Scrolling through endlessly for the best things to do in Hiroshima? We've prepared a guide that will take you through the city’s rich history, scenic landscapes, and mouthwatering food scene. From the must-visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum to a healing hiking experience in Sandankyo, Hiroshima offers a whole lot of adventures that are worth a trip outside the capital.
Hiroshima Hideaway: A peaceful retreat from the major cities
Photo Credit: Desmond Tawiah on Unsplash
Hiroshima is nestled in the western part of Japan's Honshu island. If you're starting your journey from Tokyo, you're looking at a distance of about 800 kilometers (500 miles), which will take about four hours by shinkansen (bullet train), while from Osaka, it's roughly 330 kilometers (205 miles), taking around 1.5 hours by shinkansen.
How to get from Osaka to Hiroshima
Osaka's much nearer to Hiroshima compared to Tokyo, so if you're coming from there, you can easily take the Shinkansen or even rent a car if you enjoy driving. As mentioned, Osaka to Hiroshima will take about 90 minutes by bullet train while by car it'll take about 4-5 hours.
Similar to train tickets, car rentals can easily be booked on Klook too. You can find popular car rental companies like Europcar, Times Car Rental, and Rent-A-Car Nissan, to name a few.
Booking a seat on the Shinkansen is straightforward and for Osaka, you can either book a one-way ticket or if you're headed to multiple cities, get a JR Pass. Here are some of the JR Passes that include the route to and from Osaka and Hiroshima, it'll also give you unlimited rides!
How to get from Tokyo to Hiroshima
While Tokyo is significantly farther from Hiroshima than Osaka, you can still conveniently travel by Shinkansen, rent a car, or book a plane ticket to Hiroshima Airport (HIJ). The journey from Tokyo to Hiroshima takes about four hours by bullet train, driving will take approximately 9-10 hours, and it'll be a bit over an hour if by plane. Similar to Osaka, you can choose to get a one-way ticket or if you're getting the JR Pass for the Whole Japan, the Tokyo to and from Hiroshima route is included.
Things to do in Hiroshima worth adding to your itinerary
Hiroshima is packed with amazing attractions and things to do that it'd be difficult to condense them all in one trip. With that in mind, here are a handful of activities that you can do especially if it's your first time in Hiroshima – from the beautifully restored Hiroshima Castle to the must-visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, and the abundance of nature in Sandankyo (and more in between 😉), scroll down below to learn more so you can start crafting your Hiroshima itinerary!
Klook Tip: For a budget-friendly option, there's a Visit Hiroshima Tourist Pass that covers unlimited rides on buses, trams, and even ferries along with free entry and discounts to many of Hiroshima's iconic landmarks. You can check out the routes and more details here.
Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a profound testament to the city’s resilience and commitment to global peace. Designed by the renowned architect Kenzō Tange, the park was constructed in an open area created by the atomic bomb explosion, symbolizing rebirth and hope. Every year on 6 August, the park holds the Peace Memorial Ceremony, commemorating those who tragically lost their lives in the events of 1945 and promoting a message of lasting peace.
There's also a Memorial Cenotaph in the park that contains the names of all known victims of the atomic bomb, a poignant reminder of the lives lost. The Peace Flame symbolizes the hope for the eradication of nuclear weapons. It was first lit in 1964 and will continue to keep burning until the day comes when nuclear weapons cease to exist.
See the Atomic Bomb Dome
A short walk from the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, the Atomic Bomb Dome stands as a stark reminder of the destruction caused by nuclear weapons. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has been preserved to commemorate the past devastation and serves as a symbol of peace. At the A-Bomb Dome, visitors can read about its history, take photos, and reflect on its significance.
The Dome’s skeletal remains stand as a powerful testament to the resilience of the people of Hiroshima and their enduring hope for a world free of nuclear weapons.
Explore Hiroshima Castle
Hiroshima Castle is a historical gem and offers a glimpse into the past with its reconstructed structure from 1958, preserving the architectural style of the original late 1500s castle. The castle grounds survived the destruction many faced during the Meiji Era but later succumbed to the devastation of the Atomic Bomb in 1945.
Inside the castle, visitors can explore the museum that showcases Hiroshima's history dating back to before the tragic bombing, the castle's story, and more of Japan’s castles. The top floor features a balcony providing sweeping views of the surrounding city, offering a unique perspective on Hiroshima’s blend of old and new.
Photo credit: Roméo A. on Unsplash
Three trees within the castle grounds—the holly, eucalyptus, and willow—survived the atomic bombing, symbolizing the resilience of nature and the city’s spirit. Hiroshima Castle is about a 20-minute walk from the Peace Memorial Park and can also be accessed via bus and train.
Discover the Beauty of Sandankyo
Sandankyo Gorge is a natural paradise where you can hike, kayak, and even grab a bite to eat. The gorge is famous for its stunning emerald green pool, Kurobuchi, where the water changes shades depending on the depth and flow— something you HAVE to see in IRL. The hiking paths are well-paved and have different levels of difficulty, so they're great for all kinds of hikers in your group.
The entire gorge stretches over 13 kilometers, giving you plenty of room to explore. You can also take a dip in natural pools and enjoy some local dining options near the entrance, with local dishes like udon and cold noodles. Plus, if you're visiting in the fall, Sandankyo Gorge is the perfect spot to see autumn foliage.
Visit Saijo Sake Brewery
Saijo, a district in Hiroshima, is renowned for its sake breweries. The area is often referred to as the "Sake Capital" of Japan, thanks to its high-quality water and favorable brewing conditions. A visit to Saijo offers a unique chance to explore multiple sake breweries, each with its own unique flavor and brewing techniques.
Strolling down Saijo Sake Brewery Street, also known as Sakagura-dori, you'll find several historic breweries where you can dive into the fascinating world of traditional sake-making. Many of these spots offer tasting sessions, so you can sample different varieties and find your favorite.
If you happen to be in town in October, don't miss the annual Sake Matsuri. This lively festival is all about celebrating sake with tastings, food stalls, and cultural performances. It's a great way to soak up the local vibe and taste some of the best sake Hiroshima has to offer.
Have a picnic at Hattendo Village
If you're looking for a chill spot to unwind, Hattendo Village in Hiroshima is the place to be. You get to lounge in a pretty garden, munch on the yummiest (and famous!) cream buns you'll ever taste in your life! They've got flavors like custard, matcha, and chocolate – seriously, you can't go wrong.
Plus, there's a cozy café where you can try other local goodies and you can even watch how they bake their sought-after buns. There's also an area where you can park your car, stay the night, and even barbecue. It's the perfect spot to relax, enjoy some tasty treats, and just soak in the peaceful and healing vibes.
Ready for your Hiroshima adventure?
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Hiroshima?
The best time to visit Hiroshima is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. In spring, the city is adorned with beautiful cherry blossoms, creating picturesque scenes, especially around Hiroshima Castle and Peace Memorial Park. Autumn offers a stunning display of fall foliage, making places like Sandankyo Gorge and Miyajima Island even more enchanting. The weather during these periods is mild and pleasant, ideal for exploring the city's historical sites and natural beauty.
What is the significance of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park?
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is significant for honoring the victims of the atomic bombing and serving as a symbol of global peace. It hosts important monuments and the annual Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony, promoting reflection and a commitment to peace.
How can I access Hiroshima by train?
Hiroshima is easily accessible by taking the shinkansen from Tokyo, which takes about four hours. You can either use a Japan Rail Pass for unlimited travel or opt for a one-way ticket for a more straightforward trip. If coming from Osaka, the journey is even quicker, taking approximately 1.5 hours by Shinkansen. The same options of a Japan Rail Pass or a one-way ticket are available for this route as well.
What activities can I do on Okunoshima Island aka Rabbit Island?
You can enjoy interacting with the friendly wild rabbits, explore the museum, try out water sports, relax on the beaches, and grab a bite at local cafes on the Island. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers!
How can I get to Okunoshima Island?
You can get to Okunoshima by hopping on a ferry from Tadanoumi. Catch a ferry from Tadanoumi Station on the JR Kure Line. There's also a ferry service from Omishima that will take you straight to the island.
What is special about Miyajima Island?
Miyajima Island is special for its stunning Itsukushima Shrine and the iconic floating torii gate, which beautifully represents the harmony between land and sea. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a must-visit for breathtaking views and memorable ferry rides.
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