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Kiyoken Shiumai Bento: A Must-Try Local Food in Yokohama

If you’re planning a trip to Yokohama and wondering what local food you absolutely shouldn’t miss — here’s your answer: Kiyoken Shiumai.

These juicy little dumplings are iconic, beloved by locals, and surprisingly travel-friendly. Whether you’re hopping on a bullet train or exploring Chinatown, they’re the perfect savory snack. But there’s more to Kiyoken than meets the eye. Let’s dig in.

What Is Kiyoken Shiumai?

Shiumai (or shumai) are steamed dumplings originally from China, but Kiyoken’s version is something uniquely Yokohama. They’ve been serving these bite-sized treats since 1928, and they’ve become a staple of the city’s food culture.

Unlike Chinese-style shumai that often include shrimp, Kiyoken’s are made with ground pork and a secret weapon: dried scallops. This gives them a rich, umami flavor that holds up even when cold — which is exactly why they’re sold as popular “ekiben” (train station lunch boxes) across Japan.

Why People Love Them

Kiyoken Shiumai are:

  • Easy to eat: Small, no mess, and perfect for on-the-go.
  • Flavor-packed: Thanks to dried scallops and a time-tested recipe.
  • Travel-proof: Delicious even hours after you buy them. No microwave needed!

They’re typically served with spicy Japanese mustard (karashi) and soy sauce. Each box even includes a tiny ceramic soy sauce bottle shaped like a penguin — “Hyo-chan” — which has become a collectible item in its own right.

Where to Buy Kiyoken Shiumai

You’ll find Kiyoken shops all over Yokohama, especially:

  • Inside Yokohama Station (near the east exit)
  • In Chinatown — look for the “Shiumai Bar”
  • At department store food halls
  • In Shin-Yokohama, where the Kiyoken Factory offers tours and samples

Most shops sell the classic Shiumai Bento — a beautifully packed box with five dumplings, rice, and Japanese-style sides. It’s a favorite among commuters, tourists, and foodies alike.

How to Enjoy Them Like a Local

  • Dip it right: Add a dab of mustard, dip lightly in soy sauce.
  • Eat on the move: These are made for train rides, park picnics, or hotel snacking.
  • Keep the souvenir: The Hyo-chan sauce bottle is too cute to toss!

If you’re heading home, consider picking up a frozen pack as a gift. Kiyoken also makes vacuum-packed Shiumai that stay fresh longer — ideal for souvenirs or snacks back at your Airbnb.

A Taste of Yokohama in Every Bite

Shiumai may be small, but they pack a lot of Yokohama history and pride. From their roots as platform snacks in the 1920s to their current status as cultural icons, Kiyoken’s dumplings are more than food — they’re a delicious part of the city’s identity.

If you try just one local dish in Yokohama, make it this one.

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