What to do in Hiroshima? A city that will touch you with an unforgettable history.
- Destination Explorer
- Sep 21
- 4 min read
A visit to Japan isn't complete without a stop in Hiroshima and the nearby island of Miyajima. These two destinations offer a striking combination of historical significance, natural beauty, and spiritual tranquility. In this blog post, I'll take you on our two-day trip to these extraordinary places, including helpful travel tips, highlights, and personal experiences.
What to do in Hiroshima – stay by the sea
After our visit to Osaka we took the Shinkansen to Hiroshima. We stayed one night at the Prince Hotel Hiroshima is beautifully situated on a bay in the Seto Inland Sea . A free shuttle bus runs from the station to the hotel – convenient and efficient, provided you check the schedule in advance.
As usual, we left our largest suitcase in a locker at the station (payable by Suica card or cash), so we could travel light with just carry-on luggage. For lunch, we opted for a quick stop at Hoshino Coffee in the station itself – the French toast with strawberries and whipped cream was so delicious that we returned the next day.
Once we arrived at the hotel, we took a relaxing walk in the nearby Motoujina National Park , a peninsula with peaceful trails, small beaches, and abundant waterfowl. The hotel has its own jetty where you can take the speedboat to Miyajima Island, although we opted to visit the island the next day by ferry.
On the bar's terrace, we enjoyed an affordable gin and tonic overlooking the sea. In the evening, we dined at the rooftop restaurant, Sky Lounge , with panoramic views of the Inland Sea. The ideal place to end the day in style.
Tip: the hotel also has an onsen, although you have to pay an entrance fee.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park – a lesson in humanity
On day two we headed out early for a Free walking tour – a private tour with a local guide who knew the city inside and out. We first took the local bus to the station, where we put our carry-on luggage in the lockers, and then took the tram to Peace Memorial Park .
Did you know that Hiroshima is one of the few Japanese cities where trams are still the primary means of public transport ? Due to the abundance of water in and around the city, a metro system proved less practical.
Our guide, whose grandfather survived the atomic bombing, recounted with great empathy and depth what happened on August 6, 1945. His personal family story added extra meaning to the historical context.
A visit to the Hiroshima Peace Museum is absolutely unmissable. Get there early – doors open at 7:30 am , and it's best to arrive before 9 am . (When we finished our visit, there was a very long line of people waiting outside.)
Admission is only 200 yen (approximately €1.18) . Inside, gripping stories are told in text and images of victims who died or suffered the consequences of the atomic bomb. The bomb exploded approximately 600 meters above the ground, causing an instant heat of approximately 4,000°C on the ground. Many people were burned alive.
In the square in front of the museum burns the eternal peace flame , which will only be extinguished when nuclear weapons are no longer in existence. The Atomic Bomb Dome – the only remaining building near the hypocenter – is also an impressive UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a moment of silence and a sad reminder of what happened here 80 years ago on August 6, 1945.
Taste Hiroshima – culinary treat with okonomiyaki
For lunch, we sampled the famous Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki – a savory Japanese pancake, layered with noodles, cabbage, and egg. Although we'd already had okonomiyaki in Osaka, we found this version even more delicious.
With the JR Pass to Miyajima – the island of the floating gate
In the afternoon, we headed to Miyajima , one of Japan's most iconic places. Both the train to the ferry and the ferry itself are free with the JR Rail Pass . Note: a small entrance fee is charged upon arrival on the island.
From the ferry, you immediately have a beautiful view of the famous O-torii , the large red entrance gate to Itsukushima Shrine . At high tide, this torii literally seems to float on the water – a magical and unique sight, as the shrine itself is also built on the water. At low tide, you can simply walk to it.
Once we arrived in Miyajima , we were greeted by curious deer that, just like in Nara, roam freely among the people. We chose a quiet walking route through the old town with its beautiful wooden houses , away from the touristy main street full of souvenir shops.
At Itsukushima Shrine , we had our temple book stamped, and we were in luck: a traditional performance was being performed on the Noh theater stage , with actors in beautiful historical costumes. A unique experience.
A walk around the shrine is definitely worthwhile. After our visit, we took the ferry and train back to the station, where we picked up our luggage and said goodbye to our fantastic guide, Tatsuya .
Practical tips for your visit to Hiroshima and Miyajima
Overnight: The Prince Hotel Hiroshima is quietly located overlooking the sea and offers a direct ferry to Miyajima.
Transportation: Use lockers at stations to travel light. Make full use of your JR Rail Pass .
Food: Definitely try the local okonomiyaki and the French toast at Hoshino Coffee .
Visit Peace Park early in the morning to avoid crowds and queues.
What to do in Hiroshima?
Please wear respectful clothing when visiting memorial sites.
Have your temple book stamped at Itsukushima Shrine as a reminder of this spiritual place.
Comments