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The orange Itsukushima Shrine torii gate standing in the water at Hatsukaichi, Japan

Japan · audience itinerary

Hiroshima family

Hiroshima offers a poignant and educational two-day family adventure, blending history with modern resilience. It's genuinely worth visiting for its powerful Peace Memorial Park and Museum, which provides a vital, albeit somber, understanding of history for all ages. Beyond the memorials, families will enjoy the vibrant Shukkei-en Garden and the interactive exhibits at the Hiroshima Children's Museum. Experiencing okonomiyaki, a local savory pancake, is a delicious culinary adventure for everyone. Consider basing yourselves in the Naka Ward, which is central and puts you within easy walking distance of the Peace Memorial Park and many transport links. Alternatively, the area around Hiroshima Station offers convenient access for onward travel and a wider range of family-friendly hotels and dining. An insider truth is that many families find the ferry to Miyajima Island, home to the iconic floating torii gate, to be a highlight. The island is easily accessible, offers opportunities to see wild deer, and has plenty of snack stalls that appeal to children, making it a refreshing contrast to the city's more serious sites.

Your 2-day plan

PaceStandard

This 2-day family-friendly itinerary for Hiroshima balances poignant historical reflection with cultural exploration and island beauty. Day one focuses on the profound legacy of the atomic bombing with visits to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, followed by a relaxing afternoon in Shukkei-en Garden. Day two offers an escape to the scenic Miyajima Island to see the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, before returning to explore Hiroshima Castle and the lively Hondori Shopping Arcade.

Day 1 · Hiroshima

Peace and Remembrance

$18–$29
  1. Morning
    ~120 min
    Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
    landmark

    This expansive park is a powerful tribute to the victims of the atomic bombing. It features numerous monuments, including the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome, and serves as a space for reflection and peace education.

    • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.
    • Allow ample time for quiet contemplation.
  2. Midday
    ~90 min
    Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
    museum

    Located within the Peace Memorial Park, this museum presents harrowing and informative exhibits detailing the events of the bombing and its aftermath. It aims to convey the reality of nuclear weapons and advocate for world peace.

    • The exhibits can be emotionally challenging; prepare accordingly.
    • Audio guides are available for deeper understanding.
  3. Afternoon
    ~60 min
    Okonomimura
    restaurant

    A multi-story building dedicated to Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a savory pancake dish layered with noodles, cabbage, and various toppings. It's a lively and popular spot for families to experience local cuisine.

    • Try different vendors to sample variations of okonomiyaki.
    • It can get crowded, especially during peak meal times.
  4. Evening
    ~75 min
    Shukkei-en Garden
    park

    A beautiful and tranquil Japanese garden featuring meticulously landscaped scenery, including ponds, bridges, and teahouses. It offers a peaceful escape and a glimpse into traditional Japanese garden design.

    • The garden is especially lovely during cherry blossom or autumn foliage seasons.
    • Look for the miniature representations of famous Japanese landscapes.
Day 2 · Hiroshima

Island Escape and Local Culture

$21–$47
  1. Morning
    ~180 min
    Miyajima Island (Itsukushima)
    landmark

    A short ferry ride from Hiroshima, this island is famous for its 'floating' Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic vermilion torii gate, which appears to float at high tide. The island is also home to friendly wild deer.

    • Check the tide times to see the torii gate at its most dramatic.
    • Be mindful of the deer; do not feed them.
    → Take the JR Sanyo Line from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station, then a short walk to the ferry terminal for the JR ferry to Miyajima Island.
  2. Midday
    ~60 min
    Itsukushima Shrine
    landmark

    This UNESCO World Heritage site is a Shinto shrine renowned for its striking architecture and its famous torii gate standing in the sea. The shrine complex is built over the water, creating a unique and picturesque setting.

    • Wear comfortable shoes as there are stairs and uneven surfaces.
    • Consider visiting during different tide levels for varied perspectives.
  3. Afternoon
    ~75 min
    Hiroshima Castle
    landmark

    A reconstruction of the original castle destroyed by the atomic bomb, Hiroshima Castle offers a glimpse into feudal Japan. The castle keep now houses a museum detailing its history and the samurai era.

    • The castle grounds offer good views of the city.
    • There's a pleasant moat surrounding the castle.
    → From Miyajima Island, take the ferry back to the mainland and then a tram or bus to Hiroshima Castle.
  4. Evening
    ~90 min
    Hondori Shopping Arcade
    shopping

    A bustling covered shopping street filled with a wide variety of shops, boutiques, and restaurants. It's a great place to find souvenirs, enjoy local snacks, and experience the vibrant city atmosphere.

    • Look for local crafts and Hiroshima-themed souvenirs.
    • Many restaurants and cafes are located within or adjacent to the arcade.

Insider tips

  • ◆Purchase a Hiroshima Tourist Pass for unlimited travel on trams and buses within the city, which can be cost-effective.
  • ◆Consider purchasing a JR Pass if you plan to travel extensively by train in Japan, as it covers the JR ferry to Miyajima.
  • ◆Learn a few basic Japanese phrases; while English is spoken in tourist areas, politeness is always appreciated.
  • ◆Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is a must-try local delicacy.

Packing highlights

  • ◆Comfortable walking shoes
  • ◆Lightweight, layered clothing
  • ◆Rain jacket or umbrella
  • ◆Portable power bank for devices
  • ◆Camera

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