5 Best Things to Do in Hiroshima, Japan
Find the best things to do in Hiroshima, Japan to add to your Japanese itinerary.
One of the most historically significant cities in Japan is Hiroshima. Made famous back in 1945 as being the Japanese city destroyed by the first atomic bomb, Hiroshima has a lot to teach you.
Plan to spend a day or two experiencing the best things to do in Hiroshima to learn all about its rich history, classic Japanese charm, and the beautiful surrounding areas. So what are the best things to do in Hiroshima? Let’s take a look!
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Best Things to Do in Hiroshima, Japan
Best known as being the city destroyed by the first atomic bomb on August 6, 1945, Hiroshima is an important city for Japan as well as the rest of the world as they continue their push for peace and the elimination of nuclear warfare.
As you step into the city you may be amazed at how cosmopolitan the city is. It has recovered from the tragedy 70 years ago and now holds many reminders of the past but life goes on at a regular pace for most. It’s definitely worth a visit during your time in Japan.
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1. Peace Memorial Park
If Hiroshima made your Japan travel list, this is likely the reason. The Peace Memorial Park is the number one attraction in Hiroshima. It features a number of memorials and markers of significance including the A-Bomb Dome, Children’s Peace Monument, Peace Bell, Atomic Bomb Memorial Mound, Cenotaph for the A-Bomb Victims, the Flame of Peace, and more.
Each one provides additional detail on its significance with some focused on the events of August 6, 1945 and others forward-looking towards peace and how peace cannot coexist with nuclear warfare.
There is no entrance fee for the park.
2. Peace Memorial Museum
At the Peace Memorial Museum, the main building focuses on the details of the atomic bomb, its effects on August 6, 1945 and to the end of 1945, and onward. By the end of 1945 the bomb itself and its radiation thereafter killed 140,000 people.
It details individual stories and features artifacts at the time of the bombing from clothes to watches to lunches to roof tiles in addition to detailing the side effects of different doses of radiation. It is in many ways truly horrific to read about, but important to learn as to not repeat such tragedies.
Entrance fee is only ยฅ50.
3. Admire Hiroshima Castle
Want something a bit lighter in the area? Head to the Hiroshima Castle – it’s one of the other best places to visit in Hiroshima. Surrounded by a moat, this castle is a classic Japanese style castle that has been rebuilt since the atomic bomb. The inside houses a small museum about the history of Hiroshima, samurai, and more with some English translations for parts of it.
Continue to the viewpoint from the top which allows you awesome views of the surrounding city. The outside of the castle and the view from the top are the reasons to come here, not the museum inside.
The entrance fee is ยฅ370.
4. Shukkeien Park in Hiroshima
If you’re looking for someplace peaceful to retreat after taking in all of the history of Hiroshima and the atomic bomb, this beautiful park is incredibly serene. Spend some time strolling through the park – it will really help clear your head.
Situated around a small lake are gardens with many places to sit and rest in the shade while you admire the greenery, fish and turtles, and the 14 bridges creating walkways throughout the park. It is said to be a top park in Japan so obviously it comes in as one of the best activities in Hiroshima!
The entrance fee is ยฅ260.
5. Take a Side Trip to Miyajima
While Hiroshima has other sites to take in, we are rounding out the five best things to do in Hiroshima with a side trip to Miyajima. Whether you have a spare few hours or an extra day, this time will be well spent on the island of Miyajima. In fact, it may be one of my favorite Hiroshima activities due to its natural beauty!
Best known for its floating torii gate, Miyajima is beautiful with oceanfront views, deer running around the streets, and a number of exciting sights of their own. Check out the Top 5 Things to Do in Miyajima.
The JR train from Hiroshima station to Miyajimaguchi is ยฅ410 one-way and the JR ferry from Miyajimaguchi to Miyajima is ยฅ180 one-way. They are also covered in a number of different passes such as the JR Rail Pass.
And, if you’re into hiking, there’s the great option of climbing up Mount Misen.
FAQs about Visiting Hiroshima
When planning a visit to Hiroshima, Japan, there are a lot of things for you to learn. Here are some frequently asked questions about visiting Hiroshima and the best attractions in Hiroshima.
Hiroshima is generally a safe place to visit. It’s considered one of the safest cities in Japan, with low crime rates. Just like in any city, it’s wise to take normal precautions like safeguarding your belongings.
The best times to visit Hiroshima are spring and autumn. During spring, around April to May, cherry blossoms bloom, creating a beautiful landscape. In autumn, from October to November, the weather is mild, and you can enjoy the colorful foliage.
Getting to Hiroshima is quite straightforward. You can take a train, bus, or fly. The city has a central train station, and Hiroshima Airport serves both domestic and some international flights.
There are many great places to see in Hiroshima. Don’t miss the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, Hiroshima Castle, Miyajima Island with Itsukushima Shrine, Shukkeien Garden, and the Mazda Museum if you’re into cars.
Yes, you can certainly explore the Peace Memorial Park and Museum in a single day. It’s doable, but consider starting early to make sure you have enough time to see everything thoroughly.
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum are dedicated to remembering the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945. The museum’s exhibits educate visitors about the devastation caused by nuclear warfare and advocate for peace.
While speaking some basic Japanese phrases can enhance your experience, you’ll manage fine with English. Many people in the tourism industry, such as hotel staff and tour guides, speak English. Signs are often bilingual as well.
Yes, there is a Hiroshima Tourist Pass that allows unlimited rides on the Hiroshima Electric Railway trams, ferry access to Miyajima Island, and discounts at various attractions. It’s a convenient way to save on transportation and sightseeing.
Absolutely, you can easily plan a day trip to Miyajima Island. It’s a short ferry ride away from Hiroshima and is renowned for the iconic floating torii gate and scenic beauty.
Cash is widely accepted in Hiroshima, but you can use credit cards in most hotels, larger restaurants, and shops. It’s advisable to carry some yen for smaller establishments that might not accept cards.
Hiroshima hosts various festivals throughout the year. The Hiroshima Flower Festival in May is a colorful event, and on August 6th, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony marks the anniversary of the atomic bombing. Keep an eye on the local event calendar for other happenings during your visit.
Continue Exploring Miyajima and Hiroshima
Hiroshima is an important addition to any trip to Japan. You get to learn some of the history that has shaped the modern world. Even with seeing all top 5 things to do in Hiroshima, you should have plenty of time to take in the top sights of Miyajima during your side trip there.
If your visit to this area is brief, you can explore both Hiroshima and Miyajima in just 1 day. Or, take a tour to cover as much as possible in your limited time.
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