Planning a trip to Hiroshima, Japan? Looking for top things to do in Hiroshima and Miyajima Island? Check out this comprehensive Hiroshima Travel Guide Blog 2024 with a detailed Hiroshima itinerary, budget and expenses, how to get there, where to stay and more to help you plan your trip!
Hiroshima is known as the site where the unfortunate atomic bombing of August 6, 1945 happened during World War II. Located in Chūgoku region of western Honshu Island, the city’s name Hiroshima is also the name of the prefecture it is located, which is Hiroshima Prefecture. As a kid, I learned in my history class in school about that tragic event that happened in Hiroshima. That is why, when we were planning our recent Japan trip, I made sure to include a visit to Hiroshima in our itinerary.
Many people visit Hiroshima to learn about the atomic bomb that was dropped here during the war. Being part of history, Hiroshima is an interesting city to visit. It has many historical sites, ancient temples and shrines, and many amazing tourist spots and attractions that you will surely enjoy.
In this comprehensive budget travel guide to Hiroshima, Japan, I will share to you useful information on the top things to do in Hiroshima, tourist spots and attractions to visit, where to stay, food to try, how to get there from Osaka or Fukuoka, sample Hiroshima itinerary, trip budget and expenses, travel tips and reminders, and many more.
Are you ready to explore Hiroshima? Be sure to read this Hiroshima Travel Guide Blog first!
Hiroshima Travel Guide Blog 2024 for First-timers
JAPAN VISA REQUIREMENTS
To enter Japan, you need to secure a Japan Visa. For Filipinos holding Philippine Passports, you can apply for a Japan tourist visa in the Philippines by submitting all the required documents through an accredited travel agency.
Getting a Japan Tourist Visa is quite easy and convenient. If your documents are complete, you won’t have any problems getting a Japanese Visa. After submitting your visa application to an accredited travel agency, you just need to wait for at least 5 days to a week for the result of your application to be released. I recommend that you submit your visa application 2 or 2.5 months before your intended date of trip to Japan.
When granted, single entry visa is valid for 3 months from the day the visa was approved. If you have a multiple entry Japan visa, it is valid for 5-10 years, depending on what was granted to you. Single entry tourist visa holders could stay for up to 15 days and multiple-entry visa holders could stay from 30 days up to 90 days in Japan.
You may refer to this step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Japan Tourist Visa with list of requirements to guide you in your Japan visa application.
To avoid any inconvenience in passing through immigration, be sure to have your return/onward tickets, proof of hotel reservation, and activity/tour bookings in case the immigration officer asks for it. Also, always check your flight details and make sure that your departure date is within the maximum number of days allowed for you to stay in Japan.
IMPORTANT TRAVEL TIP: Getting a travel insurance is highly-recommended when traveling abroad. Travel with confidence anytime, anywhere you go! Get a travel insurance with Covid-19 coverage for your peace of mind!
HOW TO GET TO HIROSHIMA?
Hiroshima has an airport, but it only services domestic flights and some flight to/from China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, South Korea and Singapore.
If you’re coming from the Philippines, the nearest airport to Hiroshima is from Fukuoka or Osaka (Kansai). From these cities, you can either take the train or the bus to get to Hiroshima.
To help you plan your trip, you may refer to my posts below for the detailed information on how to get to Hiroshima from Fukuoka or Osaka.
HOW TO GET AROUND HIROSHIMA?
Going around Hiroshima City, you may explore by foot, take the subway, bus, or the street cars or trams.
For us, when we explored Hiroshima, we walked when the place we want to visit is just near from where we are. But most of the time we took the Hiroshima Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-Off Bus that goes to the top tourist spots and attractions in Hiroshima. We used our whole Japan Rail Pass which gave us unlimited free rides on the Hiroshima Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-Off Bus.
USEFUL TOURIST PASSES IN HIROSHIMA
Here are some of the passes that you could use when traveling to Hiroshima. Please make sure to plan your itinerary well for you to know which pass best suits your needs.
WHOLE JAPAN RAIL PASS
If you're planning a visit to Hiroshima as part of a bigger Japan trip that covers multiple cities and prefectures, I highly recommend that you get a nationwide Japan JR Pass - available in 7, 14 and 21 days validity. With a Japan JR Pass (nationwide), you can enjoy unlimited train ride on the JR Lines, which includes the Shinkansen, Limited Express, local trains, Monorail, JR buses and Miyajima Ferry. It is very useful and an economical way to travel around Japan. You can also use it in exploring Hiroshima City by taking the Hiroshima Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Pass for FREE. This is the ideal pass to avail if you want to get to as many destinations in Japan as you want. Enjoy unlimited travel across JR lines around Japan including local buses, Miyajima Ferry, and more with this pass!
VISIT HIROSHIMA TOURIST PASS
If you don't have a Japan Rail Pass, you may avail a Visit Hiroshima Tourist Pass that will make sightseeing around the city convenient and hassle-free! This pass will give you unlimited rides on its streetcars (trams), a variety of bus lines, and even ferries going to Miyajima Island. It also comes with a coupon book that provides details on all the places you can visit and sightseeing routes to take using the pass.
The pass comes in 3 types: small area, middle area and wide area with validity of 2, 3, or 4 days. Choose which pass is best for you, depending on your itinerary. You can avail it for as low as ₱699 for a tourist pass that is valid for 2 days.
JR KANSAI HIROSHIMA AREA PASS
If you plan to explore Kansai Region and you want to include Hiroshima in your itinerary, don't get a whole Japan Rail Pass. Instead, get a JR Kansai Hiroshima Area Pass! This pass will let you enjoy unlimited rides on the Sanyo Shinkansen, Express Trains, JR West Ferry, and more!
Areas covered include all of Kansai and Hiroshima prefectures, including Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara, Kansai Airport, Himeji and Wakayama, Himeji, Okayama, Kurashiki, Onomichi, Miyajima, Iwakuni, and more! It is available in adult and kids rates. This is definitely the easiest and fastest way to explore Kansai and Hiroshima.
HIROSHIMA YAMAGUCHI RAIL PASS
If you're coming in from Fukuoka and you plan on exploring different parts of Hiroshima and Yamaguchi prefectures, including Hiroshima City, Miyajima, Onomichi, Hagi, and Yamaguchi, get a Hiroshima Yamaguchi Area Rail Pass! With this pass, you can travel to Hiroshima from Fukuoka's Hakata Station and take rides on the Sanyo Shinkansen, Express Trains, Rapid Services, local trains, and even the JR West ferry to Miyajima island. This is the ideal pass if you're planning to explore different prefectures such as Hiroshima and Yamaguchi from Fukuoka.
WHERE TO STAY IN HIROSHIMA?
As the main transport hub in the city, I highly-recommend that you choose a hotel or hostel near Hiroshima Station. Staying near the station, you are close to the train station, tram and bus stops, convenience stores, groceries, shopping malls, and many more that you need during your travel.
During our trip, we stayed at Guesthouse Hiroshima Station Inn. We got a dorm room good for 2 people.
OTHER HOTELS AND HOSTELS IN HIROSHIMA
Here are some of the top-rated hotels, hostels, and budget hotels in Horishima with excellent to exceptional rating from previous guests. Save as much as 50% DISCOUNT when you book in advance online!
- Hotel Granvia Hiroshima - Check rates and availability
- KOKO HOTEL Hiroshima Ekimae - Check rates and availability
- Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima - Check rates and availability
- FAV Hotel Hiroshima Stadium - Check rates and availability
- Oriental Hotel Hiroshima - Check rates and availability
- Crowne Plaza ANA Hiroshima - Check rates and availability
- Daiwa Roynet Hotel Hiroshima-Ekimae - Check rates and availability
- Nesthotel Hiroshima Station - Check rates and availability
- Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel - Check rates and availability
- WeBase Hiroshima - Check rates and availability
- Hiroshima Peace Park Hotel - Check rates and availability
- Hotel Park Side Hiroshima Peace Park - Check rates and availability
- Hiroshima Hana Hostel - Check rates and availability
- Valie Hotel Hiroshima - Check rates and availability
- Chisun Hotel Hiroshima - Check rates and availability
INTERNET CONNECTION IN JAPAN
When traveling abroad, internet connection is one of the things you should not miss. In Japan you can either rent a pocket WIFI or buy a SIM Card. With a portable pocket WIFI, you can share the connection to your family, friends or travel buddies. This is ideal for groups traveling together, as you can also share the cost. You can get it for as low as ₱ 183 per day. Please note that pocket WIFIs are very in-demand, be sure to reserve and book in advance.
If you're traveling solo, I recommend getting a SIM card. This is good if your phone is open line or not locked with a telecom company. You can pick-up the SIM card in either Osaka, Fukuoka, Tokyo, Nagoya, or where your chosen pick-up location is upon booking. You can get it for as low as ₱ 483 for a SIM card valid for 6 days with 1 GB of data or ₱ 1,105 for a SIM card valid for 8 days with unlimited data.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT HIROSHIMA?
When planning your trip to Hiroshima, the first thing you might want to know about is the weather and climate. With its temperate climate, you can visit Hiroshima at any time of year. But weather-wise, fall (September-November) and spring (March-May) time are the best times to visit. For me, these seasons have the most pleasant temperature (not too cold or not too hot) that is ideal for traveling. Although Hiroshima is mostly mountainous, the winter season (December-February) in the city receives not much of snow - so, it's still good to visit. Rainy season is around mid-June to late July. While summers (June-August) season in Hiroshima tend to be hot and humid most of the time.
Before any of my travels, I always make sure to check the weather. I use available weather apps on my smartphone to see the weather forecast on the dates of my trip. This also gives me the idea what kind of weather to expect and what clothes to bring.
Also a good time to visit is during the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony held every August 6th at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Also called "A-Bomb Day," this event is held to console the victims of the atomic bomb and to pray for lasting world peace.
HOW MANY DAYS TO SPEND IN HIROSHIMA?
Although a day trip to Hiroshima is very possible from Fukuoka or Osaka if you’re taking the Shinkansen bullet train, I highly recommend that you spend at least 3 days in Hiroshima to fully enjoy what it has to offer. If you have more time, you can even spend more days and visit other destinations nearby on a day tour.
You may check my sample DIY Hiroshima Itinerary below and suggested day tours and side trips from Hiroshima.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN HIROSHIMA (TOURIST SPOTS AND ATTRACTIONS)
A visit to Hiroshima is one of my most memorable trips in Japan last year. You may feel a bit sad visiting the places where the atomic bomb was dropped and killed thousands of people, but it's still an interesting place to visit. There's so much to do in this wonderful city. In this is Hiroshima Travel Guide Blog, I will share to you the top things to do, tourist spots and attractions in Hiroshima.
TRAVEL TIP: If you have a JR Pass, you can ride the Hiroshima Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-Off Bus for FREE! This bus has several stops at the top tourist spots, attractions and landmarks in Hiroshima, such as the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, the A-Bomb Museum, Peace Memorial Museum, Hiroshima Castle, Shukkeien Garden, and many more. But if you don’t have JR Pass, you may also use a Visit Hiroshima Tourist Pass or avail a Hiroshima Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Pass. Any of these passes are convenient to use and will let you save on travel expenses.
ATOMIC BOMB DOME (GENBAKU DOME / A-DOME)
On August 6, 1945 at 8:15 am, the first atomic bomb in human history was dropped on Hiroshima. Known as the "ground zero," it is the only structure left standing near the hypocenter where the first atomic bomb exploded during World War 2. What you can see here is the skeleton of a building that remained from the Industrial Promotion Hall which was destroyed during that devastating nuclear attack. Commonly called the Genbaku Dome, Atomic Bomb Dome or A-Bomb Dome, it is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima.
”The Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome) has been preserved as a ruin. It is all that remains of the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotional Hall ‘Hiroshima-ken Sangyo Shoreikan’ after the 1945 nuclear bomb blast. Inside the property, all the structural elements of the building remain in the same state as immediately after the bombing, and are well preserved. The property can be observed from the outside of the periphery fences and its external and internal integrity is well maintained.” -UNESCO
ADDRESS: 1-10 Otemachi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0051, Japan
HOW TO GET THERE: From Hiroshima Station, take a Hiroshima Electric Railway streetcar (Tram 2 or 6) to Genbaku-Dome Mae (Atomic Bomb Dome) Station. Travel time is around 15 minutes. Fare is 190 JPY.
HIROSHIMA PEACE MEMORIAL PARK
Located at the center of Hiroshima, the Peace Memorial Park is dedicated to the city where the first nuclear attack happened during World War II and to the victims of the tragic event in history. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has numerous monuments and facilities and a place filled with people's prayer for lasting world peace.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome)
”The Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome) was the only structure left standing in the area where the first atomic bomb exploded on 6 August 1945. Through the efforts of many people, including those of the city of Hiroshima, it has been preserved in the same state as immediately after the bombing. Not only is it a stark and powerful symbol of the most destructive force ever created by humankind; it also expresses the hope for world peace and the ultimate elimination of all nuclear weapons.“ -UNESCO
HOW TO GET THERE: From Hiroshima Station, take a Hiroshima Electric Railway streetcar (Tram 2 or 6) to Genbaku-Dome Mae (Atomic Bomb Dome) Station. Travel time is around 15 minutes. Fare is 190 JPY. From here, you can walk for about 5 minutes to get to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.
HIROSHIMA PEACE MEMORIAL MUSEUM
Located in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, it is a museum and a place where many Japanese and people from around the world go to reflect on the tragic atomic bombing that happened in Hiroshima. It houses many memorabilia, artifacts, testimonies from the suvivors and related materials documenting that catastrophic moment in the history of humanity.
Just be reminded that touring the museum is quite harrowing and saddening as the museum displays and explore the pain and the tragic moment that happened during the war. But visiting this museum is quite informative as well as inspirational and should be part of your Hiroshima itinerary.
ADMISSION FEE: 200 JPY to enter the museum. Visitors 65 years and older can enter the museum for 100 JPY by showing their passport.
OPENING HOURS:
- March-July 08:30 am - 06:00 pm
- August 08:30 am - 07:00 pm (Open until 10:00 pm on August 5 and 6)
- September-November 08:30 am - 06:00 pm
- December-February 08:30 am -05:00 pm
- Last entry to the museum is 30 minutes before closing time
ADDRESS: 1-2 Nakajimacho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0811, Japan
HOW TO GET THERE: From Hiroshima Station, take a Hiroshima Electric Railway streetcar (Tram 2 or 6) to Genbaku-Dome Mae (Atomic Bomb Dome) Station. Travel time is around 15 minutes. Fare is 190 JPY. From here, you can walk for about 10 minutes to get to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum.
HIROSHIMA CASTLE
Hiroshima has a huge castle complex originally built in the 1590s and was the home of the daimyō (feudal lord) of the Hiroshima han (fief). The castle was destroyed by the atomic bombing in 1945 and was later restored in 1958.
The complex grounds are surrounded by a moat and the main keep is five stories tall and serves as a museum detailing the history of Hiroshima Castle, the culture of Japanese samurai families, and other Japanese Castles in general. If you go up to the topmost part of the castle, you could enjoy panoramic views of the city.
ADMISSION: The rest of the castle complex is free. But if you want to enter the main keep, admission fee is 400 JPY.
OPENING HOURS:
- 09:00 am to 10:00 pm (March to November)
- 09:00 am to 05:00 pm (December to February)
- 09:00 am to 07:00 pm (during Golden Week and Obon holidays)
- Admission ends 30 minutes before closing time
HOW TO GET THERE: Hiroshima Castle can be accessed by taking the sightseeing loop bus via the orange or green routes. Travel time is around 5-6 minutes from Hiroshima Station.
Alternatively, you could also take the tram to Kamiyacho-nishi or Kamiyacho-higashi tram stop (12 minutes, 190 yen from Hiroshima Station by lines 1, 2 or 6). It’s a 10-minute walk from the tram stop.
If you’re coming from the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, the Hiroshima Castle is around 15-20 minutes walk. It’s also just 10-minute walk if you’re coming from Shukkeien Garden. Just use google maps to find your way using the walking route.
SHUKKEIEN GARDEN
One of the must-visit gardens in Hiroshima, Shukkeien Garden is located in the heart of the city, near Hiroshima Castle and adjacent the The Hiroshima Prefectural Art Museum. Considered as the oldest Japanese garden in Hiroshima City, it has a long history dating back to 1620. Visiting this garden, you could enjoy may sights and a huge pond at the middle of the garden that makes a pleasant escape from the city atmosphere.
The name Shukkeien can be translated as "shrunken-scenery garden" which perfectly describes the garden itself. It is full of miniature landscapes of valleys, mountains, lakes, and forests. It is designated as one of Japan's Top 100 Historical Parks and a National Scenic Spot. It is a good place to take a rest, and to enjoy flowers and plants from different seasons.
ADMISSION: 260 JPY (General Admission), 150 JPY (High-college students) and 100 JPY (Elementary and junior high school students)
OPENING HOURS:
- 09:00 am – 6:00 pm (April to September)
- 09:00 am – 6:00 pm (October to March)
- Last admission is 30 minutes before closing time
ADDRESS: 2-11 Kaminoboricho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0014, Japan
HOW TO GET THERE: To get to Shukkeien Garden, you could take tram 1, 2 or 6 from Hiroshima Station to Hacchobori and transfer to tram line 9. Travel time is about 15 minutes and costs 190 JPY. Alternatively, the more convenient way to get there is to take the Hiroshima Sightseeing Loop Bus via orange route bus (via Peace Memorial Park and Museum) from Hiroshima Station and alight at the Prefectural Art Museum (Shukkeien-mae) bus stop.
HONDORI SHOPPING ARCADE
Considered as the biggest shopping street in downtown Hiroshima, this is the best place to shop and to eat when exploring the city. Located east of the Peace Memorial Park, Hondori Shopping Arcade is filled with shops selling clothes, jewelries, gaming items, accessories, souvenirs and many more. It also have shopping malls, cafes, bars and restaurants.
OPENING HOURS: Depends on the shop. Most shops close early at around 7:00 or 8:00 pm.
ADDRESS: 7 Hondōri, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0035, Japan
HOW TO GET THERE: The downtown area of Hiroshima can be accessed by taking tram lines 1, 2 or 6. Take the tram and alight at Hacchobori tram stop (180 JPY) to get to Hondori Shopping Street. It can also be reached by taking the the Hiroshima Sightseeing Loop Bus (Meipuru-pu).
OKONOMIMURA
Located just south of the eastern end of Hondori, Okonomimura is a building filled with restaurants that specialize on Hiroshima Style Okonomiyaki. It has 24 okonomiyaki restaurants, each offering different styles and set of ingredients in making Okonomiyaki. With so many to choose from in one place, it is a convenient place to take a break and grab a bite while exploring the city. It's a favorite place for locals and tourists to enjoy this region's signature dish - the Okonomiyaki.
Dining at Okonomi-mura, prepare to spend around 1,000 JPY per person for one huge serving of Okonomiyaki.
OPENING HOURS: 11:00 am to 02:00 am
ADDRESS 5-13 Shintenchi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0034, Japan
HOW TO GET THERE: If you're at Hondori Shopping Arcade, it is just a short walk from the shopping street. Just use goole map to find the location of Okonomimura. If you're coming from Hiroshima Station, you can take the tram lines 1, 2 or 6 and get off at Hacchobori tram stop (180 JPY). It's just a 5 minute walk from there. It can also be reached by taking the the Hiroshima Sightseeing Loop Bus (Meipuru-pu).
HIROSHIMA-STYLE OKONOMIYAKI
If there's one food that you should not miss when visiting Hiroshima, that would be Okonomiyaki. This Japanese savory pancake dish is so popular in Hiroshima that there are more than 2,000 Okonomiyaki Restaurants in the whole prefecture.
Literally means "grilled as you like it," the Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki is made with flour, eggs, yakisoba noodle, cabbage, green onions, bean sprout, noodles, seafoods, meat, and more! It is then drizzled with the restaurant's special mix of Okonomiyaki sauce. Yum Yummmm!
We got to try it at Okonomi-mura where they have different restaurants serving this popular dish. What I love about dining at Okonimumura is that your Okonomiyaki is freshly-cooked right in front of you. It's quite an experience! Like watching your favorite cooking show, LIVE!
Photo from Klook.com
KIMONO EXPERIENCE AND CULTURAL ACTIVITY IN HIROSHIMA
A visit to a new country wouldn’t be complete without immersing yourself in its culture and traditions. If you’re heading to Japan soon, you can join this kimono-wearing experience in Hiroshima. You’ll be choosing from over 100 kimonos which are known for their colorful and lovely designs. After taking your pick, have the chance to walk around the beautiful Shukkeien Garden and take as many photos as you want. While wearing your choice of the Japanese garment, you’ll also participate in a fun and cultural activity. You can learn how to make origami or furoshiki, partake in a matcha tea ceremony, or play some tosenkyo. Whichever activity you join, you’ll surely have a memorable day! -Klook.com
DAY TOURS AND SIDE TRIPS FROM HIROSHIMA
Photo from pixabay
MIYAJIMA ISLAND (ITSUKUSHIMA SHRINE)
Miyajima is among Japan's Top 3 scenic sights noted by scholar Hayashi Gahō in 1643. A short ferry ride from the mainland, Miyajima is a sacred island and is one of the most visited destinations in Hiroshima Prefecture. In Japanese, Miyajima means "shrine island."
Located an hour outside the city of Hiroshima, Miyajima Island is a nice day tour destination from Hiroshima City. Officially named as Itsukushima, this tiny island along Hiroshima Bay is known for its huge floating Torii Gate, ancient temples, shrines, museums, ryokans, Mount Misen, and many more.
One of its landmarks, the Great Torii Gate that is partially submerged on the water during high tide marks the entrance to the Itsukushima Shrine. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Itsukushima Shrine was first built in the 12th century. Unfortunately, the Great Torii Gate is undergoing renovation during our visit and is currently covered up by scaffolding.
Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
"The island of Itsukushima, in the Seto inland sea, has been a holy place of Shintoism since the earliest times. The first shrine buildings here were probably erected in the 6th century. The present shrine dates from the 12th century and the harmoniously arranged buildings reveal great artistic and technical skill. The shrine plays on the contrasts in colour and form between mountains and sea and illustrates the Japanese concept of scenic beauty, which combines nature and human creativity." -UNESCO
Other things to enjoy when visiting Miyajima Island are the friendly wild deers roaming around that have become accustomed to people. Also, don't miss walking around its busy streets and enjoy the many snacks and shop for souvenirs. Must-visit is Omotesando Street which is lined up with many restaurants, bars and souvenir shops. This is also a good place to see traditional Miyajima craftsmanship and enjoy the famous Hiroshima specialties such as oysters and momiji manjuu (maple buns).
TRAVEL TIP: For ease and convenience, you may avail a Hiroshima and Miyajima Day Tour from Hiroshima. The package includes transportation (bus and ferry), admission fees and an English-speaking tour guide.
ADMISSION FEES AND OPENING HOURS: There is no admission fee in entering the island. Entrance fees and opening hours depends on the shrines, temples, museum, attractions, or stores you want to visit. For the updated rates and time table, please visit the Miyajima Tourist Association website at www.miyajima.or.jp.
ADDRESS: Miyajimacho, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima, Japan
HOW TO GET TO MIYAJIMA ISLAND? From Hiroshima, go to Hiroshima Station and take a train on the JR Sanyo Line and alight at Miyajimaguchi Station. Train fare is 420 JPY, and travel time is around 35 minutes. Upon exiting Miyajimaguchi Station, take a short 5-minute walk to the Miyajimaguchi pier where ferries wait and transport people going to Miyajima Island. Two ferry companies operate between Miyajimaguchi and Miyajima island; the JR ferry and the Miyajima Matsudai Kisen. If you're using your JR PASS, take the JR Ferry. The ferry ride takes about 10-15 minutes and fare is around 200 JPY. If you have a JR Pass, you can ride both the train and the ferry for free.
Photo from Klook.com
TSUNOSHIMA BRIDGE AND MATONOSUMI INARI SHRINE DAY TRIP
Explore the oceans and coasts of Japan with this sightseeing day trip from Hiroshima! This tour package will let you enjoy Kitaura Kaido Hohoku Roadside Station, Tsunoshima Ohashi Bridge and Tsunoshima Lighthouse Park, and Motonosumi Inari Shrine. This day tour package includes round trip transfers from Hotel Granvia Hiroshima to activity spots and a Japanese speaking trip conductor.
Photo from Klook.com
SANDAKYO VALLEY PRIVATE WALKING TOUR FROM HIROSHIMA
- Take a break from city life and escape into the outstanding Hiroshima countryside
- Don't miss the gorgeous red hues of the maple tree season in October
- Learn more about the area from your experienced private guide
- Take a boat down the Shiwagi River and through Sandankyo gorge, regarded as one of Japan's most beautiful
- Witness some spectacular natural sights including five waterfalls, deep lagoons, huge boulders and glistening streams -Klook.com
Photo from Klook.com
IWAKUNI BUS TRIP FROM HIROSHIMA
On this bus trip day tour, you'll get to enjoy and see Kintai Bridge, Iwakuni Castle, Murashige Sake Brewery and taste Japanese Sake, and enjoy Murashige Sake Brewery and taste Japanese Sake. The package tour includes: round trip shuttle between Hiroshima and Iwakuni, ropeway fee, Iwakuni Castle admission, Kintai Bridge admission, lunch, sake experience fee and a tour staff that will accompany you on the trip.
Photo from Klook.com
SETO ISLAND SEA AREA AND SHODOSHIMA ISLAND DAY TOUR
ON this tour, you'll get to visit Choshikei Natural Park, feed the animals by yourself, and get close with the wildlife. You will also be riding the Kankakei Ropeway for a view of the vast Seto Sea, have free time for lunch at the island, and then visit Taki-Ji Temple and a local souvenir store. Afterwards, you'll visit 24 Eyes Movie Studio and immerse yourself in Japan's at the early Showa Period area and visit Shodoshima Olive Park and see the real movie settings in Ghibli films like Kiki's Delivery Service.
Package inclusions: Round trip shuttle bus service between JR Okayama station and New Okayama Port, round trip cruise ship shuttle between New Okayama Port and Shodoshima Island, English-speaking local tour guide in Shodoshima Island and Admission to attractions.
Photo from Klook.com
ITSUKUSHIMA SHRINE VISIT AND OYSTER FARM EXPERIENCE
This tour will let you enjoy and Oyster Farm experience with a visit to Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island in Hiroshima. It will also let you hop into a boat and visit oyster farm and learn how fishermen breed and take care of this marine delicacy.
SAMPLE HIROSHIMA ITINERARY (3 DAYS AND 2 NIGHTS)
In this sample Hiroshima Itinerary, we will start with your arrival in Hiroshima City so you could use this wether you're coming from Fukuoka or Osaka. This is the simplest and most-budget friendly Hiroshima itinerary I could think of. It covers most of the top things to do in Hiroshima, as well as the must-visit tourist spots and attractions.
NOTES:
- You will be staying in a hotel/hostel near Hiroshima Station.
- You will be using a Visit Hiroshima Tourist Pass for 3 days (Middle Area Pass).
- If you don't have a Visit Hiroshima Tourist Pass, you may also use your Japan Rail Pass if you're on a bigger Japan trip by taking the Hop-on Hop Off Sightseeing Bus Loop.
- Conversion rate used is 1 JPY = 0.470 PHP.
DAY 1: ARRIVAL + HIROSHIMA CITY TOUR PART 1
- Arrival at Hiroshima Station.
- Walk to your hotel.
- Early check-in (if allowed) or just leave your bags at the hotel.
- Late breakfast or early lunch (¥1,000).
- Walk to Hiroshima Station.
- Take Tram 2 or 6 to Genbaku Dome Mae (Atomic Bomb Dome). Fare is ¥190 (FREE if using the pass).
- Take photos of the ruins of the Atomic Bomb Dome / Genbaku Dome
- Explore Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Admission is free.
- Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. Admission is ¥200.
- Walk to Hondori Shopping Arcade. Or you may take the tram. FREE if using the pass.
- Explore / shop at Hondori Shopping Street.
- Walk to Okonomimura.
- Okonomiyaki dinner at Okonomimura (¥1,000).
- Take the tram back to Hiroshima Station. FREE if using the pass.
- Walk to your hotel.
DAY 1 EXPENSES: ¥2,200 or ₱1,034 per person
DAY 2: MIYAJIMA ISLAND
- Breakfast (¥500).
- Walk to Hiroshima Station.
- Take the train to Miyajimaguchi Station. Fare is ¥420 (FREE if using the pass).
- Walk to Miyajimaguchi Pier.
- Take the ferry to Miyajima Island. Fare is ¥200 (FREE if using the pass).
- Arrival at Miyajima Island.
- Take photos of the Grand Torii Gate.
- Visit Itsukushima Shrine. Admission is ¥500.
- Lunch at Omotesando Street (¥1,000).
- Try the snacks and souvenir shopping at Omotesando Street (¥300).
- Walk around and explore other parts of Miyajima Island.
- Take the ferry back to the Miyajimaguchi Pier. Fare is ¥200 (FREE if using the pass).
- Walk back to Miyajimaguchi Station.
- Take the train back to Hiroshima Station. Fare is ¥420 (FREE if using the pass).
- Dinner (¥1,000).
- Walk to your hotel.
DAY 1 EXPENSES: ¥3,300 or ₱1,551 per person
DAY 3: HIROSHIMA CITY TOUR PART 2 + DEPARTURE
- Early check-out. Leave bags at the hotel.
- Breakfast (¥500).
- Walk to Hiroshima Station.
- Take tram 1, 2 or 6 to Kamiyacho-nishi or Kamiyacho-higashi tram stop. Fare is ¥190 (FREE if using the pass).
- Walk to Hiroshima Castle grounds.
- Explore Hiroshima Castle. Enter the main keep. Admission is ¥400.
- Exit Hiroshima Castle.
- Walk to Shukkeien Garden.
- Explore Shukkeien Garden. Admission is ¥190.
- Exit Shukkeien Garden, walk to the tram stop and take the tram back to Hiroshima Station. Fare is ¥190 (FREE if using the pass).
- Arrive at Hiroshima Station. Have late lunch (¥1,000).
- Walk to your hotel. Take your bags.
- Walk back to Hiroshima Station.
- Depart for your next destination. (Osaka or Fukuoka?)
DAY 3 EXPENSES: ¥2,090 or ₱982 per person
You may adjust this itinerary depending on the tourist spots and attractions you want to visit and the things you want to do in Hiroshima. You may also tweak it based on the location of your hotel as well as on how many days you want to explore Hiroshima.
If you have more time, you can add 2 or more days and explore other interesting tourist destinations nearby. Such as:
- Tsunoshima Bridge and Matonosumi Inari Shrine
- Sandakyo Valley
- Iwakuni
- Seto Island and Shodoshima Island
HIROSHIMA BUDGET TRIP AND EXPENSES
If you will follow the above 3D2N DIY Hiroshima itinerary, here is the breakdown of expenses. Please note that this assumes the following:
- You will be traveling in a group of two to share some of the expenses.
- You will be staying in a hostel near Hiroshima Station for PHP 1,000 per night per person.
- You'll be renting a pocket WIFI for PHP 183 per day.
- Your maximum budget for breakfast is JPY 500 and for lunch and dinner is JPY 1,000 each per person.
- Conversion rate used in this budget computation 1 PHP = 0.470 JPY.
PRE-TRAVEL EXPENSES BOOKED VIA KLOOK AND AGODA
- Hostel (2 nights) - ₱ 1,000 per night = ₱ 2,000 per person [ BOOK HERE! ]
- WiFi Rental (3 days) [ RESERVE HERE ]- ₱ 549 / 2 = ₱ 275 per person
- 3 Days Middle Area Tourist Pass [ PURCHASE HERE ] - ₱ 1,165 per person
- TOTAL - ₱ 3,440 per person
BREAKDOWN OF EXPENSES (PER PERSON)
- Pre-travel expenses - ₱ 3,440
- Day 1 - ₱ 1,034
- Day 2 - ₱ 1,551
- Day 3 - ₱ 982
TOTAL - ₱ 7,007 per person
Not included in this budget computation are the following:
- Round trip airfare from Manila and back Manila
- Train or bus fare to/from Hiroshima
- NAIA terminal fee and travel tax
- Food expense for snacks
- Budget for pasalubong, souvenirs and shopping expenses
PLEASE NOTE: Your Hiroshima budget trip and expenses will heavily depend on your spending habits and your preferred things to do in Hiroshima. It will also depends on how many are you in the group, what is your preferred accommodation (hotel, budget hotels, or hostel), where you want to eat, and the places you want to visit and to include in your Hiroshima itinerary. The above prices and rates, and other expenses are subject to change and depend on the season and on the date of your booking.
So, there you have it! I hope this comprehensive HIROSHIMA TRAVEL GUIDE BLOG for first-timers help you plan a memorable Japan adventure! Domo arigato gozaimasu! Enjoy Hiroshima Japan!
HIROSHIMA TRAVEL VLOG
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