Hiroshima is one of those places that instantly leaves an impression. Beautiful, heartbreaking, delicious, and full of life after the devastating Atomic Bomb attack during World War II. It’s a city that balances history with a vibrant modern pulse.
I spent two days exploring Hiroshima during autumn (read: the busiest time of the year), and in this article, I share some of the best things to do in Hiroshima, including the Atomic Bomb museum, Peace Park and much more...
Of course, there are plenty of other sights and places to explore. Feel free to let me know your favourites in the comments at the end of this article.
The city has so much to offer, from beautiful parks to delicious food. Don't miss out on the top things to do in Hiroshima when you visit!
READ ALSO: The perfect itinerary for Japan in 3 weeks
How to get to Hiroshima
By flight: Domestic flights are very common and an easy way to travel around Japan. However, for this trip, I would not recommend it as the airport of Hiroshima is about 40-60 minutes away from the city centre.
By train: Most travellers visit Hiroshima as part of a classic route in Japan: Tokyo - Osaka - Kyoto - Hiroshima, and hop on a Shinkansen train. This is probably the most common and easiest way for a tourist to visit Hiroshima. For tourists, I would recommend buying a JR Railpass as this will save you a lot of money.
By car: As I was already in Fukuoka to visit family, I rented a car and drove from Fukuoka to Hiroshima. On the way, I also stopped by some magnificent places. So, if you’re thinking about driving, keep these things in mind.
- You’ll need an international driving permit (Belgians also need an official translation).
- Be prepared for toll roads, they can make a trip more expensive than you had in mind. (I paid around JPY 7000 - €38, one way)
- You'll need to park in the city, the best place is to reserve a spot in your hotel (expect to pay around JPY 1000-1500)
It’s not the cheapest option, but it’s really fun to road-trip through Japan’s countryside!
Where to stay in Hiroshima
Hiroshima isn’t nearly as big or overwhelming as Tokyo or Osaka, so you don’t have to stress too much about finding the “perfect” location. If you’re looking for a convenient area to stay, the Fukuromachi district or anywhere around the city centre is ideal, everything is close and easy to reach.
Below are a few places I recommend, including the Mitsui Garden Hotel, which has a beautiful rooftop terrace with incredible city views.
READ ALSO: 21 Best hotels in Japan
The best things to do in Hiroshima in 2 days
With a rental car, I drove from Fukuoka to Hiroshima, a city I’d been wanting to visit for years, as I wasn't able to explore this amazing place during my first trip back in 2019. I had to skip it because my 3-week itinerary in Japan was already packed with many other stunning places.
Hiroshima is actually perfect for a short visit. In just two days, you can see all the main highlights, eat amazing food, and get a real feel for the city.
On the way there, we also stopped at a few cool places that turned out to be great day-trip ideas from Hiroshima. I’ve added those below in case you want to make your trip a little more exciting.
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DAY 1
Atomic Bomb Dome
One of the first things I did after arriving in Hiroshima was to explore the most famous landmark in Japan, the Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Dome.
The Atomic Bomb Dome sits alongside the Motoyasu River in central Hiroshima, and you’ll spot it easily as you walk through Peace Memorial Park. The building is protected exactly as it was after the explosion of August 6, 1945, making it one of the most powerful historical landmarks in Japan.
While at the Atomic Bomb Dome, reflect on the many things to do in Hiroshima that honour the memory of those lost. A visit here is one of the essential things to do in Hiroshima for a meaningful experience.
You can circle the dome from different viewpoints, all connected by paved paths along the river. It’s an easy walk with a calm atmosphere, especially at sunrise or sunset when the building glows softly in the changing light. It’s a powerful stop, and a meaningful part of any visit to Hiroshima.
BOOK: It is free to explore the area around the Atomic Bomb Dome, however, for those who would like to know more about the history, you can join a walking tour around the city's historical landmarks.
Eat Okonomiyaki
Although most travellers will continue towards the Peace Park or Atomic Bomb Museum, I decided to eat okonomiyaki first, as it was too crowded and it's also one of the classic things to do in Hiroshima. Make sure you try it at one of the local restaurants.
The city is famous for its layered seafood okonomiyaki, and Ganso Henkutsu-ya is an amazing spot right in the city centre to try it. You’ll sit at a counter facing sizzling hot plates as the chef adds cabbage, noodles, batter, and sauce into a messy, delicious tower. It’s cosy, busy, and full of local chatter, which adds to the charm.
The menu is simple, but it’s worth trying.
TIP: If you like oysters, try the Okonomiyaki with oysters as it is their speciality.
Fukuromachi Shopping Arcades
Just a short walk from the main downtown area and near the Ganso Henkutsu-ya restaurant, you'll find Fukuromachi’s arcades, which are filled with little shops, cafés, and quirky stores where you could easily wander through for hours. Most of it is covered, making it a great stroll in any weather. You’ll find everything from vintage clothing and stationery to game arcades and tiny bakeries.
It’s the perfect area to walk off lunch, browse for souvenirs, and soak up everyday city life.
TIP: Head over to the Chuo Dori Avenue to admire the massive Kirin Beer Sign
Hiroshima Castle
Hiroshima Castle is another significant landmark and one of the historical things to do in Hiroshima. The surrounding gardens are also a great place to relax.
From the Peace Park, I continued towards the Hiroshima Castle, which is a peaceful change from the heavy history downtown. The original castle was destroyed in the war, and the current reconstruction serves as a museum on samurai culture and Hiroshima’s past.
The grounds are beautiful to walk around, even if you don’t enter the tower. Inside, you’ll find exhibitions, artefacts, and a top-floor lookout with views over the city.
BOOK: Join a guided walking tour and enjoy the historical information while admiring the city's best-kept secrets
Nagarekawacho
Nagarekawachō is the lively district which is packed with neon-lit streets, buzzing izakayas, cosy sake bars, and tiny hideaway pubs where the bartender might just become your new best friend.
You’ll find karaoke spots filled with locals singing, stylish cocktail lounges, lively craft beer bars, and endless late-night eateries serving ramen, yakitori, and perfectly crisp gyoza. It’s the kind of neighbourhood where you wander without a plan and somehow end up having one of your most memorable nights in Japan.
Hiroshima Orizuru Tower
Located right next to Peace Memorial Park, Orizuru Tower offers one of the best views over Hiroshima and the Atomic Bomb Dome. The open-air rooftop gives you a full 360-degree look at the city, with sunset colouring the skyline and river in warm orange tones.
There’s no rush. Once you’re inside, you can relax at the lounge, sip a drink, or fold an origami crane to drop through the glass wall installation. Expect to spend 45–60 minutes here, and try to time your visit just before sunset for the prettiest light.
TIP: The tower is open from 10h-18h, and I recommend booking tickets in advance
DAY 2
Explore Peace Memorial Park during sunrise
On day 2, I went out before sunrise as I wanted to explore the busiest place without the crowds, Peace Memorial Park. Visiting the park early in the morning is a special experience, it is almost silent, and you can watch the city slowly wake up around you, people walking or cycling to work. Elderly people doing some exercise in the park or sweeping the footpaths.
Because there are no big groups (yet), you can take your time exploring the landmarks such as the Memorial Cenotaph and the Flame of Peace. I really enjoyed the time strolling through the park and admiring the sunrise over the city.
BOOK: With this guided walking tour, you'll explore all the highlights of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
Visiting the Peace Memorial Museum is a must. It provides a deep insight into the horrible events surrounding Hiroshima and t's among the most important things to do in Hiroshima.
Even though the museum is right in the park, I decided to visit the Peace Memorial Museum in the afternoon. The museum offers a powerful and emotional look into the atomic bomb events during World War II. The museum showcases historical details with personal stories, objects, and photographs that stay with you long after you leave.
It’s well-organised and easy to follow, but give yourself enough time to absorb the exhibits without rushing and expect many visitors, so buy tickets in advance to avoid the long lines.
TIP: You can buy tickets easily at the door or online; however, I do recommend renting the audioguides for the full experience.
Eat sushi & local seafood
Hiroshima is well-known across Japan for its fresh seafood, especially oysters. You’ll find plenty of restaurants grilling them right in front of you, often served simply with lemon, salt, or soy sauce. It’s casual, fast, and exceptionally fresh.
Savouring local seafood is among the top things to do in Hiroshima, especially for seafood lovers. You can find many restaurants offering fresh oysters and sushi.
Sushi spots are also easy to find around the station and downtown. Whether you pick a conveyor-belt restaurant or a quieter counter-bar, expect higher quality than you might be used to elsewhere.
Have a unique beer at the Shigetomi Beerstand
Tucked into a lively downtown corner, Beerstand Shigetomi is a tiny local spot serving beers drafted from an 80-year-old draft system and a specific technique. There’s no big seating area, just stand, sip, and chat with locals or the staff while enjoying the owner serving these amazing draft beers.
You can only choose a few different types of beers, and this is how it's mentioned on their menu:
- Single Pour (we recommend you try this first) - For refreshing and satisfying gulps of beer!
- Double Pour - This adds more richness (a little sweetness) to the refreshing taste of the single pour
- Triple Pour *Requires about 3 minutes - This type of pour reduces carbonation in the beer. Enjoy the rich flavours of the beer's malt and the soft finish.
- Sharp Pour the glass is filled using a modern tap, which provides strong carbonation and highlights the bitterness of the beer. A classic-style tạp with an 80-year-old design is used to top the beer with a uniquely creamy, rich foam. Enjoy the rich, smooth taste of this pouring style.
- Mild Pour *Requires about 3 minutes - This pour reduces the bitterness and carbonation of the beer for a milder flavour.
TIP: Max 8 people are allowed every 20 minutes, and only 2 beers per person are allowed. Choose them wisely ;)
Visit one of the beautiful gardens
If you need a quiet break from the busy city, Hiroshima has some beautiful green places to explore. Shukkeien Garden is a calm and traditional Japanese garden with small bridges, ponds full of koi fish, and peaceful walking paths. It’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature.
For the most stunning panoramic views, visit Hijiyama Park. This park sits on a hill and gives you great views over the city. It’s a popular place for picnics, cherry blossoms, and slow walks. Both spots show the beautiful nature and calmer side of Hiroshima.
Day trips from Hiroshima
Wander in the Akiyoshido Cave
Located along the route between Yamaguchi Prefecture and Hiroshima, Akiyoshido Cave is the largest limestone cave in Japan and an unforgettable stop for anyone who loves unique landscapes. Once inside, you’ll follow well-lit walkways through towering caverns, layered rock pools, and unique formations shaped over millions of years.
The air is cool, the space feels endless, and every corner looks like something from a sci-fi movie. You don’t need to be an experienced hiker, however, the route is pretty steep, and the paths are smooth but easy to navigate. We went in from the main entrance and parked at the Akiyoshido parking lot #1.
Once you reach the end of the cave, you can take a taxi, shuttle or walk back to the car park, which is about 1,5km.
BOOK: Tickets can be bought online or at the entrance. Keep in mind it might be busy during weekends.
Iwakuni
Another short stop near Hiroshima is Iwakuni. This place offers a mix of history, scenery, and modern creativity, without the big crowds. The main attraction is the stunning Kintaikyo Bridge, a long wooden arch spanning the Nishiki River and the Iwakuni Castle on top of the hill.
You can cross the bridge on foot (a small entrance fee is required) and explore the park near the river with amazing views.
Another must-see attraction in Iwakuni is the Simose Art Museum, which showcases modern architecture and contemporary exhibitions.
It's an easy day-trip just outside Hiroshima City, and you can even take a ferry from Iwakuni to Miyajima Island.
Miyajima Island
A visit to Miyajima Island is definitely one of the best things to do in Hiroshima. Its iconic floating torii gate is a breathtaking sight and one of the most photographed in Japan.
Miyajima Island is usually one of the top highlights of the region. The island is known for its floating torii gate, which appears to rise from the water at high tide, as well as friendly deer roaming freely around the streets. There are plenty of small shops and restaurants to explore, making it a very touristy area.
On my visit (during autumn and a public holiday), the island was extremely busy, so I decided not to go this time.
BOOK: Miyajima Island is a place full of history and hidden gems. Therefore, joining a guided tour might be a good way to experience this island.
Often, people ask me if it is worth it to visit Hiroshima, and even though I have visited Japan multiple times, I regret that I didn't come here earlier. Between its amazing food, peaceful riverside walks, emotional history, and vibrant nightlife, it’s a destination filled with contrast and character. The things to do in Hiroshima are truly remarkable and would leave any traveller with unforgettable memories.
Two days are enough to spark a connection, but there is much more to explore in the Hiroshima Prefecture. I would love to hear your recommendations in the comments about the things to do in Hiroshima.
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Discover the Philippines with my favourite travel apps
To plan my adventures, I use these FREE websites and apps as they provide the best information, the best deals, and they are user-friendly.
- Skyscanner – Flight deals
- Booking.com – Hotels and accommodation
- TourRadar – Group trips
- TripAdvisor – Reviews and activities
- HostelWorld – Hostels
- GetYourGuide – Activities and excursions
- RentalCars – Car rental
- Omio – Transport
- iVisa – Travel documents
- Wise – Money transfer
- InsuredNomads – Travel Insurance
PICTURES AND EDITING
All the pictures on this page are made and owned by me. If you are interested in some pictures to use for your magazine, website, blog, or any other purpose, just send me an email and we’ll figure it out.
Do you like the edits? My Presets will be online soon so you can edit your pictures in just one click!
The camera gear I used for this trip
I never go out without my camera and many people ask me which gear I use. So to make it quite easy, I listed all the gear I used for this trip below.
Most of the time, I travel with the Sony A7III and the Sony 24-105mm/f4 as my primary lens but depending on the location, I change to another setup. However, I love the Tamron 17-28 to shoot in the big cities.