Hiroshima, Japan
Hiroshima is a city located in western Japan, known for its poignant history as the site of the first nuclear bombing in 1945. However, it has since grown into a vibrant and resilient city filled with museums, parks, and delicious food.
Trip to Hiroshima, Japan
Day 1: Arrival and Hiroshima’s Nightlife
After arriving in Hiroshima, you can check into your hotel and take some rest after the journey. In the evening, head to the Okonomi-mura, a four-story building dedicated to the city’s most famous food, the okonomiyaki. Here you can enjoy the delicious meal and experience the nightlife of the city. There are several bars and nightlife options nearby to explore before retiring for the night.
Day 2: Miyajima Island and Itsukushima Shrine
On day 2, take a short ferry ride to Miyajima Island, also known as the “Island of Gods”. Visit the Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its iconic floating torii gate. Walk through the picturesque town of Miyajima, where you can interact with the friendly sika deer, known to be messengers of the gods, and experience the local culture and cuisine.
Day 3: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Hiroshima Castle
On day 3, visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, dedicated to those who lost their lives in the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945. Explore the moving exhibits, memorials, and monuments here, including the Atomic Bomb Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage site, that was one of the few buildings left standing after the bombing. Later, head to the Hiroshima Castle, a fascinating museum and park filled with history, stunning architecture, and panoramic views of the city.
Day 4: Shukkei-en Garden and Hiroshima Museum of Art
Today, visit the Shukkei-en Garden, a traditional Japanese garden located in the heart of Hiroshima. Take a leisurely stroll through the tranquil landscape, which features miniature mountains, waterfalls, and ponds. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Later in the day, head to the Hiroshima Museum of Art, which is home to a vast collection of Japanese and western art ranging from ancient times to the present day.
Day 5: Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki Cooking Class and Hondori Shopping Street
Experience and learn the art of making Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki in a cooking class. See how each ingredient is prepared and assembled, and then enjoy tasting your own creation! Later, head to the Hondori Shopping Street, a bustling pedestrian shopping arcade, where you can shop for local goods and souvenirs, grab a bite to eat or a cup of coffee.
Day 6: Onomichi and Senko-ji Temple
On day 6, make a day trip to Onomichi, a charming port city located about an hour away from Hiroshima. Take a leisurely walk through the picturesque town, a place that inspired artists and writers over the years, and explore the small shops and cafes along the way. Later in the day, climb the Senko-ji Temple, which offers stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea and surrounding mountains.
Day 7: Departure
Today marks the end of your wonderful trip to Hiroshima. Depending on your departure time, visit any places still remaining on your list or just take some leisurely time to explore the city. After checking out of your hotel, head to the Hiroshima station from where you can take your train/shuttle to your next destination.
