My Experience Visiting Hiroshima: A Journey Through History and Hope

As one of the most historic cities in Japan, Hiroshima is a place of great significance for people all over the world. As the first city to ever be attacked by an atomic bomb, it has become a symbol of the devastating impact of nuclear warfare. However, it is also a place of hope and resilience, with a thriving culture and a strong commitment to peace.

Hiroshima Castle

How to get to Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a popular tourist destination in Japan, and there are several ways to get there, including by train, plane, bus, and private car.

Shinkansen / Bullet Train

Train:

Hiroshima is accessible by train from many major cities in Japan, including Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. The bullet train, or shinkansen, is the fastest way to get there, with a journey time of around 4 hours from Tokyo and 2 hours from Osaka. The JR Sanyo Shinkansen Line stops at Hiroshima Station, which is located in the heart of the city. Check JR Pass Rates via Klook HERE. 

Plane:

Hiroshima has its own airport, Hiroshima Airport (HIJ), which is located about 50 minutes away from the city center by bus or taxi. Flights to Hiroshima are available from several major Japanese cities, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka, as well as from some international destinations.

Bus:

There are also several bus companies that operate services to Hiroshima from major cities in Japan. For example, Willer Express offers overnight bus services from Tokyo and Osaka to Hiroshima, while other companies such as Chugoku JR Bus and Hiroshima Electric Railway provide local bus services around the city.

Private car:

Driving to Hiroshima is also possible, and there are several major highways that connect the city to other parts of Japan. However, driving in Japan can be challenging for visitors due to different road rules and signage. It is also important to note that parking in central Hiroshima can be expensive and limited.

Best Places To Visit

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

My visit to Hiroshima was both educational and inspiring, as I had the opportunity to explore the city's many attractions and learn about its rich history. From the iconic Peace Memorial Park to the moving Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, I was deeply moved by the stories and experiences of the people who lived through the bombing and its aftermath. Check Tour Package Rate Here

Atomic Bomb Dome

One of the most impactful moments of my trip was visiting the Atomic Bomb Dome, a haunting reminder of the destruction wrought by the bomb. This stark and solemn structure stands as a testament to the human toll of war, and the importance of striving for peace and understanding.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

Despite the weight of its history, Hiroshima is a vibrant and welcoming city, with a lively food scene, beautiful gardens, and a lively arts and culture scene. From sampling delicious Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki to strolling through the peaceful Shukkeien Garden, I was enchanted by the city's many charms.

Top Tourist Destinations in Hiroshima 

1.  Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

2.  Hiroshima  Castle

3.  Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

  4. Atomic Bomb Dome

  5. Shukkei-en Garden

  6. Memorial Cathedral of World Peace

  7. Motoyasu River

  8. Fudoin Temple

  9. Hiroshima Museum of Art and Other Galleries

  10. Hiroshima City Asa Zoological Park

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Where to stay in Hiroshima

There are many options for accommodation ranging from luxury hotels to affordable hostels and guesthouses. Here are some recommended places to stay in Hiroshima based on different budgets:

Hotels:

Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel - a luxury hotel located near Hiroshima Station, with modern rooms and a rooftop lounge.

ANA Crowne Plaza Hiroshima - a 4-star hotel with panoramic views of the city, located in the downtown area.

Daiwa Roynet Hotel Hiroshima - a mid-range hotel located near the Peace Memorial Park, with spacious rooms and a restaurant.

CHECK ROOM RATES HERE

  

Hostels and Guesthouses:

K's House Hiroshima - a popular hostel located near Hiroshima Station, with a friendly atmosphere and dormitory and private rooms.

Guesthouse Akicafe Inn - a cozy guesthouse located in the downtown area, with comfortable rooms and a communal kitchen.

Backpackers Hostel K's House Hiroshima - a budget-friendly hostel located near the Peace Memorial Park, with dormitory and private rooms.

CHECK ROOM RATES HERE

  

Affordable Rooms:

APA Hotel Hiroshima-Ekimae Ohashi - a budget hotel located near Hiroshima Station, with compact but comfortable rooms.

Hotel Intergate Hiroshima - a capsule hotel with a modern and stylish design, located near the Peace Memorial Park.

Hotel Million City - a budget hotel located in the downtown area, with simple but comfortable rooms and a restaurant.

CHECK ROOM RATES HERE

  

Where to Eat in Hiroshima 

Hiroshima is known for its delicious food, from savory okonomiyaki pancakes to fresh seafood and local specialties. Here are some recommended places to eat and dishes to try in Hiroshima:

Okonomimura - This building in the center of Hiroshima has several floors of okonomiyaki restaurants, each with its own style and unique flavor. Okonomiyaki is a must-try dish in Hiroshima, with layers of batter, noodles, cabbage, and toppings cooked on a hot griddle.

Hondori Shopping Arcade - This covered shopping street has a variety of food stalls and restaurants, offering everything from sushi and ramen to takoyaki and karaage.

Miyajima Island - A short ferry ride from Hiroshima, Miyajima Island is home to several restaurants and food stalls offering fresh seafood, including oysters and conger eel.

Nagataya - A local restaurant known for its Hiroshima-style tsukemen dipping noodles, which are thick and chewy and served with a rich, savory broth.

Hiroshima-style oysters - Hiroshima is famous for its oysters, which are large and plump and can be found in many restaurants and seafood markets around the city.

Momiji Manju - These sweet, maple-leaf-shaped cakes are a popular souvenir from Hiroshima, filled with various flavors such as red bean paste, cream cheese, and chocolate.

Hiroshima-style Cucumber Sushi - This local specialty features thin slices of cucumber wrapped around sushi rice and a variety of fillings such as crab meat, shrimp, and tamagoyaki (sweet omelette).

Overall Experience

Overall, my visit to Hiroshima was a humbling and enriching experience, one that left me with a renewed sense of hope for a more peaceful and compassionate world. For anyone interested in history, culture, or simply experiencing the warmth and hospitality of Japan, I highly recommend a visit to this incredible city.