Top 10 Must-Visit Attractions in Hiroshima! A City Where History and Culture Come Alive

Hiroshima Prefecture is one of Japan's premier tourist destinations, featuring world heritage sites, historical landmarks, stunning natural beauty, and delicious cuisine. From places dedicated to prayers for peace to breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea and local gourmet delights, Hiroshima offers an abundance of attractions. Here are 10 essential spots you absolutely cannot miss when visiting Hiroshima.

1. Atomic Bomb Dome

A must-visit destination in Hiroshima is the Atomic Bomb Dome, registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This precious structure continues to convey to the world the devastation of the atomic bomb dropped on August 6, 1945, and advocates for the importance of peace. Originally a beautiful building used as the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, it miraculously survived despite being located just 160 meters from the hypocenter. Standing by the riverside, its presence quietly speaks of the horrors of war and the hope for peace.

2. Itsukushima Shrine

Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island is one of Japan's Three Most Scenic Views, famous for its great torii gate floating in the sea. Also registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the shrine offers a mystical view of its buildings appearing to float on the water during high tide. Founded in 593 and developed to its current form by Taira no Kiyomori during the Heian period, the beautiful contrast of vermillion shrine buildings, blue sea, and green mountains truly symbolizes Japanese aesthetic beauty. During low tide, you can walk up to the great torii gate and experience the shrine's different expressions.

3. Peace Memorial Park

Adjacent to the Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Memorial Park is a vast park developed with hopes for lasting world peace. The park contains facilities dedicated to prayers for peace, including the Peace Memorial Museum, the Cenotaph for Atomic Bomb Victims, and the Peace Bell. The Peace Memorial Museum, in particular, allows visitors to learn about the reality of the atomic bombing and the experiences of survivors, prompting deep reflection on the value of peace. Walking through the lush green park provides precious time to contemplate peace.

4. Hiroshima Castle

Affectionately known as "Carp Castle," Hiroshima Castle is a famous castle built by Mori Terumoto in 1589. The five-story keep with its distinctive black exterior was destroyed by the atomic bomb but was reconstructed in 1958 and now serves as a history museum. Inside the castle, you can learn about samurai culture and Hiroshima's history, while the top floor offers panoramic views of Hiroshima city. In spring, it's renowned as a cherry blossom viewing spot, with approximately 370 cherry trees blooming around the moat creating a spectacular sight.

5. Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki

A must-try when visiting Hiroshima is the local specialty, Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. Unlike Osaka okonomiyaki, this version is characterized by layering ingredients rather than mixing them, creating a luxurious dish with abundant cabbage, noodles (soba or udon), pork, and egg stacked in layers. Okonomi-mura and the Hondori area are home to numerous famous restaurants, each competing with their unique sauces and cooking methods. Authentic okonomiyaki served piping hot on an iron griddle is an unforgettable culinary experience.

6. Shukkei-en Garden

Located near Hiroshima Station, Shukkei-en is a beautiful Japanese garden designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty. Created in 1620 as a villa for Asano Nagaakira, lord of Hiroshima Domain, this circular pond-style garden was designed to mimic China's famous West Lake scenery, as reflected in its name "Shukkei" (abbreviated scenery). The garden offers seasonal beauty, particularly stunning during spring with plum blossoms and cherry trees, and autumn with vibrant foliage. Despite being in central Hiroshima, this tranquil healing space allows visitors to enjoy peaceful, relaxing moments.

7. Senkoji Temple (Onomichi)

Senkoji Temple, the symbol of Onomichi known as the "City of Slopes," is an ancient temple said to have been founded by Kobo Daishi in 806. Located halfway up Mount Senkoji, the temple grounds offer spectacular views of the Onomichi Channel and the islands of the Seto Inland Sea. The vermillion main hall, "Akado," serves as a landmark of Onomichi, and the grounds feature mysterious rock formations including the giant "Tama-no-iwa" (Jewel Rock) and "Tsuzumi-iwa" (Drum Rock). Accessible by ropeway, visitors can fully enjoy Onomichi's unique atmosphere created by its retro townscape and seaside scenery.

8. Yamato Museum

The Yamato Museum (Kure Maritime Museum) in Kure City is a maritime museum themed around the battleship Yamato. The museum features an impressive 26.3-meter-long 1:10 scale model of the battleship Yamato. Visitors can learn about the history of scientific technology including shipbuilding and steel production that supported Japan's modernization since the Meiji era, with valuable actual artifacts including a Zero Fighter on display. As Kure flourished as a naval city, this is an essential spot for understanding Japan's modern history.

9. Mount Misen (Miyajima)

Mount Misen (535m elevation), Miyajima's highest peak, is a sacred mountain that has been an object of worship since ancient times. The entire primeval forest-covered mountain is part of the World Heritage site, and the summit offers 360-degree panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea's scenic beauty. The Reikado Hall houses the "Eternal Flame," which has been burning for over 1,200 years and is said to be where Kobo Daishi practiced asceticism, making it popular as a power spot. Using the ropeway provides easy access near the summit, allowing even beginner hikers to enjoy the spectacular views.

10. Hondori Shopping Arcade

Located in central Hiroshima City, Hondori Shopping Arcade is a covered shopping street approximately 570 meters long, bustling with locals and tourists as Hiroshima's premier shopping area. With about 200 stores offering fashion, sundries, and gourmet foods, it's ideal for souvenir shopping and food sampling. The arcade features many Hiroshima brand shops where you can find local specialties like momiji manju (maple leaf-shaped cakes) and oyster products. The covered arcade allows comfortable shopping even on rainy days, letting you experience Hiroshima's vibrant urban atmosphere.

Hiroshima is a fascinating tourist destination where prayers for peace, abundant nature, deep history, and delicious food culture harmonize beautifully. By visiting these 10 recommended spots, you'll fully experience Hiroshima's diverse charms. Please consider choosing Hiroshima as your next travel destination for memorable and wonderful experiences.