Discover the beauty and resilience of Hiroshima with our comprehensive 2-day itinerary. From the poignant Peace Memorial Park to the vibrant Okonomiyaki Village, this guide will help you experience the best of this historic city.
Day 1 in Hiroshima: Uncover Hiroshima's Resilience and History
Delve into the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
Start your journey by understanding the profound impact of the atomic bombing. Explore the museum's artifacts, photos, and personal accounts, offering a poignant reflection on peace and resilience.
Attend a Peace Memorial Ceremony
Witness the moving memorial service held annually on August 6th, featuring the floating lanterns. This ceremony is a powerful reminder of the importance of peace and the enduring spirit of Hiroshima.
Explore Hiroshima Castle's History
Discover the reconstructed castle, a testament to the city's resilience and a glimpse into Japan's feudal past. Explore the castle grounds and learn about its fascinating history.
Wander Shukkei-en Garden
Experience the serene beauty of this historic Japanese garden, lovingly restored after the bombing. Take a leisurely stroll through the meticulously designed landscapes and find tranquility amidst the city's bustle.
Day 2 in Hiroshima: Embrace Hiroshima's Natural Beauty and Local Delights
Take a Ferry to Miyajima Island
Explore the picturesque island of Miyajima, home to the iconic floating torii gate. Immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty and discover its cultural treasures.
Hike Mount Haigamine
Enjoy panoramic views of Hiroshima from the top of this mountain. Hike through the scenic trails and be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the city and surrounding landscapes.
Visit Mitaki-dera Temple
Find serenity and beauty in this Buddhist temple, surrounded by nature. Explore the temple's serene atmosphere and appreciate the tranquility of its surroundings.
Experience a Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki Feast
Indulge in Hiroshima's savory pancake delicacy, a local favorite. Explore the vibrant Okonomiyaki district and savor the unique flavors of this regional specialty.
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Transportation in Hiroshima
Hiroshima is a relatively compact city with a well-developed transport network, making it easy to get around. The most convenient way to get around the city is by using the subways and trains, which cover most areas of the city. You can also use buses, which cover almost the whole city, but they may be less convenient during morning and evening rush hours. Taxis are also available and reasonably cheap, especially for groups of three or four on short trips. Additionally, Hiroshima is a great city to explore on foot, with many areas such as the downtown area, Miyajima, and the Hiroshima Castle being easily walkable. If you plan on riding the buses, subways, and trains a lot, consider purchasing a special ticket that can save you money.
Dos in Hiroshima
- Purchase a Hiroshima Tourist Pass for unlimited rides on buses, streetcars, and Miyajima ferries. This will make traveling around the city much more convenient.
- Try the local delicacies, such as okonomiyaki pancakes and anago (saltwater eel served on a bed of rice) from "Lemon & Oyster Garden" restaurant.
- Respect the city's history and culture by visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome.
- Take a stroll along the Motoyasu River , which runs through the city and offers beautiful views.
- Explore the covered shopping arcades, such as Hondori Street and Fukuya Department Store.
- Join in with hanami (flower viewing) at Central Park, Peace Memorial Park, or Hiroshima Castle if you're visiting during cherry blossom season.
- Respect the local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and shrines.
- Take advantage of the city's vibrant nightlife , including hip bars and trendy clubs.
- Learn some basic Japanese phrases, such as "konnichiwa" (hello), "arigatou" (thank you), and "
Don'ts in Hiroshima
- Don't forget to feed the fish in the pond at Shukkeien Garden for 100 yen. It's a fun and unique experience.
- Don't miss the opportunity to attend a tea ceremony on Miyajima Island. It's a unique and memorable experience.
- Don't forget to relax on a bench at Shukkeien Garden and reflect on the day. It's a great way to unwind.
- Don't be afraid to try new foods and drinks. Hiroshima has a unique food culture, and you might discover some new favorites.
- Don't forget to bring sunscreen and comfortable shoes, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking during your trip.
- Don't miss the opportunity to take a half-day private cruise around Miyajima Island. It's a great way to see the island from a different perspective.