| Best time | April (cherry blossoms at Miyajima), any time is fine |
| Days needed | 1–2 days (with Miyajima day trip) |
| From Osaka | Shinkansen — 45 min, ¥8,230 |
| From Kyoto | Shinkansen — 1h, ¥11,220 |
| Getting around | Tram network + ferry to Miyajima |
Why Hiroshima
Hiroshima is one of the most moving stops on a Japan itinerary. The Peace Memorial Museum is one of the finest peace museums in the world — honest, thorough, and deeply affecting. The city itself rebuilt completely and is now vibrant and forward-looking. Miyajima Island, 30 minutes by ferry, is one of Japan's most iconic landscapes.
What to do in Hiroshima
Peace Memorial Museum: Essential. The museum documents the August 6, 1945 atomic bombing in detail — photographs, personal objects, survivor testimony. Allow 2–3 hours. Entry ¥200.
A-Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome): The skeletal remains of the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The most immediately striking sight in the city.
Miyajima Island: The "floating" torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine rising from the water at high tide is one of Japan's most photographed images. Take the ferry from Hiroshima pier (25 min). The island has friendly deer, excellent oysters, and momiji manju (maple leaf cakes).
Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki: Hiroshima's version of the savory pancake is distinct from Osaka's — layered rather than mixed, with soba noodles inside. Okonomimura (a multi-floor building of okonomiyaki restaurants) is the best place to try it.
Practical tips
Hiroshima is easy as a day trip from Osaka or Kyoto, but one night allows you to see Miyajima properly (including the sunset, which is extraordinary) and have dinner in the city.
