Hiroshima Travel Guide: Peace, Islands, and Soulful Flavors
Hiroshima is not only a city of history — it’s a place of healing, reflection, and gentle discovery. Here, you’ll walk through stories of survival, cycle across ocean bridges, and taste food that warms the heart.
History That Inspires Peace
- Peace Memorial Park: A quiet, powerful space dedicated to remembrance and global peace.
- A-Bomb Dome: Preserved ruin standing as a symbol of resilience — UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Peace Memorial Museum: Deep, emotional exhibits that tell the human story behind August 6, 1945.
Sacred Islands and Inland Sea Beauty
- Miyajima (Itsukushima): Floating torii gate, wild deer, and mountaintop views — a must-visit spiritual site.
- Mt. Misen: Hike or ropeway for panoramic views and hidden temples in the forest mist.
- Shimanami Kaido: 70km cycling route across islands and sea bridges — one of the world’s best coastal rides.
Comfort Food with Heart
- Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki: Layered savory pancake with noodles, cabbage, egg — grilled to perfection.
- Oysters: Hiroshima is Japan’s oyster capital — try them raw, grilled, or in buttery hot pots.
- Lemon Sweets: Local Setouchi lemons inspire cakes, drinks, and refreshing souvenirs.
Wabi-Sabi Moments in Hiroshima
- Watching lanterns float down the river on Peace Memorial Day
- Sitting silently in front of the Atomic Dome at sunset
- Strolling through a quiet path on Miyajima as deer walk beside you
- Drinking lemon tea on a ferry while sea breeze brushes your face
Hiroshima gently asks you to feel — not just see. It’s a destination where memory, nature, and community come together to remind us of what it means to be human.
How to Get There
- To Hiroshima Station: Shinkansen from Osaka (~1.5 hrs) or Tokyo (~4 hrs).
- To Miyajima: Train to Miyajimaguchi, then 10-minute ferry.
- To Shimanami Kaido: Start from Onomichi — accessible by JR lines or highway bus.