Hiroshima & Miyajima Travel Guide

There’s a feeling in Hiroshima that’s like no other city in Japan.

You’re here for the history, of course.

You can’t ignore the history.

But the feeling is something else. It’s about more than history. More than being Japan’s 8th largest urban center.

This is actually a fun city. A city known for its resilience, in the face of (let’s face it) one of the worst events in human history having happened right here less than a century ago.

The people, the energy, the food… it will all surprise you in Hiroshima, if you let it. You’ll have an emotional time with the history, as it should be. But Traveling to Hiroshima and Miyajima is highly recommended when you’re in Japan, truly one of the best places to visit. 

This comprehensive Hiroshima travel guide will help you navigate the city's most significant sites and plan your journey to the nearby island of Miyajima, home to the famous Itsukushima Shrine. Whether you're planning a brief visit or an extended stay in the Hiroshima area, this guide will ensure you make the most of your time in these remarkable locations on your Japan holiday.

Hiroshima: A City of Resilience & Peace

Hiroshima, a city that has risen from the ashes of World War II, serves as a symbol of human resilience and a powerful advocate for world peace. 

Your Hiroshima sightseeing journey will take you through memorials that remind us of the past, as well as the modern districts that showcase Hiroshima’s forward-facing spirit. 

You’re bound to go through some things on the way, feeling a range of emotions as you visit the site of the 1945 atomic bombing and the memorials thereto. Don’t shirk away from the feelings. Give the past its due time, and build in both time and space into your Hiroshima travel itinerary to give both the city and yourself the deserved opportunity to pause and reflect.

Then continue to explore the rest of the city of Hiroshima itself, as well as nearby areas – such as the popular Miyajima island, home to the Itsukushima shrine (with the famous “floating” torii gate built on the Inland Sea).

Hiroshima is a great destination for solo travelers, families, even couples on a honeymoon.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Most visitors to Hiroshima start at the Peace Memorial Park. 

This solemn space, located at the epicenter of the 1945 Hiroshima atomic bomb explosion, is dedicated to promoting peace and remembering the victims of the attack.

Key attractions within the park include:

• The A-Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome): This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the skeletal ruins of the former Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall. It is a stark reminder of the destruction and a symbol of hope for a peaceful future.

• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum: Offering a comprehensive account of the bombing, this museum presents artifacts, photographs and personal stories of Hiroshima survivors. While emotionally challenging, it provides crucial historical context to Hiroshima – and to humanity – and promotes nuclear disarmament.

• The Children's Peace Monument: Inspired by Sadako Sasaki, a young girl from Hiroshima who died from radiation-induced leukemia, this monument is often surrounded by colorful paper cranes, symbolizing hope and healing.

• The Cenotaph for the A-Bomb Victims: This arched monument contains the names of all known victims of the bomb in and around Hiroshima. The arch is designed so that visitors can see the A-Bomb Dome through it, connecting the past to the present.

Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and have a more reflective experience. The park is particularly moving at dusk when the memorials are illuminated.

Hiroshima Sightseeing: Other Sites to Visit After the Peace Park

There’s much more to Hiroshima than the Peace Park and the haunting history.

While many visitors make Hiroshima a day trip from Kyoto, Osaka or even Tokyo, they’re missing out on many of the best things this area has to offer. That’s why we recommend staying a night or two (or more), getting to know Hiroshima, its sights and its wonderful people better.

Hiroshima Castle: Reconstructed Feudal Fortress

Also known as Carp Castle, this reconstructed 16th-century fortress now serves as a museum showcasing Hiroshima's pre-war history. 

What to see at Hiroshima Castle:

• The main keep, housing exhibits on samurai culture and the castle's history

• Panoramic views of the city from the top floor

• Beautiful grounds, especially during cherry blossom season

• The nearby Hiroshima Gokoku Shrine, dedicated to fallen soldiers

While the original structure was destroyed in the atomic blast, the current building, rebuilt in 1958, provides insight into Japanese castle architecture and the city's feudal past.

Shukkeien Garden

For an oasis during your Hiroshima sightseeing, visit Shukkeien Garden. 

This Japanese garden, whose name means "shrunken-scenery garden," features miniature landscapes designed to represent famous scenes from Japan and China.

Highlights of Shukkeien Garden:

• Koi-filled ponds and graceful bridges

• Tea houses offering tea ceremony experiences

• Seasonal flower displays, including cherry blossoms and autumn foliage

• Bonsai exhibitions

Tip: The garden is beautiful year-round, but especially nice during fall when the maple leaves change color.

Exploring Hiroshima's Neighborhoods

While the peace memorials are crucial Hiroshima tourist attractions, the city has much more to offer:

• Hondori Shopping Arcade: This covered shopping street is perfect for souvenir hunting and experiencing modern Japanese urban life

• Nagarekawa District: Known for its nightlife, this area is home to numerous bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues

• Hijiyama Park: Home to the Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art and offering great views over the city

Hiroshima Eats: Okonomiyaki, Ramen, Oysters & More

One of the highlights of any visit to Hiroshima is sampling some of its well-known cuisine.

Hiroshima is quite famous around Japan for

• Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki: Unlike its Osaka counterpart, Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki layers ingredients, including noodles, creating a heartier dish 

• Head to Okonomimura, a building dedicated to this local delicacy, for an authentic experience with a wide variety of okonomiyaki shops

• Specific okonomiyaki restaurants in Hiroshima to try include Momiji-Tei, Hassei, Jirokichi, Suigun, Ron, Roku, Negian Kamiyacho, Lopez and Denko Sekka

• Oysters: Hiroshima is famous for its oysters. Try them grilled, fried, or served in hot pot dishes

• Ramen: Hiroshima has its own style of ramen, and also features Onomichi ramen from the nearby town of the same name. Recommended eateries for ramen in Hiroshima include Hanaichimonme, Musashibo, Yoki Otemachi, Akatsuki, Kiyuchan, Tsubame and Onomichi Ramen Men-ya Issei. Other than traditional ramen, here are two variants of ramen to check out:

• Tsukemen: These "dipping noodles" are served cold with a separate bowl of hot, flavorful broth

• Mazemen: It’s a dry, soupless ramen that seems to be on more & more menus of Hiroshima ramen shops these days

• Momiji Manju: While more associated with Miyajima, these maple leaf-shaped cakes filled with sweet bean paste are popular throughout Hiroshima

Miyajima: Island of Gods & Natural Beauty

A short ferry ride from Hiroshima to Itsukushima (commonly known as Miyajima) transports you to a markedly different scenery and spiritual significance. 

This small island in the Seto Inland Sea is considered one of Japan's most scenic spots. It’s highly popular among Japanese and international visitors alike. Many people visit just for the day, but the real experience you want from Miyajima is to stay overnight!

Itsukushima Shrine: The Famous “Floating” Torii Gate

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the crown jewel of Miyajima island’s tourist attractions. It’s one of the most famous Shinto shrines in Japan.

The shrine's iconic "floating" torii gate is one of Japan's most photographed landmarks. It takes on different looks throughout the day, as both the light and the tides change.

Key features of Itsukushima Shrine:

• The Great Torii: This 16-meter high vermillion gate appears to float on water during high tide. At low tide, visitors can walk up to its base

• The Main Shrine Buildings: Built on pillars over the water, these structures create a unique and picturesque scene

• Noh Theater Stage: One of the few remaining stages built over water in Japan

Tip: Check the tide schedules to see the shrine at both high tide and low tide for different perspectives.

Mount Misen: Hiking & Vistas on Miyajima Island

At 535 meters, Mount Misen is the highest peak on Miyajima and offers memorable views of the Seto Inland Sea.

Exploring Mount Misen:

• Hiking Trails: There are several trails of varying difficulty leading to the summit, each offering unique views and experiences

• Miyajima Ropeway: For a less strenuous option, take the ropeway for panoramic views. It's a 10-minute walk from the top station to the summit

• Reikado Hall: Houses the eternal flame, said to have been burning for 1200 years. This flame was used to light the Peace Flame in Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park

• Misen Hondo: A Buddhist hall near the summit with lovely views

Staying the night on Miyajima island lets you explore Mount Misen more in depth, as well as enabling a variety of views of the Itsukushima Shrine’s famous torii.

Daisho-in Temple

Located at Mount Misen's base, this important Buddhist temple complex offers a peaceful retreat from busier areas. Highlights of Daisho-in:

• Stairs with prayer wheels: Spinning these as you ascend is said to bring good fortune.

• Henjokutsu Cave: Filled with 88 icons representing the temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage.

• Sand Mandala: Created by visiting Tibetan monks, this intricate sand sculpture is a unique sight.

If you’re in the Miyajima vicinity, this is a good spot to add to your Hiroshima-Miyajima itinerary – especially if staying the night.

Miyajima Island’s Famous Deer & Local Treats

Miyajima is known for its friendly deer, considered sacred messengers of the gods.

If you’ve been to or heard of Nara, you’ll know about this kind of deer. Well, Miyajima island has its very own shika, as they’re called in Japanese.  

While charming, remember they're wild animals – don't feed them, and keep an eye on your belongings. Yes, that’s right: unlike in Nara where you’re encouraged to feed the deer, here you are asked to let them be.

Don't miss trying momiji manju, a Miyajima island treat that are famous around Japan. These maple leaf-shaped cakes are traditionally filled with sweet bean paste. Many shops now offer variations with chocolate, custard or cheese fillings. Lightweight, Miyajima’s momiji manju make a great souvenir or gift to take to friends and family.

Where to Stay: Miyajima Island Hotels and Ryokan

For an immersive experience, look at staying on Miyajima Island. Options range from modern Miyajima island hotels to traditional Itsukushima ryokan, offering a taste of Japanese hospitality.

Benefits of staying on Miyajima:

• Experience Miyajima island's peaceful calm after day-trippers leave

• Enjoy early morning and evening views of the Great Torii (floating gate) of Itsukushima Shrine

• Chance to participate in early morning rituals at Itsukushima Shrine

Popular accommodation options on Miyajima Island:

• Iwaso: A historic ryokan with hot spring baths and exquisite kaiseki meals

• Miyajima Grand Hotel Arimoto: Offering both Japanese and Western-style rooms with sea views

• Sakuraya: A budget-friendly option with a homey atmosphere

Getting Around Hiroshima + Miyajima Island

Reaching Miyajima

The Hiroshima to Itsukushima ferry is the main way to reach Miyajima Island. Two companies operate ferries from Miyajimaguchi:

• JR Ferry: Covered by the Japan Rail Pass

• Matsudai Kisen: Slightly cheaper if you're not using a rail pass

The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes and offers great views of the island and the Great Torii.

Exploring Hiroshima: An Easy City to Navigate

Hiroshima has an extensive public transportation network:

• Trams: The most convenient way to reach major tourist spots; look for the "Hiroshima Sightseeing Loop Bus" for an easy tour of the main attractions

• Buses: Complement the tram network, reaching areas trams don't cover

• Bicycles: Hiroshima is relatively flat, making cycling a pleasant option; many hotels offer bicycle rentals

Guided Tours of Hiroshima

Look into a guided Hiroshima tour to efficiently cover the city's highlights. 

Many tours combine Hiroshima and Miyajima, offering insights you might miss when exploring on your own. Plus, having a local guide gives you insights about Hiroshima and its history, as well as about the people here.

Best Time to Visit Hiroshima & Miyajima Island

While Hiroshima and Miyajima Island are year-round destinations, each season offers a unique experience:

• Spring (March to May): Cherry blossom season, with trees in full bloom around Peace Memorial Park and Hiroshima Castle

• Summer (June to August): Warm and humid, but generally fine for outdoor activities (be aware of the rainy season from approx. early June to mid-July);  the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony is held on August 6th

• Fall (September to December): Comfortable temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage, especially on Miyajima Island

• Winter (January & February): Cold but rarely snowy; illuminations around Hiroshima create a festive atmosphere.

Practical Tips for Traveling to Hiroshima & Miyajima Island

• Japan Rail Pass: If you're traveling around Japan, a JR Pass can cover your trip to Hiroshima & Miyajima, including the ferry between the two, as well as the bullet train – however recent price hikes have made the pass less attractive in the past, and point-to-point tickets are often a better option

• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum: Allow at least two hours for a visit, though many spend a half day or even full day around this area of Hiroshima;  the exhibits can be emotionally challenging, so plan some lighter activities afterward

• Miyajima Island Crowds: Miyajima island can get very busy during peak hours; stay overnight or arrive early/late to enjoy a calmer atmosphere

• Respectful Photography: While photos are allowed in most places, be mindful and respectful, especially in memorial areas

• Vegetarian/Vegan Options: While Hiroshima is famous for its oysters and okonomiyaki, vegetarian options are available; ook for shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine) or ask for "niku nashi" (no meat) versions of local dishes

• Baseball in Japan: If you’re a fan of baseball, it’s pretty much the national sport in Japan; timing your visit to coincide with a Hiroshima Carp home game will be a real treat!

Are Hiroshima & Miyajima Island on Your Japan Travel Itinerary?

From the somber reflections at the Peace Memorial Park to the renowned beauty of Itsukushima Shrine, a trip to Hiroshima and Miyajima will leave a lasting impression. 

Your travels here will provide a deep insight into Japan's past, present and future. While the emotions experienced at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial sights are real and necessary, they don’t have to be the sole deciding factors of your sightseeing in Hiroshima & Miyajima Island.

Spend a couple of days here, soak it all in.

It’s going to be one of the most memorable parts of your Japan holiday.

Looking to book a Japan holiday itinerary that includes Hiroshima & Miyajima? Schedule a free consultation with Japan Travel Pros:

We’d love to hear what you have in mind for traveling to Japan, and we’d be happy to pass along some tips.

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions About Hiroshima & Miyajima Travel

• What are the must-see tourist attractions in Hiroshima?

  Hiroshima offers several notable tourist attractions and spots. Key places to visit include:

  • The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum

  • The Atomic Bomb Dome

  • Hiroshima Castle

  • Shukkeien Garden

  • Hiroshima Omotesando Shopping Street

  For a comprehensive Hiroshima sightseeing guide, consider joining a Hiroshima tour to explore these and other significant sites.

• How do I get from Hiroshima to Miyajima Island?

  To reach Miyajima (also known as Itsukushima) from Hiroshima, take the Hiroshima to Itsukushima ferry. The ferry departs from Miyajimaguchi Port, which you can reach by:

  1. JR train from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station (about 30 minutes)

  2. Tram from central Hiroshima to Miyajimaguchi (about 70 minutes)

  The ferry ride itself takes about 30 minutes.

• What is the significance of Itsukushima Shrine?

  Itsukushima Shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Japan's most famous shrines. Located on Miyajima Island, it's known for its "floating" torii gate, which appears to be standing in the sea during high tide. This iconic shrine is a must-visit spot for any Miyajima Hiroshima itinerary.

• Where can I stay on Miyajima Island?

  Miyajima Island offers various accommodation options:

  • For a traditional experience, consider an Itsukushima ryokan (Japanese-style inn)

  • There are several Miyajima island hotels ranging from budget to luxury

  • Some guesthouses and vacation rentals are also available

  Staying overnight allows you to experience the island's tranquility after day-trippers leave.

• What are some popular activities on Miyajima Island?

  Miyajima Island (Itsukushima) offers numerous activities:

  • Visiting Itsukushima Shrine

  • Hiking Mt. Misen for panoramic views

  • Strolling through the charming town streets

  • Trying local specialties like grilled oysters and momiji manju

  • Watching the sunset behind the famous torii gate