The canonical version and where to order it.
Thin-skinned island lemons from the Seto Inland Sea, used across Hiroshima in ale, sours, sauces, cakes and the citrus salt served beside grilled oysters and beef.
Lemon growing took hold on the islands of the Seto Inland Sea because the climate is mild, the rainfall is low and the terraced slopes drain fast. Hiroshima prefecture became the leading domestic producer, and the fruit is now a regional identity marker rather than just an ingredient: it appears in craft beer at Sessions Brewery, in momiji manju fillings on Miyajima, and in the citrus salt that comes with grilled oysters. Because the peel is eaten as often as the juice, unwaxed island fruit is sold at a premium.
1 editor pick for Setouchi lemon in Hiroshima, ranked by editorial score. All Hiroshima signature dishes · Setouchi lemon across every city.
Sessions Brewery brews in 100 to 150 litre batches at Tokaichimachi and serves them in its own Hiroshima beer hall with house tacos and smoked snacks.
TipThe brewery leans on local flavours with the Oyster City Stout and the Hiroshima Lemon Ale, both worth asking after by name.
Setouchi lemon makes more sense with someone from Hiroshima explaining it. These are the classes and tours we have checked, with booking links.
Guided tour · 3 hours
Taste Hiroshima's foods in one night in its biggest nightlife district. You'll explore the city with a local guide, visit 3 local bars, and try the best food and drink...
Guided tour · 3 hours
Hiroshima is a Foodie Heaven with fresh seafood, Classic Soul Food dishes, and warm hospitality. Discover the Best with us!
Guided tour · 1.5 hours
Cook authentic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at a beloved local restaurant. Step into a real teppanyaki kitchen, cook with the owner, and enjoy the okonomiyaki you made ...