While exploring the beautiful island of Miyajima—after a short ferry ride from Hiroshima—I stumbled upon Yakigaki no Hayashi, a restaurant famed for its oysters. The long line outside already hinted that I was in for something special.

I ordered a set meal that let me try oysters prepared three ways: fresh, grilled, and tempura. Each one was excellent, but the grilled oysters truly surprised me. In my past experiences elsewhere, grilled oysters were often dry or lackluster—but here, because the oysters were huge, juicy, and fresh, grilling only enhanced their flavor. It was one of the highlights of my meal.

Of course, the fresh oysters were a classic—bright, clean, and tasting of the sea. And the tempura oysters were another delight: lightly battered, crisp, and expertly fried, as you would expect from Japanese tempura masters.

I also tried their eel, which was tender and flavorful—a great addition to the meal.

Between the incredible food, the bustling but cozy atmosphere, and the charm of Miyajima itself, Yakigaki no Hayashi made for an unforgettable stop. Highly recommended if you ever find yourself visiting this beautiful island.