Independent travel and view of the city of Hiroshima! History of Hiroshima City 1. Early Times and the Middle...
1. Early Times and the Middle Ages
The territory of Hiroshima has been inhabited since ancient times, archaeological finds date from about 3-4 millennia BC.
In the period of Yayoi (about 300 BC – 300 AD) and Kofun (3-7 centuries) small settlements were formed on the site of the future city.
In the Middle Ages, the territory was part of the province of Aki. At this time there were small castles and fortifications, and economic life was concentrated on agriculture and crafts.
2. The era of samurai and the foundation of the city (XVI-XVII centuries)
Hiroshima as a city was officially founded in 1589 by the feudal lord Mori Terumoto, one of the influential daimyo of the Sengoku period (the time of the warring provinces).
Mori Terumoto built Hiroshima Castle and made it his residence. The castle became the center of the city, around which the settlement grew.
The city was fortified by natural moats and walls, which made it a strategic point.
During the Edo period (1603–1868), Hiroshima was ruled by the Mori clan and then by Asakura. The city gradually developed as the administrative and commercial center of the region.
3. The Meiji Period and Modernization (1868–1945)
After the Meiji Restoration (1868), Hiroshima became the capital of Hiroshima Prefecture.
In the late XIX - early XX century, the city was actively industrialized:
Railways were built;
industry, especially shipbuilding and arms production;
There were new administrative buildings, schools, hospitals.
Hiroshima was also a significant military center, with Japanese army garrisons, making the city strategically important during World War II.
4. Atomic bombardment (August 6, 1945)
On August 6, 1945, the city was destroyed by the atomic bomb "Baby", dropped by the American aircraft B-29 Enola Gay.
Implications:
About 70-80,000 people were killed instantly, including civilians.
By the end of 1945, about 60,000 people had died from burns, radiation and wounds.
Almost the entire city was destroyed.
This event was the first use of atomic weapons against a population in the history of mankind and had a tremendous impact on international politics and the movement for nuclear disarmament.
5. Post-war reconstruction and modernity
After the war, Hiroshima was completely rebuilt:
The city centre has become a symbol of peace and reconciliation.
The Peace Memorial Park and the Hiroshima Peace Museum were established to commemorate the victims of the atomic bombing.
The industry, especially the automotive industry, has been revived (Mazda is headquartered in Hiroshima).
Today Hiroshima is a modern city with a population of about 1.2 million people, known as the city of the world, attracting tourists from all over the world.
6. Cultural heritage
Hiroshima Castle: Rebuilt after the war, a symbol of the historic samurai era.
Gardens and temples, such as Shukkeien Garden, show traditional Japanese garden art.
Museums and Monuments: Peace Memorial Park, Genbaku Dome – UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Hiroshima is a city with a rich history where past and present are intertwined in a unique context. It is known not only for the tragic events of World War II, but also for its culture, cuisine, architecture and soulful atmosphere, which makes it attractive to travelers from all over the world.
What's worth seeing
Peace Memorial Park and Atomic Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome)
A symbol of peace and reconciliation included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Here you can feel the power of human resilience, walk along the paths of the park with hundreds of monuments, fountains and memorial plaques.
For tourists, this is an opportunity to deeply understand a history the world must never repeat.
Hiroshima Castle
The restored castle of the XVI century, surrounded by a beautiful pond and gardens.
A great place to take photos, walks and explore Japanese samurai culture.
Inside there is a museum of the history of the city with interactive expositions.
Shukkeien Garden (Shukkeien Garden)
Cozy Japanese garden with ponds, bridges and tea houses.
Here you can enjoy the silence, traditional tea ritual and photos full of Japanese charm.
Museums and cultural centres
Hiroshima Peace Museum is an interactive exhibition about the events of 1945 and the city’s path to restoration.
Many art galleries and small museums of modern art.
Miyajima (island)
Just 30 minutes from Hiroshima by train and ferry.
It is famous for the floating gates of Toria and the temple of Itsukushima, which create a fabulous atmosphere at high tide.
The island is famous for deer living among temples and tourists - a unique experience of interacting with nature.
What to try
Okonomiyaki in Hiroshima is a local version of Japanese "pizza", with seafood, noodles and vegetables.
Fresh seafood – especially oysters, which have been cultivated here for centuries.
Local sweets and tea - for cultural immersion and rest after walks.
Why you should visit
A unique story that can be felt in every corner of the city.
Comfortable infrastructure for tourists: transport, museums, restaurants and hotels.
Natural beauty – from parks in the city to the islands and mountains around.
The city of peace is a place where you can think about global harmony and enjoy Japanese culture.
Hiroshima offers a variety of accommodation options suitable for different types of travelers, from luxury hotels to budget hostels and traditional Japanese homes.
Classification of hotels in Japan
Japan does not have an official state hotel star system. Hotels are classified by private associations and the following categories are often used:
Superior Deluxe / Deluxe – High level with luxurious facilities.
Moderate Deluxe / First Class is a comfortable middle class with good facilities.
Limited-Service/Moderate First Class are cost-effective options with limited service.
Popular hotels in Hiroshima
1. Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima
Type: First Class
Location: in the city center, next to the Peace Park.
Features: spacious rooms, indoor pool, restaurants with international cuisine.
Suitable for: families, couples and business travelers.
2. Hotel Granvia Hiroshima
Type: First Class
Location: Directly at Hiroshima Station.
Features: convenient access to transport, a variety of restaurants, shops and spas.
Suitable for: those who appreciate convenience and proximity to transport.
3. EN HOTEL Hiroshima
Type: Moderate Deluxe
Location: Downtown.
Features: A variety of room types, including options for cyclists and families.
Suitable for: active travelers and families.
Budget accommodation options
1. Nest Hotel Hiroshima Hatchobori
Type: economical hotel
Location: in the city center, near the main attractions.
Features: free Wi-Fi, daily cleaning, comfortable rooms.
Suitable for: tourists looking for comfort at an affordable price.
2. Santiago Guesthouse Hiroshima
Type: Guesthouse
Location: Downtown.
Features: general and private rooms, common kitchen, friendly atmosphere.
Suitable for: backpackers and budget travelers.
3. Hotel Park Side Hiroshima Peace Park
Type: economical hotel
Location: Near the Peace Park.
Features: comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, proximity to attractions.
Suitable for: Tourists who want to be close to the main attractions.
Alternative accommodation options
1. Ryokan (Ryokan)
Traditional Japanese hotels offering a unique experience with tatami, onimatsu (mattresses), Japanese baths (onsen) and local cuisine. Example: Iwaso Ryokan on Miyajima Island is a historical ryokan overlooking the Itsukushima temple.
2. Shukubo (Shukubo)
Accommodation in Buddhist temples, offering the opportunity to participate in morning prayer and meditation. It is popular on Mount Koyasan, but is also available in other regions of Japan.
3. Capsule hotels
Miniature individual "capsules" for sleep, often located in dormitories. Example: The Capsule Hotel Anshin Oyado Premier in Hiroshima is a modern capsule hotel with facilities.
Hiroshima is not only a place of memory, but also a modern city with vibrant culture, beautiful gardens, traditional and modern Japanese cuisine, as well as unique attractions that attract tourists from all over the world.
1. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
This is a complex dedicated to the memory of the victims of the atomic bombing on August 6, 1945.
Main sites:
The dome of the atomic bomb (Genbaku Dome) - the remains of the building left after the explosion;
Hiroshima Peace Museum – interactive exhibitions and artifacts
Bridges and monuments, including the Memorial of Orphans.
Transport:
Tram lines 2 and 6 (Genbaku Dome-mae stop)
Walking: about 15-20 minutes from Hiroshima Central Station
Bus: Several routes stop near the park.
2. Hiroshima Castle (Hiroshima Castle)
What is it: a reconstructed castle of the XVI century with a history museum.
Features: a tower with a panorama of the city, a garden and a pond around the castle.
Transport:
Tram line 2, Kamiya-cho-nishi or Hiroshima Castle-mae stop
Bus: routes 5 and 6;
On foot: about 10-15 minutes from the World Park.
3. Shukkeien Garden (Shukkeien Garden)
What it is: a traditional Japanese garden with ponds, bridges and tea houses.
Features: the perfect place for a quiet walk and photo shoots.
Transport:
Tram: lines 2 or 6, stop Shukkeien-mae;
By foot: about 15 minutes from the central station.
4. Miyajima Island (Itsukushima/Miyajima)
What it is: a holy island with the temple Itukushima Shrine and the famous “floating” gate of Toria.
Features: wild deer, picturesque views, traditional ryokans and shops.
Transport:
JR Train: From Hiroshima to Miyajimaguchi Station (about 25-30 minutes)
Ferry: from Miyajimaguchi station to the island (10 minutes, JR and private ferries)
They travel on foot or by local bus.
5. Hiroshima Museum of Contemporary Art
It is a collection of contemporary Japanese and world art.
Features: exhibitions, interactive installations, temporary exhibitions.
Transport:
Bus: Route 50 from Hiroshima Station
On foot: about 10 minutes from the World Park.
6. Nagarekawa (Nagara River / Hondori)
What it is: a shopping street and an entertainment center.
Features: shops, restaurants, cafes and nightlife.
Transport:
Tram: lines 1, 2, 6; stop Hondori;
Walking from the city center – 5-10 minutes.
7. Atomic Bomb Dome and Memorial Museum
What it is: part of a memorial park, a symbol of tragedy and hope for peace.
Transport: see item 1 – Genbaku Dome-mae tram.
City travel tips
The tram is the most convenient and fast way: the network covers tourist routes well.
The JR Pass is suitable for travel to and from Miyajima.
Bicycles – Hiroshima has many bike lanes, especially around the park and along the river.
Hiking trails – most of the central attractions are 10–20 minutes away on foot.
Hiroshima is a city where historical memory and modern culture blend harmoniously, and this is reflected in celebrations, festivals and events throughout the year.
1. Spring (March-May)
Main developments:
Cherry blossom season (late March – early April)
The Peace Memorial Park and Hiroshima Castle are particularly beautiful at this time.
Tourists like to have picnics under the flowering trees – traditional khanami.
Hiroshima Flower Festival (Flower Festival, early May)
The largest city festival with parades, music, dances and fairs.
Participation of local and international artists.
Playground: central streets of Hiroshima, park near the Ota River.
2. Summer (June - August)
Main developments:
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony (August 6)
Solemn events and a minute of silence in memory of the victims of the atomic bomb.
Wreaths are laid and paper lanterns are launched on the river.
Hiroshima Port Festival (Late July)
Music, ship parades, fireworks.
Great opportunity to enjoy a summer evening by the water.
Fireworks Festivals (summer fireworks, July-August)
The annual fireworks show on the Ota River.
A popular spot is the promenade near the Peace Park and Hondori Street.
3. Autumn (September-November)
Main developments:
Hiroshima Food Festival (October)
Try local delicacies: oysters, okonomiyaki, seafood.
Fairs, master classes and street performances.
Autumn foliage in gardens and on Miyajima Island (October – November)
Ideal time for a photo walk in parks and temples.
4. Winter (December to February)
Main developments:
Hiroshima Dreamination (December – January)
Holiday illumination of streets and bridges.
Family entertainment with bright lights, photo zones and small fairs.
New Year Celebrations (New Year, January 1)
Visit temples and shrines, including Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima.
Locals and tourists participate in traditional rituals of purification and wishing for the year.
Additionally.
Concerts and theatre productions:
They are regularly held at Hiroshima Bunka Gakuen HBG Hall and Hiroshima City Cultural Exchange Hall.
During the summer months there are street music festivals and jazz concerts in parks.
Carnivals and street shows:
Often held during the Flower Festival and summer holidays with fireworks.
Dance shows, costume processions and master classes in traditional Japanese crafts.
1. Spring (March-May)
Air temperature:
March: +8...+15 °C
April: +12... +20 °C
May: +17...+24 °C
Water temperature (rivers, coast): 13-18 °C
Seasonal characteristics:
Cherry blossoms in late March - early April.
Moderate humidity, mild weather.
Ideal for walks, photo shoots and excursions to parks and temples.
Recommendations: light jacket, umbrella in case of rain, comfortable shoes for walking.
2. Summer (June - August)
Air temperature:
June: +20...+27 °C
July: +24... +31 °C
August: +25...+32 °C
Water temperature (Sea of Japan and rivers): 23–28 °C
Seasonal characteristics:
June is the rainy season (tsuyu), high humidity 70-80%.
July and August are hot and humid, typhoons are possible.
Many festivals, fireworks and street events.
Recommendations: light clothing, headdress, sunscreen, hydration.
3. Autumn (September-November)
Air temperature:
September: +22 ... +28 °C
October: +16... +23 °C
November: +10... +17 °C
Water temperature: 20-23 °C in early autumn, gradually cooling
Seasonal characteristics:
Cooler, less rain, comfortable humidity.
Beautiful autumn foliage in parks and on the island of Miyajima.
Perfect for walking and excursions.
Recommendations: light jacket or sweater, comfortable shoes, camera for autumn landscapes.
4. Winter (December to February)
Air temperature:
December: +5... +12 °C
January: +1 ... +9 °C
February: +2... +10 °C
Water temperature: 10–13 °C
Seasonal characteristics:
Winters are mild and snow rarely falls.
Clear skies, low humidity, but cold winds are possible.
Holiday illuminations and the New Year create a cozy atmosphere.
Recommendations: warm clothes, coat, scarf, gloves.
Language of communication
Official language: Japanese.
English: In tourist areas, hotels, restaurants and museums, basic English is understandable, but in everyday life, English proficiency is limited.
Tourist advice:
It is useful to have cards with a hotel address in Japanese.
Application-translators will help in transport and shops.
Acquaintance with basic phrases of the Japanese language:
"Hello" - ствуのству (Konnichiwa)
"Thank you" - )ר)ة (Arigatou)
"Sorry" - )の (Sumimasen)
Traditions and customs worth observing
Greeting and etiquette
Bowing instead of shaking hands is a sign of respect.
Polite treatment of people, especially older ones.
Shoes.
In houses, temples, some ryokans and traditional restaurants, you need to take off your shoes.
Slippers are often provided.
Public conduct
Loud conversations and phone calls are considered impolite.
The queue is strictly observed - do not try to pass without a queue.
Transportation
On trams and trains it is customary to sit quietly and give way to the elderly, pregnant and people with children.
Payment for a ticket before departure or upon boarding is mandatory.
Food and restaurants
Do not insert sticks vertically into rice - this is associated with mourning.
Not waving chopsticks and putting them on the table parallel to the plate is considered impolite.
In ryokans and traditional restaurants, it is important to follow the rules of behavior at the table.
Photography.
Photography is sometimes forbidden in temples and private buildings.
Always check for permission.
Tipping
Tipping is not practiced in Japan. Trying to give money to a waiter can be embarrassing.
Laws and regulations you need to know
Documents
The passport is always with you, especially when checking on transport or in stores when paying by credit card.
Alcohol and smoking
Smoking is allowed only in designated areas.
Drinking alcohol in public is allowed, but noisy behavior is not.
Medicine and medicines
Some drugs allowed in other countries are banned in Japan.
Before traveling, check the composition and availability of prescriptions for transported medicines.
Security
Japan is a country with a low crime rate, but petty theft is possible, just like any tourist destination.
Strictly observe the rules of the road: pedestrians always have an advantage at pedestrian crossings.
A trip to Hiroshima is bright and comfortable if you know at least basic phrases in Japanese. Even a few words spoken correctly will help to connect with the locals, show respect for their culture and make the trip safer and more enjoyable.
1. Greetings and polite phrases
)の) (Konnichiwa) - Hello / Good afternoon
Good morning (politely) (Ohayou gozaimasu)
)の) (Konbanwa) - Good evening
Sayounara - Goodbye
(Arigatou) - Thank you.
(Arigatou gozaimasu) - Thank you very much (politely)
)の (Sumimasen) - Sorry / Excuse me / Can I ask
) (Hai)
(Iie) No.
大)42) (Onegaishimasu) - Please (if requested)
2. Transport and orientation
) (Eki) - Station, station
) (Basu) - Bus
) (Densha) - Train
(Doko desu ka?) - Where is...?
Kono eki wa doko desu ka? - Where is this station?
)人) (Toramu) - Tram
) (Kippu) - Ticket
)/) (Migi/Hidari) – Right/Left
) (Massugu) - Straight
Michi ni mayoi mashita - I'm lost
3. Restaurants and food
Menyuu o kudasai - Please give me a menu
Osusume wa nan desu ka? - What do you recommend?
(Kore o kudasai) - I want it (pointing to the dish)
(Oishii) - Delicious.
) (Mizu) - Water
) (Biiru) - Beer
С/55/ С (Kaikei onegaishimasu) - Account, please
) (Hashi) - Chopsticks
4. Shops and purchases
Ikura desu ka? - How much does it cost?
国) (Takai) - Expensive
) (Yasui) - Cheap
? (Kurejitto kaado wa tsukaemasu ka?) - Can I pay by credit card?
) (Fukuro) - Package
)大) (Misete kudasai) - Please show me
5. Emergency situations
Tasukete kudasai – Please help me.
) (Keisatsu) - Police
) (Byouin) - Hospital
р (Kaji) - Fire
Michi ni mayoi mashita - I am lost
(Kega o Shimashita) - I have been injured.
6. Useful dialogue
Dialogue 1: At the restaurant.
Tourist: ,の, (Menyuu o kudasai) - Please give me a menu
Waiter: )の) (Hai, douzo) - Yes, here you go.
Tourist: Puerto? (Osusume wa nan desu ka?) - What do you recommend?
Waiter: Kyou wa okonomiyaki ga osusume desu – Today we recommend Okonomiyaki
Dialogue 2: Transportation.
Tourist: の ? (Kono densha wa Hiroshima eki ni ikimasu ka?) - Is this train going to Hiroshima Station?
Employee: ) (Hai, ikimasu)
Tourist: )ة)の) (Arigatou gozaimasu) - Thank you
Dialogue 3: Ask for directions
Tourist: の ? (Sumimasen, Heiwa Kinen Kouen wa doko desu ka?) - Excuse me, where is the Peace Park?
Local: ореのоре (Massugu itte, futatsu-me no shingou o migi desu) - Go straight at the second traffic light to the right
Hiroshima is not only history and beautiful sights, but also a real gastronomic and craft treasure of Japan. Here a tourist can try unique dishes, discover local drinks and tea, as well as pick up unusual and useful souvenirs that will become a memorable gift or a pleasant reminder of the trip.
1. Food and drink
Unique dishes
Okonomiyaki Hiroshima
Fried dough cake with cabbage, meat or seafood and noodles.
Hiroshima makes its own version, with a separate layer of noodles, which is different from other regions of Japan.
Seafood
Hiroshima is famous for oysters, they are grown in the clear waters of the inland seas.
Other delicacies: mussels, shrimp, scallops.
Noodles and sweets
Momiji Manju is a maple leaf-shaped cake filled with red beans.
Licorice teas and rice sweets are popular in local souvenir shops.
Drinks.
Local sake and beer
Hiroshima produces several varieties of sake and craft beer.
Tea
Green tea, matches and special flavored mixtures.
What can I bring home?
Oysters in vacuum packaging (dried or smoked)
Momiji Manju (long-stored versions)
Local sake or tea
2. Medicines and cosmetics
Traditional Japanese Medicine (Kampo)
Herbal remedies, useful for colds, stress or to improve digestion.
Local balms and ointments
For example, warming balms for muscles and joints, often with eucalyptus and menthol.
Cosmetics
Face masks and cream with extract of rice, green tea or seaweed.
Tip: Check the composition if there are allergies or import restrictions in your country.
3. Souvenirs and crafts
Ceramics and dishes
Local workshops produce kettles, cups and bowls with traditional Japanese design.
Textiles and crafts
Furoshiki (cloth handkerchiefs for gift packing) depicting Hiroshima and Miyajima.
Local bamboo and wood products.
Decorative products
Miniature models of temples and castles, deer figures from Miyajima.
Magnets, postcards, office.
With views of the city, the memorial park, the dome of the atomic bomb, cherry trees.
4. Useful goods
Cooking kits
Kits for cooking okonomiyaki at home (dough, sauces, spices).
Tea sets
Teapots, cups and different varieties of green tea.
Traditional umbrellas and fans
Beautiful souvenirs that are both practical and decorative.
Safety is one of the key aspects of a comfortable journey. Hiroshima is a modern and peaceful city, where the crime rate is extremely low, but knowing the basic rules, necessary documents and emergency contacts will help to make the holiday as comfortable and protected as possible.
1. General security
Hiroshima is considered a very safe city, with one of the lowest crime rates in the world.
Crimes against tourists are extremely rare. The main risks: petty theft, loss of things in transport or tourist places.
In public places, especially at train stations and in transport, use the usual caution: watch for bags, documents and valuables.
2. Documents required
Passport - always carry or keep in a safe place.
Visa – depends on the country of citizenship:
For citizens of most European countries and the CIS, visa-free entry is possible for up to 90 days for tourist purposes.
For a long stay, a visa is required in advance.
Hotel tickets and reservations are often checked upon entry or check-in.
Keep copies of documents separately from the originals and preferably in electronic form.
3. Health insurance
Traveler's insurance is strongly recommended:
Coverage of medical expenses, hospitalization, emergency evacuation.
Medical services are expensive in Japan, especially for foreigners.
Pharmacies are widespread, but most medicines have Japanese names; for chronic ailments, take stock with you.
4. Emergency phones
Police - 110
Ambulance and Fire Service - 119
International reference (in English) - +81 3 3201 3331 (Tokyo Tourist Information, around the clock)
Embassy or Consulate Contacts – check in advance in your country; it is helpful to keep the embassy emergency line number.
5. Mobile communications
Connection of tourists:
At the airport or large shopping centers, you can buy SIM cards for tourists with Internet for 7-30 days.
Popular operators: SoftBank, Docomo, AU.
Wi-Fi:
Free outlets are available in hotels, cafes, train stations and tourist areas.
Roaming: also works, but can be expensive; it is more profitable to buy a local SIM card.
6. Period of stay without departure
For tourists from most countries, the visa-free regime allows them to stay in Japan for up to 90 days.
A long stay requires obtaining a visa in advance (working, student or long-term tourist).
Extension of the period of stay for tourist purposes is almost not issued - if the term is exceeded, fines and deportation are provided.
Tips for a tourist for a safe holiday and
Keep your passport and documents separate from cash.
Keep copies of important documents on your phone or in cloud storage.
Get travel insurance before your trip.
Write down emergency numbers and embassy numbers if necessary.
Keep an eye on personal belongings in transport and tourist areas.
Create a query and local guides will offer you the best options
