9 Exciting Things To Do In Hiroshima Japan For A Memorable Day
Explore the best things to do in Hiroshima, Japan. From the Peace Memorial Park and Hiroshima Castle to festive events and cultural experiences. Discover history, art, and beauty in just one day.
Hiroshima is a city that stands as a symbol of resilience, peace, and cultural richness.
If you have just one day to explore this remarkable city, this guide will help you make the most of it.
Whether you’re traveling from Kyoto, Osaka or Tokyo, we’ll cover the best way to get there, where to stay, and what to do.
From historical landmarks to modern cultural experiences, Hiroshima offers a deeply moving and enriching experience.
Getting to Hiroshima
From Osaka to Hiroshima
To get from Osaka to Hiroshima, take the Nozomi Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station.
The journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Alternatively, the Hikari Shinkansen is a slightly slower option, taking around 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Both trains arrive at Hiroshima Station, making for a quick and convenient trip.
If you are lucky you might get the Hello Kitty Shinkansen.
From Kyoto to Hiroshima
Traveling from Kyoto to Hiroshima is a breeze thanks to Japan’s efficient Shinkansen (bullet train) system.
The Nozomi Shinkansen is the fastest option, covering a distance of approximately 380 kilometers in just about 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Alternatively, the Hikari Shinkansen takes a bit longer, around 2 hours.
From Tokyo to Hiroshima
If you’re coming from Tokyo, the journey is a bit longer but equally comfortable.
The Nozomi Shinkansen will get you to Hiroshima in about 4 hours, covering around 800 kilometers.
If you choose the Hikari Shinkansen, the trip takes approximately 5 hours.
Once you arrive at Hiroshima Station, the city’s efficient tram system, buses, and taxis will be at your service, making it easy to get around.
Don’t forget to grab a bento box or some cute and delicious Japanese snacks and drinks for the train ride.
Where to Stay in Hiroshima
For your one-night stay in Hiroshima, the Hiroshima Hilton Hotel is a great choice.
This centrally located hotel offers some of the best views of the city.
We stayed at the Hiroshima Hilton Hotel for one night during the start of the Christmas season which made the stay truly special.
The hotel embraces the festive spirit with beautifully decorated Christmas trees and a charming Christmas train in the lobby.
The rooms are spacious, offering both comfort and luxury.
They also have stunning views of the city, allowing you to soak in the beauty of Hiroshima.
Conveniently the hotel is located just around a 15-minute walk from the Memorial Peace Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome.
Morning: A Deep Dive into History
1. Peace Memorial Park
Start your day at the Peace Memorial Park, a serene and solemn space that honors the victims of the atomic bombing in 1945.
The park invites visitors to reflect on the city’s tragic past and its enduring message of peace.
Located in the heart of Hiroshima, the park honors the victims of the atomic bombing that occurred on August 6, 1945.
Visitors can walk through the park’s beautifully landscaped grounds.
The park is home to several important monuments and museums that tell the story of that tragic day and its aftermath.
During your visit, you will see many Japanese children on school trips visiting the Peace Memorial Park.
2. Children’s Peace Monument
Within the park, the Children’s Peace Monument stands as a tribute to the children who perished in the bombing.
The monument is inspired by Sadako Sasaki, a young girl who succumbed to leukemia as a result of radiation exposure.
Additionally, the monument is surrounded by thousands of colorful paper cranes, symbolizing peace and hope.
The monument features a vibrant display of paper cranes brought by visitors from around the world. Reflecting a global commitment to ending war and fostering harmony.
When you visit the monument you will see Japanese children participating in heartfelt ceremonies many times singing a song titled “Hiroshima no aru kuni” and presenting colorful paper cranes.
These ceremonies, often held in groups, symbolize hope and solidarity, as the children come together to honor their peers and promote a message of peace.
Be prepared to feel a deep sense of sadness while watching these ceremonies. Although the atmosphere can be quite heavy, witnessing these heartfelt moments is a profoundly special experience.
3. Flame of Peace
The Flame of Peace in Hiroshima burns continuously as a symbol of the city’s dedication to global peace.
Located within Peace Memorial Park, this eternal flame was lit in 1964.
It represents a solemn wish for the eradication of nuclear weapons worldwide.
The flame will remain burning until the last nuclear weapon on Earth has been dismantled.
Making it a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for a peaceful future.
4. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
No visit to Hiroshima would be complete without a stop at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum.
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum offers an in-depth exploration of the tragic events of August 6, 1945, and their profound impact on the city and its people.
The museum’s exhibits include personal artifacts, such as clothing and items recovered from the aftermath, as well as detailed accounts of the bombing’s immediate effects.
Through powerful visuals and firsthand stories, the museum provides a moving and educational experience, helping visitors understand the human cost of war and the importance of peace.
As you explore the museum, be aware that some of the exhibits include graphic and emotional content that may be disturbing.
The museum’s portrayal of the bombing’s aftermath is both poignant and intense, reflecting the gravity of the events.
Midday: Art and Culture
5. Hiroshima Museum of Art
After a morning of reflection, continue your cultural exploration at the Hiroshima Museum of Art.
This museum houses a beautiful collection of European and Japanese art, including works by masters such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso.
The museum’s serene atmosphere and stunning collection offer a perfect way to balance the day’s experiences with a touch of artistic inspiration.
Visiting the Hiroshima Museum of Art offers a unique experience in Hiroshima, especially if you appreciate art.
Afternoon: A Festive Experience
6. Chuo Park – Christmas Wine Festival
If you’re visiting Hiroshima in mid-November or December, a delightful treat awaits you at Chuo Park, where the Christmas Wine Festival takes place.
Here, you can enjoy a festive atmosphere filled with the warmth of twinkling lights, live music, and a variety of delicious wines and cheese.
We stumbled upon the Wine Festival when we left the Art Museum. Even when it’s not Christmas, the park is a fun place to visit for its many shops and restaurants.
We were lucky to catch the Christmas Tree lighting ceremony while we were there.
Evening: Classical Music and a Nightcap
7. Classical Concert at Hiroshima Bunka Gakuen HBG Hall
As the day winds down, head to the Hiroshima Bunka Gakuen HBG Hall for an evening of classical music.
The hall frequently hosts performances by renowned musicians and orchestras.
Before your trip make sure to visit the concert hall website to see what are their upcoming performances.
During our visit, we attended a classical music concert featuring a performance of Ludwig van Beethoven’s masterpieces.
The acoustics and atmosphere of the hall make it an unforgettable experience for any music lover.
Additional Activities: Exploring Hiroshima’s Icons
If you find yourself with extra time or wish to customize your day, here are two additional must-see attractions:
8. Hiroshima Castle
Hiroshima Castle, also known as Carp Castle, is a stunning example of traditional Japanese architecture.
Reconstructed after the war, the castle now serves as a museum that offers insights into Hiroshima’s history before the atomic bombing.
The surrounding grounds, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season, provide a peaceful escape from the bustling city.
9. Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island
A short ferry ride from Hiroshima will take you to Miyajima Island, home to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine.
This Shinto shrine is famous for its “floating” torii gate, which appears to hover above the water during high tide.
The island itself is a serene retreat, with hiking trails, beautiful temples, and friendly deer that roam freely.
A Day to Remember
Hiroshima is a city that offers a profound and unforgettable experience, even if you only have one day to explore it.
From the moving memorials of Peace Memorial Park to the vibrant culture found in its art museums and festivals, Hiroshima provides a perfect blend of history, art, and festive cheer.
Ending your day with a classical concert adds the final touch to what can only be described as a truly enriching journey.
Whether you’re visiting Japan for the first time or returning to explore more of its cities, Hiroshima is a destination that should not be missed.
With this guide, you’re well-prepared to make the most of your day in this remarkable city, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.
