When you see or hear the word Hiroshima, you may recall the atomic bomb that was dropped on the city during World War II. Although it is one of the most tragic events in the history of human lives, Hiroshima is worth visiting for so many things. This modern city that is located on Honshu Island is known for its temples and beauty of nature such as the majestic mountains, the immense seas, and gorgeous parks. There are also capsule hotels and vacation rentals available if you’re wondering where to stay. It may be difficult to decide which attractions to visit because there are just too many. That is why you are here. Read on to learn about the top things to do in Hiroshima, Japan.
1. Explore drinking spots around Nagarekawa
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Exploring the drinking spots around Nagarekawa in Hiroshima, Japan, is a must-do for anyone looking to experience the city’s nightlife. The area is filled with bars, izakayas, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors.
The area’s vibrant atmosphere is complemented by the many establishments featuring live music, karaoke, and other forms of entertainment. Visitors can sample local delicacies and drinks, including sake, shochu, and craft beer.
After exploring the city’s historical sites, taking a stroll through Nagarekawa and enjoying some drinks and snacks is the perfect way to unwind.
2. Stroll through the bustling downtown area
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Exploring the bustling downtown area of Hiroshima is a must-do for anyone visiting the city. The area has many shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it a hub of activity.
Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that commemorates the victims of the atomic bomb that was dropped on the city during World War II. Visitors can explore the park’s various memorials, museums, and exhibits and learn about the history and impact of the bombing.
Come evening, head to the Hondori shopping arcade, a covered pedestrian street home to various shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can shop for souvenirs, try local cuisine, and soak up the lively atmosphere of the arcade.
3. Visit the famous floating torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine
Visit Itsukushima Shrine if you’re wondering what to do in Hiroshima. It is probably the most famous shrine in Hiroshima because of its floating torii gate. Having been a World Heritage Site since 1996, the mystical shrine was built in the water and is used to carry out Japanese ancient rites. When you see the sacred floating torii gate on the ocean, you will know that it is high tide. Other than the torii gate, you should not miss the arched bridge and the main hall of the bridge as well.
Itsukushima Shrine
Address: 1-1 Miyajimacho, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima 739-0588, Japan
Website: Itsukushima Shrine
Opening hours: 6:30am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 300 JPY (3 USD)
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4. Stay in traditional luxury at Miyajima Grand Hotel Arimoto
Nestled in one of the most popular areas in Hiroshima called Hatsukaichi, this hotel features an elevated stay experience where each and every guest can indulge in traditional luxury, the Japanese way. Every guestroom of this hotel is equipped with a private bathroom and an LCD TV, among others. For the best experience, you need to book a suite with tatami area and open-air bath or a superior Japanese-style room where you get to experience how to sleep like the Japanese people. Other facilities offered by the hotel include a hot spring bath, on-site restaurants, and a beautiful garden.
Miyajima Grand Hotel Arimoto
Address: 364 Minamimachi, Miyajimamachi, Hatsukaichi-shi, Miyajima, Hiroshima, Japan, 739-0522
185 meters (0.2 ft) from Itsukushima Jinja
5. Snack on maple confectioneries at Momijido
Your traveling to a new destination would not be complete without trying its local specialties. That is why when you are enjoying your vacation in Hiroshima, you need to make a stop at Momijido, a Japanese confectionery shop that is well-known for its deep-fried Momiji cakes. Established in 2006, the shop has attracted tourists from all over the world who are interested in savoring the piping hot Momiji cakes that are best served with a cup of tea. You can also try the Momiji cakes that use cold ice cream as the topping if you are more into cold dishes. They taste just as delicious as the hot ones.
Momijido
Address: 512-1 Miyajimacho, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima 739-0588, Japan
Website: Momijido
Opening hours: 9:30am - 5:30pm (daily)
6. Pay tribute to the lost lives at Atomic Bomb Dome
If you ever learned a little bit about the history of Japan, you will know that back in 1945, the city of Hiroshima was attacked by the first atomic bomb in human history, one of the most tragic events ever recorded. Despite taking so many lives, the Atomic Bomb Dome that was located underneath the explosion was able to avoid complete destruction. Until today, the remains still stand. Now, the dome serves as the tragic reminder to the local people. It would be nice to pay tribute to WWII history by making a stop at the Atomic Bomb Dome and remind yourself about the importance of peace.
Atomic Bomb Dome
Address: 1-10 Otemachi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0051, Japan
Website: Atomic Bomb Dome
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
7. Fold origami cranes at Hiroshima Orizuru Tower
Nestled next to one of the most popular attractions in Hiroshima Peace Park, Hiroshima Orizuru Tower is the best place if you are intending to marvel at the sweeping views of the city from high above. The observation tower is going to leave you stunned as you are admiring the wooden panels throughout. From the 13th floor of this observation tower, you can enjoy not only the city views but also some important attractions like Hiroshima Castle and Miyajima Mountain. Another interesting you can do is folding origami cranes that you can throw in later as a symbol of peace. You can even see the collection of the thousand paper cranes from the street below.
Hiroshima Orizuru Tower
Address: 1 Chome-2-Number 1 Otemachi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0051, Japan
Website: Hiroshima Orizuru Tower
Opening hours: 10am - 8pm (daily)
Price: 2200 JPY (20 USD)
8. Tour the historic Hiroshima Castle
Also known as Carp Castle, Hiroshima Castle is unique in that it was built not on the hilltop or on the top of the mountain like many other castles in Japan, but right in the center of the city. This castle did not survive the atomic bomb back in 1945. But, it was restored thirteen years later and now you can see an astonishing castle that comprises five levels. For some unique things to do in Hiroshima, tour the historic castle and enjoy the exhibits that provide you with insights into its reconstruction.
Hiroshima Castle
Address: 21-1 Motomachi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0011, Japan
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 370 JPY (4 USD)
9. Take a stroll in the Japanese garden of Shukkeien
Are you curious about what a typical Japanese garden looks like? You need to visit Shukkeien, a tranquil garden that was built a long time ago in 1620. Take a pleasant stroll across the garden that features miniatures of the mountains, valleys, and forests. You need to reach the main pond of the garden that boasts several tea houses from which you can marvel at the sweeping views of the surrounding.
Shukkeien
Address: 2-11 Kaminoboricho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0014, Japan
Website: Shukkeien
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 260 JPY (2 USD)
10. Catch an exciting baseball game at Mazda Zoom-Zoom Stadium Hiroshima
Are you a huge fan of baseball? If so, it is a must to catch an exciting baseball game in this big stadium. Serving as the home of Hiroshima Toyo Carp of the Japanese Central League, the stadium can accommodate up to 32,000 people. Check out the upcoming games on the website and book your ticket in advance. Even if you are not fond of baseball, you can still enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the crowd and breathe in the excitement.
Mazda Zoom-Zoom Stadium Hiroshima
Address: 2 Chome-3-1 Minamikaniya, Minami Ward, Hiroshima, 732-0803, Japan
Website: Mazda Zoom-Zoom Stadium Hiroshima
Price: 1700 JPY (16 USD) onwards
11. Feast on okonomiyaki at Okonomi-mura
You miss out big if you come to Hiroshima but you do not try its famous dish called okonomiyaki. The best place to feast on okonomiyaki is a food park called Okonomi-mura. As soon as you reach the park, your nose is going to smell something so delicious and it is no other than okonomiyaki. Indulge in this snack that is cooked with dried shrimps and onions. Try different eateries and satisfy your stomach with different taste of okonomiyaki.
Okonomi-mura
Address: 5-13 Shintenchi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0034, Japan
Website: Okonomi-mura
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
12. Shop for gourmet souvenirs at Hiroshima Station
Of course, when you are traveling to Hiroshima, it would be a shame if you come back home without buying any souvenirs. Among the many souvenirs available in Hiroshima, one that you must buy is the gourmet souvenirs. One of the best places to hunt for gourmet souvenirs is Hiroshima Station that features 140 shops and restaurants. Buy your favorite gourmet souvenirs before entering a restaurant of your choice to indulge in authentic Japanese dishes.
Hiroshima Station
Address: Matsubaracho, Minami Ward, Hiroshima, Japan
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
13. Enjoy Hiroshima's natural beauties at Sandankyo Gorge
Hiroshima is endowed with natural beauties and one of the many ways to enjoy these natural beauties is by making a visit to Sandankyo Gorge, a beautiful gorge that runs through the mountains in the northwest part of Hiroshima. The best time to visit the gorge is either in the summer where you can breathe in the lush greenery or during autumn where you will be left stunned with the autumn leaves. You can also enjoy the fantastic crevasses and waterfalls, particularly the most famous ones: the two-tiered and three-tiered waterfall.
Sandankyo Gorge
Address: Yokogou, Akiota, Yamagata District, Hiroshima 731-3801, Japan
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 1230 JPY (11 USD)
14. Cross the breathtaking natural bridge of Onbashi
Nestled in Taishakukyo Valley, Onbashi is one of the most impressive natural wonders you can find in Hiroshima. This natural bridge is the largest not only in the city but in Japan. Spanning above the beautiful Taishaku River, the bridge is a must-visit bridge to cross. The bridge used to be a dam before erosion took place a long time ago.
Onbashi
Address: 729-5244 Hiroshima, Shobara, Japan
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
15. Admire Hiroshima's rural charms at Ini-no-tanada Rice Terraces
Just look at the picture of the rice terraces, doesn’t it look breathtaking? This is only the picture. When you get to see the real rice terraces, you will be speechless because the beauty is just indescribable. Having the mountain valley of Akiota-Cho as the perfect backdrop, Ini-no-tanada rice terraces comprise over 300 terraced rice fields. This place is still used to display the traditional rice farming method. Now you know why Japanese rice is different and tastes delicious.
Ini-no-tanada Rice Terraces
Address: 731-3702 Akita Tamachi Nakatsuzukai Jin, Hiroshima, Japan
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
16. Explore the picturesque port town of Tomonoura
The port town of Tomonoura is one of the most picturesque port towns you can find in Japan, which is why it is a must-explore place. Nestled at a bay that overlooks the Seto Inland Sea, Tomonoura promises a laid-back atmosphere as you take a walk in the ancient fishing townscape. You will see numerous old houses with wooden facades along the way.
Tomonoura
Address: 720 - 0201 Hiroshima ken Fukuyama, Tomochōtomo, Japan
Website: Tomonoura
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
17. Have a day's trek in secluded Sensui Island
Can you resist the charm of the clear blue waters and lush greenery? You would not want to do that. Spare at least a day to enjoy trekking Sensujima Island, an uninhabited island tucked away on Seto Island Sea. You can enjoy activities such as swimming and hiking on the island along with discovering lava rocks and ash crags that were naturally formed through volcanic activities. To get to the island, you can take a short ferry journey from Tomonoura.
Sensui Island
Address: 3373-2 Tomocho Ushirodzi Tanoura, Fukuyama 720-0202, Hiroshima, Japan
Opening hours: 7:10am - 9:30pm (daily)
Price: 2130 JPY (20 USD)
18. Have a cherry blossom party at Fukuyama Castle
Japan is known for so many beautiful things, including cherry blossoms. The Japanese people happily welcome the arrival of cherry blossoms in early spring. To celebrate this joyful moment, they usually hold a cherry blossom viewing party known as hanami. Since you are in Hiroshima, the best place to enjoy the cherry blossom party is Fukuyama Castle. Imagine the cherry blossoms in full bloom spreading throughout the magnificent white Fukuyama Castle. It is just picture perfect and you will not want to leave the party ever.
Fukuyama Castle
Address: 1 Chome-8 Marunouchi, Fukuyama, Hiroshima 720-0061, Japan
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 6:30pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 300 JPY (3 USD)
19. Make a pilgrimage to the sacred Bandai-ji Temple
While on your vacation, you may want to make a pilgrimage to one of the temples. Among the temples, the local people prefer Bandai-ji Temple as a place where they can say their prayer, usually for the health of their children. You too, as a tourist, can try to make a pilgrimage to this seaside temple. When you are done, make sure to look below from the temple that perches on the tip of Numakuma Penninsula if you want to marvel at the incredible views of the sea.
Bandai-ji Temple
Address: 1427 Numakumacho, Fukuyama, Hiroshima 720-0312, Japan
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
20. Get up close with historic battleships at Yamato Museum
Did you know how hard it is to build a city? It takes blood, sweat, and tears and you can feel the hardship of building and restoring Hiroshima through the exhibits at this museum. Moreover, you can also get up close with historic battleships. The most popular collection of Yamato Museum is its 1:10 scale replica of the Yamato battleship. Other favorite features include a real Mitsubishi Zero A6M, which is a fighter plane, and ship simulators that can be found on the third floor.
Yamato Museum
Address: 5-20 Takaramachi, Kure, Hiroshima 737-0029, Japan
Website: Yamato Museum
Opening hours: Wed - Mon: 9am - 6pm (closed on Tue)
Price: 500 JPY (5 USD)
21. Taste Hiroshima's finest sake at Kamotsuru Brewery
Another thing Japan is famous for is sake. Whether you like alcohol or not, it is a must to try Japanese sake. In Hiroshima, there is no better place than Kamotsuru Brewery to taste the city’s finest sake. Because of the high-quality sake produced by the brewery, it becomes an icon in Hiroshima. Do you want to know the secret to make this sake? It is made from superior sake rice that includes Hattan, Senbon Nishiki, and Yamada Nishiki. In addition to buying the sake, you can also gain insight into the process of brewing it at the Kamotsuru Brewery.
Kamotsuru Brewery
Address: 739-0011 Hiroshima, Japan
Website: Kamotsuru Brewery
Opening hours: 9am - 4:30pm (daily)
22. Travel back in time at Takehara Townscape Conservation Area
As soon as you reach the Takehara Townscape Conservation Area, you are going to feel two things. First, you will feel as if you were taken back in time. Second, you are going to feel like you were in Little Kyoto. The streets of Takehara Townscape are fully loaded with old buildings from Edo/Meiji periods. Enjoy observing one old building to another. The best point of interest in this townscape is Yoshii residence, the oldest building that was built in 1691. Other interesting buildings include the first post office in Takehara, Matsuzaka residence and Old Kasai residence.
Takehara Townscape Conservation Area
Address: 3-11-7 Honmachi, Takehara, Hiroshima 725-0022, Japan
Opening hours: Thu - Tue: 9am - 5pm (closed on Wed)
Price: 200 JPY (2 USD)
23. Feed the fluffy bunnies of Ōkunoshima island
There is no way you can hate rabbits. Rabbits are so fluffy and friendly that we can have them as pets. But, did you ever wonder how awesome it is to arrive on an island that is fully inhabited by rabbits? Believe it or not, there is an island in Hiroshima where rabbits are the only inhabitants. This island is called Okunoshima Island, which is also known as the Rabbit Island. There are approximately 700 rabbits on the island. You can play with them and feed them.
Ōkunoshima island
Address: Takehara, Hiroshima, Japan
Price: 310 JPY(3 USD)
24. Enjoy marvelous mountain views from Senkoji Temple
Nestled inside the beautiful Senkoji Park, Senkoji Temple is one of the best places to visit in Hiroshima. It is a Buddhist temple that presents marvelous views of the mountain. Although you can visit the temple in different seasons to enjoy different views, the best time is, of course, springtime when all the flowers are starting to blossom, especially with the cherry blossoms that are showing off their beauty. You are also welcome to enjoy a stroll in Senkoji Park to please your eyes and absorb the tranquil atmosphere.
Senkoji Temple
Address: 15-１ Higashitsuchidocho, Onomichi, Hiroshima 722-0033, Japan
Website: Senkoji Temple
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 500 JPY (5 USD)
25. Make a wish at Manizan Sojiin Saikoku Temple
Another Buddhist temple in Hiroshima that is highly recommended is Manizan Sojiin Saikoku Temple. The ancient building of the temple makes everyone who looks at it feel peace and serenity right away. If you like, you can climb the 108 stone steps to reach the top of the temple and make a wish.
Manizan Sojiin Saikoku Temple
Address: 29-27 Nishikubocho, Onomichi, Hiroshima 722-0044, Japan
Website: Manizan Sojiin Saikoku Temple
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
26. Make your own protective amulet at Jodoji Temple
Believe it or not, amulets are created to protect you against bad things such as disease, evil spirit, and danger. While making a visit to Jodoji Temple, you can make your own protective amulet. Usually, each Japanese temple has its own unique amulet that brings the sacred energy and aura of the place.
Jodoji Temple
Address: 20-28 Higashikubocho, Onomichi, Hiroshima 722-0043, Japan
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 500 JPY (5 USD)
27. Take a scenic bike ride along Shimanami Kaido
Shimanami Kaido is actually an expressway whose purpose is to connect the main island of Honshu and the island of Shikoku. Spanning for 60 kilometers (37.2 mi), the expressway passes over six small islands. Although serving its purpose as a toll road, Shimanami Kaido is highly popular among cyclists who would like to enjoy a scenic bike ride. No worries about the bicycle route as it is well maintained and well marked. You do not need to bring your own bike as bike rental is available. Along the way, make sure to look around to enjoy the spectacular views of the sea, the mountain, the hills, and the surrounding town.
Shimanami Kaido
Address: Shimanami Kaido, Hiroshima, Japan
Website: Shimanami Kaido
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: 1000 JPY (9 USD)
28. Explore the colorful buildings of Kousanji Temple
Last but not least, you need to visit Kousanji Temple to explore its colorful buildings. Located on Ikuchijima Island, Kousanji Temple boasts a collection of temple buildings that are in fact replicas of many famous buildings. As you are exploring the buildings, you can find the replicas of Phoenix Hall of Byodoin and Yomeimon Gate of Nikko Toshogu. All the buildings have their own uniqueness in terms of shape and color. You may also be interested in the long cave of the temple. If you take a closer look, you can see a series of images depicting the tortures of Buddhist hell.
Kousanji Temple
Address: 553-2 Setodacho Setoda, Onomichi, Hiroshima 722-2411, Japan
Website: Kousanji Temple
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 1400 JPY (13 USD)
29. Indulge in Hiroshima's nightlife and local flavors (from USD 78.0)
Embark on an immersive food tour and experience the vibrant nightlife of Hiroshima! Immerse yourself in the local culture as you enjoy delicious local treats such as tempura, fresh seafood, and grilled delights as well as drinks at three unique venues. The menu can be modified to accommodate your dietary preferences.
Begin your adventure on Hon Dori, one of Hiroshima’s renowned shopping streets, where you’ll gain insights into local shopping customs. Explore the lively alleyways, experiencing the city’s nighttime allure as you indulge in a wide range of delectable local dishes. Uncover the enchantment of downtown Hiroshima during this unforgettable three-hour food tour.
Food Tour Adventure in Hiroshima at Night
Duration: 3hours
Enjoy the best of Hiroshima
When you are traveling to a new destination, it is a must to visit as many attractions as possible because it is the only way to enjoy the best of that destination. So, when you are visiting Hiroshima for a vacation, you have to do all the above-mentioned activities. Enjoy Hiroshima!
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