Hiroshima 2 weeks

The primary airport serving Hiroshima Prefecture. It offers domestic and international flights, with convenient bus services to Hiroshima city center.

• Allow ample time for immigration and baggage claim if arriving internationally.

A direct and comfortable bus service connecting Hiroshima Airport to the city center's main bus terminal.

• Buses run regularly, check the schedule in advance.
• Consider purchasing a round-trip ticket if you plan to return to the airport by bus.

A comfortable mid-range hotel conveniently located within the Hiroshima Station complex, offering easy access to transportation and dining.

A popular spot for Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a savory pancake layered with noodles, cabbage, and your choice of toppings.

• Expect a queue during peak hours.
• Try the 'soba' or 'udon' noodle option.

A serene park dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing, featuring numerous monuments and memorials.

• Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
• Consider visiting early to avoid crowds.

A poignant museum detailing the events of the atomic bombing and advocating for world peace. Exhibits include artifacts and personal accounts.

• The museum can be emotionally challenging; take your time.
• Audio guides are available and highly recommended.

A cozy cafe near the Peace Park offering light meals, coffee, and desserts. A good spot for a break.

The skeletal ruins of the former Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, preserved as a stark reminder of the bombing. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• View from various angles around the park.
• The exterior is the main attraction.

Explore local eateries around the Hondori shopping arcade for an authentic Hiroshima okonomiyaki experience.

• Many restaurants offer similar menus; look for busy local spots.
• Don't be afraid to try different toppings.

The main railway station in Hiroshima, serving as a hub for JR trains, Shinkansen, and local lines.

• Purchase your tickets for Miyajima here.

A scenic train ride along the coast to the gateway station for Miyajima Island.

• The Japan Rail Pass covers this route.
• Sit on the left side for coastal views.

A short ferry ride offering stunning views of the floating torii gate as you approach Miyajima.

• The ferry is covered by the Japan Rail Pass.
• Watch for wild deer on the island.

A UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its 'floating' torii gate that appears to float at high tide. The shrine itself is built over the water.

• Check the tide times to see the torii gate at high and low tide.
• Wear shoes that are easy to remove as you'll need to take them off inside some shrine buildings.

The highest peak on Miyajima Island, offering panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea. Accessible by ropeway or hiking trails.

• The ropeway is recommended for a quicker ascent.
• Bring water and wear sturdy shoes if hiking.

The main street on Miyajima, lined with shops selling local crafts, souvenirs, and delicious street food.

• Try the grilled oysters and Momiji Manju (maple leaf-shaped cakes).
• Look for handcrafted wooden items.

A renowned restaurant specializing in oysters, a local delicacy of Miyajima. Offers various preparations of fresh oysters.

• Oysters are a must-try here.
• Reservations are recommended during peak season.

Take the ferry back to Miyajimaguchi and then the JR train back to Hiroshima Station.

A reconstruction of the original castle destroyed by the atomic bomb. The castle offers a museum inside detailing its history and Hiroshima's past.

• The top floor offers good views of the city.
• The surrounding moats and walls are also impressive.

A beautiful traditional Japanese garden featuring meticulously maintained landscapes, tea houses, and a central pond. It was also damaged by the bomb but has been restored.

• Best enjoyed at a leisurely pace.
• Look for the miniature landscapes that replicate famous scenes.

A restaurant in the Gion district known for its delicate and flavorful tofu dishes, offering a lighter, healthy option.

• Tofu dishes are a specialty here.
• A good choice for a vegetarian meal.

Hiroshima's premier covered shopping street, offering a wide range of shops, boutiques, and department stores.

• Great for souvenirs and local fashion.
• Many cafes and eateries are also located here.

A stylish bar known for its creative cocktails and relaxed atmosphere, located in the city center.

• Try their signature cocktails.
• A good place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Features a collection of Western-style paintings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with a focus on French Impressionism, as well as Japanese modern art.

• Check for special exhibitions.
• The museum's architecture is also noteworthy.

Located adjacent to Shukkei-en Garden, this museum showcases a diverse range of art, including historical artifacts, modern Japanese art, and contemporary works.

• Often has exhibitions related to Hiroshima's history and culture.
• Combine with a visit to Shukkei-en Garden.

A multi-story building dedicated to okonomiyaki, with numerous stalls on each floor offering different variations of the dish.

• It's a fun experience to choose your own okonomiyaki stall.
• Great for groups with varied tastes.

A unique library dedicated to manga, offering a vast collection for visitors to read and enjoy. It's a popular spot for manga enthusiasts.

• A great place to escape for a few hours.
• Some sections might have limited English content.

A popular chain restaurant specializing in kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers of meat, vegetables, and other ingredients).

• The dipping sauce is for single use per person; do not double dip.
• A wide variety of skewers are available.

Begin your journey by taking a JR train from Hiroshima Station.

A scenic train ride to Onomichi, a charming port town known for its temples, cats, and literary connections.

• The journey offers coastal views.
• Consider purchasing a reserved seat if traveling during peak times.

Explore the historic temples scattered across the hillsides of Onomichi. Senkoji Temple, with its vibrant red pagoda and panoramic views, is a highlight.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes as there are many stairs.
• The Senkoji Ropeway offers an easier ascent to the temple.

A whimsical street dedicated to cats, featuring numerous maneki-neko (beckoning cat) statues and cat-themed shops.

• Keep an eye out for the many resident cats.
• A fun and photogenic spot.

Dedicated to writers who have connections to Onomichi, this museum offers insights into the town's rich literary heritage.

• Learn about famous Japanese authors who were inspired by Onomichi.
• The museum is located near Senkoji Temple.

Enjoy fresh seafood, a specialty of Onomichi's coastal location, at one of the local restaurants.

• Try the local catch of the day.
• Many restaurants offer views of the harbor.

Take the JR Sanyo Line back to Hiroshima Station.

Explore the grounds around Hiroshima Castle, including the moats and reconstructed gates, offering a glimpse into the feudal past.

• Good for photography, especially the castle keep reflected in the moat.
• Look for information boards detailing the castle's history.

Revisit or explore this museum, which houses a diverse collection of art and historical artifacts, located near Shukkei-en Garden.

• Focus on specific exhibits of interest.
• Check if any temporary exhibitions are running.

Enjoy a simple and satisfying meal of udon noodles at a local eatery.

• Udon is a comforting and affordable option.
• Try different broths and toppings.

Experience Hiroshima's famous oysters. You can find them prepared in various ways at local restaurants or markets.

• Look for restaurants specializing in oysters.
• Try them grilled, fried, or raw.

Hiroshima's vibrant entertainment district, filled with restaurants, bars, and izakayas. It comes alive in the evening.

• A great place to experience Hiroshima's nightlife.
• Be aware of your surroundings.

Take a JR train from Hiroshima Station for your trip to Kure.

A scenic train journey along the coast to Kure, a historic naval port city.

• The views are particularly beautiful.
• Kure is known for its maritime history.

A fascinating museum dedicated to Kure's history as a naval port and shipbuilding center, featuring a full-scale replica of the Yamato battleship.

• The scale model of the Yamato is impressive.
• There are many exhibits on naval history and technology.

Explore exhibits related to Japan's naval history, including artifacts, models, and interactive displays.

• Offers a deeper dive into naval history than the Yamato Museum.
• Good for those interested in military history.

Wander through the historic streets of Kure, which retain some of the atmosphere of its naval past, with old buildings and monuments.

• Look for historical markers and statues.
• The area around the port is particularly atmospheric.

Enjoy local cuisine in Kure, perhaps trying some of the seafood or dishes influenced by its naval history.

• Ask locals for recommendations.
• Kure curry is a popular dish.

Take the JR Kure Line back to Hiroshima Station.

Offers panoramic views of Hiroshima city, Peace Memorial Park, and Miyajima Island from its observation deck. Features a unique 'paper crane slide'.

• The paper crane slide is a fun and unique experience.
• Best visited on a clear day for optimal views.

Provides information about the Peace Memorial Park and its significance, with exhibits on the history of the atomic bombing.

• A good starting point for understanding the park's context.
• Staff can provide helpful information.

Enjoy lunch at a restaurant in the central business district, offering a variety of Japanese and international cuisines.

• Explore the area around Hiroshima Station or Hondori.
• Look for lunch specials.

Modern architectural structure serving as a central hub for intercity and local bus services.

• Observe the contemporary design.
• Good place to orient yourself with local transit.

A modern architectural building that serves as a key cultural and educational hub for the city.

• Appreciate the modern design and urban planning.
• A quiet place for a stroll.

Experience Hiroshima's nightlife by visiting several izakayas (Japanese pubs) in the Nagarekawa district, sampling various small dishes and drinks.

• Try different skewers, sashimi, and local sake.
• Engage with locals if possible.

A large park located on Hijiyama Hill, offering green spaces, walking paths, and panoramic views of Hiroshima city. Home to several museums.

• Great for a leisurely walk or a picnic.
• The park is easily accessible by streetcar.

Located within Hijiyama Park, this museum showcases contemporary Japanese and international art, with a focus on post-war works.

• The building's architecture is also a point of interest.
• Check for temporary exhibitions.

Enjoy a coffee or light snack at one of the cafes within or near Hijiyama Park.

• A relaxing spot to take a break.
• Enjoy the park views.

A serene Buddhist temple nestled in a forested valley, known for its three waterfalls and tranquil atmosphere. It offers a peaceful escape from the city.

• The walk to the temple is scenic.
• Wear comfortable shoes for the paths.

Dine at a local izakaya for a relaxed dinner, enjoying small dishes and drinks.

• A good way to try various Japanese dishes.
• Often have a friendly, local atmosphere.

Take a JR train from Hiroshima Station to Saijo.

A short train ride to Saijo, renowned for its sake breweries and the annual Sake Festival.

• Saijo is one of Japan's premier sake-producing regions.
• The town is easily walkable from the station.

Visit one of Saijo's historic sake breweries for a tour and tasting. Kamotsuru is known for its quality sake.

• Tours may be in Japanese; inquire about English explanations.
• Learn about the sake-making process.

Wander through the charming streets lined with traditional sake breweries, many with distinctive red-brick chimneys and white walls.

• Look for the sake brewing history museum.
• Many breweries offer samples.

Enjoy lunch at a restaurant within a sake brewery or one that specializes in dishes that pair well with sake.

• Try local specialties.
• Pair your meal with regional sake.

A solemn memorial dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing, offering a quiet space for remembrance and reflection.

• A place for quiet contemplation.
• Features a symbolic flame that burns continuously.

Take the JR Sanyo Line back to Hiroshima Station.

A bustling local market where you can see fresh produce, seafood, and various local goods. A great place to experience daily life.

• Visit in the morning for the best selection.
• Try some local snacks from the vendors.

Enjoy fresh sushi made with ingredients sourced from the nearby market.

• Look for places with a good selection of local fish.
• Sushi chefs can offer recommendations.

Learn to make the iconic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki yourself in a hands-on cooking class.

• Book in advance as classes can fill up.
• A fun and interactive way to experience local cuisine.

A special dinner at a mid-range restaurant to celebrate your trip, perhaps trying a different regional specialty.

• Consider a restaurant with a view or a unique atmosphere.
• Make reservations to ensure a table.

Take a JR train from Hiroshima Station to Onomichi.

Travel to Onomichi, exploring more of its artistic and scenic offerings.

• Sit on the left side for sea views.

This museum features a diverse collection, often with a focus on contemporary art and local artists. It's known for its striking architecture.

• The museum building itself is architecturally interesting.
• Check for current exhibitions.

A stylishly renovated former warehouse complex housing shops, cafes, a bakery, and a hotel. Popular for its trendy atmosphere.

• Great place to browse unique shops and enjoy coffee.
• The bakery is highly recommended.

Stroll along the waterfront, enjoying views of the harbor and the town's hillside architecture.

• A relaxing way to see the town from a different perspective.
• Look for public art installations.

Enjoy a final dinner in Onomichi, perhaps trying a dish you missed on your previous visit.

• Onomichi is known for its ramen as well as seafood.
• Explore the backstreets for hidden gems.

Take the JR Sanyo Line back to Hiroshima Station.

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel or a nearby cafe before heading to the airport.

Take the direct bus service from Hiroshima Bus Center to Hiroshima Airport for your departure.

• Allow ample time for check-in and security.
• Check the bus schedule in advance.

Depart from Hiroshima Airport.