Hiroshima & Miyajima TOURS
5 Best Hiroshima Miyajima Day Trips
Hiroshima may be one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations, but many people will leave after only a few hours in the area. In this land of shimmering seas, tiny islands and historic ports, there lies a sombre past that still hangs over the city to this day. Even a one-day tour to Hiroshima and Miyajami showcases the spirit of the Japanese people, with reminders of what has come to pass and what will be.
With a population of 1.2 million people, Hiroshima swings the balance between a thriving city metropolis and quiet reflection. From bustling downtown shopping strips to inner-city parks, there is something for everyone during your visit.
Things to do in Hiroshima
To get a true sense of the city of Hiroshima, it is best to try and plan for two days in the area to properly immerse yourself in the culture and history. If you’re short on time however, it’s still possible to get the most our of your visit! Here are some of the best attractions for your Hiroshima Miyajima Day Trips.
1 – Hiroshima Peace Museum
When you hear the name Hiroshima, you most likely think of the world’s first nuclear bomb attack. The Hiroshima Peace Museum is the city’s biggest attraction, and pays tribute to the events of 6 August 1945.
Visit this museum for a sombre reminder of the horrors of war as you discover the collection of items left over from the atomic bombing. Personal belongings like children’s toys, burned tricycles and a watch stopped at the exact time of the blast provide a link to the past, and remind us that the biggest victims of war is ordinary citizens.
The walls of the building are covered with before and after photographs of Hiroshima, showcasing the city in ruins and the horrific aftermath of the world’s first nuclear attack. One particularly emotional feature is the letters written by the engineers who created the bomb, pleading with the U.S. president not to use this devastating weapon.
Although the museum primarily focuses on the dropping of Fat Man and Little Boy, it also acknowledges and discusses Japan’s part in WWII, with particular reference to the battles in the Pacific and the attack on Pearl Harbour that first brought the United States into the fray.
2 – Wander through Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park envelopes the museum, and so is the perfect follow up to the quiet reflection of the exhibits inside. Hugged by rivers on either side, you can spend hours wandering through the vast and extraordinary park to find some moments of tranquillity.
The park is scattered with memorial statues and spaces, with the main feature being the tree-lined Pond of Peace leading to the cenotaph. This curved monument is engraved with the names of the victims of the atomic bomb attacks, and is perfectly in line with the Flame of Peace. This flame has been burning since the park’s inception in August 1964, and will be kept lit until the world is rid of nuclear weapons.
3 – Taste Hiroshima’s Signature Dish
Visiting the park and the museum is sure to drain your energy levels, so what better was to refuel with the city’s signature food – okonomiyaki!
This flat savoury pancake is both delicious and filling, and comes with meat, fish and vegetable toppings. For those who avoid eating animal products, vegetarian and vegan options are readily available at many of Hiroshima’s street vendors and restaurants.
For the true experience, drop into one of the popular restaurants like Okinomimura or Nagataya. A waiter will come to your table and create the flat-noodle dish in front of your eyes for a meal and a show.
4 – Reflect at the Atomic Bomb Dome
In 1915, the Hiroshima Industrial Promotion Hall was constructed by a Czech architect, and used as a trade centre of the city until the day of the atomic bomb attack. When the bomb exploded immediately overhead, every person inside the building was killed instantly, and the structure burned and ruined until only the framework remained.
Today, the twisted frame stands as a reminder of the horrors of the past, and as a warning to those who would forget. Declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1996, the Atomic Bomb Dome is lit from the inside at night, and is a favourite location for photographers and videographers looking to capture the past and present of Hiroshima.
5 – Hiroshima Castle
Originally constructed in 1589 by the daimyo Mori Terumoto, Hiroshima Castle stands alone on the plain in the middle of the city. The castle was later used during the Edo period by the Fukushima and Asano clans, and is a magnificent example of traditional Japanese architecture.
While the original structure was destroyed in 1945 during the nuclear bomb attacks, it has been entirely rebuilt in the style of the building
Once you’re done exploring the five floors of Hiroshima Castle, take a stroll around the nearby Shukkeien Garden. Made in 1620, this delightful horticultural triumph served as the private garden of daimyo Asano Nagaakira, who lived in Hiroshima castle until his death in 1632. Like the castle, the garden was completely destroyed during the atomic bomb attacks, but has since reblossomed, with native plants and trees springing through the ash to create a spectacular display at all times of year.
Miyajima Island
For a final stop of your tour of the area, head over to Miyajima Island. This sacred UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its floating torii gate, and is well known for the Itsukushima-jinja Shrine overlooking Hiroshima Bay.
The island is around 45 minutes from Hiroshima by ferry and takes an entire afternoon to explore. If you’re short on time, leave Hiroshima after the Memorial Park and head straight over to the Miyajima ferry. With its incredible shrine, beautiful gardens and traditional shops, you won’t want to miss a moment, and the day will fly by faster than you’d think.
Plan a Tour to Hiroshima and Miyajima Island Today!
Drenched in culture and history, Hiroshima should be at the top of every traveller’s list.
Make the most of your time here by starting early in the day, or simply moving your itinerary around to make room for a longer stay. Either way, we promise that this magnificent city and its surrounds will stay with you for years to come.
Other Popular Hiroshima Miyajima Day Trips