Hiroshima is a fascinating city where history and nature intertwine.
It boasts many attractions, including the world-heritage site Itsukushima Shrine and the Atomic Bomb Dome.
For those visiting Hiroshima for the first time, here’s a suggested 1-night, 2-day itinerary to fully experience the city’s charm.
Take a journey through time and admire the picturesque scenery of Itsukushima Shrine, a World Heritage Site, as you learn about Hiroshima’s past.
Day 1: Dedicated to exploring Hiroshima’s history at the Atomic Bomb Dome, followed by a peaceful stroll through the iconic Itsukushima Shrine.
Morning
・Atomic Bomb Dome
In 1996, it was registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site as a building that bears witness to the devastation of nuclear weapons.
At 8:15 AM on August 6, 1945, the world’s first atomic bomb detonated approximately 160 meters southeast of the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall at an altitude of about 600 meters.
The blast wave exerted a pressure of 35 tons per square meter with a wind speed of 440 meters per second, causing the building to collapse from the blast and heat.
Although the central part of the main building miraculously survived the collapse due to the almost vertical direction of the explosion, everyone inside was instantly killed.
After the war, the ruins of the former Industrial Promotion Hall came to be called the Atomic Bomb Dome by the citizens, due to its dome-shaped roof and steel frame.
Today, as a symbol of the devastation of that time, it serves as a symbol that transcends time, appealing to the world for the abolition of nuclear weapons and the importance of lasting peace.
ACCESS
Take Hiroshima Electric Railway line 2 bound for “Hiroshima Miyajimaguchi” or “Hiroshima Nishi-Hiroshima,” or line 6 bound for “Eba.”
Get off at “Genbaku Dome-mae” station. The journey takes approximately 20 minutes.
Take the Hiroshima Meipuru Loop Bus, Orange Route, and get off at the Atomic Bomb Dome stop. The journey takes about 15 minutes.
・Peace Memorial Park
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a vast park located in the heart of Hiroshima city, dedicated to world peace and constructed near the hypocenter of the atomic bomb.
Within the park, you can find the Atomic Bomb Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum showcasing the city before and after the bombing, the Cenotaph for A-bomb Victims, the National Memorial for the Peace, and the Hiroshima International Conference Center.
The sound of the Peace Bell, rung in hopes for peace, is recognized as one of the 100 Soundscapes of Japan that we want to protect.
ACCESS
Next to the Atomic Bomb Dome, 2 minutes walk
・Orizuru Tower
Located east of the Atomic Bomb Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this facility allows visitors to feel the weight of peace through the changes in the city’s landscape before, and after the atomic bombing.
The rooftop observation deck offers panoramic views of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, the Atomic Bomb Dome, and on clear days, even Mount Misen on Miyajima Island, allowing you to admire two UNESCO World Heritage Sites simultaneously.
You can also participate in creating the “Origami Crane Wall,” a symbol of the tower, by folding an origami crane using paper provided at the tower. Join people worldwide in contributing to this wall of peace and prayers.
The facility also has a souvenir shop with local products and a cafe serving homemade drinks and sweets made primarily with locally grown Hiroshima fruits, making it a perfect place to relax.
ACCESS
Next to the Atomic Bomb Dome, 2 minutes walk
Afternoon
・Miyajima, Itsukushima Shrine
Itsukushima (Miyajima) Island, long revered as a sacred island where deities reside, is home to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This ancient shrine, deeply rooted in the hearts of many, is a popular tourist destination throughout the year.
With the vibrant blue sea in front and the lush Miyajima Island behind, the striking vermilion of Itsukushima Shrine stands out, making it one of Japan’s Three Scenic Views along with Matsushima and Amanohashidate.
As the only shrine in Japan built on a tidal island, its unique honden (main hall) and large torii gate are connected by corridors to subsidiary shrines, creating a picturesque and harmonious ensemble with the surrounding natural beauty.
The shrine’s elegant and mystical architecture continues to captivate visitors.
ACCESS
30 minutes from JR Hiroshima Station to JR Miyajimaguchi Station.
10 minutes by ferry from Miyajimaguchi Pier.
Day 1 Recommended Gourmet
Hiroshima city
・Okonomimura Takenoko
We take pride in using high-quality bonito, mackerel, and sardine flakes.
The restaurant values both taste and warmth and offers hearty lunches such as Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki made with large oysters from Miyajima and the local specialty, “uni horen butter-yaki.”
ACCESS
Okonomimura 3rd floor.
15-minute walk from the Atomic Bomb Dome.
Streetcar: 5-minute ride from Atomic Bomb Dome-mae Station to Tatemachi Station, then 5-minute walk.
・Okonomiyaki Nagataya
This popular okonomiyaki restaurant is located near the Peace Memorial Park and is a must-visit for those craving authentic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki.
Given its location in a tourist area, it’s often crowded with visitors.
Enjoy the atmosphere while watching your meal being cooked on the large griddle at the counter and admiring the retro posters.
If you’re in Hiroshima, we highly recommend trying the okonomiyaki with oysters.
ACCESS
Atomic Bomb Dome, 3 minutes walk
・Ecohiiki
This restaurant goes the extra mile to source the finest ingredients from all corners of Hiroshima Prefecture, ensuring that both locals and tourists can enjoy the freshest and most delicious dishes.
The owner personally visits fishing ports and farms throughout the prefecture to select the best ingredients.
The restaurant is particularly proud of its oysters, which are sourced directly from the renowned Kusu oysters, a certified Hiroshima brand.
The owner personally inspects the oysters at the fishing grounds to guarantee the highest quality.
A wide variety of oyster dishes are available, including grilled oysters on the half-shell, steamed oysters, fried oysters, oyster gratin, and oyster rice.
ACCESS
Atomic Bomb Dome, 3 minutes walk
Miyajima
・Petarapotara Honpo
Enjoy a unique treat: plump oysters grilled on top of a crispy, chewy rice cracker made with 100% Hiroshima-grown rice.
Topped with our original sweet and savory sauce and cooked over charcoal, this dish offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
We also offer a version topped with local eel for a taste comparison.
・Koyodo Main Branch
At our shop, you can watch as our freshly made mochi manju are dipped in batter and deep-fried to golden perfection right before your eyes.
We don’t pre-make them, so every order is hot and crispy.
Our mochi manju have a light and fluffy texture, with a crispy exterior.
In addition to the classic sweet bean paste filling, we offer 8 different flavors, including savory cheese, making it fun to try a variety.
Day 1 Recommended accommodation
Recommend two areas for your stay.
The Hiroshima Station area, which offers convenient access to the Shinkansen bullet train.
And Miyajima Island, home to the world-famous Itsukushima Shrine.
Hiroshima city
・Hotel Vista Hiroshima
Hotel Vista Hiroshima is conveniently located within walking distance of the world-famous Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Atomic Bomb Dome, making it an ideal base for exploring the city.
All rooms feature a Japanese-style design and separate bathroom, toilet, and vanity area, allowing guests to relax in a private bathtub after a long day of sightseeing.
ACCESS
15 minutes walk from Hiroshima Station.
Take the Hiroshima Electric Railway from Hiroshima Station to Hatchobori Station (10 minutes) and then walk for 2 minutes.
・Hotel Granvia Hiroshima
All guest rooms feature premium US-made pocket coil beds and Tempur pillows, and bathrooms are equipped with shower screens and our original amenities designed to soothe your senses.
Enjoy breathtaking views from our sky restaurant and steakhouse, located 80 meters above the city.
With nine dining options including restaurants, bars, lounges, and cafes, you’re sure to find something to your taste.
The hotel is also conveniently located near the world heritage site Itsukushima Shrine and other major tourist attractions in Hiroshima.
ACCESS
Directly connected to JR Hiroshima Station
・Daiwa Roynet Hotel Hiroshima Ekimae
Conveniently located for exploring both Miyajima Island and Hiroshima city, our hotel is perfect for both business and leisure travelers.
Guest rooms offer spacious layouts and separate bathrooms for a relaxing stay.
ACCESS
3 minutes walk from JR Hiroshima Station
Miyajima
・Aki Grand Hotel
Our hotel boasts a private pier offering exclusive night cruises to the world heritage site, natural hot spring baths, private open-air baths, and spacious guest rooms and public areas.
ACCESS
30 minutes from JR Hiroshima Station to JR Miyajimaguchi Station.
A free shuttle bus is available from JR Miyajimaguchi Station (takes 5 minutes)
・Livemax Resort Miyahama Onsen Ocean
Overlooking the world heritage site of Miyajima, our hotel offers stunning ocean views and private open-air hot spring baths in every room.
Relax in our ocean spa or enjoy the warmth of our heated stone sauna.
Our restaurant features a daily live cooking station, while a variety of facilities, including karaoke and bars, cater to guests of all ages.
ACCESS
35 minutes from JR Hiroshima Station to Onoura Station. Then 5 minutes by taxi.
7 minutes by bus from Onoura Station to Miyahama. 3 minutes walk from the bus stop.
Cycling while enjoying the sea breeze in Hiroshima
Day 2: Explore Onomichi and cycle the Shimanami Kaido, a cyclist’s paradise.
Exploring Onomichi by rental bike is a must-do activity, allowing you to discover the charming town and the beautiful islands of the Seto Inland Sea. There are two main ways to reach Onomichi from Hiroshima:
By Shinkansen to Shin-Onomichi Station or by JR train to Onomichi Station.
Most of the tourist attractions are located near JR Onomichi Station, which is on the seaside.
If you arrive at Shin-Onomichi Station, taking a taxi is the best option.
The journey to the Onomichi Station area takes 20 minutes.
ACCESS
・Shinkansen: 30 minutes from Hiroshima Station to Shin-Onomichi Station.
・JR: 1 hour from Hiroshima Station to Onomichi Station.
Take the Shinkansen to Mihara Station or Fukuyama Station, then change to Onomichi Station
・No Shinkansen: 1 hour 40 minutes from JR Hiroshima Station to Onomichi Station.
Onomichi
・Senkoji Temple
The vermilion main hall, known as “Akadō,” located on the mid-slope of Senkōji Mountain, and the “Kyōonrō,” famous for its New Year’s Eve bell, are iconic symbols of Onomichi.
The temple grounds are home to various shaped megaliths, including Tama-no-iwa, said to have once held a glowing jewel, and Mie-iwa, which are must-sees.
Additionally, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Onomichi from the temple grounds.
A ropeway connects the foot of Senkōji Mountain to the summit.
The journey takes approximately 3 minutes. From the window, you can enjoy guided views of Onomichi, a city recognized as a Japanese Heritage site, with its picturesque townscape, including the Senkōji Temple.
ACCESS
A 20-minute walk from JR Onomichi Station. We recommend renting a bicycle near the station.
・Cycling the Shimanami Kaido
A magnificent ocean route stretching approximately 60 kilometers, connects Onomichi City in Hiroshima Prefecture, Honshu, and Imabari City in Ehime Prefecture, Shikoku.
This scenic road, comprised of seven bridges linking the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, is a popular destination for cyclists and pedestrians alike. Renowned as a “cyclist’s paradise,” the Shimanami Kaido is a world-famous spot.
Bicycle rental station
・ONOMICHI U2
ONOMICHI U2 was opened in March 2014 after renovating a former shipping warehouse, originally known as “Prefectural Warehouse Uwaya No.2,” which was built in 1943.
Based on the concept of “a small town within a city,” the facility offers a variety of amenities including a hotel, restaurants, a bar, a cafe, a bakery, lifestyle shops, and a specialized bicycle shop.
ACCESS
5 minutes walk from JR Onomichi Station
・Bicycle rental terminal
There are multiple rental and return terminals in addition to Onomichi, making it very convenient.
You can choose from a variety of bicycles, including cross bikes, electric-assist bikes, and e-bikes, so you can select one that suits your physical condition.
ACCESS
5 minutes walk from JR Onomichi Station
Day 2 Recommended Gourmet
・Iwabee
If you visit Onomichi, I highly recommend trying “Onomichi-yaki,” a local specialty made with gizzard and squid.
“Iwabee” is a popular restaurant that serves delicious Onomichi-yaki with a crispy texture from the gizzard and the umami flavor of the squid.
ACCESS
A 20-minute walk from JR Onomichi Station
・The RESTAURANT
Indulge in the freshest seafood from the Seto Inland Sea.
Menu features seasonal delights like carpaccio made with local fish and pan-seared sea bream.
For meat lovers, we offer a selection of seasonal game and aged beef, ideal for sharing with friends and family.
ACCESS
5-minute walk from JR Onomichi Station, located within ONOMICHI U2.
・Ichibankan
Discover the authentic taste of Onomichi ramen at our coastal restaurant.
We are a popular spot for travelers seeking local cuisine, offering a convenient stop during your road trip.
Our signature ramen features unique, flat, curly noodles made with a special blend of wheat, delivering a delightful texture and rich flavor.
The savory broth is a harmonious blend of various soy sauces, dried fish, and vegetables.
ACCESS
10-minute walk from JR Onomichi Station
Transportation Options and Travel Times to Major Cities
Airplane
A direct bus from JR Hiroshima Station to Hiroshima Airport is recommended.
It takes about the same time as taking a train and you don’t have to worry about transfers.
・Hiroshima Airport to Tokyo (Haneda Airport)
1 hour 30 minutes
・Hiroshima Airport to Osaka (Kansai International Airport)
Due to the lack of direct flights, a connecting flight will be required.
The Shinkansen would be a more suitable mode of transportation in this case.
・Hiroshima Airport to Nagoya (Chubu Centrair International Airport)
Due to the lack of direct flights, a connecting flight will be required.
The Shinkansen would be a more suitable mode of transportation in this case.
Shinkansen
・Hiroshima to Tokyo
Approximately 4 hours
・Hiroshima to Osaka
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
・Hiroshima to Nagoya
Approximately 2 hour and 30 minutes