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Hiroshima
Hiroshima, a city in the Chugoku region of Western Japan, has a profound history and vibrant culture, is known for its beauty, history, and amazing food. After the post-war era, Hiroshima transformed into a symbol of peace and renewal, evolving into a spacious city with significant Western influence. You can explore historical sites such as Miyajima (also known as Itsukushima) and Hiroshima Castle, enjoy top-class local cuisine, and experience the warmth of its people.
Map of Most Popular Places in Hiroshima
Must-See Attractions in Hiroshima
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park/Atomic Bomb Dome: This poignant site commemorates the victims of the atomic bombing. It features the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome and various monuments and museums dedicated to promoting peace and educating visitors about the impact of nuclear weapons.
Hiroshima Castle: A stunning example of Japanese architecture, this reconstructed castle offers a glimpse into Hiroshima’s feudal past. The surrounding gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Miyajima Island: Just a short ferry ride from Hiroshima, this picturesque island is famous for the floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the 3 great views of Japan. It is also known for deer that roam the island.
Mt. Misen: Visitors can hike or take the ropeway to Mount Misen, the highest peak on the island for breathtaking views.
Torii Boat Ride: The tides are also important to know when you visit Miyajima. Visitors can walk near the torii gate during low tide, but can also opt to take a boat through the torii gate during high tide, an unmissable experience!
Check the tide schedule here!
Hiroshima Castle at night
The iconic Atomic Bomb Dome in central Hiroshima
Best Time to Visit Hiroshima
The best time to visit Hiroshima is during spring (March to May), around cherry blossom season.
One of the largest events in Hiroshima, the Hiroshima Flower Festival held in early May during Golden Week, celebrates the season with parades and festivities. One of the main attractions is the traditional yosakoi dance parade.
After that, the fall season (September to November) is also ideal, with pleasant weather and vibrant autumn foliage.
The Saijo Sake Festival is a festival that regularly attracts over 100,000 visitors in the nearby city of Higashi Hiroshima (between Hiroshima and Hiroshima Airport). Try many different kinds of sake and food, and enjoy the true matsuri experience with stalls, performances and carnival games.
Hiroshima Flower Festival; fun for kids!
Saijo Sake Festival, one of the largest sake festivals in Japan
Suggested 3-Day Itinerary
Suggested Daily Itinerary
We suggest you spend up to 3 days in Hiroshima, depending on your overall itinerary.
Day 1: Historical Landmarks
- Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: Begin your trip with a visit to this significant site.
- Hiroshima Castle: Explore the castle and its beautiful gardens.
- Okonomi Mura: Try out Hiroshima’s most popular dish, okonomiyaki (savory pancakes with filling) at this food hall with over 25 different stores.
Day 2: Miyajima (Itsukushima)
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- Miyajima Island: Spend the day visiting Itsukushima Shrine and hiking Mount Misen. Walk around and through the torii gate during low tide, or take a boat through the gate during high tide. There is so much to do on Miyajima Island that it will be worth spending a whole day to explore.
Day 3: Explore City Central or Kure
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- Explore and stroll around, enjoying the spaciousness and awesome vibes of Hiroshima city, and experience daily life and local shops.
- Alternatively, opt to take a day trip to nearby port city Kure, which hosts the JMSDF base and Yamato/Submarine museums, as well as a naval-themed restaurant.
Suggested Daily Budget
A typical daily budget for a 3-day trip to Hiroshima can range from approximately ¥7,000 to ¥10,000+, depending on accommodation choices, dining preferences, and activities. Planning ahead will help you manage your budget effectively while enjoying all that Hiroshima has to offer!
Famous Foods in Hiroshima
1
Hiroshima Style Okonomiyaki
This dish is a must-try, featuring layers of batter, cabbage, noodles, and various toppings cooked on a griddle.
2
Oysters
Hiroshima is renowned for its fresh oysters, which can be enjoyed grilled, raw, or in various dishes.
3
Momiji manjyu
Enjoy this small, maple leaf-shaped cake filled with sweet red bean paste, with variations including custard or chocolate fillings.
4
Lemon-flavored snacks
Hiroshima is Japan's largest exporter of lemons, and they also produce many great lemon-themed and flavored snacks such as lemon cider and lemon cakes.
Hiroshima style okomiyaki
Momiji manjuu from Daikonya on Miyajima
Conclusion and Recommendation
Hiroshima is a city that beautifully balances its rich history with modern attractions, making it a must-visit destination in Japan. As you prepare to leave, consider picking up some souvenirs from your trip, such as local crafts or specialty foods. For a hassle-free experience, consider booking a guided tour that includes popular attractions and unique experiences showcasing the best of Hiroshima. If you enjoyed your time in Hiroshima, you might also be interested in exploring nearby areas like Miyajima, Onomichi, and the beautiful landscapes of Shimanami Kaido to enrich your Japanese adventure even further!
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27 September 2018
