Hiroshima Overview & Itineraries

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Hiroshima Overview & Itineraries

Introduction

Hiroshima, the capital of Hiroshima Prefecture, is a city that resonates with a profound history of tragedy and a remarkable story of recovery. Known globally as the first city to suffer an atomic bombing in 1945, it has transformed itself into a vibrant "International City of Peace and Culture." Located along the scenic Seto Inland Sea, the city offers a unique blend of historic landmarks, world-class cuisine, and serene natural beauty.

Key Landmarks & Cultural Heritage

Atomic bomb dome | 原爆ドーム

A UNESCO World Heritage site that stands as a silent witness to the bombing, serving as a powerful symbol of the hope for world peace.

Itsukushima Shinto Shrine (Miyajima) | 厳島神社（宮島）

Famous for its "floating" torii gate, this shrine exemplifies the Japanese aesthetic of harmony between architecture and nature.

Shukkeien Garden | 縮景園

A traditional landscape garden dating back to 1620, offering a peaceful retreat that reflects the changing seasons.

Yamato Museum | 大和ミュージアム（呉市海事歴史科学館）

Located in the historic naval port of Kure, this museum features a 1/10 scale model of the battleship Yamato. It chronicles Japan’s maritime history and the world-class shipbuilding technology that spearheaded the nation’s modernization.

Senko-ji Temple | 千光寺

Perched on a steep hill, this temple offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea.

Tomonoura | 鞆の浦

A picturesque port town with a history spanning over a thousand years, famous for its unique "circular" harbor structure from the Edo period. Its nostalgic scenery famously inspired the setting for Studio Ghibli's Ponyo.

Saijo Sakagura-dori (Sake Storehouse Road) | 西条酒蔵通り

One of Japan's three great sake-producing regions. The street is lined with iconic white-walled breweries and red brick chimneys, where visitors can taste premium sake brewed using the local soft spring water.

Key Regions and Their Characteristics

Kure | 呉

A historic naval port city that played a crucial role in Japan’s modernization and maritime engineering.

Saijo | 西条

One of Japan’s top sake-producing regions.

Onomichi & The Shimanami Kaido | 尾道 & しまなみ海道

A gateway to the famous cycling route across the Seto Inland Sea, known for its labyrinthine alleys and temple walks.

Etajima | 江田島

Known for its historic naval academy and olive groves.

Okunoshima | 大久野島

Widely known as "Rabbit Island," it is home to hundreds of wild rabbits and has a complex history as a former chemical weapons site.

Takehara | 竹原

Nicknamed "Little Kyoto of Aki," it features a beautifully preserved district from the Edo period and is the birthplace of Japanese whiskey pioneer Masataka Taketsuru.

Fukuyama | 福山

The gateway to eastern Hiroshima, featuring the nostalgic port town of Tomonoura, which inspired Studio Ghibli's films.

Akitakata | 安芸高田

Famous as the home of the Mori clan and for its vibrant "Kagura" (Shinto theatrical dance) performances.

Akiota | 安芸太田

Home to Sandankyo Gorge, one of Japan’s most beautiful scenic ravines, perfect for trekking and nature lovers.

Miyoshi | 三次

A city known for its mystical "Sea of Clouds" and high-quality wineries, as well as traditional cormorant fishing (Ukai).

Kitahiroshima | 北広島

A highland region popular for skiing in winter and traditional rice-planting rituals, offering a glimpse into Japan’s rural heritage.

Recommended Itineraries

Option A: The Essential Hiroshima (Full Day)

Morning: Ferry ride to Miyajima to visit Itsukushima Shrine.

Lunch: Savory Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki (layered savory pancakes).

Afternoon: Exploration of the Peace Memorial Park and Museum.

Option B: Deep Heritage & Local Life (2 Days)

Day 1:

Morning: Ferry ride to Miyajima to visit Itsukushima Shrine.
Lunch: Savory Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki (layered savory pancakes).
Afternoon: Visit Shimose Art Museum.

Day 2:

Morning: Exploration of the Peace Memorial Park and Museum.
Afternoon: Transfer to Onomichi and Exploration