Hiroshima
A city of resilience and peace. The Peace Memorial and Museum are profound, while nearby Miyajima Island's floating torii gate is iconic. Famous for okonomiyaki and oysters.
Tours & Experiences
Browse bookable tours, activities, and day trips in Hiroshima
📍 Points of Interest
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📋The Rundown
Hiroshima was devastated by the first atomic bomb on August 6, 1945, and has rebuilt itself as an international symbol of peace and resilience
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site — the only structure left standing near the bomb's hypocenter
Miyajima Island's floating torii gate, just 45 minutes away, is one of Japan's three most celebrated scenic views
Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki features layers of batter, cabbage, noodles, pork, and egg — distinctly different from the Osaka mixed style
The city is built on a river delta with six rivers flowing through it, earning the nickname "City of Water" with over 2,300 bridges
Hiroshima is home to the Carp baseball team — one of Japan's most passionate fan bases — and the Sanfrecce soccer club
🏛️Must-See Spots
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
🗼A vast park at the epicenter of the 1945 bombing, containing the Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Memorial Museum, Children's Peace Monument, Cenotaph, and Peace Flame. A deeply moving and essential visit for understanding Hiroshima's history and message.
Atomic Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome)
📌The skeletal remains of the former Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, preserved exactly as it stood after the bombing. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most potent symbol of nuclear devastation.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
🏛️A profoundly moving museum documenting the atomic bombing through personal artifacts, survivor testimonies, and historical exhibits. The renovated East Building opened in 2019 with enhanced displays.
Miyajima Island (Itsukushima)
🗼A sacred island where the iconic vermillion torii gate appears to float on the water at high tide. Home to Itsukushima Shrine (UNESCO), friendly deer, ancient temples, and Mt. Misen with panoramic views.
Hiroshima Castle (Carp Castle)
📌A faithful 1958 reconstruction of the original 1589 castle destroyed by the atomic bomb. The five-story keep houses a museum of Hiroshima's pre-war history and offers panoramic city views from the top floor.
Shukkeien Garden
🌳A beautiful Edo-period strolling garden originally built in 1620 for the feudal lord of Hiroshima. Miniature landscapes represent valleys, mountains, and forests around a central pond with tea houses.
Okonomimura (Okonomiyaki Village)
📌A multi-story building housing over 20 okonomiyaki stalls on floors 2-4, each with counter seating around a sizzling teppan grill. The best place to try Hiroshima's signature layered savory pancake.
Mount Misen
🌿The highest peak on Miyajima Island (535m), accessible by ropeway and a 30-minute hike to the summit. Ancient forests, granite boulders, wild monkeys, and sweeping views of the Seto Inland Sea.
🗺️Where to Next
Osaka
Japan's kitchen and nightlife capital with Dotonbori's neon-lit food streets, Osaka Castle, and the vibrant Shinsekai district. One of the country's most exciting and affordable big cities.
Kyoto
Japan's cultural capital with over 2,000 temples and shrines, geisha districts, bamboo groves, and exquisite kaiseki cuisine. The unmissable heart of traditional Japan.
Onomichi
A charming hillside port town famous for its temple walk, cat alley, ramen, and as the starting point of the Shimanami Kaido — Japan's most scenic cycling route across six islands to Shikoku.
Iwakuni
A small city known for the Kintai Bridge — a stunning five-arched wooden bridge dating to 1673, with a hilltop castle and samurai quarter nearby. An easy half-day trip.
Kurashiki
A beautifully preserved Edo-era merchant quarter with white-walled warehouses lining a willow-draped canal. Home to the Ohara Museum of Art — Japan's first Western art museum.
📍Hidden Gems
Nagarekawa District
Hiroshima's lively entertainment district just south of Peace Boulevard, packed with izakayas, bars, okonomiyaki joints, and late-night eateries. Less polished than the tourist areas but full of character.
This is where locals go after work. The side streets hide tiny standing bars and counter-only restaurants serving some of the best food in the city.
Mitaki-dera Temple
A peaceful forested temple complex nestled in a ravine with streams, moss-covered stone paths, and three waterfalls. Built in 809 AD and miraculously untouched by the atomic bomb despite being only 3 km away.
While tourists crowd Peace Park, this serene forest temple offers a contemplative atmosphere that perfectly complements the city's peace message.
Hiroshima Sake Brewery District
The Saijo area east of the city is one of Japan's top three sake brewing regions. Seven historic breweries with distinctive white walls and red-brick chimneys offer tastings and tours.
Hiroshima prefecture's soft water produces exceptionally smooth, mellow sake. The October Sake Festival here draws thousands of enthusiasts.
Rabbit Island (Okunoshima)
A small island in the Seto Inland Sea inhabited by hundreds of friendly wild rabbits. Once a secret poison gas factory during WWII, it now has a resort hotel, cycling paths, and a sobering war museum.
The juxtaposition of adorable free-roaming rabbits and dark wartime history makes this one of Japan's most unique and surreal day trips.
Hondori Shopping Arcade & Side Streets
A covered shopping arcade running parallel to Peace Boulevard with local boutiques, vintage shops, record stores, and hole-in-the-wall eateries. The side streets harbor independent cafes and galleries.
Unlike the chain-dominated shopping streets of Tokyo and Osaka, Hondori retains a strongly independent, local character — Hiroshima's creative pulse.
☀️Weather
Hiroshima has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, winters are mild compared to northern Japan, and spring cherry blossoms and autumn foliage are spectacular. The rainy season (tsuyu) runs from mid-June to mid-July.
Spring
March - May43-72°F
6-22°C
Cherry blossoms typically peak in late March to early April, transforming Peace Memorial Park. Mild temperatures and increasing sunshine make this one of the best seasons to visit.
Summer
June - August68-91°F
20-33°C
Hot and humid with a rainy season in June-July. August 6 marks the Peace Memorial Ceremony with thousands of paper lanterns floated on the river — a powerful experience despite the heat.
Autumn
September - November50-79°F
10-26°C
Comfortable temperatures and spectacular fall foliage on Miyajima Island (peak in mid-November). Clear skies return after the summer humidity. Excellent hiking weather on Mt. Misen.
Winter
December - February36-50°F
2-10°C
Mild by Japanese standards with occasional cold snaps. Light snowfall is rare but possible. Fewer tourists and peaceful temple visits. Oyster season on Miyajima is a winter highlight.
🛡️Safety
Very Safe
out of 100
Hiroshima is extremely safe, reflecting Japan's overall reputation as one of the safest countries for travelers. Violent crime is virtually nonexistent, theft is rare, and the city is well-maintained with excellent infrastructure. The biggest risks are natural disasters (typhoons, earthquakes) and heat exhaustion in summer.
Things to Know
- •Japan is one of the safest countries in the world — lost wallets are commonly turned in to police boxes (koban) with cash intact
- •Summer heat and humidity can cause heat exhaustion — carry water, use the free rest stops in shopping arcades, and pace yourself
- •Deer on Miyajima Island can be aggressive when they smell food — keep snacks hidden and watch your maps and papers
- •Cycling is common on sidewalks — stay aware of bikes approaching from behind, especially near rivers
- •The August 6 Peace Memorial Ceremony draws large crowds — arrive early and be prepared for an emotionally intense experience
- •Earthquakes are possible — know the evacuation procedures at your hotel and follow Japan Meteorological Agency alerts
Natural Hazards
Emergency Numbers
Police
110
Fire & Ambulance
119
Japan Helpline (English 24/7)
0570-000-911
Hiroshima Tourist Info
082-247-6738
🚕Transit & Transport
Hiroshima has an extensive streetcar (tram) network — the oldest and largest in Japan — supplemented by buses and a good cycling infrastructure. The tram system connects the station to Peace Park, the castle, and the Miyajima ferry terminal. An IC card (ICOCA/Suica) works on all public transport.
Hiroden Streetcar (Tram)
¥190 (~$1.27) flat fare within the city; ¥270 (~$1.80) to Miyajima-guchiEight tram lines crisscrossing the city, including vintage cars from the 1940s and modern low-floor trams. Line 2 runs from the station to Miyajima-guchi ferry terminal. Simple, frequent, and scenic.
Best for: Getting between the station, Peace Park, Hiroshima Castle, and the Miyajima ferry — covers almost everything a tourist needs
JR Miyajima Ferry
¥180 (~$1.20) one-way; free with JR PassFrequent ferries from Miyajima-guchi to Miyajima Island (10 min crossing). The JR ferry detours past the floating torii gate — take this one. Covered by Japan Rail Pass.
Best for: The only way to reach Miyajima Island — the JR ferry passes close to the torii gate, especially recommended at high tide
Peacecle Bike Share
¥165 (~$1.10) per 30 min; ¥1,100 (~$7.35) day passHiroshima's public bike-share system with stations throughout the city. Register via app or at a station. The flat river delta terrain makes cycling easy and pleasant.
Best for: Exploring the riverside paths between Peace Park, the castle, and Shukkeien Garden at your own pace
Hiroshima Sightseeing Loop Bus (Meipuru~pu)
¥200 (~$1.34) per ride; ¥400 (~$2.67) day passA tourist-oriented loop bus connecting Hiroshima Station, Shukkeien Garden, the castle, Peace Park, and other major sights with English announcements.
Best for: First-time visitors who want a hassle-free circuit of the main sights without navigating the tram system
🚶 Walkability
Hiroshima is very walkable within the central area. Peace Memorial Park, the Atomic Bomb Dome, Hiroshima Castle, and Shukkeien Garden are all within a 25-minute walk of each other. The flat river delta terrain and well-maintained sidewalks make walking easy. The Hondori shopping arcade provides covered walking in any weather.
✈️Getting In & Out
✈️ Airports
Hiroshima Airport(HIJ)
50 km eastAirport limousine bus to Hiroshima Station in 45-50 minutes (¥1,370/~$9.15). Buses run every 15-20 min. Domestic flights from Tokyo (Haneda/Narita), Sapporo, Sendai, and Okinawa. International flights to Seoul, Taipei, and several Chinese cities.
✈️ Search flights to HIJIwakuni Kintaikyo Airport(IWK)
45 km southwestBus to Iwakuni Station then JR train to Hiroshima (total ~1.5 hrs, ~¥1,500/~$10). Mainly domestic ANA flights from Tokyo Haneda.
✈️ Search flights to IWK🚆 Rail Stations
Hiroshima Station
On the eastern edge of the center — tram to Peace Park takes 15 minThe main Shinkansen station with Nozomi/Mizuho bullet trains to Osaka (1h 25min, ¥10,000), Kyoto (1h 40min, ¥11,000), Tokyo (4h, ¥19,000), and Hakata/Fukuoka (1h, ¥9,000). All covered by the Japan Rail Pass (except Nozomi/Mizuho — use Sakura/Hikari instead).
🚌 Bus Terminals
Hiroshima Bus Center (Hiroshima BC)
Highway buses to Osaka (5h, ¥4,000-5,500), Tokyo (11h overnight, ¥5,000-9,000), Fukuoka (4.5h, ¥4,000), and Matsuyama (2.5h, ¥4,000). Night buses are a budget alternative to the Shinkansen.
🛍️Shopping
Hiroshima's shopping scene centers on the Hondori covered arcade and the area around Hiroshima Station (rebuilt with a major new development). Miyajima Island has a charming shopping street with traditional crafts. Hiroshima Carp merchandise is hugely popular locally.
Hondori Shopping Arcade
covered shopping streetA long covered arcade running parallel to Peace Boulevard with department stores, independent shops, fashion boutiques, and restaurants. Intersects with several smaller arcades.
Known for: Local boutiques, Hiroshima Carp merchandise shops, vintage clothing, record stores, department stores
Hiroshima Station ekie
station shopping complexA modern shopping and dining complex within Hiroshima Station with souvenir shops, local food specialties, and restaurants. Perfect for last-minute gift shopping before boarding the Shinkansen.
Known for: Momiji manju (maple leaf cakes), Hiroshima oyster products, sake, local sweets, bento boxes
Miyajima Omotesando Street
tourist shopping streetThe main shopping street on Miyajima Island running from the ferry terminal to Itsukushima Shrine, lined with souvenir shops, fresh-grilled oysters, and the world's largest rice scoop.
Known for: Momiji manju (fresh-baked), grilled oysters, shamoji (rice paddle) crafts, deer-themed souvenirs, Miyajima woodwork
Kamiyacho / Hacchobori Area
department store districtThe commercial heart of the city with major department stores (Sogo, Mitsukoshi), electronics shops, and the Parco complex for younger fashion brands.
Known for: Department store food halls (depachika), electronics, fashion, cosmetics
🎁 Unique Souvenirs to Look For
- •Momiji manju — maple leaf-shaped cakes with fillings from traditional red bean to chocolate, cream, and matcha
- •Hiroshima Carp merchandise — the beloved baseball team's red gear is an iconic local souvenir
- •Kumano brushes — world-famous calligraphy and makeup brushes handmade in nearby Kumano Town
- •Miyajima shamoji (rice scoops) — the island has been carving these since the 18th century
- •Hiroshima oyster products — smoked oysters, oyster oil, oyster soy sauce from the Seto Inland Sea
- •Saijo sake — bottles from the seven historic breweries in the sake district east of the city
- •Peace-themed origami cranes and merchandise from the Peace Memorial Park shops
- •Hiroshima lemon products — the prefecture produces 60% of Japan's lemons
💵Money & Tipping
Japanese Yen
Code: JPY
1 USD is approximately 149 JPY (as of early 2026). ATMs at 7-Eleven, Japan Post, and Lawson convenience stores accept international cards 24/7. Some local bank ATMs do not accept foreign cards. Carry cash as Japan remains more cash-dependent than most developed countries.
Payment Methods
Japan is increasingly cashless but still relies heavily on cash, especially in smaller shops, market stalls, and traditional restaurants. IC cards (Suica, ICOCA, PASMO) work on transport and at convenience stores. Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted at major chains, hotels, and department stores. PayPay is the dominant mobile payment app.
Tipping Guide
Tipping is not practiced in Japan and can cause confusion or embarrassment. Excellent service is the standard, not the exception.
No tipping expected at any level of hotel. At traditional ryokan inns, a gratuity envelope (kokorozuke) of ¥1,000-3,000 is occasionally left for exceptional service, placed in a small envelope.
No tip expected or necessary. Drivers will often try to return any excess change.
Not expected, but if you wish to show appreciation for a private guide, offer ¥1,000-3,000 in an envelope — never loose cash.
Japan has a no-tipping culture. If you try to tip, staff will likely refuse or chase you down to return the money.
💰Budget
budget
$60-90
Hostel or capsule hotel, convenience store and ramen meals, tram day pass, free Peace Park visit
mid-range
$120-180
Business hotel, restaurant meals including okonomiyaki, Miyajima day trip, museum visits
luxury
$300+
Upscale hotel or Miyajima ryokan, kaiseki dining, private guides, sake brewery tours
Typical Costs
| Item | Local | USD |
|---|---|---|
| AccommodationHostel dorm bed | ¥2,500-4,000 | $17-27 |
| AccommodationBusiness hotel (double) | ¥8,000-15,000 | $54-101 |
| AccommodationMiyajima ryokan (per person w/ meals) | ¥20,000-50,000 | $134-336 |
| FoodHiroshima okonomiyaki | ¥900-1,500 | $6-10 |
| FoodRamen at local shop | ¥700-1,000 | $4.70-6.70 |
| FoodConvenience store meal (onigiri + drink) | ¥300-500 | $2-3.35 |
| FoodRestaurant dinner | ¥2,000-5,000 | $13-34 |
| FoodGrilled oysters on Miyajima (3 pcs) | ¥500-700 | $3.35-4.70 |
| TransportTram single ride | ¥190 | $1.27 |
| TransportTram 1-day pass | ¥700 | $4.70 |
| TransportJR Miyajima ferry (round trip) | ¥360 | $2.42 |
| AttractionsPeace Memorial Museum | ¥200 | $1.34 |
| AttractionsItsukushima Shrine | ¥300 | $2.01 |
| AttractionsMiyajima Ropeway (round trip) | ¥1,840 | $12.35 |
💡 Money-Saving Tips
- •The Japan Rail Pass covers Shinkansen travel to/from Hiroshima plus the JR Miyajima ferry — essential for multi-city trips
- •The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is only ¥200 — one of Japan's best museum values
- •Convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart) sell surprisingly good, cheap meals — onigiri, bento boxes, and sandwiches
- •The Hiroden tram day pass (¥700) is great value if you take three or more rides
- •Free English volunteer guides are available at Peace Memorial Park — check at the Rest House
- •Eat okonomiyaki at local shops rather than tourist-oriented Okonomimura — same quality, lower prices
- •Bring a refillable water bottle — free cold water taps are common at stations and public buildings
- •Visit Miyajima as a day trip rather than staying overnight — accommodation on the island is significantly more expensive
🗓️When to Visit
Best Time to Visit
Spring (late March to mid-April) for cherry blossoms and autumn (mid-October to late November) for fall foliage offer the best weather and most beautiful scenery. The August 6 Peace Memorial Ceremony is a profoundly moving experience but coincides with intense summer heat.
Spring (March - May)
Crowds: High during cherry blossom season and Golden Week — moderate otherwiseCherry blossoms transform Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima in late March to early April. Mild temperatures and clear skies make this the most popular season. Golden Week (late April-early May) is extremely busy.
Pros
- + Cherry blossoms in Peace Park and Miyajima
- + Ideal walking and cycling weather
- + Clear views from Mt. Misen
- + Flower festivals across the city
Cons
- − Cherry blossom timing is unpredictable
- − Golden Week crowds and prices surge
- − Some rain in April
- − Accommodation books up fast during peak bloom
Summer (June - August)
Crowds: Moderate — high around August 6Hot and humid with a rainy season in June-July. August 6 is the anniversary of the atomic bombing — the Peace Memorial Ceremony with paper lantern floating is deeply moving but the heat is intense.
Pros
- + Peace Memorial Ceremony on August 6
- + Summer festivals and fireworks
- + Longer daylight for Miyajima exploration
- + Fresh oysters return in summer at some venues
Cons
- − Oppressive heat and humidity (33°C+)
- − June rainy season
- − Typhoon risk in late summer
- − Energy-draining conditions for walking
Autumn (September - November)
Crowds: Moderate to high during peak foliage (mid-November)Cooling temperatures and spectacular fall foliage, especially on Miyajima Island where maple trees turn brilliant red in mid-November. Arguably the best overall season for visiting.
Pros
- + Stunning autumn colors on Miyajima
- + Comfortable walking temperatures
- + Oyster season begins in October
- + Clear skies and lower humidity
Cons
- − Peak foliage weekends can be very crowded on Miyajima
- − Typhoons possible in September-October
- − Accommodation prices rise during peak foliage
- − Earlier sunset than summer
Winter (December - February)
Crowds: Low — except around New YearMild winters with occasional cold snaps but rarely below freezing. Peak oyster season makes this an excellent time for food lovers. The fewest tourists and most peaceful temple visits.
Pros
- + Peak oyster season
- + Fewest tourists
- + Peaceful Miyajima visits
- + Lower accommodation prices
Cons
- − Short daylight hours (sunset ~5 PM)
- − Some outdoor attractions less appealing
- − Occasional cold, grey days
- − Ropeway maintenance closures possible
🎉 Festivals & Events
Peace Memorial Ceremony
August 6The annual commemoration of the 1945 atomic bombing with a ceremony at 8:15 AM (the moment of detonation), a minute of silence, and the evening Paper Lantern Floating on the Motoyasu River.
Cherry Blossom Season
Late March - Early AprilHanami (flower viewing) parties under the cherry trees in Peace Memorial Park, along the riverbanks, and at Hiroshima Castle. Miyajima's blossoms bloom slightly later.
Miyajima Water Fireworks Festival
AugustA spectacular fireworks display launched from boats in front of the floating torii gate, with pyrotechnics reflected in the water — one of Japan's most beautiful fireworks shows.
Ebisu Festival (Ebisuko)
November 18-20Hiroshima's biggest local festival honoring the god of prosperity, with decorated rakes (kumade) sold for good luck, food stalls, and packed crowds at Ebisu Shrine.
🛂Visa & Entry
Japan offers visa-free entry to citizens of 68 countries for tourism stays of 15 to 90 days depending on nationality. Visitors receive a "temporary visitor" residence status on arrival. Japan's immigration is efficient but thorough — biometric data (fingerprints and photo) is collected on entry.
Entry Requirements by Nationality
| Nationality | Visa Required | Max Stay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| US Citizens | Visa-free | 90 days | No visa needed for tourism. Passport must be valid for duration of stay. Visit Japan Web registration recommended for smooth immigration and customs. |
| UK Citizens | Visa-free | 90 days | No visa needed. Standard temporary visitor entry. Visit Japan Web speeds up arrival processing. |
| Canadian Citizens | Visa-free | 90 days | No visa needed. Working Holiday visa available for ages 18-30. |
| Australian Citizens | Visa-free | 90 days | No visa required. Working Holiday visa available. Japan-Australia relations ensure smooth entry. |
| Chinese Citizens | Yes | Varies (15-90 days) | Tourist visa required — apply at the Japanese embassy or through a registered travel agency. Single, double, and multiple-entry visas available. |
| Indian Citizens | Yes | Varies (15-90 days) | Tourist visa required. Apply through the Japanese embassy/consulate or VFS Global. Requires itinerary, hotel bookings, and financial documents. |
Visa-Free Entry
Tips
- •Complete Visit Japan Web before arrival to speed up immigration and customs — it combines the old arrival card and customs declaration
- •Biometric data (fingerprints and photo) is collected at immigration for all foreign visitors aged 16 and over
- •The 90-day visa-free stay cannot be extended for tourism — if you need more time, leave and re-enter (not guaranteed)
- •Immigration officers may ask about your itinerary and accommodation — have hotel bookings accessible
- •Japan Rail Pass must be ordered before arrival or purchased at major JR stations — essential for Hiroshima trips
💬Speak the Language
Japanese is the official language. English signage is good at tourist sites, stations, and in Peace Park, but limited elsewhere. Hiroshima has a local dialect (Hiroshima-ben) known for its warm, casual feel. Learning basic Japanese phrases shows respect and is always appreciated.
| English | Translation | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Konnichiwa | kohn-NEE-chee-wah |
| Good morning / Good evening | Ohayo gozaimasu / Konbanwa | oh-HAH-yoh goh-ZAI-mahs / kohn-BAHN-wah |
| Thank you | Arigato gozaimasu | ah-REE-gah-toh goh-ZAI-mahs |
| Excuse me / Sorry | Sumimasen | soo-mee-mah-SEN |
| Yes / No | Hai / Iie | hai / EE-eh |
| How much is this? | Ikura desu ka? | ee-KOO-rah des-kah? |
| Where is...? | Doko desu ka...? | DOH-koh des-kah...? |
| The bill, please | Okaikei onegaishimasu | oh-KAI-keh oh-neh-GAI-shee-mahs |
| Delicious! | Oishii! | oh-EE-shee! |
| I don't understand | Wakarimasen | wah-kah-ree-mah-SEN |
| Do you speak English? | Eigo o hanashimasu ka? | AY-goh oh hah-nah-shee-MAHS kah? |
| It was a feast (after meals) | Gochisousama deshita | goh-CHEE-soh-sah-mah desh-tah |