01 Mar Hiroshima – City of Peace
Welcome to Hiroshima
Hiroshima is a city on the western coast of Honshu in Japan, with a unique mix of historical significance and modern attractions. It is known for being the target of the world’s first atomic bomb attack during World War II, but today is committed to promoting peace and nuclear disarmament.
Besides its historical significance, Hiroshima is known for its delicious food, including Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki, a savoury pancake made with various ingredients. The city also has beautiful parks and gardens and is a great place to dive deep into its history while enjoying its modern attractions.
How To Get There
By Air: Hiroshima Airport (HIJ) is about 50 minutes from the city centre by bus or taxi. There are direct flights to Hiroshima from major cities in Japan and some international destinations such as Seoul and Taipei.
By Train: Hiroshima is well-connected by train to other parts of Japan, with regular services on the JR Sanyo Shinkansen line. It takes around 4 hours from Tokyo to reach Hiroshima by train, while it takes about 1.5 hours from Osaka.
By Bus: An affordable option is to use the long-distance bus services that connect Hiroshima with other cities in Japan.
By Car: Hiring a rental car gives you freedom and independence, and convenient expressways to Hiroshima make navigating possible. However, parking in the city centre can be expensive and complicated.
Places Of Interest
Atomic Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a powerful reminder of the devastating impact the atomic bomb dropped on the city in 1945. The building is the only one left standing near the epicentre of the bomb and has been preserved as a symbol of peace and a call to end nuclear weapons.
The park is a tribute to the people who were affected by the atomic bombing in Hiroshima in 1945. It features a museum, monuments, and a peace bell.
This beautiful island is home to the famous Itsukushima Shrine, known for its iconic torii gate that appears to float on the water during high tide.
Hiroshima Castle is a historic Japanese castle that was rebuilt after being destroyed in the atomic bombing of 1945. It now serves as a museum and a popular tourist attraction.
This traditional Japanese garden is the heart of the city, featuring a central pond, tea houses, and a variety of plants and trees.
This museum features a collection of Japanese and Western art, including works by Monet and Van Gogh.
Hiroshima City Asa Zoological Park
The zoo is home to over 160 species, including pandas, giraffes, and elephants.
Where To Stay
Luxury Hotels
Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel:
Located next to Hiroshima Station, this modern five-star hotel features spacious rooms and suites with panoramic city views.
Mid-Range Hotels
Located near Peace Memorial Park, this sophisticated hotel features spacious rooms and suites with city views, a fitness centre, a spa, and several dining options.
Budget Hotels
Santiago Guesthouse Hiroshima:
A cosy and affordable guesthouse located in the heart of Hiroshima, near Hiroshima Station. The guesthouse offers a variety of private and shared rooms, including dormitory-style accommodations.
Situated on a hill overlooking Hiroshima Bay, this upscale hotel offers stylish rooms and suites with ocean views, as well as a spa, indoor pool, and tennis court.
A modern and stylish hotel in the heart of Hiroshima, just a few minutes walk from the Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome. The hotel features a sleek and contemporary design, with comfortable and well-appointed rooms.
Smile Hotel Hiroshima is a budget-friendly hotel in the heart of Hiroshima, Japan, providing clean and comfortable rooms and easy access to local attractions.
Where To Eat
Hiroshima is famous for its delicious food, and there are many great restaurants and eateries. Here are some of the best and most favourite places to eat in Hiroshima:
Okonomimura: This multi-level complex in the centre of Hiroshima is home to over 20 restaurants specialising in the local speciality dish of okonomiyaki. You can choose from various styles and flavours and watch the food lavishly prepared in front of you.
Kakiya: This oyster bar in Hiroshima City is a must-visit for seafood lovers. The restaurant serves various dishes featuring fresh oysters, including grilled, fried, and even raw preparations.
Nagataya: This popular restaurant specialises in Hiroshima-style tsukemen, a dipping noodle dish. The noodles are served separately from the soup, allowing diners to dip them in and savour the flavours.
Yakigaki no Hayashi: It is a popular seafood restaurant in Miyajima, specialising in grilled oysters. The restaurant offers a variety of preparations, including grilled with butter and soy sauce and served on rice or noodles. The oysters are sourced locally and are known for their high quality and flavour.
Final Thoughts
Hiroshima is an exciting city with a long and complicated history. It’s a thought-provoking and memorable travel destination that offers a mix of historical and cultural experiences. You can learn more about the damage caused by the atomic bomb at places like the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Atomic Bomb Dome. Despite its deep history, Hiroshima is also a lively and modern city with delicious authentic food, pretty gardens, and many cultures to explore. For us, it was emotional to visit the sites associated with the atomic bomb, but it served as a reminder of how important it is to have peace and try to make a world without nuclear weapons.
Recommended Tours
Explore Trips From Hiroshima
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