Hiroshima Travel Guide

1. Hiroshima, along with Nagasaki, is known for its historical significance. The song "Hiroshima Mon Amour" also sparks curiosity and encourages visits to Hiroshima. 2. Home to a World Heritage Site and one of Japan's Three Scenic Views, Hiroshima is well worth a 1- or 2-day trip. A suggested one-day itinerary: Hiroshima Station—Itsukushima Shrine—Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome)—Hiroshima Castle. Itsukushima Shrine: A World Heritage Site and one of Japan's Three Scenic Views, the "floating" torii gate is particularly attractive. Many have seen photos of it. At low tide, you can walk up to it, which is quite a spectacle. 3. There are also many deer here, said to be more polite than the deer in Nara. Itsukushima Shrine is accessible by ferry, with one route operated by JR. If you have a JR Pass, you don't need to pay extra. 4. Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome): Also a World Heritage Site (yes, you can visit two World Heritage Sites in one day!), this is the site of the atomic bombing. History buffs shouldn't miss it, though it is a somber experience. We hope for world peace. 5. Hiroshima Castle: Originally the headquarters of the Mori clan, after the Battle of Sekigahara, Fukushima Masanori took control of Hiroshima Castle and carried out large-scale renovations. It was destroyed by the atomic bomb, and restoration began in 1957. You can enjoy panoramic views of Hiroshima from here. 6. Appendix: Hiroshima One-Day Trip Timeline: Hakata 10:15—11:17 Hiroshima; Inarimachi 11:46—Miyajimaguchi 12:55 (Hiroshima Electric Railway); Miyajimaguchi 13:20—Miyajima Pier 13:10 (ferry - 65 mins); Miyajima Pier 14:25—Miyajimaguchi 14:35 (ferry); Miyajimaguchi 14:38—Hiroshima Peace Memorial 15:30 (approx. 45 mins); Hiroshima Peace Memorial 16:00—Hiroshima Castle 16:15 (approx. 45 mins); 17:00–18:00 Dinner, then depart or stay overnight. 7. Architecture: Similar to many Japanese cities, Hiroshima has relatively few high-rise buildings. An aerial view reveals a high density of low-rise buildings. This is mainly due to frequent earthquakes, which make high-rise buildings less safe. The government also has strict height restrictions.