Panser (Yamaguchi)

A casual spot where you can enjoy Iwakuni local specialties and light bites for takeout or eat-in. It’s located across from the Shimogawara Parking Lot along the Nishiki River and is popular with tourists visiting Kintaikyo Bridge.

“Iwakuni Sushi,” said to have once been made for gifts and celebrations, is a gorgeous pressed sushi packed with toppings like lotus root, shrimp, and shredded egg. Another Yamaguchi favorite, grilled mackerel sushi, has an excellent balance of savory grilled mackerel with the tang of vinegared rice and ginger. You can also buy it by the piece, making it easy to eat on the go.

Beyond local specialties, the shop also offers light meals and sweets made with ingredients from Yamaguchi and Iwakuni. Their milk soft-serve—made with Yamaguchi milk and available with various toppings, plus options like a coffee float—is especially refreshing in warm weather. The croquettes are fried to order and served piping hot, with the crisp texture of Iwakuni lotus root adding a great accent.