekdays for better experience.
Many car parking lot around the market. A lot of seats are available inside the market with the air conditioning, you can buy anything you like, share and enjoy fresh sashimi, katsuo tataki, etc.
I had the most memorable experience at this local market, thanks to my friend who brought me here. It’s the kind of place you’d probably miss if you weren’t with someone who knows the area—but once you're in, it feels like stepping into the heart of the community. The market was alive with color, scent, and energy. From the friendly vendors to the vibrant stalls selling everything from handmade goods to seasonal produce, it was a real cultural treat.
The highlight for me was trying the regional specialty foods. My friend guided me through what to try, and I got to taste some incredible dishes I probably wouldn’t have discovered on my own. The flavors were so rich and unique—clearly made with local ingredients and a lot of love. It was the kind of food experience that makes you feel deeply connected to a place.
Whether you're a foodie, a traveler looking for an authentic experience, or just someone who enjoys soaking in the atmosphere of local life, I can't recommend this market enough. It’s not just about shopping—it’s a sensory journey that stays with you long after you leave.
Hirome Market in Kochi is a lively and vibrant spot with an amazing variety of fresh food. The sashimi is incredibly fresh with many options to choose from. You’ll also find tasty fried chicken and beef, perfect with a cold beer or some smooth sake. The atmosphere is casual, friendly, and full of energy—great for solo travelers or groups looking to experience local flavors in a fun setting. Highly recommended for food lovers!
