Hiroshima Travel Guide | Recommended Spots by a Japanese Local

Hiroshima is one of the most famous cities in Japan, known for its history, beautiful scenery, and delicious food.

In this article, I will introduce some of the best places to visit in Hiroshima from a Japanese perspective.

I have visited some of these places myself, while others are well-known spots that many people recommend.

Top Places to Visit in Hiroshima

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

If you visit this park, I highly recommend going to the museum inside.

It helps you understand the reality of what happened and leaves a deep impression.

Atomic Bomb Dome

This is one of the most symbolic landmarks in Hiroshima.

You can still see the remains of the destruction from that time.

It allows you to feel, even slightly, how devastating the situation was.

Miyajima (Itsukushima Shrine & Mt. Misen)

If possible, visit Itsukushima Shrine during high tide.

You can see the shrine appearing to float on the sea.

At low tide, you can walk up close to the large torii gate, which is also a great experience.

I also recommend climbing Mt. Misen.

You can hike all the way up or take a ropeway part of the way.

The view from the top is incredibly beautiful and hard to describe in words.

This video shows the atmosphere of Miyajima very well.

Onomichi

Onomichi is a small town with many slopes and a nostalgic atmosphere.

It has been used as a filming location for many Japanese movies, including Tokyo Story.

Shimanami Kaido Cycling

I highly recommend experiencing this by bicycle yourself.

Cycling while enjoying the beautiful scenery of the Seto Inland Sea will be an unforgettable experience.

If you are not confident in your physical strength, you can rent an electric bicycle.

You can also stop at the islands along the way and enjoy local food.

You can even continue to Imabari in Ehime, or visit Matsuyama, where one of Japan’s oldest hot springs is located.

This video shows what cycling on the Shimanami Kaido is like.

What to Eat in Hiroshima

Okonomiyaki (Okonomimura)

There are two main types of okonomiyaki in Japan: Hiroshima-style and Osaka-style.

In Hiroshima, you can visit Okonomimura, a building filled with many okonomiyaki restaurants.

It is popular among tourists, but honestly, okonomiyaki is delicious almost anywhere.

Many restaurants cook it right in front of you, so you can enjoy watching it being prepared.

This video shows how Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is made.

Anago (Conger Eel Rice)

Anago (conger eel) rice is very popular in Hiroshima.

It is similar to unagi (eel) rice, but has a lighter taste.

Soft anago served over rice with sweet sauce is incredibly delicious.

Oysters

Hiroshima is famous for oysters.

You can enjoy them raw or fried, and I recommend trying both.

Lemon Products

Hiroshima is also known for its lemons.

I recommend lemon gelato and juice, but there are also snacks and sauces you can take home as souvenirs.

Final Thoughts

I will also share more about my personal Hiroshima trip in future articles, including the food I ate and souvenirs I bought.

Stay tuned if you are interested.