Since the horrific atomic bomb hit them in 1945, Hiroshima has since rebuilt itself into a thriving city that attracts visitors worldwide!
Beautiful flowing rivers, awe-inspiring mountains, and a modern city that has moved past its tragic WWII fate in flying colors, Hiroshima is now one of the most popular cities in all of Japan.
With so much to do in this wonderful revived city, here are 5 must-do activities for an amazing time in Hiroshima!
1. Stroll Around Peace Memorial Park
Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park pays tribute to all those who lost their lives during World War II, specifically the victims of the Hiroshima bombing of 1945.
Walking around the beautiful gardens here gives something of a sad but hopeful vibe for the possibility of world peace, and the monuments have messages inscribed pledging for a world without nuclear weapons.
2. Visit The Atomic Bomb Dome
The most iconic site of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is the Atomic Bomb Dome or Genbaku Dome, the last standing structure from the atomic bombing of 1945.
It’s quite inspiring and symbolic to see how this structure has stood strong for all these years when everything else around it was reduced to rubble.
3. Eat Delicious Okonomiyaki!
Hiroshima is well-known for its local delicacy okonomiyaki, putting their own spin on this iconic savory pancake.
The standard version from Osaka takes on more of a “cake” form with all the ingredients mushed together, but this Hiroshima variant has a cleaner appearance using a layered design.
There are countless okonomiyaki restaurants in Hiroshima so you’ll never need to worry about getting a spot. In fact, there’s an entire building called Okonomimura (okonomiyaki village) dedicated to this delicious dish!
4. Enjoy Sky High Views Of Hiroshima City
The city of Hiroshima is one of the most beautiful in all of Japan. If you can get to a high altitude such as an observatory point or a top floor of a hotel, you can see incredible views of Hiroshima’s mountain ranges and the aesthetic layout of Hiroshima Castle and its beautiful surrounding moat.
I recommend staying at the Rihga Hotel for your visit to Hiroshima and requesting a room at the higher floors. Not only is the hotel amazing with English services and luxurious facilities, but the views at the top are absolutely breathtaking!
5. Cycle The Shimanami Kaido
Lastly, Hiroshima is a great place to stay if you plan on doing the famous Shimanami Kaido bike ride! The Shimanami Kaido expressway extends through Hiroshima, Onomichi, and Imabari while passing through 9 different islands.
It’s an absolutely scenic cycle that takes you through stunning mountain ranges, amazing suspension bridges, and deep blue seas. The starting point of the Shimanami Kaido cycle, Onomichi Port, is easily accessed via train from Hiroshima station.
Of course, if you are planning to visit Japan, you’ll need a way to get around the country as efficiently and affordably as possible. Japan Rail provides an abundance of travel passes to suit your travel needs. So whether you are traveling individually or as a group, the JR Pass is every traveler’s go-to for getting around and making the most of your time in Japan!