Kiyoken’s shiumai are one of Yokohama’s best-known local specialties. The company first opened for business at Yokohama Station, at what is now Sakuragicho, in 1908 (Meiji 41). Since then, it has continued to serve shiumai made primarily with pork and enriched with the deep, savory flavor of scallop adductor muscle.
One of the defining features of Kiyoken’s shiumai is that they remain delicious even after cooling. This made them especially suitable for eating aboard trains, where passengers needed food that was easy to handle while traveling. The dumplings were also carefully made in bite-sized portions so that they could be enjoyed conveniently in a moving train.
These thoughtful touches helped Kiyoken’s shiumai become popular in a short time. They eventually became known throughout Japan as “Yokohama’s Kiyoken shiumai,” an iconic food associated with the port city.
Kiyoken later developed vacuum-packed shiumai, making it possible to carry the dumplings over longer distances and give them as souvenirs. Today, they remain one of Yokohama’s classic gifts and a familiar taste for visitors and local residents alike.
Whether enjoyed during a journey or taken home as a souvenir, Kiyoken’s shiumai are closely connected with the history and food culture of Yokohama. Their pork-based filling, the rich flavor of scallops, and their convenient bite-sized form have made them a lasting favorite.