HIROSHIMA & MIYAJIMA
Hiroshima is a city of profound memory and vibrant rebirth, standing as an international symbol of peace and resilience. This modern metropolis offers a moving historical journey complemented by a lively, cosmopolitan culture.
Just a short ferry ride away, the sacred island of Miyajima (officially Itsukushima) presents a mystical contrast. Famous for its ‘floating’ shrine and ancient forests, it is celebrated as one of Japan’s most scenic views.
Most Popular Attractions
Peace & Historical Memorials:
Atomic Bomb Dome: The haunting skeletal remains of a building, preserved as a powerful symbol of the atomic bombing and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum: A deeply moving and educational institution detailing the events of the bombing, its aftermath, and the call for global nuclear disarmament.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: A contemplative green space at the former hypocenter of the blast, dedicated to the victims and peace.
Cenotaph for A-Bomb Victims: A saddle-shaped monument protecting the names of all known victims, with the inscription “Rest in peace, the mistake shall not be repeated.”
Children’s Peace Monument: A memorial to Sadako Sasaki and other child victims, constantly adorned with thousands of colorful paper cranes.
Flame of Peace: A flame that has burned continuously since 1964 and will only be extinguished when all nuclear weapons are removed from the earth.
Hypocenter Plaque: A small stone marker indicating the exact ground zero point where the atomic bomb detonated 600 meters above.
Miyajima Island (Itsukushima):
Itsukushima Shrine: A magnificent Shinto shrine built over the water, appearing to float at high tide, famous for its grand vermillion gates.
The Great Torii Gate: The iconic vermillion ‘floating’ gate of Itsukushima Shrine, one of Japan’s most photographed landmarks.
Daisho-in Temple: An important, beautiful Buddhist temple at the base of Mount Misen with an array of halls, statues, and unique features like revolving sutra wheels.
Mount Misen: The sacred, forested highest peak of the island, offering spectacular panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea from its summit and observatory.
Miyajima Ropeway: A cable car offering an easy ascent up Mount Misen with stunning aerial views of the island and sea.
Senjokaku (Hokoku Shrine): A large, partially unfinished wooden pavilion offering an excellent vantage point over the town and the sea.
Five-Storied Pagoda (Goju-no-to): A beautiful vermillion and white pagoda near Senjokaku, showcasing a blend of Japanese and Chinese architectural styles.
Omotesando Shopping Street: The main commercial thoroughfare on Miyajima, lined with shops selling souvenirs and local treats like momiji manju (maple leaf-shaped cakes).
Culture & City Sights:
Shukkei-en Garden: A beautifully preserved traditional Japanese strolling garden dating back to 1620, known for its miniaturized landscapes.
Hiroshima Castle (Carp Castle): A reconstructed feudal castle originally built in the 16th century, now housing a museum of Hiroshima’s history.
Okonomimura: A multi-story building dedicated entirely to Okonomiyaki, the region’s famous savory pancake dish.
Hondori Arcade: A major covered shopping street in the city center, perfect for shopping and dining regardless of the weather.
Mitaki-Dera Temple: A peaceful Buddhist temple nestled in the hills northwest of the city, known for its tranquil atmosphere and autumn colors.
Hiroshima Museum of Art: A modern museum housing a collection of European and Japanese modern art.
Activities & Experiences
Reflect at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum: A profound and essential experience, visiting the Atomic Bomb Dome, the Cenotaph, the Children’s Peace Monument, and the Peace Memorial Museum.
Witness the Floating Torii Gate: See the iconic Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its grand Torii gate that appears to float on the sea during high tide.
Hike or Ropeway up Mount Misen: Ascend Miyajima’s highest peak for breathtaking panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea. You can take the scenic Miyajima Ropeway or choose from several hiking trails.
Feast on Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki: Try the region’s specialty savory pancake, distinguished by its unique layered preparation including noodles (often soba or udon). Head to a spot like Okonomi-mura for variety.
Explore Daishō-in Temple: Visit this significant and beautiful Buddhist temple on Miyajima, known for its various halls, statues, and the cave filled with 88 icons representing the Shikoku Pilgrimage.
Stroll through Shukkeien Garden: Wander through this meticulously designed Japanese garden in Hiroshima City, a tranquil oasis with ponds, bridges, and tea houses that mimic a miniature landscape.
Try Grilled Oysters (Kaki): Hiroshima is Japan’s top oyster producer. Sample them grilled, fried, or raw, especially from the food stalls on Miyajima’s main shopping street.
Visit Hiroshima Castle (Carp Castle): Explore the grounds and the reconstructed main keep of this historic castle, which houses a museum about samurai culture and the castle’s history.
Attend a Japanese Archery (Kyudo) Experience: Participate in a traditional Japanese archery lesson or demonstration in Hiroshima City, often available near Hiroshima Castle.
Shop for Local Souvenirs: Browse the shops along Miyajima’s Omotesando Shopping Street for local crafts like Momiji Manjū (maple leaf-shaped cakes) and traditional Shamoji (rice paddles).
Take a Kayak or SUP Tour: Enjoy the unique perspective of the World Heritage sites by paddling a kayak or Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) in the sea around Miyajima Island.
Local Tips & Transport
City Trams (Hiroden): Hiroshima is best navigated by its extensive streetcar network (trams). They offer a charming and affordable way to see the city, connecting major points like Hiroshima Station, the Peace Park, and Downtown. The flat fare within the city is very convenient.
JR Pass & Ferries: If you have a Japan Rail Pass, the JR Sanyo Line train from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station is the most economical way to reach the ferry terminal. The JR Ferry to Miyajima Island from Miyajimaguchi is also covered by the pass.
Direct Ferry to Miyajima: For speed and scenery, take the direct express ferry (Aqua-net) that runs between Hiroshima Peace Park’s Motoyasu Pier and Miyajima. It’s faster and more direct than the train/tram route but is not covered by the JR Pass.
Miyajima is Walkable: Once on Miyajima Island, all major sights (shrine, temples, shopping street, ropeway base) are within easy walking distance of the ferry pier.
High Tide vs. Low Tide on Miyajima: The experience of the Floating Torii Gate is entirely dependent on the tide. At high tide, the gate appears to float on the water; at low tide, you can walk right up to its base. Check the tide times in advance to plan your visit for both sights.
Don’t Feed the Deer: Miyajima Island has wild deer that are accustomed to people, similar to Nara, but it is strictly requested not to feed them. They are considered sacred messengers of the gods.
The Cuisine is Layered: Hiroshima’s signature dish, Okonomiyaki, is famously “layered” rather than mixed like the Osaka style. It’s a must-try local experience—find an empty counter seat at an okonomiyaki shop and watch the chefs prepare it on the iron griddle (teppan).
Solemnity at the Peace Park: The Peace Memorial Park and Museum are places for solemn reflection and respect. Be mindful of your behavior, dress, and tone, especially when visiting the museum. Photography is generally permitted but should be done respectfully.
IC Cards for Easy Transit: Get a rechargeable IC card (like an ICOCA, Suica, or Pasmo) to pay for trams, buses, and trains effortlessly in the city. You can buy them at major train stations.
Hidden Gems & Local Specialties:
- Hon-dori Shopping Street: A long, covered shopping arcade in the city center, perfect for local souvenir hunting and experiencing modern Japanese urban life.
- Mitaki-Dera Temple: A beautiful, quiet Buddhist temple tucked away in the hills of Hiroshima, famous for its serene atmosphere, waterfalls, and beautiful autumn foliage.
- Momiji Manjū Bakeries: While they are sold everywhere, finding a shop that sells freshly baked Momiji Manjū on Miyajima is a delicious treat—try the different fillings like custard, green tea, or chocolate.
Top Restaurants
Hassei [$15-$25] – A popular okonomiyaki joint known for its use of organic cabbage and expertly cooked crispy soba noodles, highly recommended by locals.
Rei Chan [$15-$25] – Starting as a food stall and now located in the ekie station building, this is a local favorite near Hiroshima Station, known for consistently high-quality okonomiyaki.
LOPEZ Okonomiyaki [$15-$25] – An unconventional but beloved spot famous for its unique “Mexican okonomiyaki” which incorporates jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Okonomiyaki Tatsu [$15-$25] – Highly recommended for its meticulously prepared okonomiyaki, known for crispy, aromatic noodles and a perfect balance of flavors.
Icchan Honten [$15-$25] – A local favorite a short walk from Hiroshima Station’s Shinkansen Exit, popular with a wide range of guests for its traditional preparation.
Negian Kamiyacho [$15-$25] – Known for its signature crispy noodle okonomiyaki and its lively izakaya atmosphere in the city center.
Yagenbori Hassho [$15-$25] – A well-regarded Okonomiyaki spot in the city center, often cited as one of the best for a consistently delicious and filling Soba-niku-tama (noodles, meat, and egg) okonomiyaki.
Momotaro [$15-$25] – One of the oldest okonomiyaki restaurants in Okonomimura, run by three generations since 1961, maintaining an old-fashioned charm and serving a popular “Momotaro deluxe” version.
Atom [$15-$25] – Located in Okonomimura, this spot offers a creative twist on the classic, known for cooking without oil and offering bold flavors like their Atom yaki with garlic and kimchi.
Yama-chan [$15-$25] – A classic Okonomiyaki name established in 1965, famous for its true-to-decades-old flavors and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Okonomiyaki Koshida Honten [$15-$25] – A popular Okonomiyaki restaurant listed by locals in the area for its traditional and flavorful style of the Hiroshima specialty.
Denkou Sekka Ekimae Hiroba Branch [$15-$25] – Located in the Okonomi Monogatari “theme park” near the station, its signature dome-shaped okonomiyaki wrapped in a fluffy omelet is a popular yet delicious favorite.
Anagomeshi Ueno [$20-$40] – The most famous and traditional restaurant for Anagomeshi (Conger Eel Rice), located on the mainland near the Miyajimaguchi ferry port. Reservations are a must, as the line is always long, but it is considered the authentic benchmark for this local dish.
Fujitaya [$25-$45] – A long-established restaurant in Miyajima specializing in Anagomeshi, offering a more refined and highly-rated dining experience compared to quick stalls, though it is very popular.
Iwamura [$15-$30] – A simple and quaint shokudo (diner) on Miyajima that serves locally-grown oysters and various traditional Japanese noodle and rice dishes, popular with island visitors.
Otoya Hiroshima Hondoriten [$15-$30] – A reliable spot on the Hondori shopping street offering a variety of typical Japanese set meals (teishoku) at a great value, popular for an easy, filling local lunch.
Ekohiki [$20-$40] – A pleasant izakaya specializing in local Hiroshima specialties, including oysters, sea urchin (uni), and eel, with a great atmosphere for watching the chef.
Kakigoya Fukuromachi Umihei Shoten [$30-$50] – A traditional and cozy izakaya in the city center focusing on fresh seafood from the Seto Inland Sea, including the specialty Gangan-yaki (oysters baked in a covered pan).
Miyajimaguchi [$20-$35] – Located near the mainland ferry pier, this homey space offers various reasonably-priced local delicacies like fried oysters and Japanese anchovy dishes.
Yamashiroya [$20-$35] – Located near the mainland ferry pier, this spot is known for its Anago and various types of udon (wheat noodles) and seafood.
Oshokuji Dokoro Umeyama [$25-$40] – A well-regarded spot near the Miyajimaguchi ferry port serving a variety of Anago-meshi and fresh seafood, with a welcoming atmosphere.
Washokuya Kikusui [$40-$70] – A higher-end traditional Japanese restaurant in Hiroshima that focuses on seasonal ingredients and meticulous presentation, often frequented by local business people.
Motsunabe Senkichi [$20-$40] – A local favorite specializing in Motsunabe (offal hot pot) or other regional hot pot dishes, a hearty, non-touristic choice for dinner.
Setouchi Grill Jipangu [$30-$50] – Near the Miyajimaguchi ferry pier, this dining bar offers a variety of Setouchi regional cuisine including Anago, often with a modern flair.
Hanabishi [$30-$50] – Located near the Miyajimaguchi ferry pier, this restaurant is known for its Kamameshi (rice cooked in an iron pot) and fresh seafood, including Anago.
Sushitei Hikarimachi [$40-$70] – A local favorite for high-quality, reasonably priced sushi prepared by talented chefs in Hiroshima City.
Kakibune Kanawa [$60-$90] – An oyster ship restaurant floating on the Motoyasu River near Peace Park, offering a unique and elegant dining experience focused on a variety of local oyster dishes (A worthy tourist-friendly spot for the experience).
Kunimatsu Nagarekawa [$10-$20] – Famous for Hiroshima’s unique soupless Shiru-nashi Tantanmen (spicy dandan noodles), a flavorful and fiery local specialty.
Oshokuji Dokoro Kaishin Yuu [$10-$20] – A cafeteria near the Miyajimaguchi ferry pier offering inexpensive and casual seafood, Anago dishes, and rice bowls.
Bar Al [$15-$25] – A popular spot in the city center for the local variation of Tsukemen (cold dipping noodles), known for its spicy sauce.
Ajitokoro Rakuichi [$10-$20] – A simple, local ramen shop specializing in the soy sauce-based Onomichi Ramen, popular for its rich flavor and pork fat back seasoning. (Though Onomichi is an hour away, this shop in the city is a local favorite for this style).
Daishin Udon [$10-$20] – A humble udon shop known for its thick, chewy noodles and flavorful broth, a classic local comfort food spot.
Kiyomori Chaya [$10-$20] – A casual spot on Miyajima for a quick bite, serving Anago dishes, light meals, and sweets.
Takeda Furin Tei [$15-$30] – Located near the Miyajimaguchi ferry pier, known for its various noodle dishes and regional cuisine.
Kakiya [$25-$40] – A very popular, yet highly recommended, oyster specialist restaurant on Miyajima, known for its fresh, locally-grown oysters served raw, grilled, or fried in a classy setting.
Ekohiki (Otemachi) [$25-$45] – This izakaya is celebrated for its large, briny Hiroshima oysters, offering them raw, steamed with Japanese citrus, breaded and fried, or grilled with butter.
Yakigaki no Hayashi [$30-$50] – An oyster specialist on Miyajima serving delicious local oysters prepared in various ways, a favorite for lunch or dinner on the island.
Kusatsu Oyster Hut (Seasonal) [$40-$60] – An authentic, non-touristic experience where you can enjoy all-you-can-eat grilled oysters directly from the producer during the season (typically late autumn to spring).
Miyajima Ichiwa [$20-$35] – A straightforward spot on Miyajima that serves a mix of Anago, curry, and oyster dishes.
Mikoto Ya [$30-$50] – A small, quality Japanese restaurant near the Miyajimaguchi ferry pier that serves delicious Anago and fresh seafood.
Hiroshima Wanari [$60-$100] – A refined spot in the city center offering Hiroshima oysters paired with a diverse selection of fine wine and other beverages in a stylish setting.
Roopali Honten [$15-$30] – An excellent and popular Indian restaurant near Hiroshima Station, known for its huge, crispy naan and delicious curries.
Teppan-ya Ganga [$25-$45] – A restaurant focusing on high-quality Teppanyaki (grilled food) and other Hiroshima cuisine, popular for a fun, lively evening.
La Azotea (Hiroshima) [$40-$60] – A modern tavern with a creative twist on local favorites and a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients (if it exists in Hiroshima, as the name is common in Spain).
Sarasvati [$10-$20] – A surprisingly hip café/restaurant on Miyajima known for serving high-quality coffee, sweets, and healthy set meals, offering a nice view.
Café Rente [$10-$20] – A smart woodsy café on Miyajima for a break or light meal, known for great drip coffee, pastries, and set lunches.
Social Book Cafe Hachidorisha [$15-$25] – A unique second-floor café near the Peace Memorial Park offering organic meals, free Wi-Fi, and a focus on peace activism and social issues.
Mei-Mei [$20-$35] – A rare and welcomed addition, this is the world’s first halal restaurant specializing in Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki (made with chicken).
Ajito [$25-$45] – An Okonomiyaki restaurant known to locals for its quality and flavor, offering a modern atmosphere.
Teppan-ya Benbee Hacchobori Ten [$20-$40] – A popular Izakaya and Teppanyaki spot in the Hatchobori area for drinks and local grilled specialties.
Brooklyn [$30-$50] – A hideaway bar in the Nagarekawa entertainment center that also serves creative food and light meals, perfect for a late-night dining experience.
Okkundou Mazemen [$15-$25] – A spot specializing in Mazemen, a type of dry or soupless ramen that is popular in the region.
Shu [$15-$30] – Conveniently located near JR Hiroshima Station, this spot offers Okonomiyaki and Teppanyaki in a lively counter setting, great for a quick, authentic meal.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
The Bar TopNote: Located in the Horikawacho area of Hiroshima, this sumptuously appointed bar is reminiscent of an opulent cruise ship lounge. It is famous for its signature cocktails, which are creative twists on familiar classics.
Bar Allegre: A highly-rated, chic establishment in Hiroshima’s Horikawa Cho. It features an array of premium spirits, brews, and wines, and is known for its original, high-quality, and thoughtfully presented cocktails.
Mac Bar: Near the Hondori pedestrian street, this spot is a long-standing, foreigner-friendly favorite known for its friendly English-speaking bartender and a vast CD collection, allowing patrons to choose the rock and alternative music played loudly.
Tropical Bar Revolucion: One of the most beloved watering holes in the Nagarekawa neighborhood, it’s a fine choice for enjoying a lighter moment with friends over a wide selection of drinks, with a fun, vibrant atmosphere.
Bar & Restaurant Ondo: A well-hidden gem not too far from Peace Boulevard. This spot is highly praised for its atmosphere and is perfect for travelers looking for a unique and more local bar experience.
Koba: Situated in the Nakamachi area, this rock bar is a favorite among both tourists and locals for a great drink after a long day of sightseeing, offering a lively and welcoming vibe.
Grog: A relatively new and chic cocktail bar located near Okonomi-mura in Hiroshima. It features a modern, minimal design, offering an excellent setting for sophisticated drinks.
The Bar TopNote Annex: A contemporary sister bar to the original TopNote, this spot is a modern cocktail bar found within a former Japanese home in Horikawacho, offering courtyard views for a more serene experience.
Kemby’s: An American-style sports bar located in Otemachi, making it a popular spot for Western food, a large drink selection, and catching a game—a great place to start (or end) a night out in Hiroshima.
Molly Malone’s: An authentic Irish pub located in the Shintenchi area of downtown Hiroshima, known for its faithful decor, imported Irish drinks like draft Guinness, and a warm, lively atmosphere.
Shack: Found in the same central area as Molly Malone’s, this spot offers an American party experience, providing a casual, high-energy environment popular with both Japanese locals and foreign visitors.
MIYAJIMA BREWERY 1F Beer Stand: Located near the Miyajima Guchi Station (the ferry terminal for Miyajima Island), this spot offers the chance to experience the essence of Japanese craft beer with a focus on local flavors.
GEBURA: A cozy bar located near the Miyajima Guchi Station, it’s known for its tranquil ambiance and delightful beverages, offering a relaxing final stop before or after a trip to Miyajima Island.
Orizuru Tower Roof Top Bar: Located atop a commercial complex near the Atomic Bomb Dome, this bar offers a stunning panoramic view of Hiroshima’s nightscape and illuminated landmarks, making it a romantic spot for a cocktail.
LAGOON HIROSHIMA: Located underground in the bustling Nagarekawa district, this is one of Hiroshima’s largest nightclubs. It provides a surreal, fantasy ocean-themed atmosphere with immersive lights, oceanic decor, and a spectacle of sound.
CLUB LEOPARD: Situated in the city center, this club was built to be the biggest in the Chugoku and Shikoku regions, known for revolutionizing the Hiroshima club scene with its large scale and popular events.
HERBIE HIROSHIMA: A luxurious and stylish club that has spurred the Hiroshima club scene. Located centrally, it features Japan’s first 3D LED vision lights that sync with the DJ booth, offering a high-end experience for adults.
club G hiroshima: A long-standing and well-established club that has supported the Hiroshima club scene since 2006. It’s very popular and a foundational part of the city’s nightlife, located in the downtown area.
CLUB L2: Located in the same central building as Club Leopard, this is the sister shop, allowing for easy club-hopping between the two venues, often with discounted entry for patrons. It provides another space for late-night partying.
CLUB QUATTRO: A famous live venue and club, often hosting both local and well-known international acts, located in the Parco department store in the central Hatchobori area. It’s a key spot for the city’s music scene.
Club China Town: Another of Hiroshima’s established venues, known for hosting various live music concerts and events, catering to a diverse crowd in the central district.
El Barco: Located centrally in Hiroshima, this popular spot is a place to unwind and dance away until the early morning, known for its energetic atmosphere and mix of music.
Live & Lounge Vio: One of the city’s major night spots in the downtown area, this is the place to be for a night spent sipping on cocktails and dancing to the beats of diverse music genres.
Club Cream: Located in the Naka district of Hiroshima, this venue is one of the city’s premier jazz clubs, offering guests a velvety musical experience and a more sophisticated atmosphere for dancing and enjoying live music.
J-CAFE HIROSHIMA: A large, stylish space that functions as both a cafe and a nightlife venue, often hosting club events and parties, located conveniently near the main nightlife districts.