Hiroshima Prefecture, which attracts tourists from all over the world, is the largest tourist city in the Seto Inland Sea region, home to two World Heritage Sites, the Atomic Bomb Dome and Itsukushima Shrine. Many popular spots are concentrated along the Seto Inland Sea coastline, where visitors can enjoy sightseeing while gazing at the calm, clear, and beautiful sea. In this issue, we will introduce a selection of must-visit sightseeing spots in Hiroshima in each major area!
Hiroshima City Area
Atomic Bomb Dome (原爆ドーム)
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, encompassing the Atomic Bomb Dome and other facilities near the hypocenter, serves as a powerful reminder of the city’s devastation following the 1945 atomic bomb. Each year, people from around the world visit the park to offer prayers for peace.
Atomic Bomb Dome was designated a World Heritage Site in 1996. It is an important architectural structure that conveys to future generations the devastating power of nuclear weapons and the horror of war. The structure’s remaining exterior wall and skeletal frame underscore the catastrophic effects of war.
Peace Memorial Park (平和記念公園)
Peace Memorial Park, located near the hypocenter, was established with the hope of achieving lasting world peace. Throughout the park, visitors can find various memorials and stone monuments. Among these is the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which showcases exhibits about Hiroshima at the time.
Shukkeien Garden (縮景園)
This garden, established around 1620, served as the grounds for the villa of the lord of the Hiroshima domain. Located in the heart of Hiroshima City, it features trees and flowers that transform with the four seasons, offering a stunning display year-round. Throughout the year, the garden hosts a variety of events, including tea ceremonies and festivals, many of which are open to the public. It has long been a cherished spot for relaxation for both residents and visitors from Hiroshima Prefecture and beyond.
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Miyajima Island Area
Itsukushima Shrine (嚴島神社)
One of the must-visit spots in Hiroshima sightseeing is Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima. The view of the shrine pavilions on the sea is rare in the world, and the scenery that changes with the ebb and flow of the tide is very beautiful. There are also many deer around Itsukushima Shrine, and many people enjoy taking pictures with them. When the tide is low, you can get very close to the Otorii, so why not enjoy both scenery with high and low tides?
Miyajima Omotesando Shopping Street (表参道商店街)
The busiest street in Miyajima is the 350-meter Omotesando shopping street. It is lined with about 70 stores, including restaurants where you can have a seat and enjoy a meal, many momiji manju stores, souvenir stores, and take-out stores. It never loses its liveliness throughout the year.
It is important to note that all stores often close around evening. In addition, some of the more popular and less stocked stores often close as soon as they sell out. If there is a gourmet dish you are looking for, we recommend that you visit early time!
Mount Misen (弥山)
Mount Misen is a 535-meter-high sacred mountain. Mount Misen is characterized by the presence of huge rocks everywhere. From the Shishiiwa Observatory near the summit, visitors can enjoy a beautiful contrast of the rugged rocks and the beauty of the Seto Inland Sea’s many islands. During the fall foliage season, the area is crowded with people, making it a luxurious spot where visitors can enjoy the collaboration of beautiful foliage trees, the Seto Inland Sea, and the Otorii Gate.
Daisho-in Temple (大聖院)
Daisho-in Temple is the oldest temple on Miyajima island. Located at the foot of Mt. Misen, it is a 10-minute walk from Daigan-ji Temple and the Itsukushima Shrine Treasure Museum. Various Buddhas and Jizo statues are enshrined within the temple grounds, and the temple is dotted with spots where visitors can receive blessings. It is renowned as a powerful spiritual site on Miyajima and is popular among worshippers.
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Onomichi Area
Senkoji Temple (千光寺)
This temple has a history of over 1,000 years and is a popular spot that cannot be missed when sightseeing in Onomichi. It is located on the grounds of Senkoji Park, which stretches halfway up Senkoji Mountain. The main hall with a panoramic view of the city of Onomichi is symbolized by its beautiful vermilion-lacquered structure. It is also revered as a beneficial spot for matchmaking.
Neko no Hosomichi/Cat Alley (猫の細道)
Neko no Hosomichi is a narrow 200-meter slope that leads to the hill behind a shrine called Ushitora Shrine, located right next to the ropeway stop to Senkoji Temple. The path is dotted with ‘Fuku-ishi-neko’ (lucky cat stones) — round stones featuring paintings of cats painted by artist Shunji Sonoyama. This cute alley, with its delightful cat illustrations and artistic motifs embedded in the alley, offers a unique and charming stroll.
There is a unique old house café, a general store of cat goods, and a gallery, so if you stop by Senkoji Temple, it will be good and fun to walk down through this alleyway. You will also be able to meet real cats.
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Kure Area
Yamato Museum (大和ミュージアム)
The symbol of the Yamato Museum is a 1/10th scale replica of the most famous battleship in Japan, the Yamato, which was once built in Kure. Families who love ships and battleships gather from all over Japan. The facility exhibits many large and valuable materials. In addition, visitors can learn about shipbuilding technology and the history of Kure, which has prospered as a port city since ancient times.
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Other Areas
Fukuyama & Tomonoura Area
Takehara & Okunoshima Island Area
Shimanami Kaido
