Do you know a restaurant called “Hōsen” in Kawaramachi, Kyoto?
"Hōsen" is famous as a restaurant serving authentic Cantonese cuisine, and many people visit in search of classic dishes such as noodles and fried rice.
So, what are some of Houzen’s charms and popular menu items?
In this post, I’d like to introduce “Hōsen,” a popular spot in Kyoto’s Nakagyō Ward.
■What Exactly Is Cantonese Cuisine?
Some of you may have never tried Cantonese cuisine! Cantonese cuisine refers to the dishes eaten in southern China, specifically in Guangdong Province, Hong Kong, Macau, and other regions.
As the old saying goes, “The best food is found in Guangdong.” The region is rich in produce from both the mountains and the sea, and its cuisine is characterized by light seasoning that brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
■ What kind of restaurant is “Hōsen”?
"Hōsen" is a well-loved Chinese restaurant in Kyoto that is frequently visited by residents of the Kawaramachi-Nijo area.
This is a Kyoto-style Cantonese restaurant that carries on the tradition of the "Hōbu" restaurant.
It has been selected as one of the "100 Best Restaurants," and its flavors are easy to enjoy and loved by people of all ages and genders.
■ What are the popular menu items at “Hōsen”?
At "Fengquan," there are many items on the menu, including chili miso crispy chicken, fried rice, and spring rolls.
Among all the items on the menu, the popular “shumai” (dumplings) sometimes sell out depending on the day of your visit.
The shumai are large and hearty.
Rather than being greasy, it has a light flavor, so it’s enjoyable for everyone from adults to children.
As soon as it was brought to the table, I took a big bite—the inside was piping hot and fluffy, and it was absolutely delicious.
The skin is tender, and the juices inside are absolutely delicious.
The crisp texture of the “kwa” adds a nice touch, so be sure to savor it as you eat.
■ Reviews of “Hōsen”
Let's take a look at the reviews for "Hōsen."
・This is the place to go for famous Kyoto-style Chinese cuisine. I’ve been wanting to visit here for a long time, even within Kyoto Prefecture, so I’m glad I finally did. The shumai was the best.
・Surprisingly, the shumai were sold out! I had the popular spring rolls and the spicy miso dish instead. The seasoning was light and easy to eat, and it was absolutely delicious.
・It’s not the kind of greasy Chinese food you might expect; instead, it has a flavor that’s easy for everyone—young and old, men and women—to enjoy.
・The owner used to train at “Hōbu,” so you can enjoy the same delicious flavors from back then. The spring rolls are wrapped in thin wrappers and have a unique taste you can’t find anywhere else—that’s why I always come here.
・Both the spring rolls with leeks and the sweet and sour pork were delicious. Kyoto-style Chinese food really is the best! I prefer light Chinese cuisine the most.
■ Address and Directions to “Hōsen”
Finally, let's take a look at the address and directions to "Hōsen."
○ Address of “Hōsen”
1F, AXEAB Building, 359 Kiyomizu-cho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
○ How to Get to “Hōsen”
About a 2-minute walk from "Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae Station" on the Tozai Subway Line
Phone number
075-241-6288
○ Homepage
https://kantonhosen.wixsite.com/hosen
■ Summary
How was it?
In this article, we’ve shared information about “Fengquan,” a restaurant serving Kyoto-style Cantonese cuisine, and introduced its popular dish, shumai.
If you're strolling through Nakagyo Ward in Kyoto and get hungry, be sure to stop by and enjoy some authentic cuisine!
