Centred around world peace, with a combination of ancient and modern architecture, Hiroshima is recognised for its rich beauty and heritage.
There are a million things to explore in this intriguing Japanese city. An electric railway is there to cart you around the showstopping mountain temples and some of the most exquisite zen gardens in the world. And there are dozens of viewpoints to sit back and admire.
From floating Shinto shrines to one of the most moreish dishes in the world – this is the very best of Hiroshima:
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Visiting Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome is crucial to understanding life in Hiroshima.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site is where a devastating transformation to the city took place – the 1945 US atomic bombings. As the first city to face the consequences of a nuclear strike, there are a number of sites around the city dedicated to promoting world peace.
The Memorial Park is a tribute to the 135,000 casualties in Hiroshima. You can still see the ruins of the Genbaku Dome that was hit, providing an example of the sheer destruction caused to the majority of the city.
Visit the statue of Sadako Sasaki, dedicated to the child victims and the Peace Memorial Museum which gives insight into the strike and its harrowing effects. You can even see a tragic “Human Shadow”, as seen in other spots around the city, which is thought to be the remnants of a citizen during the strike.
If you happen to be in Hiroshima on the 6th of August, each year there is a minute of silence as a dove and lanterns are released in remembrance of the victims.
Find it in central Hiroshima.
Itsukushima Shrine and Miyajima Island
Take a boat across to one of the most important Shinto shrines in one of the most scenic places in Hiroshima.
The Itsukushima Shrine is a 12th-century torii gate which people visit from all over the world. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its floating illusion when the tide is high. Though, when the water is low, you can walk up to it and get a closer glance.
While in the area, it is worth renting a kayak to see it when the water’s up and explore the architecture from a new angle. There is also a Museum of History and Folklore where you can head to learn more about the iconic shrine and the heritage surrounding it.
Be sure to visit in August if you get the chance, in time for the yearly Water Fireworks Festival which adds to the grandeur of the reflective shrine.
Aim to arrive in time for sunrise or sunset, as the water village is a tremendously stunning location to watch the spectacle. Its intense beauty makes it a massively popular draw for couples searching for a romantic break from the city.
Toshogu Shrine
Lying strategically on a hill to the northeast of the castle, you can see an example of dark Japanese spirituality.
The Toshogu Shrine is one of many Shinto memorials designed to keep away bad spirits from the northeastern demon gate. This shrine stands out for its dozens of intricate wooden carvings and decorative gold leaf.
Take a closer look and try to spot one of the most famous carvings, the three monkeys: See no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil. Look out for the hilarious clawed elephants that were carved by an artist that had never seen one before.
You can get close to the Toshogu Shrine as long as there are no chanting monk ceremonies taking place at the time – though these are a thrill not to be missed.
Find it on the Futabanosato Historical Walking Trail along Mount Futaba. It is very easy to reach from the main train station.
Hiroshima Castle
Like most of the city, the Hiroshima Castle was demolished during the nuclear bombings; the current castle standing in its palace is still worth your time.
Housed inside a sensational cherry blossom and maple tree park, the castle grounds are forever in bloom and are a beautiful place to take a stroll. Call in the spring to witness the delicate pink blossoms, or in autumn for a striking jumble of spirited reds and oranges.
Coupled with the traditional Japanese architecture of the 20th-century castle, cross the moat to watch a historical play taking place inside the grounds.
Today, the castle is an important government building; you can still head indoors to scour the gallery of ancient artefacts. Head to the gallery to learn about the city’s samurai heritage through an impressive collection of artwork and artefacts.
Climb the stairs to the roof for a staggering cityscape and a heart-stopping view of the beautiful castle grounds.
Children enter the fortress for free. Visit any day between 9 am and 5 pm.
Shukkei-en Garden
Following a mooch around Hiroshima Castle, we suggest you take a wander to Shukkei-en Garden (the Shrunken Scenic Garden). It is undeniably one of the most beautiful Japanese gardens in the world.
Built for a samurai with a tender heart, here you can explore a captivating collection of native species. Pootle around the grounds, its herb gardens, bridges and islets for a relaxation stop in the heart of the city.
Stop to recognise the resemblance between the zen pond and its inspiration, Hangzhou Lake, in China. Look out for the turtles and traditional carp fish! As less than an hour’s walk total, there is plenty of time to take a seat under a ginkgo tree and soak up the delightful scenery.
When you feel like a bite to eat, the teahouse will invite you with steaming brews and glazed treats to complete your sweet walk. No need to worry if it begins to shower – there are clear umbrellas at the ready for you to borrow on your stroll in the park.
Okonomimura
While in Hiroshima, you’ll want to get your hands on the original dish, Okonomiyaki.
Okonomiyaki is the savoury version of a Japanese pancake, typically topped with shredded cabbage, pickled ginger and sauced meats or seafood. The best place to try your turn at the dish is the Okonomimura food hall.
Many people refer to the food court as “Okonomi Village”, since each of the 24 food stalls sells its own spin on the traditional dish – right in the spot it was invented, after the war! The atmosphere is electric and you will want to shop around before choosing your Okonomiyaki plate.
Variations include changing the thickness or cut of the noodles, providing alternative toppings, like fried kimchi and beansprouts, or an extra secret ingredient in the special sauce! The Japanese flavourings erupt in your mouth in a whirlwind of textures, flavours and smells.
You can head to the market any day between 11 am and 2 am, so the magical dish can be eaten any time you crave it!
We assure you will want to visit again and again to try the endless combinations of delicious dishes.
Senko-Ji Temple and Park
Visit one of the main attractions in Japan on Onomichi hill. Senko-Ji Temple and Park are a top tourist destination in the country and are rich in folklore. It has been painted and photographed with keen eyes many times before, which says a lot about its great beauty.
Built in 806 it is one of the long-lasting parts of Hiroshima’s history. Its soothing bells contrast against its interior of demons and devils and interactive pieces that tell you whether your life choices are more likely to lead you towards Heaven or Hell.
Less of a place of worship and more of an amusement park, you will have time and space to do some introspective thinking before reaching “Paradise” and getting a taste of what ‘could be’.
You can reach it via a 30-minute train journey up into the mountains.
Orizuru Tower
Alongside Memorial Park, you can find some of the best views in the city.
Orizuru Tower is the 14-storey viewing platform where you can head for breathtaking vistas of Hiroshima its Atomic Bomb Dome and the eyewatering island of Miyajima. On clear days you might even be able to spot the island’s highest peak, Mount Misen.
The roof allows you to feel the breeze whilst you admire its panoramic scenery. Or cosy up with your loved ones inside one of the geometric pods to take in the view. Note: the sights are most beautiful at sunset!
In addition to its rooftop observation deck, you can sup at the first-floor cafe and head up its spiral staircase to take in a collection of artwork by local talents. And if you grow weary from the hike, there is even a slide to get you from top to bottom again in seconds!
Those interested in seeing what Hiroshima might look like in the future can visit the 12th floor for a prediction of the city a hundred years from now.
Peace Pagoda
Head to the top of Mount Futaba to discover a tranquil spot dedicated to world peace. The Peace Pagoda overlooks the city and is a fantastic place to learn about the culture whilst taking in some astonishing vistas.
Close to the Toshogu Shrine and Masahiro Buddhist Temple, this makes a rewarding rest break when you reach the end of the mountain climb. You may have noticed its glinting silver mountaintop tower from the city centre and want to find out what’s up there.
The answer will not disappoint. Inside the dome are the ashes of the Buddha, donated by the PM to Hiroshima. While you are there, enjoy the mountainous park surrounding the memorial and the vast sea view.
Mount Haigamine
For a supreme view at night, a last-minute date idea or the perfect way to end your trip – you must give Mount Haigamine credit.
Said to be one of the top three views in all of Japan, from its observation deck you can admire a bird’s eye view of Hiroshima city and its peaceful sea. At 737 metres (? feet), there is nothing for miles to obscure the view of “twinkling jewels”.
Bring your camera and a picnic blanket – this is a date not to be forgotten. Its cherry blossoms only add to the romantic view.
Mitaki-Dera Temple
Perched on the side of Mount Mitaki is the Buddhist temple where you can find your true zen.
Engulfed in a forest of blossoms and maple, the downtown hill provides a serene escape from the city noise. Hear the rushing of the three waterfalls, which gave the Mitaki-Dera Temple its name.
There is a peaceful teahouse alongside the temple where you can enjoy a supper of effortless Japanese dishes. You can equally enjoy the view of the city from one of the picnic benches above Mitaki-Dera and follow up with a quiet hike into the mountains.
If you prefer to catch the woodland leaves in flush, head to the temple in the autumn. Whilst Mitaki never gets too busy, if you’re after solitude, you may want to avoid the autumn months when hikers trek to see the view.
