A city of over a million inhabitants on the island of Honshu, Hiroshima is infamous for the atomic bombing it suffered on August 6, 1945. Completely rebuilt after the disaster, the city stands as a true symbol of peace, attracting visitors to its memorial sites. But it's also a city with a thriving cultural life, where it's pleasant to stroll through its green spaces. Planning a trip to Hiroshima and wondering what to do there? Here are 13 must-sees to help you plan your day.
1. Genbaku Dome, a symbol of Hiroshima
The Genbaku Dome, or Peace Memorial, is one of the few monuments not to have completely collapsed after the atomic bomb explosion. Dating back to 1915, it originally served as the Hiroshima prefecture's industrial exhibition palace. The building, which has been preserved in the same condition as it was just after the blast, symbolizes both the destructive power of Man, the hope of lasting peace and the fight against the use of nuclear weapons. It's always a powerful moment to visit the foot of the building. One of Hiroshima's must-sees.
Petit Futé tip: You can visit the "Miyajima" World Heritage Site and the "Atomic Bomb Dome" free of charge with Hiroshima's Visit Tourist Pass, which gives you unlimited use of public transport.
2. Getting to Hiroshima Castle
Hiroshima Castle was first erected in 1591. Unfortunately, it did not survive the A-bomb blast. Rebuilt in 1958, it now houses a museum on Japanese feudal castle culture and the various hierarchies of medieval times. The building also boasts a balcony offering a lovely panoramic view of the city, and the visit can be complemented by a stroll in the pleasant surrounding park. It's worth noting that, unlike in other parts of Japan, where castles are often built on higher ground, the one in Hiroshima was built right in the heart of the city.
3. Peace Memorial Park
Located on an island in the middle of the River Ota in the heart of the city, Peace Memorial Park is a public garden and another fateful symbol of the atomic bombing of 1945. No fewer than 60 monuments dedicated to this tragic event can be found in this large green space. A must-see is the Peace Park Cenotaph, the Peace Bells and the Children's Peace Monument. While you're bound to be overcome by emotion as you stroll through the park, you only have to look around to see that, despite the circumstances, the local people have turned it into a place where they like to come to relax and socialize.
Book a private walking tour of Hiroshima right here. You'll visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, the atomic bomb dome and many other monuments.
Another option is a guided tour by electric bicycle, which will take you to all the must-see places in the city.
4. Visit the Peace Memorial Museum
This Hiroshima museum is located in the heart of the Peace Memorial Park. Designed by architect Kenzo Tange and inaugurated in 1955, this other place of remembrance retraces the tragedy of August 6, 1945. At times, the museum shows the tragedy in very graphic terms, with before-and-after models and photos. Some images may offend the sensitive, so it's best to be aware. Whatever the case, the message of the Peace Memorial Museum is clear: nations must never use nuclear weapons again, so that such a horror never happens again.
We recommend that you book this guided tour of Hiroshima's World Heritage Sites for Peace.
5. A stroll through Shukkei-en, a must-see in Hiroshima
What to do between two visits to Hiroshima? Enjoy the tranquility of Shukkei-en, a traditional Japanese garden in the heart of the city. Its unique feature is that it contains miniature versions of large Japanese natural areas. It's a delight to stroll among the maples, cherry trees and flowers. The garden is also home to the Takuei-chi pond, with several islets linked by bridges. Koi carp can be seen roaming the waters, eager for food. In terms of history, this garden was originally created in 1620, before being destroyed by a bomb. It reopened to visitors in 1951.
Book my guided tour of Hiroshima
6. The Mitaki-Dera, Hiroshima's Buddhist temple
The Mitaki-Dera temple is located on Mount Mitaki, in the north-western part of the city. A visit to the temple is a great way to hike among the maple trees. The climb takes in three waterfalls, numerous steles and statues, Zen gardens and a traditional Japanese fountain known as tsukubai. A spiritual stroll that takes on a whole new dimension in autumn, when the leaves on the trees change color. Those who wish can push on to the summit of Mount Mitaki for a breathtaking view ofHiroshima Bay.
7. Hiroshima Orizuru Tower, what a view!
Lovers of beautiful views should definitely visit Hiroshima Orizuru Tower during their stay in Hiroshima. Opened in 2016, it boasts a platform offering a breathtaking panorama of the city. You can see the city's buildings, the Genbaku dome just a few meters away, the rivers and, a little further away, the Peace Museum, Hiroshima Castle and the mountains. A great opportunity to see how the city harmoniously combines urban spaces and nature. Visitors are also invited to make an origami paper crane at the Orizuru Hiroba space, and leave it there as a message of peace.
Book my tickets for the Orizuru Tower
8. A stroll through the Hiroshima Botanical Gardens
The Botanical Garden offers the ideal setting for a rejuvenating stroll. Located to the west of the city, this vast 18-hectare area boasts a magnificent collection of over 23,000 plants, including cacti, fuchsias, begonias and other tropical lotuses. The garden is also home to tropical and subtropical greenhouses, adding a touch of the exotic to the whole. Perfect for a sunny day, the place invites you to relax and enjoy the thousand and one colors that nature has to offer.
Book my guided tour of Hiroshima
9. What to do in Hiroshima Try okonomiyaki
What would a trip to the Japanese archipelago be without enjoying its gastronomy? Hiroshima has a local specialty called okonomiyaki. This type of pancake filled with meat, fish, seafood and cabbage is one of Japan's must-try culinary specialties. To try it, we recommend a visit to Hondori Street, one of the city's liveliest, and Okonomimura in particular. This four-storey building houses over 20 okonomiyaki stores. It's easy to see that there are many different recipes for this typical dish. What's more, the atmosphere is always welcoming. You can also book a guided culinary tour: a great way to discover the city's culinary specialties.
And if you're looking for a sweet ending to your visit, you can go in search of the best places to try mochi, one of the world's must-try desserts!
10. A moment at Asa Zoo
An idea for keeping the kids entertained on a family trip to Hiroshima is to visit the Asa Zoo, located in the Asakita-ku district. This zoo is home to an impressive 170 different animal species, including lions, pandas, elephants, rhinos and giraffes. The establishment is committed to recreating environments close to the animals' natural habitat for their well-being. In addition, picnic areas and children's play areas are available, providing the ideal setting for an enjoyable family day out.
11. Miyajima, the sacred island
Miyajima, ranked as one of the three most beautiful sites in Japan, is a sacred Shinto island. It is world-famous for its red torii, which appear to float on the water. An image that visitors are bound to want to immortalize on their trip to Hiroshima. While theItsukushima-jinja shrine is the object of much envy, it's also possible to hike to the summit of Mount Misen. Deer and monkeys are a common sight. At the foot of Misen, Momijidani Park is home to magnificent maple trees. Miyajima has a number of hotels, including ryokans, for those wishing to spend the night.
Tempted? Explore the cultural highlights of Miyajima Island on this guided tour departing from Hiroshima. A not-to-be-missed getaway for travellers choosing to visit Japan in spring!
12. A tour of Ninoshima Island
Ninoshima Island, an off-the-beaten-track destination in Japan, lies just opposite the city of Hiroshima. It's a place steeped in history, as it served as a place of refuge for thousands of Japanese after August 6, 1945. Numerous memorials remain. Accessible by ferry in less than half an hour from Hiroshima, visitors can take time to explore the village, then hire a bicycle to ride along the coast. The island is also home to a hiking trail that leads up to the heights and offers lovely panoramic views of the Seto Sea, the surrounding islands and, of course, Hiroshima.
If you're a fan of little-known places on your travels, take the time to read our selection of 5 unusual places to discover in Japan.
13. Watch a baseball game at Mazda Hiroshima Stadium
Baseball is a very popular sport in Japan. Players like Ohtani Shohei are true stars in the Land of the Rising Sun. One of the must-do activities if you love the fervor of the stands is to go and see a Hiroshima Toyo Carp game at Mazda Hiroshima Stadium. The fans are real enthusiasts and the atmosphere is always crazy. In fact, there are many references to the team in the city, from the clothes worn by the locals to the elements visible on the street furniture.
Where to stay in Hiroshima?
There are plenty ofhotels in Hiroshima. And the good thing is that there are establishments to suit all budgets. Here is a selection of three of our favorites in the "City of Peace".
- Hotel Flex, for convenience
Hotel Flex, located on the banks of the Kyobashi and Enko rivers, is just a seven-minute walk from JR Hiroshima Station. It's a modern establishment, with single rooms, rooms with balconies and others with small sitting areas. There's also a café and places to relax. Its location offers easy access to the city center. Tempted? Make your reservationhere!
- The Apa Hotel Hiroshima-Ekimae, modern and comfortable
This hotel is housed in a modern building and features rooms decorated in a minimalist-contemporary style. A restaurant serves a buffet breakfast in the morning. Lunch is also available. TheApa Hotel Hiroshima-Ekimae is 4 minutes from Hiroshima station and 15 minutes by bus from the Peace Memorial Park. All you need for a pleasant stay just book here.
Whether you're looking for accommodation or for your trip to Japan in general, don't miss our tips for preparing your stay in the Land of the Rising Sun.
What to do in Hiroshima in 2 days?
Travellers who have two days to discover Hiroshima can start with a visit to the Peace Memorial Park. You'll pass by the Genbaku Dome, of course, before visiting the Memorial Museum and the many monuments dedicated to peace. After lunch, off to Hiroshima Castle and its gardens. In the evening, a stop on Hondori Street allows you to sample okonomiyaki. The second day begins with a stroll through Shukkei-en Garden, a haven of peace in the heart of the city. Then, in the afternoon, we board a ferry for Miyajima, famous for its floating torii. We visit the Itsukushima Shrine, before strolling around this charming island.
Have you enjoyed your visit to Hiroshima? Don't miss our top 21 most beautiful places in Japan, as well as the best itinerary for visiting Japan in 15 days!
Discover also the most popular things to do in Hiroshima:
