Hiroshima is a modern city on Japan’s Honshu Island. It was heavily damaged by an atomic bomb in World War II. Today, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park honors those affected by the bombing. The park includes the Genbaku Dome, one of the few buildings that survived near the blast site. Other attractions include Shukkei-en Garden, Hiroshima Castle, and the Hiroshima Museum of Art, which displays works by both European and Japanese artists. The local baseball team, the Toyo Carp, plays at Mazda Zoom-Zoom Stadium. Many people also visit nearby islands like Miyajima to see the famous Itsukushima Shrine and its floating torii gate.
places to visit in Hiroshima
Hiroshima Peace Memorial
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial, also called the Atomic Bomb Dome, is a historic site in Hiroshima. It was once an industrial building but was damaged by the atomic bomb in 1945. The ruins were kept as a memorial to the 140,000 lives lost. It is part of Peace Memorial Park. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of peace.
Hiroshima Castle
Hiroshima Castle, also known as Carp Castle, is a historical castle in Hiroshima city. It was originally built in 1590 but was destroyed during the atomic bombing in 1945. The current structure is a reconstruction. It has a museum inside showing Hiroshima’s history. The castle is surrounded by a moat and a beautiful park.
Momijidani Park
Momijidani Park is a scenic park located at the base of Mt. Misen in Miyajima. It’s famous for its colorful maple trees, especially in autumn. The park follows a peaceful river behind Itsukushima Shrine. It’s a great spot for walking and enjoying nature. Many visitors come here to see the fall leaves.
JMSDF Kure Museum
The JMSDF Kure Museum is a naval museum in Kure, Hiroshima. It’s also called the Iron Whale Museum because of its large submarine display. The museum shows Japan’s maritime defense history. Visitors can explore real equipment and learn about submarines and minesweeping. It’s a popular stop for history and military fans.
Hiroshima Gokoku Shrine
Hiroshima Gokoku Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Hiroshima. It’s one of the main places where people go to pray during the New Year. The shrine is also visited during special family events like Shichi-Go-San. It has a peaceful setting surrounded by trees. Many people come here for blessings and festivals.
Ninoshima
Ninoshima is a small island near Hiroshima in the Seto Inland Sea. It’s just 4 km from Hiroshima Port and reachable by a 30-minute ferry. The island is quiet, with hiking trails and nature spots. It was once used during wartime as a quarantine and hospital site. Today, it’s great for a peaceful day trip.
Mitaki-dera Temple
Mitaki-dera is a calm and historic Buddhist temple in Hiroshima. It’s surrounded by beautiful trees that turn bright colors in the fall. The temple is also a place of remembrance for atomic bomb victims. It’s located on a hillside with a peaceful, spiritual atmosphere. Visitors come here to enjoy both nature and history.
Hiroshima Toshogu Shrine
Hiroshima Toshogu Shrine is a colorful Shinto shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu. Built in 1648, it sits on a hillside in Hiroshima. The shrine has beautifully decorated gates, stone paths, and a museum. It’s a peaceful place to explore and learn about Japan’s past. The views from the shrine are also worth the visit.
Mazda Museum
The Mazda Museum in Hiroshima showcases the history of the car company Mazda. Visitors can see old and new car models. The museum also offers tours of the working factory nearby. It’s a fun and educational stop for car lovers. The museum highlights Mazda’s journey and innovations over the years.
Hijiyama Park
Hijiyama Park is a large green space on a hill in Hiroshima. It has walking paths, cherry blossoms in spring, and nice views of the city. There’s also a modern art museum inside the park. It’s a quiet place to relax or have a picnic. The park is popular with both locals and tourists.
Best time to visit Hiroshima
The best time to go to Hiroshima is in the fall, around October and November. The weather is cool and the trees show beautiful autumn colors. Spring is also a great time to visit, from March to May. Flowers bloom and the city feels fresh and lively. These months are perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
