Hiroshima is blessed with magnificent nature, including spectacular views of the Seto Inland Sea and unique islands. In this issue, we will introduce eight carefully selected romantic spots in Hiroshima! You’ll discover many places where you can enjoy both the daytime scenery and the sunset and nighttime illuminations, including castles, shrines, and gardens featuring captivating Japanese-style architectural designs. Please consider these spots as references for planning your trip.
Miraishin no Oka (未来心の丘)
Miraishin no Oka, located on Ikuchijima Island, is gaining attention for its stunning all-white landscape, which is highly photogenic and popular on social media. Located on the grounds of Kosanji Temple, it is made of Italian marble. The vast grounds are dotted with artworks, and the pure white landscape is breathtaking, as if you were in a Mediterranean world. It is such a picturesque spot that every corner makes for a perfect photograph.
Itsukushima Shrine (嚴島神社)
Itsukushima Shrine is an iconic shrine located on Miyajima, and is a must-see spot for sightseeing in Hiroshima. It is one of the most popular spots in Japan that attracts many tourists because of the beautiful scenery of the shrine pavilions on the sea, which is rare in the world. The collaboration of the vermilion-lacquered shrine pavilions with the blue of the sky and sea and the green of the mountains is well worth seeing.
The Otorii (Grand Gate) is situated 160 meters out to sea from the Itsukushima Shrine pavilion. You can get very close to the Otorii during low tide. It is recommended to visit Itsukushima Shrine at high tide, enjoy sightseeing in the area, and then approach the Otorii to take photos when the tide is low. Since the tide changes with the seasons, it’s advisable to research ahead of your visit.
Shukkeien Garden (縮景園)
This Japanese garden was built as a garden for the villa of the lord of the Hiroshima domain. The garden has long been loved for its beautiful nature, flowers, and trees in each of the four seasons. In the garden overflowing with greenery, “Sensui-tei” serves light meals such as matcha and udon noodles. The small bridges and teahouses form an atmospheric landscape, making it a relaxing spot.
At Shukkeien garden, various flowers bloom in different seasons, attracting many flower-viewing visitors. In spring, the garden is especially crowded with cherry blossoms and other flowers, hydrangea in early summer, and the green of the trees in summer. Furthermore, in autumn, the trees turn red with autumn leaves, and visitors can appreciate the beauty of the contrast with the tea house. In winter, if you are lucky, you may be able to see snowy scenery. Enjoy the garden filled with magnificent nature and Japanese-style design.
Senkoji Park (千光寺公園)
Senkoji Park stretches from the top to the middle of Senkoji Mountain in Onomichi City. The park is home to Senkoji Temple, an art museum, and many other attractions. From the observatory at the top of the mountain, a panoramic view of Onomichi city can be seen. On a clear day, you can even see the beautiful islands of the Shimanami Kaido and the mountain range in the distance. Senkoji Park is also a popular night view spot for couples, and the night view from the observatory at the top has been certified as a sacred place for lovers. You can take a ropeway to the top of the mountain.
Hiroshima Castle (広島城)
Hiroshima Castle was established approximately 400 years ago at the end of the Warring States Period (1467-1615). The castle was built by Terumoto Mori. At the same time, construction of the castle town was underway, and Hiroshima developed and prospered as the largest city in western Japan as the outer moat and outer wall were built and the castle town was expanded.
Hiroshima Castle is one of the 100 most famous castles in Japan and a symbol of Hiroshima. The castle is illuminated at night from sunset to 10:00 p.m., making it even more beautiful. Although you cannot enter the castle tower at night, you can view the castle from outside the moat, so be sure to visit.
Joyato Stone Lighthouse (常夜燈)
This lighthouse, located on the port side of the Tomonoura area, is also known as the setting for the famous Japanese Ghibli animated movie “Ponyo”.The lighthouse was built in 1859 to guide ships in and out and to protect the safety of the port. It is said to be one of the largest surviving nightlights from the Edo period. It is a landmark that tells the history of the port of Tomonoura, so much so that it is not an exaggeration to say that it is the most important symbol of Tomonoura. The lights are lit in the evening, making it even more charming, and you can enjoy it along with the scenery of the port town. If you have time to spare, please stay until the lights come on!
Setoda Sunset Beach (瀬戸田サンセットビーチ)
This is an 800-meter-long white sand beach on Ikuchijima Island. Ikuchijima Island is located in the middle of the Shimanami Kaido, and is the midpoint of the Shimanami Kaido cycling road, so it is recommended to stop by for a rest during the cycling. Of course, it is accessible not only by bicycle but also by car, so it is a beach spot with a spectacular view that you should definitely visit. The sunset view, which turns into madder colors, is especially beautiful and relaxing. The beach is also dotted with artworks and is a recommended photo spot.
