Miyajima is one of Japan’s foremost sightseeing areas – No matter how many times I visit I never grow tired of its large vermilion red torii gate and magnificent Shinto shrine.
But did you know that Miyajima has another famed item you won’t grow tired of, no matter how many times you taste it?

This time I visited Anagomeshi Ueno, a shop located right before the Miyajima ferry wharf.

With the opening of Miyajima station in 1897 (currently JR Miyajimaguchi station), the history of the conger eel rice lunch box (anagomeshi) began as sales commenced at the station. It has been loved in the area for around 120 years!

The shop bristles with customers every day. During weekends and long holidays, a long line will form in front of the shop. If you aren’t able to eat in the shop, you can buy a boxed lunch instead.
And this is it!

Ueno’s famous conger eel rice lunch box. The retro style packaging makes me feel somehow excited! And then on the inside…

I pick some up with my chopsticks… it’s so soft! Bon appetite!
It’s deeeeeeeelicious!!!
The conger eel’s fatty meat, the salty-sweet sauce, and the savory fragrance of the rice cooked in a broth made with conger eel leftovers and soy sauce… Actually, this is the third time for me to eat conger eel rice at this shop, but it surprised me again: “It really is so delicious!”

In the kitchen, veteran staff members fry the conger eel. It’s dipped in a special sauce before being put on the grill. Repeating this three times ensures that the flavor soaks in properly. So as not to lose the flavor of the raw ingredients, the sauce is mildly sweet. And that’s why you won’t grow tired of it no matter how many times you eat it!