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!
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!
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