Hiroshima is famously known as the first city in history to suffer a nuclear attack, but it has since transformed itself into a vibrant and thriving city. Today, Hiroshima is a city of peace, with a powerful message that resonates with visitors from around the world.
Visiting Hiroshima is a unique and important experience, and it’s not just because of its history. This city has so much to offer, from beautiful parks and gardens to museums and delicious cuisine. In this post, we’re going to share with you 10 hidden gems that you absolutely must explore in Hiroshima.
These hidden gems are perfect for travelers who want to venture off the beaten path and experience Hiroshima in a unique way. Each of these places has something special to offer, whether it’s stunning scenery, historical significance, or delicious food. So, check out these 10 bestthings to do in Hiroshima for an unforgettable trip!
1. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
If you’re looking for a place to reflect and pay respects to the victims of the atomic bombing, then Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a must-visit destination. The park is a symbol of hope and peace, and it serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of war.
A. Overview of the Park and its Significance
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was built in 1954, nine years after the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. It covers an area of 120,000 square meters and includes several memorials, monuments, and museums. The most famous landmark in the park is the Atomic Bomb Dome, also known as the Genbaku Dome, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The dome was one of the few buildings that survived the atomic bombing, and it serves as a reminder of the horrors of war and the importance of peace.
The park is also home to the Peace Memorial Museum, which displays artifacts and personal accounts from the victims of the atomic bombing. The museum provides a deep insight into the events of August 6, 1945, and serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of peace and disarmament.
B. Must-See Attractions in the Park
There are several must-see attractions in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, including:
- Atomic Bomb Dome: As mentioned earlier, the dome is a symbol of hope and peace, and it’s a must-visit attraction in the park.
- Peace Memorial Museum: The museum is home to several artifacts, personal accounts, and exhibits that provide a deep insight into the atomic bombing of Hiroshima.
- Children’s Peace Monument: The monument was built in honor of Sadako Sasaki, a young girl who died from radiation sickness after the atomic bombing. The monument represents hope for a peaceful future and serves as a reminder of the innocent victims of war.
C. Tips for Visiting the Park
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park:
- Plan your visit early in the day: The park can get crowded, especially during peak season, so it’s best to visit early in the day to avoid the crowds.
- Allow plenty of time: There’s so much to see and do in the park, so make sure you allow plenty of time to explore.
- Respect the significance of the park: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a place of remembrance and reflection, so be respectful and mindful of the significance of the park.
Overall, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a must-visit destination in Hiroshima. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of peace, and it provides a deep insight into the events of August 6, 1945. So, make sure you add this to your list of things to do in Hiroshima.
2. Hiroshima Castle
If you’re a history buff, then you’ll definitely want to visit Hiroshima Castle during your trip to Hiroshima. The castle is a popular tourist destination and a great place to learn about the history of the city.
A. Historical Background of the Castle
Hiroshima Castle was originally built in 1589 by the feudal lord Mori Terumoto. It was a symbol of power and authority during the feudal period, and it played an important role in the history of Hiroshima. The castle was destroyed by the atomic bomb in 1945, but it was rebuilt in 1958 as a museum to showcase the history of the city.
B. Touring the Castle and its Surroundings
When you visit Hiroshima Castle, you’ll be able to tour the castle grounds and learn about the history of the castle and the city. Some of the must-see attractions in and around the castle include:
- The Main Keep: The main keep is a five-story structure that provides a great view of the city. You can climb to the top for a panoramic view of Hiroshima.
- Ninomaru Garden: The garden is a beautiful Japanese-style garden that was built during the Edo period. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
- Hiroshima City Museum of History and Culture: The museum is located within the castle grounds and provides a deep insight into the history and culture of Hiroshima.
C. Interesting Facts about Hiroshima Castle
Here are a few interesting facts about Hiroshima Castle:
- The castle was originally built on the delta of the Ota River, but it was later moved to its current location on a hill.
- The castle was an important military stronghold during the feudal period, and it played a key role in the Battle of Sekigahara.
- The reconstruction of the castle took 13 years and cost 2.5 billion yen.
Hiroshima Castle is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Hiroshima. It’s a must-visit destination for history buffs and anyone interested in learning about the city’s rich heritage. So, make sure you add Hiroshima Castle to your list of things to do in Hiroshima.
3. Shukkeien Garden
Shukkeien Garden is a beautiful and tranquil Japanese garden in the heart of Hiroshima. Here’s what you need to know:
A. Overview of Shukkeien Garden and its history
- Shukkeien Garden was built in 1620 by Ueda Soko, a samurai and tea master.
- The name “Shukkeien” means “shrunken-scenery garden” because it was designed to mimic famous landscapes in miniature form.
- The garden was destroyed during the atomic bombing in 1945 but was later restored to its former glory.
B. What to see in the garden
- The garden features a central pond with a small island and several bridges.
- You can explore the different areas of the garden, each with its unique features, such as the tea house, waterfall, and bamboo grove.
- The garden is home to many different plant species, including cherry blossom trees, azaleas, and maple trees, making it a great place to visit in any season.
C. Tips for enjoying the garden
- Try to visit the garden early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Consider hiring a guide to show you around and provide more information about the garden’s history and significance.
- Take your time and soak in the beauty of the garden, sitting on one of the many benches or enjoying a cup of tea in the tea house.
Overall, Shukkeien Garden is a hidden gem in Hiroshima and should not be missed by anyone visiting the city.
4. Mazda Museum
If you’re an automobile enthusiast, the Mazda Museum is a must-visit destination in Hiroshima. The museum is dedicated to the history of Mazda, one of the largest car manufacturers in Japan. Here’s what you can expect to see and experience at the Mazda Museum:
A. Introduction to the Mazda Museum
The Mazda Museum is located in the southern part of Hiroshima and is easily accessible by public transportation. The museum showcases the history of Mazda, from its humble beginnings as a cork manufacturer to its current status as a global car manufacturer. You’ll learn about the company’s innovative engineering, technology, and design, which have made Mazda a household name worldwide.
B. Exhibits and displays in the museum
The Mazda Museum has a wide range of exhibits and displays that highlight the evolution of Mazda cars over the years. Some of the notable exhibits include:
- Mazda’s first car: See the R360, the first car produced by Mazda in 1960.
- Rotary engine display: Mazda is known for its rotary engine technology, which is on display at the museum.
- Concept cars: The museum showcases some of the most futuristic concept cars created by Mazda, including the RX-Vision and the Kai.
- Historic cars: You’ll get a chance to see some of Mazda’s most iconic cars, such as the MX-5, RX-7, and Cosmo Sport.
C. Unique experiences offered at the museum
In addition to the exhibits and displays, the Mazda Museum offers unique experiences that you won’t find anywhere else. Here are a few examples:
- Test drive a Mazda: You can test drive a Mazda car on a specially designed test course, which is a fun way to experience Mazda’s innovative technology.
- Assembly line tour: Take a guided tour of the Mazda factory and see how cars are manufactured from start to finish.
- Design your own Mazda: Visitors can use a computer program to design their own Mazda car and see it come to life on a large screen.
The Mazda Museum is a great destination for anyone interested in cars or technology. With its impressive exhibits, unique experiences, and engaging displays, it’s no wonder that the Mazda Museum is one of the top things to do in Hiroshima.
5. Things to Do in Hiroshima: Exploring Mitaki-dera Temple
If you’re looking for a peaceful and spiritual retreat during your trip to Hiroshima, Mitaki-dera Temple is a perfect place to visit. Here’s what you need to know about this hidden gem:
A. Overview of Mitaki-dera Temple
Located in the hills of Hiroshima, Mitaki-dera Temple is a beautiful and serene Buddhist temple that dates back to the 9th century. The name Mitaki-dera means “three-waterfall temple,” and you can see three stunning waterfalls on the temple grounds.
B. Must-See Spots at the Temple
There are several spots at Mitaki-dera Temple that you won’t want to miss:
- The Main Hall: The Main Hall is the heart of the temple, and it features a statue of the temple’s founder, Kobo Daishi.
- The Three Waterfalls: As mentioned earlier, Mitaki-dera is known for its three waterfalls, which are located on the temple grounds.
- The Bell Tower: The Bell Tower at Mitaki-dera is one of the oldest in Japan, and it still rings out across the temple grounds to this day.
- The Tea House: Take a break and enjoy a cup of tea at the tea house while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
C. Insider Tips for Visiting Mitaki-dera Temple
- Wear comfortable shoes: The temple grounds are hilly and require some walking, so make sure you’re wearing comfortable shoes.
- Bring cash: The temple entrance fee is cash-only, so be sure to bring enough yen with you.
- Visit during autumn: The fall foliage around the temple is stunning, so try to plan your visit during this time of year if possible.
Exploring Mitaki-dera Temple is a unique and peaceful experience that should not be missed during your visit to Hiroshima.
6. Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art
Are you a fan of contemporary art? Then the Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art is a must-visit destination in Hiroshima! Here’s what you need to know before you go:
A. Overview of the museum
Located in Hijiyama Park, the Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art showcases a diverse collection of contemporary art from both local and international artists. The museum was first opened in 1989 and has since become one of the city’s top cultural attractions.
B. Notable artworks on display
The museum’s permanent collection includes a wide range of artwork, from paintings and sculptures to multimedia installations and performance art. Some of the most notable pieces on display include:
- “Dead or Alive” by Takashi Murakami: a colorful and playful sculpture that blends traditional Japanese and contemporary pop art styles.
- “All the Eternal Love I Have for the Pumpkins” by Yayoi Kusama: an immersive installation featuring dozens of illuminated pumpkins that visitors can walk through.
- “Mega Death” by Damien Hirst: a striking sculpture of a shark preserved in formaldehyde, which addresses the themes of life, death, and mortality.
C. Special events and exhibitions at the museum
In addition to its permanent collection, the Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art also hosts a variety of special exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions showcase a range of themes and artistic styles, making each visit to the museum a unique experience.
Some of the upcoming exhibitions include:
“Isamu Noguchi and Saburo Hasegawa: What is Sculpture?” (June 5, 2023 – September 10, 2023): This exhibition explores the artistic partnership between Isamu Noguchi and Saburo Hasegawa, two influential artists who sought to bridge the gap between Eastern and Western artistic traditions.
“Yoko Ono: Dream” (October 1, 2023 – January 15, 2024): A retrospective exhibition featuring the work of Yoko Ono, a pioneering artist and musician who has had a profound impact on contemporary art.
Takeaway
The Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art is a fantastic destination for anyone interested in exploring contemporary art in Japan. From its diverse collection of artworks to its rotating exhibitions and events, there’s always something new and exciting to discover at this museum. Don’t miss out on this gem when planning your trip to Hiroshima!
7. Explore Hiroshima’s Culinary Delight at Okonomimura
If you’re a food lover, Hiroshima’s Okonomimura should be on the top of your “Things to do in Hiroshima” list. It’s a food theme park, housing 25 okonomiyaki (savory Japanese pancake) restaurants in a five-story building. Let’s dive deeper into what makes Okonomimura so special.
A. Introduction to Okonomimura
Okonomimura translates to “Okonomiyaki village.” It’s a food destination for both locals and tourists to experience Hiroshima’s iconic dish. Each restaurant has its own unique way of making the pancake, with different toppings and ingredients. You can choose your favorite from the 25 restaurants, but choosing one can be a daunting task.
B. Popular restaurants in Okonomimura
Here are some popular restaurants in Okonomimura that you can try:
- Moto-chan – Known for its large-sized pancakes and the use of locally sourced ingredients.
- Okonomi-mura Nakanishi – Offers the traditional-style pancake with a modern twist, made with seafood, cheese, and other unique toppings.
- Okonomiyaki Kishibe – Provides an authentic taste with a thick and soft pancake.
C. Tips for trying Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki
Trying Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is a unique experience in itself. Here are some tips to make the most out of it:
- Don’t be shy to ask the staff for help. Most restaurants provide an English menu and are happy to assist.
- Watch how your food is made. You will be seated in front of a hotplate and the chef will cook the pancake right in front of you.
- Try different toppings. Each restaurant has its own unique toppings, and trying different ones is part of the fun.
Okonomimura is the perfect place for foodies who want to experience Hiroshima’s culinary delight. Don’t forget to add this to your “Things to do in Hiroshima” list and enjoy the flavors of Hiroshima.
8. Miyajima Island
If you’re looking for an escape from the city life of Hiroshima, Miyajima Island is definitely worth the trip. Located just a short ferry ride from the city, Miyajima Island is a beautiful and peaceful getaway that offers stunning views and unique attractions. Here’s everything you need to know about this hidden gem:
A. Overview of Miyajima Island
Miyajima Island, also known as Itsukushima Island, is a small island located in the Seto Inland Sea. It is famous for its iconic Torii gate that appears to be floating on water during high tide, making it one of the most photographed spots in Japan. The island is also home to several shrines and temples, hiking trails, and local delicacies.
B. Must-see attractions on the island
- Itsukushima Shrine: This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most famous shrines in Japan and is dedicated to the three daughters of the sea god. It’s also known for its iconic Torii gate, which is said to be one of the most beautiful sights in Japan.
- Mount Misen: This mountain offers a beautiful panoramic view of the island, the Seto Inland Sea, and the surrounding mountains. You can take a cable car to the summit, or if you’re feeling adventurous, hike to the top for a more challenging but rewarding experience.
- Daisho-in Temple: This temple is located at the base of Mount Misen and is one of the most important temples in the region. It is known for its beautiful gardens, impressive statues, and serene atmosphere.
- Momijidani Park: This park is famous for its maple trees, which turn a beautiful shade of red during autumn. It’s also home to several hiking trails and a few small waterfalls.
C. Insider tips for visiting Miyajima Island
- Arrive early: Miyajima Island is a popular tourist destination, and it can get crowded during peak hours. Arriving early will give you a chance to explore the island before the crowds arrive.
- Try the local delicacies: Miyajima Island is known for its local delicacies, including oysters, conger eel, and Momiji manju (a type of maple leaf-shaped cake filled with sweet bean paste). Make sure to try some of these dishes while you’re on the island.
- Stay overnight: While it’s possible to explore the island in a day, staying overnight will give you more time to explore and experience the island’s peaceful atmosphere after the day-trippers leave.
Miyajima Island is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Hiroshima. From its iconic Torii gate to its beautiful hiking trails, there’s something for everyone on this island. Just make sure to arrive early, try the local delicacies, and consider staying overnight to make the most of your trip!
9. Hiroshima City Asa Zoological Park
If you’re an animal lover, the Hiroshima City Asa Zoological Park is definitely worth a visit during your trip to Hiroshima. Here’s what you need to know about this fun and educational attraction:
A. Overview of the zoo
The Hiroshima City Asa Zoological Park, also known as Asa Zoo, is located in the Asakita Ward of Hiroshima City. The zoo is home to over 160 species of animals from around the world, including many endangered species. With its focus on conservation, education, and research, Asa Zoo is a great place to learn about animals and their habitats.
B. Animals to see at the zoo
There are many fascinating animals to see at Asa Zoo, including:
- Lions, tigers, and other big cats
- Elephants, giraffes, and other large mammals
- Monkeys, apes, and other primates
- Penguins, flamingos, and other birds
- Reptiles, amphibians, and other cold-blooded creatures
One of the highlights of the zoo is the African Savanna exhibit, where you can see giraffes, zebras, and other animals from the savanna region of Africa. Another popular exhibit is the Giant Panda House, where you can see two adorable pandas named Rauhin and Eimei.
C. Tips for visiting the zoo
- To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit the zoo on weekdays, as weekends and holidays can be very busy.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as the zoo is quite large and you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially during the hot summer months.
- Check the feeding times for your favorite animals and plan your visit accordingly. You may also want to check the schedule for any special events or animal shows.
- If you’re traveling with children, be sure to visit the Children’s Zoo, where kids can interact with and learn about farm animals such as goats, sheep, and rabbits.
Don’t miss out on the chance to visit the Hiroshima City Asa Zoological Park during your trip to Hiroshima. It’s a great place to learn about animals and conservation, and a fun day out for the whole family.
10. Discover the Beauty of Hijiyama Park in Hiroshima
Are you looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life in Hiroshima? Look no further than Hijiyama Park, a beautiful park located in the heart of the city. Here’s everything you need to know about this hidden gem.
A. Overview of Hijiyama Park
Hijiyama Park is a picturesque park located on a hilltop in the center of Hiroshima. The park is known for its breathtaking views of the city, including the iconic Hiroshima Castle, which can be seen from the park’s observatory.
The park covers an area of about 20 hectares and is home to a variety of trees, flowers, and wildlife. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk on one of the park’s many trails, relax in one of its open green spaces, or take in the stunning views from the observatory.
B. Activities and Attractions in the Park
Hijiyama Park offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the must-see spots in the park:
- Hijiyama Art Hill – This art museum features a collection of contemporary Japanese and international art.
- Hijiyama Observatory – From this observatory, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city of Hiroshima.
- Hijiyama Castle – While the original castle is no longer standing, visitors can still explore the ruins of this historic structure.
- Hijiyama Walking Course – This trail takes visitors through the park’s beautiful forest and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
- Hijiyama Park Athletic Field – This field offers a variety of sports facilities, including a baseball field, soccer field, and tennis courts.
C. Best Time to Visit Hijiyama Park
Hijiyama Park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and fall seasons when the foliage is at its most beautiful. The park’s cherry blossoms are a popular attraction in the spring, and the changing leaves in the fall are equally stunning.
If you’re planning a trip to Hiroshima, be sure to add Hijiyama Park to your itinerary. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk or an exciting adventure, this park has something for everyone.
Conclusion
Are you ready to explore the hidden gems of Hiroshima? We’ve covered 10 amazing things to do in Hiroshima that you won’t find in your typical tourist guides. From stunning shrines to delicious food, Hiroshima has it all.
But why stop there? Remember that there are countless other hidden gems waiting to be discovered in Hiroshima. Exploring beyond the main tourist attractions is the best way to truly experience the beauty and culture of this wonderful city.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Hiroshima!
