Hiroshima
Hiroshima, a city deeply marked by history, offers a moving experience. The Peace Memorial Park, with the Atomic Bomb Dome, serves as a reminder of the city’s past and its commitment to peace. The Peace Memorial Museum provides a powerful look into the events of 1945.
Take a ferry to Miyajima Island to see the famous Itsukushima Shrine and its floating torii gate. Visit Hiroshima Castle and Shukkeien Garden for a taste of the city’s beauty and tradition.
Don’t miss trying Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a savory pancake with layers of noodles. Hiroshima blends history, culture, and nature, making it a unique destination.
Things To Do
Hiroshima is a city of history, resilience, and culture. Start by visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a moving tribute to peace, featuring the Atomic Bomb Dome and the Peace Memorial Museum.
For a deeper historical experience, explore Hiroshima Castle, a reconstructed samurai-era fortress surrounded by scenic gardens. Take a ferry to Miyajima Island to see the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and its famous floating torii gate.
Food lovers shouldn’t miss Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a savory pancake layered with noodles, and fresh oysters from the Seto Inland Sea. Stroll through Shukkeien Garden for a peaceful escape, or visit Hondori Street, a lively shopping and entertainment area.
Need To Know
Hiroshima Situated: In Japan, a city that blends history, resilience, and modern charm, located on Honshu Island.
Accommodation: Book hotels or ryokan in Downtown Hiroshima for easy access to attractions, or Miyajima Island for a scenic and tranquil stay.
Activities:
- Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome to reflect on history.
- Explore the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum for deep insights into the city’s past.
- Take a ferry to Miyajima Island and see the famous Itsukushima Shrine with its floating torii gate.
- Try okonomiyaki, Hiroshima’s signature savory pancake, at local food stalls.
- Stroll through Shukkeien Garden, a beautifully landscaped historic garden.
- Walk around Hiroshima Castle, a reconstructed samurai-era fortress.
Best season: From March to May (cherry blossoms and pleasant weather) and October to November (mild temperatures and autumn colors).
Cheap season: From June to September (hot and humid, but fewer crowds) or December to February (cold, but peaceful and budget-friendly).
Recommended Time to Visit Hiroshima (Japan)
- 1-2 days: Explore key historical sites like Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Dome, and Hiroshima Castle.
- 3-4 days: Dive deeper into Hiroshima’s history, enjoy the Miyajima Island day trip, and explore local districts and museums.
- 5+ days: Take time to visit the nearby Shimanami Kaido, a cycling route connecting islands, and enjoy the full cultural experience of the region.
Hiroshima 3-Day Itinerary (Highlights Trip)
Day 1: Hiroshima’s Historic Landmarks
- Morning:
- Start your day at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Visit the Atomic Bomb Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the sole structure left standing after the atomic bombing in 1945.
- Spend time reflecting at the Peace Memorial Museum, which offers a powerful account of Hiroshima’s history and the impact of the atomic bomb.
- Afternoon:
- Take a walk through the park, stopping by the Children’s Peace Monument, dedicated to the young victims of the bombing.
- Afterward, visit Hiroshima Castle, also known as Carp Castle, a beautiful historical site reconstructed after being destroyed during the bombing. Explore the surrounding Ninomaru Garden for peaceful surroundings.
- Evening:
- Enjoy dinner at Okonomimura, an entire building dedicated to Hiroshima’s famous dish, Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki (savory pancake with noodles).
Day 2: Miyajima Island Day Trip
- Morning:
- Take a ferry to Miyajima Island, known for the famous Itsukushima Shrine and its floating torii gate.
- Visit the shrine, which is one of Japan’s most iconic and picturesque UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Afternoon:
- After exploring the shrine, take the ropeway up to Mount Misen for stunning views of the island, the Seto Inland Sea, and even distant mountains.
- Wander through the charming Miyajima Town, known for its traditional shops selling local specialties like momiji manju (maple leaf-shaped cakes).
- Evening:
- Return to Hiroshima for dinner. Try Hiroshima-style oysters, which are a local delicacy, or enjoy another serving of okonomiyaki.
Day 3: Local Culture and Scenic Views
- Morning:
- Visit the Hiroshima Museum of Art, which houses a wide collection of Western and Japanese art, including works by Monet, Picasso, and local artists.
- Next, explore Shukkeien Garden, a traditional Japanese garden that’s perfect for a peaceful walk or tea ceremony experience.
- Afternoon:
- Visit the Hiroshima Orizuru Tower, a modern building with an observation deck offering sweeping views of the Peace Memorial Park and the surrounding area.
- Take a stroll through the Hondori Shopping Street, a bustling pedestrian street perfect for souvenir shopping and exploring local cafes.
- Evening:
- For your final dinner, enjoy Hiroshima-style teppanyaki (grilled food), another popular local dish.
Hiroshima 5-Day Itinerary (More In-Depth)
- Day 4: Take a trip to Onomichi, a nearby town known for its scenic landscapes and the Shimanami Kaido cycling route, where you can cross several bridges connecting islands over the Seto Inland Sea.
- Day 5: Visit Takehara, a charming old town known for its preserved Edo-period architecture, and take a walk along the Aioi Canal.