Hiroshima is a city that offers a melange of history, tradition and modern culture. The city and its people’s dedication to peace is something that can be felt as you discover the numerous sights around the area. Make your trip to Hiroshima an unforgettable one by visiting these six spots.
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01
Peace Memorial Park
Acting as the centerpiece of Hiroshima, the Peace Memorial Park was created to replace the main political and commercial center of the city which was destroyed in 1945. Found on its own small island where the River Ota forks, the park is now one of the most visited parts of the city for its historical stories and relaxing river banks. The park is also home to the Peace Memorial Museum which outlines the events surrounding the dropping of the atomic bomb and, just opposite, is the recognisable skeletal figure of the Atomic Bomb Dome which is one of the only remaining buildings in the area from before 1945.
Peace Memorial Park
- Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
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- Hiroshima Pref. Hiroshimashinakaku Nakajimachou 1 Otemachi 1-10
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- Admission freedom
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02
Hiroshima Castle
With the events of WWII dominating Hiroshima’s significant historical events, Hiroshima Castle gives an insight into the city’s life prior to the war. Also known as Carp Castle, this impressive structure was, in fact, built before Hiroshima City was created back in the 16th century. Like much of the city, Hiroshima Castle was destroyed by the blast of the atomic bomb but was reconstructed to replicate the original style. Paying a small fee gives you access to the castle grounds, a history museum, and the chance to climb to the top of the castle for views over Hiroshima and the surrounding moat.
Hiroshima Castle
- Hiroshima Castle
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4.0
2003 Reviews -
- Hiroshima Pref. Hiroshimashinakaku Motomachi 21-1
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- 0822217512
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- [Mar.- Nov.] 9:00-18:00 (Adm…
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03
Okonomi-mura
For newcomers to Hiroshima, it is important to know that the locals are proud of Hiroshima cuisine. So much so that there is an area of the city that is solely dedicated to one of the city’s favourite local dishes: okonomiyaki. Okonomi-mura is home to about 25 restaurants and stalls which specialise in Hiroshima’s satisfying noodle-filled savoury pancakes. The lively atmosphere makes this area the best place to mingle with friendly locals while appreciating an important part of Hiroshima culture.
Okonomi-mura
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04
Shukkeien Garden
While history is an important part of a visit to Hiroshima, the natural beauty of the city is something that shouldn’t be overlooked. Shukkeien Garden was created about s400 years ago and is the city’s largest and most impressive park with views that reflect the diverse scenery of mountains, trees and rivers found around Hiroshima Prefecture. Immaculately sculpted shrubbery and quaint stone bridges give the garden a unique charm. As is often the case with Japan’s parks, the trees have been carefully selected to offer the best of the seasons, in particular during the cherry blossom period in spring.
Shukkeien Garden
- Shukkeien Garden
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4.5
1095 Reviews -
- Hiroshima Pref. Hiroshimashinakaku Kaminoborichou 2-11
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- 0822213620
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- 9:00-18:00 (Admission is pos…
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05
Miyajima Island
A trip to Miyajima Island is seen as obligatory if you are visiting Hiroshima and for very good reason. This small mountainous island is found an hour’s train ride south of Hiroshima City and is most celebrated for Itsukushima Shrine, a spectacular shrine whose base disappears into the sea when the tide comes in. The island is a short ferry ride from the mainland and has a day’s worth of activities in the form of shrines, hilly walks and tasting the numerous local snacks, the most popular of which is their momiji manju cakes.
Miyajima Island