Things To Do
in Hiroshima
This city, once devastated by an atomic bomb in August 1945, has since rebuilt itself into a vibrant metropolis known for its Peace Memorial Park and Museum, dedicated to promoting peace and understanding about the nuclear attack. Surrounded by scenic beauty, including the Seto Inland Sea and lush mountains, it offers a unique blend of historical significance and natural attractions.
Renowned for its delectable cuisine, especially its version of okonomiyaki, it plays an integral role in Japan's cultural and historical heritage, attracting visitors from around the globe.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, where you can reflect on the significance of peace. Explore the Atomic Bomb Dome and the various monuments dedicated to the victims.
Head to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum for an in-depth understanding of the city's history. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, trying Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki.
Take a stroll along the river and enjoy the scenic views of the city. End your day with dinner at a nearby izakaya.
Visit Shukkeien Garden, a beautiful historic garden that offers a serene start to your day. Enjoy the stunning landscapes and relax by the pond.
Explore Hiroshima Castle, where you can learn about the samurai heritage of the region. The castle grounds are also great for a leisurely walk.
Enjoy a dining experience at a local seafood restaurant. Try fresh sashimi and soak up the local ambiance.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history and heritage, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.
- Diverse culinary scene, famous for Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki.
- Strong sense of community and resilience from historical events.
- Access to nearby attractions, such as Miyajima Island and Itsukushima Shrine.
- Still dealing with the long-term effects of the atomic bombing, including health concerns.
- Risk of natural disasters, such as earthquakes and typhoons.
- High cost of living compared to other regions in Japan.
- Public transportation, while decent, may not be as extensive as in bigger cities like Tokyo.
- Hot and humid summers, which might be uncomfortable for some.
Best Activities in Hiroshima
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, hike Mount Misen, and enjoy scenic views of the island
Visit the park, learn about the history, and take a peaceful walk around the memorial sites
Stroll through the beautiful traditional Japanese garden and enjoy the tranquility
Tours
Uncover the best of Hiroshima with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Hiroshima
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the iconic floating torii gate and the beautiful Itsukushima Shrine.
Provides a poignant perspective of the city and its history, featuring the Peace Memorial Museum and the A-Bomb Dome.
Food in Hiroshima
Hiroshima Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try savory pancake made with layers of cabbage, noodles, and various toppings, such as pork, seafood, and a special okonomiyaki sauce. Try it at Okonomimura, a multi-level building with multiple Okonomiyaki restaurants in one place.
Must-Try!
Cold dipping noodles served with a rich, flavorful broth for dipping. One of the best places to enjoy this dish is at Bakundan-ya, a popular noodle shop known for its delicious tsukemen.
Given the city's proximity to the sea, Hiroshima is renowned for its fresh and plump oysters. Sample them raw or grilled at the Hiroshima Central Fish Market or at one of the local seafood restaurants.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Hiroshima better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where visitors can experience the freshest seafood, including the famous Hiroshima oysters, and enjoy various street food stalls offering a variety of local delights.
Located in the city center, this vibrant alley features an array of street food vendors offering Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, yakitori, takoyaki, and other popular Japanese snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Hiroshima, it is customary to bow as a sign of respect when greeting someone, especially when meeting someone for the first time.
When entering a home, traditional inn, or certain businesses in Hiroshima, it is polite to remove your shoes before entering to show respect for the cleanliness of the space.
Hiroshima is home to the Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome, and visitors are expected to show respect and solemnity when visiting these sites, including refraining from any behavior that could be seen as disrespectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Hiroshima with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Hiroshima
Ensure a smooth experience
In Japan, including Hiroshima, tipping is not a common practice and is often considered rude. It is not expected to tip at restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
In Hiroshima, as in the rest of Japan, cash is the primary mode of payment. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and street vendors. Contactless payments using mobile devices or smart cards are also increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Hiroshima.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Hiroshima with pleasant weather and cherry blossoms in bloom.
Warm and humid weather with occasional rain showers. Popular time for festivals and events.
Mild weather with colorful foliage, especially in the surrounding hills and parks.
Cool weather with occasional snow and fewer tourists. Ideal for enjoying hot springs and winter illuminations.
Hiroshima at Night
Hiking in Hiroshima
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful Japanese garden that offers peaceful walking paths and scenic views, making it a serene spot for light hiking.
Located on Miyajima Island, this mountain has several hiking trails that lead to a stunning summit with views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Featuring trails that wind through lush vegetation, this park is perfect for a casual hike and discovering local flora.
This mountain trail offers a moderate hike with panoramic views of Hiroshima and the surrounding landscape.
Known for its well-marked trails and rich wildlife, Bisen mountain offers diverse hiking experiences for all levels.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Hiroshima through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Hiroshima by plane.
The closest major airport to Hiroshima, serving both domestic and limited international flights.
Located near Osaka, this is one of the largest international airports in Japan, providing extensive international connections.
An international airport located in Okayama, offering flights to various domestic and some international destinations.
Located in Chubu region, this airport serves as a significant international hub with a wide range of international flights.
A major airport in Fukuoka, providing numerous international and domestic routes, located approximately 1.5 hours from Hiroshima.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic in Hiroshima, comprising over 95% of the population, primarily consisting of ethnic Japanese.
Includes foreign residents from various countries, making up a small percentage of the population. This group includes expatriates, students, and family members of foreign workers.
Also known as Hibakusha, this demographic includes survivors of the atomic bombing in 1945. They have unique social and health needs.
A significant portion of the population, as Japan overall has a high life expectancy and an aging demographic.
This group includes high school and university students, a crucial part of the demographic, reflecting the city's educational institutions.
The Soul of Hiroshima
Discover the essence of Hiroshima through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is extremely popular in Hiroshima, with the Hiroshima Carp being the local professional team that has a passionate following.
Soccer has a strong following in Hiroshima, with the local team, Sanfrecce Hiroshima, competing in the J1 League and enjoying a loyal fan base.
Basketball is also gaining popularity in Hiroshima, with local leagues and schools fostering interest among youth.
Softball is a popular sport among women in Hiroshima, with many schools and clubs promoting the sport.
Rugby has a growing presence in Hiroshima, with teams at various levels, including schools and amateur clubs.
Various forms of martial arts, including judo and kendo, are practiced widely in Hiroshima, reflecting Japan's cultural heritage.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hiroshima.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, many restaurants in Hiroshima offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Look for restaurants that serve tempura vegetables, tofu-based meals, and vegetable sushi rolls.
For gluten-free options, visitors can opt for dishes like sashimi (sliced raw fish), rice-based dishes, and certain types of hot pots that do not contain wheat-based ingredients.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Hiroshima with these cultural adventures.
