Hiroshima is a destination that stirs the soul, blending a powerful history with serene landscapes and mouthwatering cuisine. Located in western Honshu, Japan, Hiroshima has transformed from a site of tragedy into a beacon of peace and resilience. This comprehensive Hiroshima travel guide covers everything you need to plan your visit—from historical landmarks to island escapes, must-try food, and the best places to stay.
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Top Things to Do in Hiroshima
1. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
No Hiroshima travel guide is complete without highlighting the Peace Memorial Park—a powerful tribute to the victims of the 1945 atomic bombing and a global symbol of peace.
- Get access to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum + 2 of Hiroshima’s top activities perfect for your city adventure!
- Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum Ticket is only available on Klook!
• Atomic Bomb Dome: This haunting World Heritage Site is the skeletal remains of the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, located near the bomb’s epicenter.
• Peace Memorial Museum: Explore detailed exhibits that narrate the devastating effects of the bombing and the stories of survivors.
• Children’s Peace Monument: Inspired by Sadako Sasaki and the tradition of folding paper cranes for peace, this monument is surrounded by thousands of colorful origami.
2. Hiroshima Castle (Carp Castle)
A beautifully reconstructed 16th-century castle surrounded by a moat and park. Inside, you’ll find a museum dedicated to samurai culture and local history.
If you enjoy Japanese history, check out this post on Kyoto!
3. Shukkeien Garden
A traditional Japanese garden offering tranquil walking paths, miniature landscapes, and tea houses—perfect for a relaxing break from sightseeing.
4. Okonomimura (Okonomiyaki Village)
This three-story food paradise is dedicated to Hiroshima’s most iconic dish: okonomiyaki. Watch it sizzle in front of you as each layer is cooked to perfection.
Overlooking Peace Memorial Park, this sleek observation tower offers interactive exhibits and a rooftop view of the city. Fold a paper crane and send it fluttering down the Orizuru Wall.
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Miyajima Island: A Must-Visit in Your Hiroshima Travel Guide
Just a short trip from the city, Miyajima Island is known for its natural beauty, sacred shrines, and wildlife. This quick Miyajima guide gives you everything you need for a day trip or overnight stay.
How to Get to Miyajima Island
• Take the JR Sanyo Line from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station (~25 minutes).
• Walk to the ferry terminal and board the JR ferry (free with a Japan Rail Pass), a 10-minute ride to the island.
Top Things to Do on Miyajima Island
• Itsukushima Shrine: Famous for its red torii gate that appears to float during high tide—a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Mount Misen: Hike or take the ropeway to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea.
• Daisho-in Temple: A peaceful, lesser-known Buddhist temple with hundreds of unique statues.
• Watch the wild deer roam: They’re friendly (sometimes too friendly) and freely wander the island.
What to Eat on Miyajima Island
• Grilled Oysters: Hiroshima is Japan’s oyster capital, and Miyajima is the perfect place to try them fresh.
• Momiji Manju: Maple-leaf-shaped cakes filled with red bean paste, custard, or chocolate.
• Anago Meshi: Rice topped with grilled conger eel—flavorful and uniquely Miyajima.
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What to Eat in Hiroshima
No Hiroshima travel guide would be complete without spotlighting the incredible local cuisine. Here are the must-try eats:
1. Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki
A savory pancake layered with yakisoba noodles, cabbage, egg, and your choice of fillings, topped with okonomiyaki sauce and bonito flakes.
2. Hiroshima Oysters (Kaki)
Eat them raw, grilled, or deep-fried. They’re a winter delicacy, but available year-round in many restaurants.
3. Tsukemen (Spicy Cold Noodles)
Served cold with a fiery dipping sauce on the side—perfect on a hot day and a Hiroshima specialty.
4. Momiji Manju
You’ll find them on both Miyajima and in Hiroshima shops—great as a sweet snack or souvenir.
You might also enjoy reading about things to do and eat in Osaka!
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Where to Stay in Hiroshima
Whether you’re after convenience, luxury, or affordability, Hiroshima has a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler.
Luxury
• THE KNOT Hiroshima: Stylish rooftop bar, central location, modern design. Great for couples and solo travelers.
• Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel: Directly connected to Hiroshima Station—perfect for seamless day trips and luxury comfort.
Mid-Range
Where I stayed: I stayed at the Mitsui Garden Hotel Hiroshima during my recent trip to Japan, and honestly, it was such a pleasant surprise. The location is super convenient—just a short walk to the Peace Memorial Park and surrounded by great restaurants. The rooms were compact but really well-designed, with modern touches and a calming aesthetic that made it feel more luxurious than expected. The beds were comfy, and the views from the higher floors were beautiful, especially at night. It’s not over-the-top fancy, but it’s clean, reliable, and has that understated elegance that makes you feel like you’re in good hands. I’d absolutely stay here again.
• Hotel Intergate Hiroshima: Cozy rooms and excellent value, within walking distance to most major attractions.
Budget
• WeBase Hiroshima: Trendy hostel with dorms and private rooms. Clean, social, and ideal for backpackers.
• Guest House Roku: Family-run and full of charm. A great place for those seeking a local experience.
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Final Tips for Visiting Hiroshima
1. Use a Japan Rail Pass:
Hiroshima is well-connected by the Shinkansen (bullet train), and if you’re traveling around Japan, the JR Pass will save you time and money. It also covers the JR ferry to Miyajima Island.
2. Download an E-sim
Avoid high roaming fees and stay connected from the moment you land with an eSIM from Airalo. Just download the app, install the eSIM, and you’re online in minutes – no need to swap out your SIM card!
3. Spend at least 2–3 days:
While Hiroshima can be visited in a day, you’ll get the most out of your trip with at least two full days—one for the city and one for Miyajima.
4. Stay near the Peace Memorial Park or Hiroshima Station:
Staying central makes it easier to walk to major attractions, and if you’re by the station, you’ll have fast connections for day trips or onward travel.
5. Respect the somber tone of historical sites:
Peace Memorial Park and the museum are places of remembrance. Be respectful, take your time, and avoid loud conversations or selfies near memorials.
6. Don’t miss local delicacies:
Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at least once—preferably made fresh in front of you. If you’re adventurous, go for grilled oysters and spicy tsukemen.
7. Pack for the seasons:
• Spring (March–May): Mild and perfect for cherry blossoms.
• Summer (June–August): Hot and humid, but great for festivals.
• Autumn (September–November): Cool and colorful foliage—ideal for hiking Mount Misen.
• Winter (December–February): Cold but clear, and the best season for oysters!
8. Take time to reflect:
Hiroshima isn’t just about ticking off sights. It’s about connecting with history and appreciating the city’s resilience and message of peace.
Travel Essentials for Your Trip
To help you plan and book your adventure, here are a few trusted tools and services I personally use and recommend:
Where to Stay
Whether you’re looking for luxury or budget stays, Trip.com has thousands of options with verified reviews and flexible cancellation policies. (They also do Flights and Rental Cars!)
Top tip: Book early for the best rates, especially during peak seasons!
Renting a Car
If you’re planning to explore beyond the city, I highly recommend booking a rental car through Rentalcars.com (by Booking.com). They compare prices across major companies and offer full insurance coverage at checkout.
Bonus: It’s often cheaper than booking directly with a rental company!
Stay Connected with an eSIM
Avoid high roaming fees and stay connected from the moment you land with an eSIM from Airalo. Just download the app, install the eSIM, and you’re online in minutes – no need to swap out your SIM card!
Tours & Experiences
I always browse here first for highly rated local guides and authentic experiences.
Looking for fun activities, skip-the-line passes, or day trips? Tripadvisor offers thousands of tours you can book in advance with free cancellation.
Final Thoughts: Why Visit Hiroshima?
This Hiroshima travel guide is just a starting point for what the city has to offer. Whether you’re exploring the profound history of the Peace Memorial Park, enjoying fresh oysters by the sea, or hiking above the clouds on Miyajima Island, Hiroshima is a destination that will move you, inspire you, and stay with you long after you leave.
It’s more than a history lesson—it’s a story of survival, peace, and the beauty that can rise from hardship.
Want to visit Tokyo? Check out this Tokyo travel guide!
