Hiroshima Travel Guide:
A City of History, Peace & Vibrance
Hiroshima is a city where history, hope, and culture meet. Known for its powerful legacy and message of peace, Hiroshima invites visitors to reflect at iconic sites like the Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Park while also embracing the vibrant spirit of modern Japan. Beyond its historical depth, Hiroshima offers a rich mix of cultural landmarks, coastal beauty, and exceptional cuisine — from majestic castles and serene shrines to the natural wonders of Miyajima Island and the flavors of Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. Whether you’re drawn by its past or excited by its present, Hiroshima promises an experience that is both moving and memorable.
🚆 How to Get There
Hiroshima is well-connected and easily reached from major cities by bullet train or air.
- From Osaka: Take the Shinkansen (Sakura or Nozomi) on the Sanyo line – travel time is about 1 hour 30 minutes.
- From Tokyo: Take the Shinkansen Nozomi – around 4 hours.
- From Kyoto: About 2 hours by Shinkansen.
You can also fly into Hiroshima Airport, then take a shuttle bus (about 45 minutes) to the city center.
🗺️ Best Way to Explore
Hiroshima is compact and easy to navigate.
- Use the Hiroshima Electric Railway (streetcar/tram) to get around the city affordably and conveniently.
- Many top sights like the Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Dome, and Hiroshima Castle are accessible by tram and walkable from each other.
- To visit Miyajima Island (home to the famous floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine), take a JR train to Miyajimaguchi Station and then a short ferry ride.
🌸 Best Time to Visit
Hiroshima is beautiful year-round, with key highlights in:
- Spring (late March to early April) for cherry blossoms in Peace Park, Hiroshima Castle, and Shukkeien Garden.
- Autumn (late October to early November) brings vibrant fall colors to Miyajima and city parks.
- Winter is calm and less crowded—perfect for those who enjoy cooler sightseeing without the crowds.
Avoid visiting during August 6, unless you want to experience the Peace Memorial Ceremony, which draws many visitors.
Top Attractions in Hiroshima
1. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum
This powerful site commemorates the victims of the atomic bomb and promotes a message of peace. The park includes the Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Memorial Museum, and numerous monuments.
✨ Insider Tip: Visit early or late in the day for a quiet atmosphere and to avoid school groups.
📍 Location: Central Hiroshima
🎟 Entrance Fee: ¥200 (museum), park is free
⏳ Time Needed: 1.5–2 hours
🕊 2. Atomic Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome)
A haunting yet symbolic ruin left standing after the atomic blast in 1945, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It stands as a stark reminder of the past and a symbol of peace.
✨ Insider Tip: Walk around the dome at dusk when it’s beautifully lit and more peaceful.
📍 Location: Peace Memorial Park
🎟 Entrance Fee: Free
⏳ Time Needed: 20–30 minutes
⛩ 3. Itsukushima Shrine (Miyajima Island)
One of Japan’s most iconic shrines, famous for its “floating” red torii gate. Located on Miyajima Island, the shrine is set against beautiful mountain and sea views.
✨ Insider Tip: Check the tide times — visit during high tide for the classic “floating” view, and low tide to walk to the gate.
📍 Location: Miyajima Island (30 min ferry from Hiroshima)
🎟 Entrance Fee: ¥300 (shrine)
⏳ Time Needed: 3–5 hours for the full island visit
🌸 4. Shukkeien Garden
A peaceful Japanese garden in the city, with miniature landscapes, a koi-filled pond, and traditional tea houses. Perfect for a quiet stroll year-round.
✨ Insider Tip: Visit during cherry blossom or autumn foliage season for the best colors.
📍 Location: 10 min walk from Hiroshima Station
🎟 Entrance Fee: ¥260
⏳ Time Needed: 45–60 minutes
🏯 5. Hiroshima Castle
Also known as the “Carp Castle,” this reconstructed fortress houses a museum on Hiroshima’s samurai past. Surrounded by a moat and a lovely park, it’s great for history lovers.
✨ Insider Tip: Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city.
📍 Location: 10 min walk from Peace Memorial Park
🎟 Entrance Fee: ¥370
⏳ Time Needed: 45–60 minutes
🍳 6. Okonomimura (Okonomiyaki Village)
A must-visit for food lovers, this multi-floor building is home to dozens of stalls serving Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki — savory pancakes layered with noodles and toppings.
✨ Insider Tip: Sit at the counter to watch it being made and chat with the chefs.
📍 Location: Downtown Hiroshima (near Hondori shopping street)
🎟 Entrance Fee: Free (pay per meal, ~¥1,000–¥1,500)
⏳ Time Needed: 45–60 minutes
🌊 7. Mount Misen (Miyajima Island)
The highest peak on Miyajima offers panoramic views over the Seto Inland Sea. You can hike to the top or take the ropeway and enjoy ancient temples along the way.
✨ Insider Tip: Hike one way and take the ropeway the other for variety and great photo ops.
📍 Location: Miyajima Island
🎟 Entrance Fee: Ropeway ¥1,100 (one-way), hiking is free
⏳ Time Needed: 2–3 hours round trip
🛥 8. Hiroshima Port & Ujina Seaside Park
A lesser-known gem, the port area offers a local vibe, sea breeze, small museums, and relaxing harbor views. Great for a low-key afternoon.
✨ Insider Tip: Catch a sunset at Ujina Park or ride the streetcar here for a scenic route.
📍 Location: South Hiroshima, 40 min tram from city center
🎟 Entrance Fee: Free
⏳ Time Needed: 1–1.5 hours
🔬 9. Hiroshima Orizuru Tower
Located beside the Atomic Bomb Dome, this modern tower offers panoramic views from its open-air rooftop and interactive exhibits inside — including paper crane folding.
✨ Insider Tip: Head up just before sunset for golden-hour photos of the city and the Dome.
📍 Location: Next to Peace Park
🎟 Entrance Fee: ¥2,200 (discounts available)
⏳ Time Needed: 45–60 minutes
🎨 10. Hiroshima Museum of Art
A cozy museum featuring European and Japanese modern art, set in a quiet park near Hiroshima Castle. It’s small but thoughtfully curated.
✨ Insider Tip: Combine this with a walk to the castle and Shukkeien Garden — all nearby.
📍 Location: Central Hiroshima
🎟 Entrance Fee: ¥1,300 (special exhibits may vary)
⏳ Time Needed: 45–60 minutes
Day Trip from Hiroshima:
Exploring Onomichi
For travelers looking to explore beyond Hiroshima, Onomichi is a great day trip destination. Known for its temples, cycling routes, and coastal views, it’s a hidden gem just an hour away from Hiroshima by train.
How to Get to Hiroshima
🚄 By Shinkansen: The JR Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen connects Hiroshima with major cities like Osaka (90 min), Kyoto (110 min), and Tokyo (4 hours).
✈️ By Air: Hiroshima Airport offers domestic and limited international flights.
🚢 By Ferry: Ferries connect Hiroshima to Miyajima and other Seto Inland Sea islands.
Where to Stay in Hiroshima
- Luxury: Sheraton Grand Hiroshima – Modern comfort next to Hiroshima Station.
- Mid-Range: Hotel Granvia Hiroshima – Convenient, comfortable, and well-located.
- Budget: WeBase Hiroshima – A stylish hostel with great amenities.
Hiroshima Travel Tips
✔️ Get a Hiroshima Tourist Pass for unlimited transport & discounts.
✔️ Visit Miyajima early in the morning to avoid crowds.
✔️ Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki and fresh seafood.
✔️ Hiroshima is walkable, but streetcars make it easy to explore.
✔️ Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit for ideal weather.
Plan Your Hiroshima Trip Today!
Hiroshima is more than just a historical destination—it’s a city full of culture, resilience, and beauty. Whether you’re exploring its past, indulging in local flavors, or enjoying scenic islands, Hiroshima offers an unforgettable travel experience.
🚆 Looking for the best travel deals? Check out our recommended rail passes, hotels, and tours for Hiroshima!