Hiroshima & Miyajima: Top Attractions

The next stop on my journey around Japan was Hiroshima and Miyajima, which are home to some of Japan’s top attractions. Visiting them back-to-back was one of the most powerful experiences on my itinerary.

Hiroshima is moving and thought-provoking, while Miyajima, just a short ferry ride away, is peaceful and postcard-perfect—offering an entirely different kind of experience. Together, these two places tell stories that are hard to forget.

I arrived in Hiroshima on day 15, after exploring the energy of Osaka and its surroundings. If you’re curious about that leg of the trip, check out this post: 👉 Sumo in Osaka, Tastes of Kobe & Highlights from Himeji & Okayama.

📌 This stop was part of my larger 20-day Japan adventure, which you can explore here 👉 🌸Japan: 20-Day Itinerary with Cherry Blossoms & Top Cities.

And if you’re planning your own visit to Japan, don’t miss my guide: Japan Tourist Information. It’s packed with practical tips on currency, transportation, plugs, when to go, how long to stay, fun facts, and a bit of local history too.

Here is the list of everything you will find in this article:

A. Hiroshima & Miyajima – MAP

Here’s the map to visit Hiroshima and Miyajima. Each city is colour-coded and numbered, so you’ll know exactly which places to hit up first.

B. Hiroshima

To get to Hiroshima from Osaka, I took the Nozomi service on the Sanyo Shinkansen line,  which my Kansai-Hiroshima Area Pass fully covered.

⚠️ Be mindful of the train type when using the JR Pass — not all Shinkansen services are included. For example, the faster Nozomi trains are not covered by the national JR Pass, but they are with the Regional Kansai-Hiroshima Area Pass. If you’re using the JR Pass, you can still take the Shinkansen, but you’ll need to board the slightly slower Hikari or Sakura services instead.

💺Transport: Travel smart with a JR Pass or Regional pass—book through my link and start exploring Japan with ease and savings!

Hiroshima, located in the Chugoku region, is sadly known as the site of the first atomic bomb ever used in warfare, dropped on August 6, 1945, during World War II. Despite this tragic past, the city embraces its history with dignity and has become a symbol of peace and resilience.

After arriving at Hiroshima Station, my first stop was to drop off my luggage at the hotel.

💡Where I stayed: Hiroshima Washington Hotel — a great base in the Hondori shopping district, close to restaurants, shops, and the Peace Memorial Park. While it’s not next to the station, Hiroshima’s tram system makes getting around easy.

From there, it was a 14-minute walk west to one of the city’s most iconic sites: the Peace Memorial Park, built on the site of the bomb’s impact.

B.1. Peace Memorial Park

Spanning over 120,000 square metres, the Peace Memorial Park (平和記念公園, Heiwa Kinen Kōen) is the heart of Hiroshima’s history. It commemorates the victims of the atomic bombing of August 6, 1945, and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996.

Here are some of the park’s most significant landmarks:

A-Bomb Dome

Formerly the Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, this haunting ruin is one of the few structures left standing near the hypocentre of the bomb. It remains a powerful symbol of survival and hope.

Children’s Peace Monument

Inspired by Sadako Sasaki, a young girl who died of radiation-induced leukaemia, this memorial honours the thousands of children affected by the bombing. Visitors often leave paper cranes here as symbols of peace.

Cenotaph for the Atomic Bomb Victims

This stone arch holds the names of all those who lost their lives, and continues to be updated as more are identified.

Flame of Peace

Burning continuously since August 1, 1964, this flame will burn until all nuclear weapons on Earth are abolished.

Memorial Tower to the Mobilised Students

Tucked just south of the A-Bomb Dome, this 12-metre-tall tower commemorates over 6,000 students who were conscripted into wartime labour and died in the bombing. Often overlooked, it’s a deeply moving tribute.

Many of the students honoured here were just teenagers, mobilised from their classrooms to support the war effort—some were building firebreaks when the bomb fell. The five doves at the top represent peace and the souls of the students taking flight.

Peace Memorial Hall

A quiet, solemn space beneath the park, this underground hall honours the memory of all who perished. Visitors descend a spiralling walkway into a circular chamber, surrounded by a 360° panorama of Hiroshima just after the bombing, created from thousands of ceramic tiles.

The descent into the earth is intentional, meant to mirror a journey into memory and mourning, evoking the emotional gravity of August 6, 1945.

Peace Memorial Museum

Comprising two buildings, the museum explores Hiroshima’s past, with a particular focus on the bombing and its devastating human impact. The personal stories, artefacts, and photographs on display are heartbreaking—an unforgettable reminder of the need for peace.

There are many other moving places throughout the park—such as the Bell of Peace, the Memorial Mound, the Monument to Korean Victims and Survivors, and the Statue of a Prayer for Peace, among others. Each tells a story worth hearing.

After a break for lunch, where I gave the famous Hiroshima oysters (広島牡蠣) a go — fried and golden on the outside, soft and briny on the inside. Honestly? Still not a fan 😣. But when in Hiroshima…

B.2. Hiroshima Castle

From there, I took a leisurely 20-minute walk north to Hiroshima Castle (広島城), also known as Carp Castle.

The original structure was destroyed by the atomic bomb, but the reconstructed version is beautifully done — surrounded by a moat, cherry trees, and a peaceful park that feels worlds away from the city.

The main keep is five stories tall and houses a small museum on samurai culture, armour, and Hiroshima’s feudal past. If you climb to the top, you’re rewarded with fantastic panoramic views of the city — especially lovely in cherry blossom season.

B.3. Shukkeien Garden

After exploring the castle grounds, I walked about 8 minutes east to Shukkeien Garden (縮景園), a quiet gem in the city.

Built in the Edo period, this traditional garden is filled with tiny bridges, koi ponds, tea houses, and winding paths that invite you to slow down.

It’s a perfect spot to reflect after a day filled with heavy history — and especially beautiful if you’re lucky enough to catch the cherry blossoms 🌸

🕘 Open: 09:00–18:00 (¥260)

B.4. Downtown Hiroshima

By late afternoon, I made my way back toward downtown Hiroshima, where I wandered through Hondori Shopping Street — a lively, covered arcade packed with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a fun place to pick up souvenirs or simply people-watch over a cup of coffee.

For dinner, you can stop at Okonomimura, also known as Okonomiyaki Village — a multi-level building dedicated entirely to Hiroshima’s most iconic dish.

Each stall has its own spin on the savoury pancake layered with cabbage, noodles, egg, and whatever else makes it unique. 

After that, it was time to head back to the hotel and put my feet up. A full day, and one I’ll never forget. 🛌

C. Itsukushima (Miyajima)

The next morning, I set off for one of Japan’s most iconic sights: Miyajima — or more formally, Itsukushima.

It was a smooth and easy journey from Hiroshima, using a mix of streetcar, train, and ferry — all of which are covered by the JR Pass (except the tram).

A short walk later, the unmistakable floating torii gate came into view, standing proud in the sea. The view is ranked among Japan’s top three sights. 🧡

C.1. Itsukushima Shrine

A 10-minute walk from the ferry pier brings you to the entrance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built over water and designed to appear as if it’s floating, Itsukushima Shrine (厳島神社) is unlike any other I visited in Japan. Its vivid vermilion corridors stretch over the bay, with mountains behind and the torii gate out front. 

It’s a must-visit for its stunning scenery, cultural significance, and spiritual atmosphere — just be prepared for crowds, especially during peak hours.

🔸 Don’t Miss:

1. The Great Torii Gate (大鳥居). It’s the most famous part of the shrine, whose current structure was built in 1875. If the tide is low, you can walk right up to it. If it’s high, it floats magically in the sea.

2. Main Shrine Pavilion. Constructed on stilts over the water to create a floating illusion, it has elegant wooden corridors in vermilion that extend gracefully over the sea. The site houses several smaller shrines dedicated to various deities.

3. Noh Stage – A rare floating stage used for traditional performances.

🕘 Open: 06:30–18:00 (¥300 or ¥500 with the treasure hall)

C.2. Five-Storied Pagoda

The Five-Storied Pagoda (五重塔, Gojū-no-tō) stands just up the hill from Itsukushima Shrine. It was built in 1407 and originally served as a Buddhist temple building, showcasing a beautiful blend of Japanese and Chinese architectural styles.

Although it shares the spiritual atmosphere of the shrine, it reflects Buddhism rather than Shintoism, which is the traditional belief of Itsukushima Shrine.

It is an excellent viewpoint for seeing the shrine from above. Sadly, it was under restoration when I went. 😭

C.3. Daiganji Temple

Tucked just next to the famous torii gate, Daiganji Temple (大願寺) is often missed by visitors rushing to Itsukushima Shrine—but it’s well worth a stop. This small yet significant temple is dedicated to Benzaiten, the goddess of music, knowledge, and the sea.

Interestingly, Daiganji was once responsible for the maintenance of Itsukushima Shrine, making it one of the island’s most historically significant temples.

C.4. Daisho-in Temple

After visiting the shrine, I walked uphill (about 11 minutes) to one of Miyajima’s most underrated gems: Daisho-in Temple (大聖院). 

It felt quieter, more spiritual, and full of unexpected details — from golden spinning prayer wheels to dozens of small Buddha statues with unique expressions hidden along the stairs.

Here is the map:

🔸 Highlights:

• Main Hall (本堂) & Kannon-do Hall (観音堂). Houses several Buddhist deities and sacred artefacts. Look for the sand mandala created by Tibetan monks—rare in Japan!

• 500 Rakan Statues. Small Buddhist monk statues, each with a different face and some are even wearing little knitted hats. Many are hidden along the stairs and pathways. Aren’t they adorable? 😍

• Spinning Prayer Wheels. A long staircase lined with golden prayer wheels. Turning them while walking up grants blessings—a mini pilgrimage experience!

• Henjokutsu Cave. A mystical, dimly lit cave filled with illuminated Buddha statues representing 88 temples from Shikoku’s famous pilgrimage.

The area’s huge, so get ready to wander—you’ll definitely come across more than you expected!

🕘 Open 08:00–17:00 (free)

C.5. Miyajima Town

After a slow walk back down to the town, I stopped for lunch and finally tried the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki layered with cabbage and noodles. It’s still messy, still delicious, and I highly recommend it! 😋

This is how they make it:

The streets of Miyajima are charming and walkable, with lots to see and snack on. I spent the afternoon wandering around and enjoying the relaxed vibe.

• Omotesando Shopping Street – The main street for local crafts, souvenirs, and street food (don’t miss the maple leaf cakes and lemon soft serve 🍋).
• Sake Tasting at Yamaichi Honten – Worth a stop!
• Machiya Street – A quieter, more traditional lane with hidden cafés and an authentic feel.
• Senjokaku Hall (千畳閣) – A vast, open wooden hall with sweeping views over the bay, just a short walk from the Five-Storied Pagoda.

You’ll also encounter friendly wild deer roaming the island! 🦌 But, unlike in Nara, the deer on Miyajima must not be fed, even if they beg, like this one! 🤣

Optional: Hike or Ropeway to Mt. Misen

If you’re up for it (I wasn’t that day 🫣), Mount Misen offers some of the best views in the region. You can hike to the summit in approximately 2 hours, or take the ropeway (¥2,000 round-trip). There are also sacred Buddhist sites near the peak.

By late afternoon, I caught the ferry ⛴️ and train 🚆 back to Hiroshima. I had one last walk around downtown, grabbed dinner 🍜, and made it back to the hotel for a good rest 🛌 before the early flight ✈️ to the final stop 🏁 of my Japan 🗾 journey.

Hiroshima and Miyajima stayed with me long after I left—one deeply moving, the other quietly magical. After those powerful days, it was time to change pace and head somewhere completely different. 

The next stop? Okinawa 🌴🏖️. Read here the full post 👉 Okinawa: What to See & Do.

Or, jump back to Japan’s full itinerary: 🌸Japan: 20-Day Itinerary with Cherry Blossoms & Top Cities.

D. Ready to Book your Trip?

To help you organise your adventure, I’ve gathered the best tools I use and recommend for booking flights, hotels, local transport and more. These links support this site at no extra cost to you.

Safe travels! 🌏✈️

E. More About Japan

Planning a trip to Japan? Here are some of my top posts to help you make the most of your journey – from detailed itineraries and cultural insights to city guides and unique experiences across the country.

⭐ Itineraries & City Guides

🗾🌸 Japan in 20 Days: Cherry Blossom Itinerary & Top Cities. Plan the perfect spring getaway with this 20-day itinerary covering Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, cherry blossoms, and essential travel tips.

🗼 Tokyo 4-Day Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See. Explore Tokyo’s must-visit attractions, neighbourhoods, street food, and cultural highlights in just four unforgettable days.

🚉 Kamakura & Yokohama: Day Trip from Tokyo. A perfect day trip from Tokyo to explore Kamakura’s temples and Yokohama’s scenic bayside – history, food, and coastal charm.

🏯 Odawara, Hakone, Fujiyoshida & Nagoya: Castles, Fuji, and Onsen. Visit historic castles, soak in hot springs, and admire iconic views of Mount Fuji on this scenic multi-stop adventure.

⛩️ The Best of Kyoto in 3 Days. Discover Kyoto’s top temples, gardens, and cultural sites in just three days – includes a downloadable map to guide you.

🍜 Sumo in Osaka, Tastes of Kobe & Highlights from Himeji & Okayama. Catch a sumo match, try Kobe beef, and explore some of Japan’s best castles in this fast-paced guide to western Japan.

🏝️ Okinawa: What to See & Do. Planning a beach escape? Discover what to see, do, and know before visiting Okinawa, Japan’s tropical paradise.

⭐ Culture, Religion & Traditions

🧘 Koyasan: My Stay at a Buddhist Temple. Experience the peaceful world of Japanese Buddhism with a temple stay in Koyasan – meditation, monks, and morning prayers.

🙏 Temple Etiquette in Japan: What to Know Before You Visit. Visiting temples and shrines? Learn the dos and don’ts of temple etiquette to show respect during your spiritual visits.

☸️ Japanese Buddhism Made Simple. New to Buddhism? This beginner-friendly guide breaks down key beliefs and traditions in Japanese Buddhist culture.

🍀 Guide to Japanese Lucky Charms & Amulets. Curious about omamori, daruma, or maneki neko? Learn the meanings and traditions behind Japan’s most iconic charms.

⭐ Travel Tips & Cultural Insights

📌 Japan Tourist Information: What You Need to Know. Practical info every traveller should know – transport, money, customs, etiquette, and more to prepare you for your trip.

🚇 Practical Tokyo Guide for First-Time Visitors. Navigate Tokyo like a pro with this beginner-friendly guide to public transport, safety tips, and local etiquette.

📖 Kyoto Travel Guide: What to Know Before You Go. Everything you need for a smooth trip to Kyoto – from the best seasons to visit, how to get around, and local customs.

🌆 Osaka Travel Guide: What to Know Before You Go. When to go, how to get around, what to eat, and more – your go-to guide for Japan’s most vibrant foodie city.

Additional Information

You can also check my itineraries in Itineraries. Here, you’ll find them classified in City Guides and Country Guides.

Remember to check Cook up Your Trip. There, you will find everything you need to organise your trip from start to finish.

If you require any clarification, please feel free to leave a comment or complete the contact form. I will be happy to help you. 😊

• Instagram
• Facebook
• Pinterest

Leave a Comment

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.

Name *

Email *

Comment or Message

Email to list?

I have read and accept the Privacy Policy and the Terms of Use *

Would you like to join our email list?

• Yes
• No

By confirming, you agree to receive my newsletter with travel tips and occasional promotional content. You can unsubscribe at any time. See my Privacy Policy.

Submit