Things To Do
in Hiroshima

Hiroshima, Japan, is a city known for its tragic history and remarkable resilience. It is famous for the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, which commemorates the victims of the atomic bombing in 1945. The city also boasts beautiful landscapes, including the scenic Hiroshima Bay and nearby islands.

Today, Hiroshima is a vibrant urban center with a rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Historical Insights and Culinary Delights
morning
:

Start your day at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, visiting the Atomic Bomb Dome and the Peace Memorial Museum to learn about the city's history.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local okonomiyaki restaurant, then take a ferry to Miyajima Island to visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine.

evening
:

Return to Hiroshima for dinner at a izakaya, experiencing the local nightlife and trying various small dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit Shukkeien Garden for a peaceful morning stroll, followed by a visit to the Hiroshima Museum of Art.

afternoon
:

Lunch at a local cafe, then explore the lively Hondori shopping arcade for souvenirs and local snacks.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional kaiseki restaurant, followed by an evening walk along the river to enjoy the illuminated cityscape.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen Bowl$8
🍺Local Beer$4
🥟Dumplings$7
🍵Green Tea$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Delicious local cuisine, particularly seafood and okonomiyaki.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Summer can be extremely hot and humid.
  • Limited English-speaking services in some areas.
  • Some attractions may be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
  • "おいしいです" - It's delicious
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Hiroshima

Visit one of these nice places.

Atomic Bomb Dome

An iconic symbol of Hiroshima and a UNESCO World Heritage site, perfect for capturing the city's history.

Miyajima Island

Offers stunning views of the Itsukushima Shrine with the floating torii gate, especially at sunset.

Shukkeien Garden

A beautifully landscaped garden that provides picturesque scenery throughout the year.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hiroshima

Hiroshima's culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional flavors and modern cuisine. Must-try dishes include the famous Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a savory pancake layered with ingredients. The city also offers a variety of street food and local markets that showcase its rich gastronomic heritage.

Hiroshima Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki

A savory pancake made with layers of batter, cabbage, noodles, and various toppings.

Must-Try!

Momiji Manju

Maple leaf-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste, a popular souvenir.

Oysters

Hiroshima is famous for its fresh oysters, often enjoyed grilled or in various dishes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hiroshima Food Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh seafood, local produce, and street food stalls offering delicious snacks.

Okonomiyaki Village

An area with multiple okonomiyaki restaurants, allowing you to experience different styles of this local specialty.

Climate Guide

Weather

Hiroshima experiences four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are mild but can be cold, with average temperatures around 5°C (41°F). Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F). Spring (March to May) brings mild temperatures and cherry blossoms, while autumn (September to November) features cooler weather and vibrant foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respectful Behavior

Always bow when greeting, and avoid loud conversations in public places.

Shoes Off Indoors

Remove shoes when entering homes or certain traditional establishments.

Quiet Public Transport

Maintain silence on public transport; phone calls are discouraged.

Safety Guide

Safety

Hiroshima is considered a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night. In case of emergencies, the local emergency number is 110 for police and 119 for fire and ambulance services.

Tipping in Hiroshima

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected as part of the experience.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted at many restaurants and shops. Mobile payments are also becoming popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Cherry blossoms bloom in late March to early April, attracting many visitors to parks and gardens.

Summer

Hot and humid weather; ideal for enjoying the beaches and outdoor festivals.

Autumn

Mild temperatures and colorful foliage make this a beautiful time for sightseeing.

Winter

Cold but rarely snowy; the city is less crowded, making it a peaceful time to visit.

Nightlife Guide

Hiroshima at Night

Hiroshima's nightlife is vibrant, featuring a mix of casual bars, izakayas, and karaoke spots. The nightlife district, Nagarekawa, is known for its lively atmosphere with numerous bars and entertainment venues. Visitors can enjoy local drinks, late-night dining, and traditional Japanese entertainment, including live music and performances.

Hiking in Hiroshima

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Misen

A popular hiking destination on Miyajima Island, offering trails of varying difficulty and stunning views from the summit.

Sandankyo Gorge

A scenic hiking area featuring beautiful landscapes, waterfalls, and opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Airports

How to reach Hiroshima by plane.

Hiroshima Airport (HIJ)

Located about 50 km east of the city center, Hiroshima Airport offers domestic and limited international flights, making it a convenient gateway to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Hiroshima is a highly walkable city, particularly in the downtown area where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian-friendly streets are common, making it easy to explore on foot. Public transport options are also available for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Hiroshima is home to several universities, resulting in a large student population contributing to the city's vibrant culture.

Tourists

The city attracts a diverse range of tourists interested in history, culture, and local cuisine.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Hiroshima is home to the Hiroshima Toyo Carp, a professional baseball team that has a passionate local following.

Soccer

Soccer is also popular, with local teams and matches drawing considerable support from the community.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Hiroshima can be busy during rush hours, but the city's layout and efficient public transportation system, including trams and buses, make it easy to navigate. Biking is also a popular option, with designated bike lanes and rentals available. Public transport is reliable and punctual, making it a great alternative to driving.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hiroshima.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While Hiroshima is known for seafood, many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of local dishes.

Halal Food

Some restaurants cater to halal diets, particularly in areas frequented by tourists.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Hiroshima is of high quality, with numerous hospitals and clinics available. Emergency services are prompt, and many doctors speak at least basic English. Travelers should ensure they have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while in Japan.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide