Hiroshima and Miyajima: Complete Guide

Hiroshima is a city of memory and hope. In 1945 it became the first city in the world to be struck by an atomic bomb, and today it is a vibrant, thriving city dedicated to peace. Alongside its deeply moving memorials, the area offers one of the most beautiful sights in Japan — the floating torii gate of Miyajima — and unique local food.

Peace Memorial Park and the Dome

The heart of any visit to the city is Peace Memorial Park, a wide complex dedicated to the victims and to the hope of a world free from nuclear weapons. At its centre stands the Atomic Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome), the skeletal remains of the only building left standing near the blast’s hypocenter, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Peace Memorial Museum tells the story through testimonies and objects — a moving and difficult visit, but an important one. The park also holds the Children’s Peace Monument with thousands of origami cranes, and the Peace Bell. Allow at least half a day, and come with an open heart.

Miyajima and the Floating Torii Gate

A short train ride and a ferry crossing away lies Miyajima island, one of the most beautiful places in Japan. Its symbol is the floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, which stands in the water and appears to float above the sea at high tide. At low tide you can walk right up to it. The shrine itself, built on stilts above the sea, is magnificent in its red against the green mountain backdrop. Arrive around sunset for the best light, or in the evening when the gate is illuminated.

Tours to Miyajima and Hiroshima

More to See on Miyajima

Beyond the famous gate, Miyajima has much to offer. Take the ropeway or hike to the summit of Mount Misen for breathtaking views over the Seto Inland Sea. Friendly deer roam freely on the island — but do not feed them. Visit the tranquil Daisho-in temple on the mountain slope, and wander the main street with its food stalls. Do not miss momiji manju — maple-leaf-shaped cakes filled with sweet bean paste, the island’s famous local treat.

Hiroshima Food — Okonomiyaki, City Style

Hiroshima takes pride in its own version of okonomiyaki. Unlike the Osaka version where everything is mixed together, here the dish is built in layers — a thin batter base, a generous amount of cabbage, bean sprouts, meat, egg and yakisoba noodles — then cooked on a teppan griddle. The result is tall, rich and filling. A great place to try it is Okonomimura, a whole building full of okonomiyaki stalls. Another local specialty: fresh oysters from the Inland Sea, grilled or fried. In the harbour area, look out for Setouchi lemon — a sweet, refreshing citrus from the surrounding islands that appears in sweets and local drinks too.

Hiroshima Castle and Shukkeien Garden

For those with extra time, Hiroshima Castle (“Carp Castle”) is a reconstruction of the shogun’s fortress from the Edo period, with a museum inside and views from the top floor. Nearby is Shukkeien Garden, a classic Japanese garden with a pond, bridges and teahouses — a quiet green oasis in the heart of the city, carefully rebuilt after the war.

Getting Here

Hiroshima is well connected by Shinkansen: about 4 hours from Tokyo, and 1.5 to 2 hours from Kyoto and Osaka. JR Pass holders enjoy the train journey and the Miyajima ferry at no extra cost. For Miyajima, take the local train to Miyajima-guchi station, then a short ferry (about 10 minutes) to the island. Within the city, a convenient tram line connects the main sights.

When to Visit and Where to Stay

Hiroshima is pleasant almost year-round. Spring (April) is beautiful with cherry blossoms in Peace Park and on Miyajima. Autumn (November) turns Momijidani garden on Miyajima a stunning red. Summer is hot and humid; winter is cooler and quieter.

For accommodation, two main options. In Hiroshima itself there is a wide range of hotels around the station and city centre, convenient for transport and food — hotels in Hiroshima. For a special experience, stay in a ryokan on Miyajima island itself, when the gate is illuminated and the deer are calm — ryokan on Miyajima.

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Continue from here: read the Japan overview guide for a tour of all regions, browse the cities guide for more destinations, or plan a route through Kyoto and Osaka.