Hiroshima is a city of remembrance, resilience, and renewal. While it’s globally recognized for the tragic events of 1945, today Hiroshima shines as a vibrant destination filled with peaceful memorials, lush gardens, delicious food, and easy access to one of Japan’s most iconic shrines on Miyajima Island.
Whether you’re here for history, culture, or cuisine, this Hiroshima travel guide will show you the best things to do, see, and eat.
Things to Do in Hiroshima
1. Peace Memorial Park & Museum
The heart of Hiroshima’s story, this park is dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing and serves as a moving reminder of peace. Don’t miss the Peace Memorial Museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
📍 Peace Memorial Museum Official
2. Hiroshima Castle
Known as the “Carp Castle,” Hiroshima Castle was rebuilt after WWII and today houses a museum on samurai culture and the city’s history. The surrounding moat and park are perfect for a peaceful stroll.
3. Shukkeien Garden
This traditional garden, designed in 1620, is filled with scenic ponds, bridges, and teahouses. Each season brings new beauty, from spring blossoms to autumn leaves.
📍 Shukkeien Official Info
4. Miyajima Island (Itsukushima Shrine)
A short ferry ride from Hiroshima, Miyajima is famous for Itsukushima Shrine’s “floating” red torii gate. The island also offers hiking, temples, and friendly deer that roam freely.
📍 Miyajima Official Tourism
👉 See how it compares with other sacred spots in our Mount Fuji Travel Guide: Best Views, Hikes & When to Visit.
Things to See in Hiroshima
5. Atomic Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome)
Preserved as it stood after 1945, the dome is a haunting yet essential symbol of Hiroshima’s resilience and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
📍 UNESCO World Heritage Info
6. Orizuru Tower
This modern observation tower provides panoramic views of Hiroshima, plus an interactive space where visitors fold paper cranes as a symbol of peace.
📍 Orizuru Tower Official
7. Hondori Shopping Arcade
Hiroshima’s main shopping street is packed with boutiques, restaurants, and arcades — perfect for strolling and people-watching.
👉 For more local vibes, check our Hidden Gems in Tokyo: Secret Spots Locals Love.
8. Mazda Museum
Car enthusiasts will love the Mazda Museum, where you can learn about the brand’s history and tour part of the production line.
📍 Mazda Museum Official
What to Eat in Hiroshima
9. Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki
Unlike Osaka’s version, Hiroshima okonomiyaki is layered with noodles, egg, cabbage, and toppings — a must-try dish. Head to Okonomimura, a building dedicated entirely to this specialty.
📍 Visit Hiroshima – Okonomiyaki Guide
👉 Pair this with foodie ideas from our Japan on a Budget: How to Travel Cheap Without Missing Out.
10. Fresh Oysters
Hiroshima is Japan’s top oyster-producing region. Try them grilled at street stalls, in hot pots, or served raw with lemon.
11. Tsukemen (Spicy Dipping Noodles)
A Hiroshima specialty where cold noodles are dipped into a spicy broth — refreshing and flavorful.