Things to do in Hiroshima
Things to do in Hiroshima. If you’re planning a trip to Japan, Hiroshima is a must-visit destination. I recently had the opportunity to explore the beautiful city of Hiroshima and I must say it was an amazing experience. From the historic sites to the natural beauty, Hiroshima has a lot to offer visitors. Here are things to do during your visit;
Visit the Peace Memorial Park
The park serves as a somber remembrance of the 1945 atomic bombing of Hiroshima. It has a number of memorials, notably the Atomic Bomb Dome, one of the few structures to survive the explosion, and the Peace Memorial Museum.
Atomic Bomb Dome
The Atomic Bomb Dome, also known as the Hiroshima Peace Monument, serves as a somber memorial to the city’s destruction by the atomic bomb on August 6, 1945.
The dome, one of the few structures still intact after the bomb detonated, was formerly the Hiroshima Prefectural Industry Promotion Hall.
It acts as a potent reminder of the atrocities of war and a symbol of peace today. It is free to enter the dome, which is situated in the Peace Memorial Park.
Peace Memorial Museum
One of the most moving exhibits is the collection of personal belongings and stories of victims, which gives a face and a voice to the tragedy
Peace Memorial Park
To remember those who perished as a result of the atomic bomb, the Peace Memorial Park was created. The park, which has a total area of more than 120,000 square meters, is home to a number of monuments, including the Children’s Peace Monument, the Flame of Peace, and the Cenotaph for A-bomb Victims.
Many tourists come to pay their respects and drop paper cranes as a sign of peace at this place of reflection.
Opening Hours
The park is open year-round from 8.30 am to 6.00 pm (the last admission is at 5.30 pm)
Entrance Fees
The Peace Memorial Museum charges an entrance fee of 200 yen for adults and 100 yen for children.
Getting Here
Take tram lines 2 or 6 to the Genbaku-Domu Mae station from Hiroshima Station. The trip costs 220 yen one way and takes 15 minutes. As an alternative, the Hiroshima Sightseeing Loop Bus provides service to the Peace Memorial Park (Meipuru-pu).
Explore Hiroshima Castle
Beautiful traditional Japanese architecture can be found in Hiroshima Castle. It was constructed in the 16th century and had a significant impact on the history of the area. Visitors can now learn more about the history of the castle and its significance to Japanese culture at the museum it now serves as.
Opening Hours
The castle is open year-round from 9.00 am to 6.00 pm (last admission is at 5.30 pm)
Entrance Fees
The entrance fee is 370 yen for adults and 180 yen for children.
Getting Here
The distance between the Kamiyacho-nishi or Kamiyacho-higashi tram stop and the castle is ten minutes (12 minutes, 220 yen from Hiroshima Station by lines 1, 2 or 6). Shukkeien and the Peace Park may both be reached on foot in ten and fifteen minutes, respectively.
Take a stroll through Shukkeien Garden
This garden is a beautiful oasis in the heart of Hiroshima. It was built in the 17th century and features a central pond, tea houses, and several walking paths. The garden is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.
Opening Hours:
The garden is open year-round from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm (last admission is at 4.30 pm)
Entrance Fees
The entrance fee is 260 yen for adults and 150 yen for children
Getting Here
By Bus
The Hiroshima Sightseeing Loop Bus (Meipuru-pu) departs from Hiroshima Station and takes around four minutes to arrive at the garden.
By Tram
From “Shukkeien-mae,” the garden is accessible via tram line 9. Tram lines 1, 2, or 6 can be taken from Hiroshima Station to Hacchobori, where you can change to tram line 9. The whole trip costs 220 yen and takes about 15 minutes.
Visit the Mazda Museum
Hiroshima is home to one of Japan’s most famous car manufacturers, Mazda. The Mazda Museum offers visitors a chance to learn more about the company’s history and see some of their most iconic vehicles.
Opening Hours
- Monday to Friday
- 9.00 am-12.00 pm
- 12.45 pm -5.00 pm throughout the year
Entrance Fees
Daily tours of the Mazda Museum and Factory are offered, excluding weekends and business holidays. The trips are 90 to 120 minutes each. The tour is free, but appointments must be arranged online in advance.
Getting Here
From Hiroshima, take a local train to Mukainada Station (5 minutes, 190 yen, frequent departures), where you may walk for 5 minutes to the Mazda Head Office.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to get around Hiroshima?
The easiest way to get around is by using the tram system, which is extensive and affordable. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive.
When is the best time to visit Hiroshima?
The best time to visit is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild and comfortable. The cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn foliage in fall are also beautiful.
What else can I do in Hiroshima besides the recommended activities?
Hiroshima has many attractions for visitors. You can go on a cruise on the Seto Inland Sea or try the local specialty of oysters.
Conclusion
Hiroshima has a rich history as well as natural beauty. There is plenty to do and see during your visit, and I highly recommend taking advantage of everything the city has to offer. Whether you want to learn about the past, enjoy the present, or sample the local cuisine, Hiroshima will leave you with unforgettable memories.
