If you’re scared of heights – this hike isn’t for you.
Hoshida Park, known as the ‘Forest of Osaka’, is home to the largest suspension bridge in Japan at a length of 280 meters and a height of 50 meters. The bridge, Hoshi no Buranko, is locally known as the Star Swing Bridge, stemming from the belief that standing on the bridge at night feels like floating among the stars. Despite its name, unfortunately you cannot walk across the bridge at night; it currently closes at 1630hrs.
This hike takes you through a well-signposted forest route, leading you across the bridge, before making your way back down. The route to the bridge and back spans around 8km and is suitable for beginners. To get to the start of the hike take the Keihan Main Line from Kyobashi to Hirakatashi Station. From Hirakatashi Station, take the Katano Line to Kisaichi Station (the end of the line). Follow the trail around the scenic Amano River which should be on your left-hand side on your way up. It will take around 1-hour to get to the bridge from the start of your hike, depending on your pace.
The longest wooden footbridge in Japan! 📍 Hike to Hoshi no Buranko 🌉✨ Looking for a perfect half-day adventure near Osaka? 🏞️ Start your hike from Kisaichi Station 🚉 and immerse yourself in forests, peaceful trails, and breathtaking views. 🌳🌲 👟 Trail Details: 📏 ~2.5 km one way 🌿 Easy to moderate difficulty 🕒 Takes about 2-3 hours round trip The highlight? Hoshi no Buranko—a massive suspension bridge that makes you feel like you’re walking among the stars! ✨ The view from up there is absolutely incredible, with a canopy of greenery stretching as far as the eye can see. 😍 🍙 Pro Tip: Pack a snack or bento to enjoy at the picnic area nearby—it’s the perfect way to recharge before heading back! 🌅 End your adventure with a serene walk back to Kisaichi Station as the sun sets over the Kansai wilderness. 📸 Tag your hiking buddy and save this post for your next outdoor escape! 🌟 #HikingJapan#Osaka#Japan#HoshiNoBuranko#KansaiAdventures#OsakaHikes#NatureLovers
Akame 48 Waterfalls Trail is a well-known trail for deep mountain valleys and waterfalls of various sizes, widths, plunges and waterflows. The hike will take you into the Murō-Akame-Aoyama Quasi-National Park, past multiple stunning waterfalls. The 48 waterfalls are a collective name for a string of waterfalls flowing through Akame-cho, Nabari, Mie.
This location is where the first Ninjas used to train and perfect their art form. Go to the home of the Ninja, viewing the history of ninjas from stalls, shops and even restaurants. Enter a giant salamander museum, view these impressive creatures which are native to this area.
There are different routes that you can take, which vary in their difficulty. The three route options are:
Route 1 – Short and easy course, 20-minutes (one-way). This route is mostly paved and suitable for casual hikers. It will take you past three out of the five best waterfalls, Fudo Falls, Senju Falls and Nunobiki Falls. Be sure to not miss the deep valley at the start of the route which is said to date back over 15-million years; an unfathomable amount of time.
Route 2 – Moderate course, 90-minutes (one-way). This route is paved and includes some steep staircase sections, which can be slippy if it’s been raining. This route will ensure that you experience all five of the best waterfalls, adding Ninai Falls and Biwa Falls to your route.
Route 3 – Advanced course, 170-minutes (one-way) with a 584m elevation gain. This route takes you past the same waterfalls as route 1, before deviating onto the advanced course toward Mt. Nagasaka. The trail is steep but includes plenty of rest spots, making it manageable for intermediate hikers. To fully enjoy the experience, plan for a whole day.
To get the starting point of all three routes, take the Kintetsu-Osaka Line from Tsuruhashi Station (accessible via the Osaka Loop Line) to Akameguchi Station, this takes around 1hr 05mins. From Akameguchi Station, catch a bus from the bus station to Akamedaki.
The bus takes just 10-minutes on the Akame Line. Be sure to note the time of the last bus back from the falls and give yourself plenty of time to head back. From Akamedaki, follow the road around to the start of the hike.
All paths are well-signposted from the bus stop. Follow the route uphill and pass through the Salamander aquarium where you pay a small fee of 1,000 yen before starting your hike.
🌿✨ Explore the breathtaking beauty of Akame 48 Waterfalls! 🌊🍃 Just a short trip from Osaka, this serene hike offers cascading falls, lush green forests, and magical vibes! 🌟 Whether you’re spotting salamanders 🦎, soaking in the peaceful sounds of nature 🎶, or dressing up as a ninja 🥷, this spot is a must-visit! 💧🏞️ ⏰ Duration: 2–3 hours round trip (easy-moderate hike) 🎒 What to bring: Comfy shoes, a water bottle, and your sense of adventure! 💬 Tag someone who’d love this hike! 🥾💚 #Akame48Waterfalls#OsakaDayTrips#HikingVibes#NatureLovers#JapanTravel#Osaka#Travel#Daytrip
When visiting Osaka, Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is an absolute must-see destination. Known for its thrilling rides, immersive experiences, and world-class attractions, USJ offers something for everyone. In this guide, I’ll cover everything from entry tips and queue-beating strategies to the best rides, food options, and costs.
How do you get to USJ?
USJ is located in the Konohana Ward of Osaka, easily accessible via public transport. Take the JR Yumesaki Line from Osaka Station to Universal City Station. The journey takes just 15-minutes and costs approximately 180 yen.
Tips for Entry and Beating the Queues
Buy Tickets in Advance: Purchase tickets online or from authorised retailers to avoid long queues at the gate. Prices for a 1-day studio pass are around 8,600 yen (£50) for adults and 5,600 yen (£32) for children.
Arrive Early: The park opens at 8:30 AM, but arriving an hour early gives you a head start to popular attractions.
Use the Universal Express Pass: This add-on (starting from 7,800 yen/£45) lets you skip the lines at select rides. Options include Express 4 Pass (4 attractions) or Express 7 Pass (7 attractions).
Visit on Weekdays: Weekends and holidays can be packed. Aim for a weekday visit during non-peak seasons (March-May, September-November).
Download the USJ App: Use the app for real-time updates on ride wait times, park maps, and show schedules.
Plan Your Route: Start with the most popular rides (e.g., The Wizarding World of Harry Potter) and work your way through the park.
Do I need timed entry tickets at USJ?
Yes – USJ often requires timed entry tickets for certain popular attractions or areas, such as the Super Nintendo World. These timed-entry tickets are typically free but must be reserved in advance or on the day of your visit using the official USJ app or kiosks in the park.
Here’s how tickets work:
General Admission: You only need a regular park ticket to enter the park itself.
Timed Entry Areas: For specific zones like Super Nintendo World, you need a timed entry ticket in addition to your regular ticket. These can be reserved through the app or distributed on-site, depending on availability.
To ensure a smooth visit, I recommend you download the Universal Studios Japan app to reserve timed entry tickets as soon as they become available OR arrive very early if you plan to secure these tickets in the park.
What are the main attractions and rides at USJ?
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter:
Ride: Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey (4K 3D experience inside Hogwarts).
Tip: Get a timed-entry ticket to secure your spot in this popular area.
Super Nintendo World:
Rides: Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge and Yoshi’s Adventure.
Highlights: Interactive activities using a Power-Up Band (3,800 yen/£22).
Jurassic Park:
Ride: The Flying Dinosaur (a thrilling rollercoaster). Perfect for adrenaline junkies!
Despicable Me Minion Mayhem: A 3D ride perfect for families.
Hollywood Dream: The Ride: A high-speed rollercoaster with optional backward seating (Backdrop).
Spider-Man: The Ride 4K3D: A multi-sensory superhero experience.
What is there to eat at USJ?
Butterbeer: A must-try drink in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (non-alcoholic, 800 yen/£4.70).
Mario-themed Treats: Super Nintendo World offers adorable snacks like Block popcorn buckets and Toad’s Cafe dishes (1,500–2,500 yen/£9-£14).
Classic Theme Park Food: Turkey legs (950 yen/£5.50), churros (600 yen/£3.50), and themed bento boxes.
Fine Dining: Try Amity Landing Restaurant for seafood or Finnegan’s Bar & Grill for Western dishes (2,000–3,500 yen/£11-£20 per meal).
When is the best time to visit USJ?
While USJ is a great attraction all-year round. Spring is the bestt time to visit (March-May) as you will enjoy pleasant weather and cherry blossoms nearby. Autumn (September-November) provides cooler temperatures and fun Halloween-themed events.
Avoid Peak Seasons: Golden Week (late April–early May), Obon (mid-August), and school holidays.
How much does USJ cost?
USJ is insanely cheap compared to other Universal Studios around the world and you can buy an annual pass for just 38,400 yen (£222) that grants you access all year round! I’ve provided a cost comparison table below to help you.
Item
Cost in Yen
Cost in GBP
1-Day Studio Pass (Adult)
8,600
£50
1-Day Studio Pass (Child)
5,600
£32
Express Pass (From)
7,800
£45
Food (Per Meal)
2,000–3,500
£11–£20
Power-Up Band
3,800
£22
Souvenirs (Average)
1,000–5,000
£5.50–£29
Is one day at USJ enough?
Yes – If you get there early, and plan ahead, you can tick off all of the rides you want to go on within one-day. I highly recommend booking a timed entry ticket to the popular rides such as Nintendo World in advance using the app, OR as soon as you get to the park!
Tsurumi-Ryokuchi Park is located on the lime green subway route and can be easily accessed from near Osaka Castle (Morinomiya station). The park was home to the 1990 International Garden and Greenery Expo, where different countries showcase flowers and landscaped areas. This is where the park gets its title as the ‘Osaka Expo ‘90 Commemorative Park’.
Hire a scooter for the day
Upon entering the park I noticed that you can hire a bike or hire some futuristic looking e-scooters and mobility scooters which I discovered were called Tsuru Mobi. To ride the Tsurumobi, all passengers must register as members and make a reservation in advance, so bear this in mind before your trip. As this was my first time visiting, I decided to walk to make sure I didn’t wizz past something worth exploring more. I checked the park map before making my way around. The map of the park looked big, and I was excited to explore it.
Shortly after I entered, I spotted a tower which I now know is called the Tower of Life! Osaka city government closed the tower more than 10 years ago, due to declining tourist numbers, and had initially planned to demolish it. However, calls have emerged for the tower to be used to boost momentum for the Osaka-Kansai Expo in 2025. City officials say plans to topple the structure will go ahead without a feasible proposal to preserve it. I took a lot of photos of it, hoping that it will remain but knowing it could be demolished, and knew it would be a good point of reference during my park adventures.
Tour the old-expo site and take a photo next to a windmill
After entering the park, if you head right, you will enter the site of the 1990s flower expo and will be met with displays from all around the world. The most iconic is the dutch-style windmill which is surrounded by impeccable rows of flowers all year round. The flowers vary from tulips in spring, to sunflowers in august and more prime photo opportunities throughout the year. The displays from all around the world have been restored recently, with highlights including a waterfall from Canada, and temples from China and South Korea.
Throughout the park, I noticed people sitting beneath mushroom-like shelters, and thought they looked really unique and cool in their design. Here is a photo!
Mushroom Design Seating Areas
Spot wildlife near the pond
The large pond ‘Oike Pond’ in the centre of the park had a lot of birds flapping around, and herons perched quietly on rocks within the water. The backdrop of the pond included temples and a dutch-style windmill in the distance.
On my way around, I found that the park has something for everyone, this includes a Horse Racing Track, a Forest Adventure filled with playgrounds for children, a BBQ and Camping area for those who want to camp in the park! If you wish to do this, remember to book in advance and bring your own tent.
The abundance of wildlife, flowers and trees in the park was what I noticed most. The Sakura (blossom) trees were blooming in mid-March. A lovely surprise as they’re not forecast in most areas until April. Locals were naturally gathered to take photos of this fleeting moment. I was suprised to discover that the park is also home to a large indoor botanical garden with over 15,000 plants! The park is called Sakuya Konohana Kan, which costs just ¥500 to enter.
Sakura Blossom Trees
My walk around the park lasted around 3 hours, so I can see why you can rent bikes and scooters near the entrance! At the end of my walk, i was quite hungry, so I stopped at the restaurant near Oike Pond. The restaurant is ideally named ‘Botanical House’ and has a lovely terraced dining area near the water. It is one of the best locations for a romantic dinner that I’ve found in Osaka so far. A perfect scene to end the day before catching the train or if you want further time to relax, Tsurumi Onsen Suishun is a public bath house and gym located directly opposite the train station.
View from Botanical House Restaurant
So, is Tsrumi Park worth visiting? Yes, absolutely, i’d say that Tsrumi Park is arguably the best park to visit in Osaka when it comes to the variety of activities, plants and nature. While the park can be enjoyed all year round, the best time to visit Tsrumi Park is in Spring (April-June) to see the flowers in bloom or toward Autumn (September-November).
A trip to the Osaka History Museum is a great thing to do on a rainy day in Osaka. It has something for all of the family alongside panoramic views on each level. The entrance fee is just ¥600 per person and the exhibits have english written alongside them as well as Japanese – very considerate for tourists!
To reach the Osaka History Museum, I recommend taking a short walk from Tanimachi 4-chome Station. The route is straightforward and gives you a glimpse of Osaka’s vibrant cityscape before you step into its rich history. Along the way, you might pass small cafes and convenience stores—ideal for a quick refreshment before starting your visit.
The museum itself is designed as a journey through time, starting at the top and working your way down floor by floor. This layout makes it easy to immerse yourself in Osaka’s evolving story, and it’s one of the reasons so many visitors praise the experience. A common question I see online is, “How much time should I spend here?” I’d recommend at least two to three hours to fully appreciate the exhibits and observation deck.
What’s on Each Floor?
10th Floor: Osaka Castle View and Ancient Osaka Your journey begins on the 10th floor, where the observation deck offers stunning views of Osaka Castle and the city skyline. It’s a good spot for photos, especially on clear days. This floor also dives into Osaka’s early history, featuring artifacts and reconstructions from the Naniwa Palace, a 7th-century imperial residence. Many visitors ask, “Are the exhibits interactive?” The answer here is yes—you can walk through models and dioramas that recreate the grandeur of the palace and its role in Osaka’s early political and cultural life. Kids can also enjoy getting hands on in the archeology section.
9th Floor: Osaka as a Merchant Hub Moving down to the 9th floor, you’ll explore the Edo period, when Osaka flourished as a center of trade and commerce. The exhibits include a detailed recreation of a bustling 17th-century merchant district, complete with miniature models and vibrant storytelling. This floor gives an excellent sense of how Osaka earned its nickname, “The Kitchen of Japan.” For those wondering, “Is there English signage?” rest assured that most displays have English translations, so you won’t miss out on the details.
8th Floor: Modernisation and the Meiji Era The 8th floor focuses on Osaka’s transformation during the Meiji Restoration and early modern period. You’ll find exhibits that highlight the city’s industrial growth, urbanisation, and cultural shifts. There are fascinating photos and artifacts from this era, showing how traditional lifestyles blended with new influences.
7th Floor: Post-War Osaka and Beyond The final exhibit floor covers Osaka’s post-war recovery and rapid development into the metropolis it is today. This section is particularly engaging for history buffs, as it provides insight into Osaka’s resilience and how it became a center of innovation. It also touches on the city’s cultural contributions, including the rise of iconic food and entertainment industries.
Tips for Visiting
Plan ahead: Start your day early and aim to visit in the morning when it’s less crowded. This way, you can take your time exploring without rushing.
Combine with Osaka Castle: as it is SO close by, I suggest pairing your visit to the museum with Osaka Castle, which is just a short walk away.
Is It Worth Visiting?
If you’re curious about whether the Osaka History Museum is worth your time, the answer is yes. A question I often came across online was, “Is it worth visiting if you’re short on time?” Even if you only have an hour or two, the top floors with their immersive exhibits and castle views make the visit worthwhile. For families, the interactive displays are a hit with kids, while history lovers will appreciate the depth of the artifacts and storytelling.
By the end of my visit, I felt I had gained a deeper understanding of Osaka’s past, its identity as a city of resilience, innovation, and culture. If you’re planning a trip to Osaka, make sure this museum is on your itinerary—it’s a journey through time you won’t want to miss.
Exploring Japan’s Heritage and Scenic Beauty from Osaka
Osaka makes an ideal base for day trips to some of Japan’s most enchanting destinations. Two of my absolute favourite spots for a one-day (or two-day!) adventure are Nara, home to ancient temples and friendly deer, and Uji, renowned for its matcha and picturesque riverside scenery.
This itinerary combines history, nature, and relaxation, offering a day packed with unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re looking to meet Nara’s famous deer, marvel at ancient temples, or enjoy a tranquil boat ride or hike along the Uji River, this guide has everything you need, including travel tips, costs, and insider recommendations. If you’ve been asking yourself ‘Can I visit Nara and Uji in one day?’, I’m here to tell you yes, you absolutely can.
Feed Sacred Deer in Nara
Start your day early to make the most of your visit. Catch the Kintetsu Limited Express from Osaka-Namba Station to Kintetsu-Nara Station. This 40-minute journey costs ¥1,070 (£6) one way and offers a faster and more convenient option for reaching Nara. Alternatively, take the JR Yamatoji Line from Osaka Station to Nara Station, which takes about 50 minutes and costs ¥800 (£4.50).
Nara Park is a sprawling 502-hectare area that is home to over 1,000 free-roaming Sika deer. These deer are considered sacred messengers of the gods in Shinto belief, and they are now a symbol of Nara. To get to Nara Park from the train station, I recommend walking approximately 20 minutes along Sanjo dori Street which has a variety of souvenir and convenience stores en route. A chance to experience the famous mochi pounding at Nakatanidou en route is another reason to walk.
Alternatively, you can hop on a local bus with unlimited rides throughout the day for just ¥600 (£3) and ¥300 (£1.50) for children. There are three pass options to choose from, each covering different areas, check out the map areas here. The one-day pass is best if you’re tight on time and want to see the main sights of the park.
If you would like to spend more time in Nara, you can also book a bus tour in advance using Nara Kotsu Bus. They offer English speaking tours of the park, with visits to temples, shrines and Mt. Wakakusa for ¥11,000 (£57).
Once in the park, you will spot vendors selling crackers at stalls for ¥200 (£1). As delicious as they look, these are not for you to eat… they are shika senbei (deer crackers) which you offer to the deers as snacks. Be prepared—the deer will bow politely to you in exchange for them, but some can be quite persistent, so keep your own snacks secure! If a deer pesters you, hold up your hands to show them that you have no food to offer & they will then walk away.
Next, visit Todai-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple is home to the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), a 15-metre-tall bronze statue housed in the world’s largest wooden building, the Daibutsuden. Entry costs ¥600 (£3.50) for adults. Take your time to admire the intricate architecture and the peaceful atmosphere of the temple grounds.
After visiting Todai-ji, walk through the park to reach Kasuga Taisha Shrine, another UNESCO site. This Shinto shrine is renowned for its hundreds of stone and bronze lanterns, which create a mystical atmosphere. Entry to the inner area of the shrine costs ¥500 (£3), but you can also enjoy the scenic outer grounds for free.
For those who enjoy hiking, the nearby Mount Wakakusa offers a short climb with panoramic views of Nara and the surrounding countryside.
Lunch in Nara
Nara has plenty of excellent options if you’re feeling pekish. Try kaki-no-ha sushi, a type of pressed sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, or enjoy a bowl of kitsune udon, a noodle soup topped with sweetened fried tofu. Restaurants around Nara Park often offer set meals for ¥1,000–¥1,500 (£6–£8). For a quick bite, grab some street food from the stalls near the park, including freshly grilled mochi and taiyaki (fish-shaped pastries filled with red bean paste). For something sweet, a personal favourite of mine is the mochi fruit from Ben Zai Ten, located halfway along Sanjo Dori Street on return to the station. Here you can try the soft and delicious, vegan fruit mochi. The strawberry is my favourite!
Next Stop – Uji!
Uji is closer to Nara than you may think. From Nara, take the JR Nara Line to Uji Station. This 40-minute ride costs ¥620 (£3.50). Uji is a dramatic riverside town steeped in history and famous for producing Japan’s finest matcha green tea. If you were looking for a place to try it, Uji is the perfect location to do so.
From the station, take a leisurely stroll down Omotesando Street, Uji’s main shopping and dining area. Here, you’ll find numerous tea houses and shops where you can sample and purchase high-quality matcha products. Treat yourself to matcha ice cream, cakes, or even matcha soba noodles. Many shops offer free tastings of green tea, so you can learn about the different grades and flavours.
For a more immersive experience, book a tea ceremony session at one of the local tea houses, where you can learn about the traditional preparation and significance of matcha. Prices for matcha treats range from ¥300–¥800 (£1.50–£4.50), while a tea ceremony may cost around ¥1,500 (£8.50).
At the end of Omotesando Street, you will be near the must visit Byodoin Temple, a stunning example of Buddhist architecture and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple’s Phoenix Hall is so iconic that it’s featured on the back of the ¥10 coin. Admission costs ¥600 (£3.50) and includes access to a museum displaying treasures from the temple’s history.
Start to wind down your day with a serene boat ride along the Uji River. These rides provide stunning views of the river’s lush surroundings, historic bridges, and traditional houses. Tickets for a 30-minute boat ride cost approximately ¥1,500 (£8.50) per person. Uji is beautiful regardless of the weather. In summer it has a serene, calming atmosphere while in winter the mountains make for a dramatic landscape as shown in the photos below.
The beautiful Uji river on a hot summers day (July 2024)Dramatic view of the Uji River and Mountains taken from the Asigiri Bridge (March 2025)
There is majestic wildlife in Uji. Grey Herons can be spotted all year round and during the summer months (late June to mid-September), you may be lucky enough to witness ukai, a centuries-old method of cormorant fishing. This traditional fishing technique, performed at night using trained birds, is a fascinating spectacle unique to Uji. The herons that we saw reminded us of Hayao Miyazaki’s 2023 film,The Boy and the Heron.
If you prefer to stay on land, enjoy a riverside walk along the Asigiri Bridge and consider a visit the Tale of Genji Museum, which celebrates Uji’s connection to Japan’s famous literary classic, The Tale of Genji. Alternatively, or if you still have time, you can also visit Daikichiyama fuchi Park and its observation deck to enjoy the sunset before heading back to Osaka.
From Uji Station, take the JR Nara Line back to Osaka. The journey takes about 50 minutes and costs ¥800 (£4.50). Aim to catch a train by 7:00 PM to arrive in Osaka in time to enjoy a relaxed evening in the city or explore its lively dining scene.
Was visiting Nara and Uji worth it?
Perfect for nature lovers, Nara and Uji are must visit destinations in my opinion. Each providing unique and serene landscapes within easy reach of Osaka, they take you away from the concrete jungle and allow you to reconnect with nature.
Trip extension idea: If you have more than a day, or don’t need to head back toward Osaka, I recommend extend your adventures by taking the train from Uji toward Kyoto, being sure to stop at the famous and popular Fushimi Inari along the way. Within this itinerary you could also consider stay overnight in Nara at one of the local deer hostels located in the heart of the park for an immersive experience. We recently stayed at The Deer Park Inn for a very reasonable price and deer came to greet us in the garden!
Hiroshima today is a symbol of hope and resilience. It has become a global advocate for peace and a place of reflection and learning. When I visited Hiroshima with my husband, we spent a couple of days exploring its history and beauty, including a trip to the stunning Miyajima Island nearby. This two-day itinerary offers a balance between the city’s poignant history and the natural charm of its surroundings.
Day 1: Exploring Hiroshima’s History
Morning Catch the Shinkansen from Osaka to Hiroshima. The fastest train, the Nozomi, costs around ¥10,570 (£58) one way and takes about 1 hour 30 minutes. If you have a Japan Rail Pass, you’ll need to take the slightly slower Hikari or Sakura trains, as the Nozomi is not covered.
Once in Hiroshima, head straight to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a place of reflection and remembrance. Begin at the Peace Memorial Museum, which provides a sobering and detailed account of the events of 6th August 1945. Then take a quiet walk to reflect through the park and visit key landmarks, including the Atomic Bomb Dome, the Children’s Peace Monument, and the Cenotaph for the A-Bomb Victims.
Finally, stop at the Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims, a tranquil space dedicated to honouring those who lost their lives.
Lunch By midday, recharge with a plate of Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a delicious savoury pancake layered with noodles, seafood, and vegetables. Two popular spots near the park are Okonomimura and Nagata-ya. Expect to spend around ¥1,000–¥1,500 (£6–£8) per person and make sure to bring cash with you as some locations don’t accept card payments.
Afternoon After lunch, make your way to Hiroshima Castle, a reconstructed samurai stronghold surrounded by a peaceful moat and park. Climb to the top of the castle for panoramic views of the city and learn about Hiroshima’s history before the war.
Next, stroll to Shukkeien Garden, a traditional Japanese garden with scenic ponds, stone bridges, and seasonal flowers. This is an ideal spot to relax and reflect after a morning of learning about the city’s past. Entry is just ¥260 (£1.50).
Evening End your day with dinner in downtown Hiroshima. Try the region’s famous oysters at a local izakaya, or explore the lively Hondori Shopping Arcade for a mix of restaurants and boutiques. If oysters aren’t your thing, Kanayama Base has a cosy atmosphere, welcoming staff and delicious food (& beer!). For a quieter evening, take a walk along Peace Boulevard, where the riverside atmosphere is particularly charming.
Stay overnight near Hiroshima Station for easy access to the next day’s adventure. We opted for En Hotel which was affordable at £48 a night, close to the station and had all we needed!
Day 2: Exploring Miyajima Island
Spend your second day exploring the natural beauty and cultural treasures of Miyajima Island. The Global Peace Summit is often held here.
Morning Set off early by taking the JR Sanyo Line from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station (30 minutes, ¥420/£2.30 one way), followed by a short 10-minute ferry ride to Miyajima. The ferry is included in the Japan Rail Pass, or costs ¥180 (£1) each way without it.
As you approach the island, you’ll see the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, one of Japan’s most famous views. Spend your morning wandering through the shrine, exploring its beautiful wooden structures and marvelling at the torii gate from various vantage points. At low tide, you can even walk out to the base of the gate for a closer look.
Wild Deer: Throughout the island, you’ll encounter Miyajima’s free-roaming deer, considered sacred in Shinto belief. These friendly creatures will happily approach you for snacks, so keep an eye on your belongings!
Fog on approach to Miyajima (view from Ferry)A wild deer on the island
Lunch Sample Miyajima’s street food, including grilled oysters, freshly skewered fish, and momiji manju, a sweet treat shaped like a maple leaf. Omotesando Shopping Street is a great spot for a relaxed lunch and souvenir shopping. Expect to spend around ¥1,000–¥1,500 (£6–£8).
Afternoon Adventure awaits on Mount Misen, the island’s highest peak. You can hike up (around 90 minutes each way) or take the Miyajima Ropeway (round trip ¥2,200/£12) for spectacular views of the Seto Inland Sea. At the summit, visit the Reikado Hall, where the “eternal flame” has been burning for over 1,200 years, and enjoy the breathtaking panoramas.
After descending, spend a little more time exploring the island’s temples, shops, or quiet coastal paths before returning to the mainland.
Evening Head back to Hiroshima by ferry and train, then catch the Shinkansen back to Osaka. Aim to leave Hiroshima by 6:00 PM to arrive in Osaka by 7:30 PM.
This two-day itinerary offers a thoughtful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, leaving you with a profound appreciation for Hiroshima’s resilience and Miyajima’s timeless charm. I hope that you find it useful and that it inspires you to go on your trip!
Visit Osaka 