Hiroshima 4 days

A solemn and expansive park dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing. It features numerous monuments, including the iconic Peace Flame and the Children's Peace Monument, serving as a powerful reminder of the city's past and a symbol of hope for world peace.

• Visit early to avoid crowds and experience a more reflective atmosphere.

Located within the Peace Memorial Park, this museum offers a deeply moving and detailed account of the atomic bombing. It displays artifacts, personal belongings, and exhibits that illustrate the devastating impact of the bomb and the subsequent efforts towards peace.

• Be prepared for emotionally challenging content.
• Audio guides are available and recommended for deeper understanding.

Known as the 'Carp Castle,' Hiroshima Castle was rebuilt in 1985 after being destroyed by the atomic bomb. The reconstructed castle now houses a museum detailing the history of Hiroshima and the castle itself, with a viewing platform offering panoramic city views.

• The surrounding moats and walls are original and offer a sense of the castle's former grandeur.

A multi-story building packed with numerous okonomiyaki restaurants, offering a lively and authentic dining experience. Here you can savor Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a savory pancake layered with noodles, cabbage, and various toppings.

• Explore different floors to find a restaurant that appeals to you; they all serve similar dishes.
• It can get busy, especially on weekends.

A UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its 'floating' torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, which appears to float on the water at high tide. The island offers stunning natural beauty, friendly wild deer, and a peaceful atmosphere.

• Check the tide times beforehand to see the torii gate at its most iconic state (high tide).
• Be mindful of the wild deer; do not feed them.

A UNESCO World Heritage Shinto shrine, famous for its iconic vermilion torii gate that appears to stand in the sea. The shrine complex is built over the water on stilts and is an architectural marvel, offering beautiful views and a serene spiritual experience.

• Walk around the shrine during low tide to explore the seabed around the torii gate.

The highest peak on Miyajima Island, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea and surrounding islands. You can hike up or take the Miyajima Ropeway for a more accessible ascent.

• The ropeway tickets are round-trip and can be purchased at the base station.
• Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to hike any part of the trails.

Momiji Manju are small, maple-leaf-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste (anko) or other flavors, a specialty of Miyajima. Many shops offer freshly made ones, and some even have facilities where you can try making them yourself.

• Try the freshly baked 'yaki' (grilled) versions for a warm treat.

A beautiful Japanese garden designed in the miniature landscape style, featuring a central pond, tea houses, and meticulously arranged trees and rocks. It offers a tranquil escape and a glimpse into traditional Japanese garden aesthetics.

• The garden was severely damaged by the atomic bomb but has been carefully restored.
• Enjoy a matcha tea at one of the garden's tea houses.

Located adjacent to Shukkei-en Garden, this museum houses a diverse collection of art, including pre-modern Japanese and Western art, as well as contemporary works. It often features special exhibitions that draw from both local and international artists.

• Check their exhibition schedule in advance, as it can vary.

Hiroshima's premier covered shopping street, stretching for several blocks and filled with a wide array of shops, boutiques, department stores, cafes, and restaurants. It's a vibrant hub for shopping and people-watching, bustling with activity.

Hiroshima is famous for its oysters, which are cultivated in the Seto Inland Sea. Enjoy them grilled, raw, or fried at one of the many restaurants specializing in this local delicacy.

• Look for restaurants that specifically advertise 'Kaki' (oysters).

A modern skyscraper offering panoramic views of Hiroshima city, including the Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima Island in the distance. It features an observation deck and a unique 'Orizuru Wall' where visitors can hang paper cranes as a symbol of peace.

• The building is located directly across from the Peace Memorial Park.
• Consider purchasing a paper crane to hang on the wall.

This park is located on the western edge of the Peace Memorial Park and was the site of the Army Clothing Depot, one of the few buildings to survive the atomic bombing relatively intact. It now serves as a green space and a memorial, with remnants of the original structure visible.

• It's a less crowded area compared to the main Peace Memorial Park, offering a quieter contemplation space.

A large and vibrant park known for its seasonal flower displays, walking paths, and recreational areas. It's a popular spot for locals to relax and enjoy nature, offering a contrast to the city's historical sites.

Experience the lively atmosphere of a Japanese izakaya, a casual pub-style restaurant offering a variety of small dishes, grilled skewers (yakitori), sashimi, and drinks like sake and shochu. It's a great way to mingle with locals and enjoy authentic Japanese pub food.

• Don't be afraid to try a variety of dishes; sharing is common.
• Many izakayas have English menus, but pointing and gesturing can also work.