Hiroshima Two-Day Tour: Explore the Intertwining of History and Modernity in Japan
Hiroshima, a city located in the southwest of Honshu Island, Japan, bears a heavy history yet radiates renewed vitality from its ruins. A short two-day trip is enough for you to travel between history and modernity and experience Hiroshima's unique charm. Below is a carefully crafted two-day Hiroshima travel guide.
Preliminary Preparations
1. Documents: Bring your valid passport, which is essential for traveling in Japan. Also, prepare relevant documents or vouchers required for hotel bookings and ticket purchases to ensure a smooth trip.
2. Clothing: Hiroshima has four distinct seasons. Spring (March–May): The temperature gradually warms up, and cherry blossoms bloom. Light jackets paired with shirts or dresses are suitable for strolling and enjoying the cherry blossoms. Summer (June–August): It is hot and humid. Wear light and breathable short sleeves, shorts, and skirts. Remember to bring sun protection, such as umbrellas, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. Autumn (September–November): The weather is cool, with a gradual increase in the temperature difference between morning and evening. Pack long-sleeved shirts, thin sweaters, and windbreakers. Winter (December–February): It is cold. Warm clothing such as down jackets, scarves, and gloves are essential.
3. Other items: Prepare comfortable sneakers for long walks in the city. Electrical outlets in Japan are typically two-pronged and flat. If your electronic device plugs do not match, bring a travel adapter. Bring a camera or a phone with a good camera to record your journey, and also bring a power bank. Common medicines such as cold medicine, stomach medicine, and motion sickness medicine can also be prepared in moderation to deal with possible physical discomfort. Also, download translation software and Japanese transportation inquiry apps in advance for convenient communication and travel.
Transportation Guide
1. External transportation: If you are traveling to Hiroshima from abroad, you will usually arrive at Hiroshima Airport first. There are airport limousine buses from Hiroshima Airport to Hiroshima City, which can take you directly to Hiroshima Station and other places. The journey takes about 50 mins, and the fare is relatively reasonable. Alternatively, you can take a taxi, but the cost is higher.
2. Internal transportation
- Railway: The railway network in and around Hiroshima City is relatively well-developed, with JR West lines covering a wide area. Purchasing a JR West Rail Pass is a good option for tourists who plan to travel frequently by rail, allowing unlimited rides on designated trains within a specified period.
- Bus: Buses are also a common mode of transportation in Hiroshima, with direct buses between some attractions. You can get bus route maps and timetables at bus stops or tourist information centers. Some attractions also offer bus passes, which can save you money.
- Tram: Hiroshima's tram is a unique way to experience local life, traveling through the streets and alleys of the city. Tickets can be purchased on the tram or by using transportation cards such as Suica or Pasmo.
Recommended Attractions
1. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: Built to commemorate the victims of the 1945 atomic bombing of Hiroshima, it is the world's first peace-themed park. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum in the park displays the tragic consequences of the atomic bombing and the tremendous harm it caused to humanity through a wealth of artifacts, photos, and video materials, prompting deep reflection on the cruelty of war. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park symbolizes humanity's yearning and pursuit of peace and is a must-visit place in Hiroshima.
2. Itsukushima Shrine: As one of Japan's "Three Scenic Views," Itsukushima Shrine is famous for its large torii gate built in the sea and the peculiar sight of appearing to float on the sea during high tide. The shrine has a long history and a unique architectural style, blending traditional Japanese architectural art with the beauty of the natural landscape. The surrounding Miyajima Island also has beautiful beaches and abundant seafood. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery while tasting fresh seafood.
3. Hiroshima Castle: Also known as "Carp Castle," it is one of Hiroshima's symbols. The castle was originally built in 1589. Although it has gone through war, it still looks magnificent after restoration. Climb to the top of the castle tower to overlook the beautiful scenery of Hiroshima City. Many cultural relics and materials related to Hiroshima's history are displayed inside the castle, helping visitors gain a deeper understanding of Hiroshima's historical changes.
Food Recommendations
1. Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki: This is one of Hiroshima's most representative foods, similar to a pancake. Various ingredients, such as pork, shrimp, squid, and vegetables, are added to the batter, then topped with a special Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and seaweed flakes. It has a rich taste and aroma. You can find many restaurants specializing in Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki in the streets and alleys of Hiroshima and experience the fun of making it yourself.
2. Oyster dishes: Hiroshima is a famous oyster-producing area in Japan. The oysters here are fresh and plump, and there are various ways to eat them. You can try grilled oysters, where fresh oysters are grilled over charcoal and sprinkled with a little lemon juice, making them tender and juicy. There is also oyster rice, where the deliciousness of oysters is blended into the rice, leaving an unforgettable aftertaste.
3. Momiji Manju: This is a traditional Hiroshima confectionery with a cute appearance, usually in the shape of a maple leaf. It has a soft and chewy texture, and the filling comes in various flavors such as red bean paste and cream. It is a good choice whether as a souvenir or a snack during your trip.
Itinerary
Day 1
- Morning: After arriving in Hiroshima, check in to your hotel, drop off your luggage, and take a short rest. Then, go to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum to deeply feel the preciousness of peace. Stroll through the park and admire the monuments and sculptures in the park to commemorate history.
- Noon: Have lunch at a restaurant near the park and try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki to start your culinary journey in Hiroshima.
- Afternoon: Go to Hiroshima Castle and visit this historic castle to learn about Hiroshima's history and culture. Climb to the top of the castle tower to enjoy a panoramic view of Hiroshima City.
- Evening: Have dinner at a restaurant around the castle and try local specialties such as oyster dishes. After dinner, you can stroll around the city and experience Hiroshima's night view and local life.
Day 2
- Morning: Take transportation to Itsukushima Shrine and admire the unique scenery of the floating torii gate and the shrine. Take a walk around the shrine and experience the charm of the blend of traditional Japanese architecture and nature.
- Noon: Have lunch at a restaurant in Miyajima and try fresh seafood, especially various oyster dishes.
- Afternoon: Continue to explore Miyajima. You can visit local shops and buy some special souvenirs, such as amulets from Itsukushima Shrine and Momiji Manju. Afterward, return to Hiroshima City according to your itinerary, pack your luggage, and prepare for your return trip.
Hiroshima, a city full of stories, perfectly presents history and modernity, nature and culture to you during this two-day trip. I hope this guide can help you have an unforgettable time in Hiroshima and leave beautiful memories.