Hiroshima Highlights: Family-Friendly Fun and Hidden Gems!

Explore history, cherish peace, and create lasting memories in family-friendly Hiroshima.

19 July 2023

A family-friendly trip to Hiroshima, Japan is a great opportunity to explore the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Visit the iconic Peace Memorial Park, where you can pay respects to the victims of the atomic bombing and learn about its impact on the world. Enjoy a fun-filled day at Hiroshima Children's Museum, offering interactive exhibits and educational activities for kids of all ages.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Peaceful Hiroshima:

  • Kick off your day with a visit to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a tranquil haven honoring the victims of the atomic bombing.
  • Immerse yourself in history at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, where poignant exhibits uncover the horrors of nuclear devastation.
  • Head over to Miyajima Island to marvel at the awe-inspiring Itsukushima Shrine, known for its iconic floating torii gate.
  • Don't miss the chance to pet some cute deer wandering freely on Miyajima Island but watch out, they may be plotting to steal your snacks!
  • Wrap up your evening by enjoying some mouthwatering Okonomiyaki, a savory pancake loaded with Hiroshima-style deliciousness, at a local eatery.
Day 2

Culture Galore in Hiroshima:

  • Begin your day with a visit to Shukkei-en Garden, a miniature landscape masterpiece offering a serene escape from the bustling city.
  • Explore Hiroshima Castle, a reconstructed fortress steeped in history and enveloped by lush cherry blossoms during the springtime.
  • Discover the unique art of Hiroshima-style pottery at the Mazda Zoom-Zoom Stadium, where you can even try your hand at crafting your own masterpiece.
  • Get lost in the bustling Hondori Shopping Arcade, where you can find everything from trendy fashion to quirky souvenirs.
  • Satisfy your taste buds with a steaming bowl of Hiroshima-style Tsukemen ramen, featuring thick noodles and a mesmerizingly rich dipping broth.
Day 3

Island Hopping Adventure:

  • Embark on an island-hopping adventure and take a ferry to Okunoshima Island, also known as Rabbit Island, for a cuteness overload with fluffy bunnies hopping all around.
  • Embark on a scenic hike up Misen Mountain on Miyajima Island, offering breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea from its summit.
  • If you're feeling adventurous, strap on some flippers and snorkel off the coast of Noko Island, where vibrant coral reefs and colorful marine life await.
  • Unwind at Momijidani Park, a tranquil oasis on Miyajima Island, famous for its fiery autumn foliage, picture-perfect for a family photo session.
  • Don't forget to catch a stunning sunset view from Miyajima Island's Daisho-in Temple, where you can light a candle and make a wish for an enchanting evening.
Day 4

Hiroshima's Hidden Gems:

  • Escape the crowds and discover the quaint beauty of Onomichi, a charming port town known for its sloping streets and picturesque temples.
  • Venture to Kurashiki, a city resembling a living museum, and stroll along the photogenic Kurashiki Bikan historical quarter.
  • Indulge your taste buds with Hiroshima-style oysters at one of the local restaurants, served up fresh and bursting with flavor.
  • Explore the fascinating Mazda Museum, where you can learn all about the iconic car brand's history and see some impressive automobiles up close.
  • End your Hiroshima adventure on a high note by catching a captivating performance at the Hiroshima Prefectural Art Museum, showcasing the rich artistic talent of the region.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Hiroshima by plane is to fly into Hiroshima Airport (HIJ) from major cities like Tokyo, Osaka or Nagoya.

Car

If you are driving to Hiroshima, the easiest way is to use the Sanyo Expressway. It is connected to major cities in Japan and it will take you straight to Hiroshima.

Train

If you are travelling by train, you can take the Shinkansen bullet train from Tokyo or Osaka to Hiroshima Station.

Boat

The best way to get to Hiroshima by boat is to take a ferry from Matsuyama or Kure. These ferries run multiple times a day and take around 1-2 hours to reach Hiroshima port.

Bus

There are several bus companies that run services from major cities like Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto to Hiroshima. The best and most comfortable way is to take a highway bus.

More travel plans

A Romantic Day-Trip Guide to Hiroshima

A romantic trip to Hiroshima, Japan would offer a mix of historical and peaceful experiences. Couples can visit the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park to pay their respects and learn about the city's history. They can also enjoy a serene stroll through the Shukkei-en Garden, a traditional Japanese garden with a central pond and various flora that change with the seasons.

Hiroshima on a Budget: The Ultimate 5-Day Guide

With a limited budget, a trip to Hiroshima, Japan can still be enjoyed. Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, explore the city's temples and gardens, and indulge in Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a savory pancake. Stay at a budget-friendly hostel or capsule hotel to save on accommodations.

Hiroshima: A 2-Day Adventure of History, Culture, and Fun!

A family-friendly trip to Hiroshima, Japan offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visit the Peace Memorial Park to educate children about the impact of the atomic bomb and promote peace through interactive exhibits. Explore the enchanting Miyajima Island, famous for its "floating" Itsukushima Shrine and friendly deer that roam freely, making it a delightful destination for kids and adults alike.

Uncovering Hiroshima's Best in 5 Days

As a tourist, a trip to Hiroshima, Japan would include a visit to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, where one can learn about the history and impact of the atomic bombing. The Shukkeien Garden offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, complete with a traditional tea house. Finally, a trip to the Hiroshima Castle would provide insight into the rich cultural heritage of the area, with stunning views of the city to top it off.