9 Best Things to do in Hiroshima

For many, the name Hiroshima is synonymous with a single moment in history: August 6, 1945, the date of the world’s first atomic bomb attack. Modern-day Hiroshima, however, is anything but somber. Nestled between lush mountains and the tranquil Seto Inland Sea, Hiroshima embodies a harmonious blend of history, resilience, and modern charm. Hiroshima’s vibrant culture, heartfelt hospitality, and flourishing culinary scene make it a destination that captivates both the mind and soul. Here’s our lowdown on the best things to do in Hiroshima.

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The Bombing of Hiroshima

Before I get to the list of things to do in Hiroshima, let me briefly delve into the horrific event to which it is inextricably linked. 

Hiroshima, a garrison town during World War II, was a significant military target, yet it remained untouched by Allied bombing until August 6, 1945. It is believed this was a deliberate decision by the US military to ensure the full impact of the atomic bomb could be studied. 

On that day, the B-29 bomber Enola Gay embarked on its mission, with Hiroshima chosen as the target due to clear skies reported by reconnaissance planes, alongside alternative targets Nagasaki and Kokura.

At 8:15 a.m., the Enola Gay dropped the atomic bomb “Little Boy” over the heart of Hiroshima. The 2000°C (3630°F) explosion destroyed 90% of the city, instantly killing 80,000 people. 

The bomb detonated above a densely populated area of wooden homes and shops, sparking massive firestorms that raged for three days, obliterating 92% of the buildings and fueled by ruptured gas lines and electrical wires. Toxic black rain followed 30 minutes later, carrying 200 types of radioactive isotopes that contaminated those desperate enough to drink it. 

Of the 350,000 people in Hiroshima that day, 130,000 more died in the months that followed due to radiation exposure, burns, and other effects. Most victims were civilians, including firefighters, 90% of the city’s doctors who rushed to aid survivors, 20,000 forced Korean laborers, and 6,000 junior high students working to clear firebreaks. 

By 2015, the Japanese government reported approximately 187,000 atomic bomb survivors were still living, enduring mental trauma, cancers, and other lingering effects of radiation. Today, however, Hiroshima no longer bears residual radiation from the bombing.

Many survivors believed that nothing would grow in Hiroshima’s poisoned soil for decades, but their spirits were lifted when fresh buds and blossoms appeared on the trees less than a year after the bombing. Since then, the city has been remarkably rebuilt, with many traditional structures reconstructed within a decade or two of the disaster.

Things to do in Hiroshima

The following is our opinionated list of what we consider to be the best things to do in Hiroshima.

1. See the Atomic Bomb Dome

The most fitting place to begin exploring Hiroshima, in my opinion, is at the haunting remains of the Industrial Promotion Hall, now widely known as the A-bomb Dome, or Genbaku Dōmu. Originally built in 1915, it was designed by Czech architect Jan Letzel as the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall. 

The building showcased Western-style architecture with a striking brick façade, steel-framed windows, and a copper-clad dome, serving as a hub for trade and industry that reflected the city’s modern aspirations.

Today, it contrasts sharply with the vibrant and modern Hiroshima that thrives nearby. Astonishingly, despite being almost directly beneath the bomb blast, the building did not collapse into rubble like the rest of the city. Its eerie, charred iron-and-concrete dome has remained essentially untouched since that devastating morning, brooding solemnly by the river.

Preserved in its ruined state, the Dome was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, symbolizing both the devastation of nuclear warfare and the resilience of humanity. Standing before it, I couldn’t help but feel the weight of its foreboding, derelict presence—an experience as emotionally overwhelming as it was thought-provoking.

The Atomic Bomb Dome is accessible to the public, but visitors cannot enter the building itself. It is open to the public year-round and free to visit. Visitors can walk around the dome and view it from multiple angles, with informative plaques explaining its history and significance.

2. Explore the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

The verdant Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park located in the heart of Hiroshima near the Motoyasu River, was established in 1954 as a tribute to the victims of the atomic bomb dropped on the city on August 6, 1945. Once the city’s bustling commercial and political center, this area was obliterated by the explosion. 

After World War II, it was transformed into a serene and reflective space featuring memorials and monuments, dedicated to educating visitors about the devastating effects of nuclear warfare and promoting reconciliation.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is open to the public 24 hours a day, year-round.

Here are the key sites within the park – 

a. Children’s Peace Monument 

One of the most poignant memorials in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is the Children’s Peace Monument, a statue of a young girl standing atop an elongated dome, holding a giant origami crane aloft—a symbol of health, hope, and longevity. The monument’s base is eternally festooned with vibrant garlands of origami cranes, folded by children from across Japan and around the world. 

This heartfelt tradition began with the story of Sasaki Sadako, a 12-year-old girl who developed leukemia from radiation exposure after the atomic bombing. While hospitalized in 1955, Sadako started folding 1,000 paper cranes (senbazuru), believing the act could bring healing and good fortune. 

Tragically, she passed away before completing her goal, but her classmates continued folding in her memory and later initiated the creation of the monument. 

Today, her story has become a universal symbol of peace and resilience, inspiring a global tradition of paper crane-folding as a gesture of solidarity and hope. The colorful cascades of cranes surrounding the monument, delivered daily by schools worldwide, are both visually striking and deeply moving, embodying a message of enduring compassion and peace.

b. Memorial Cenotaph 

The Memorial Cenotaph in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, designed by renowned architect Kenzo Tange, is a profoundly moving tribute to the victims of the atomic bombing. Its arched design, inspired by ancient Japanese burial mounds, shelters a stone chest containing the names of all those who perished in the bombing and its aftermath—over 280,000 to date. 

Inscribed on the monument are the words, “Let all the souls here rest in peace, for we shall not repeat the evil.”

Standing before it, I was struck by how the Cenotaph aligns perfectly with the Flame of Peace and the A-Bomb Dome. The flame, a solemn reminder of humanity’s vow to eliminate nuclear weapons, will continue to burn until all atomic weapons vanish from the face of the earth and nuclear war is no longer a threat to humanity

It is before this monument that a memorial service is held every August 6, when white doves are released.

Visiting at dusk, when the park is quiet and the Flame of Peace glows through the arch, was an experience I found both haunting and beautiful. It left me reflecting deeply on the monument’s enduring message of peace and reconciliation.

c. Cenotaph for Korean Victims 

The Cenotaph for Korean Victims honors the 20,000 Koreans who perished in the Hiroshima bombing, many of whom had been brought to Japan as forced laborers. Originally placed outside the Peace Memorial Park, the monument remained there for 29 years, reflecting the historical marginalization of Koreans in Japan.

In 1999, Hiroshima’s mayor relocated the cenotaph into the park, symbolizing a commitment to reconciliation and equality. Its design features a tortoise-shaped base, a traditional Korean symbol of longevity, and it serves as a solemn reminder of the shared suffering and humanity of all victims.

d. Memorial Tower to the Mobilized Students 

The Memorial Tower to the Mobilized Students in Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park commemorates over 6,000 students who lost their lives in the devastating blast on August 6, 1945. These young individuals, many as young as 12, had been conscripted to assist with the war effort, performing tasks such as clearing firebreaks to protect the city. 

Erected in 1967, the tower’s design reflects both grief and resilience. Its five tiers symbolize the five continents, representing global unity and peace. Adorning the structure are bronze figures of students, conveying their youthful innocence and tragic sacrifice. The tower is a poignant reminder of the war’s devastating toll on the young and a call to protect future generations from the horrors of conflict.

3. Visit the Peace Memorial Museum

The Peace Memorial Museum deserves to be seen by every visitor to Hiroshima; it presents a balanced picture of why the atrocity took place, as well as of its harrowing effects. 

It comprises two buildings: the East Building and the Main (West) Building. The East Building examines Hiroshima’s militaristic past, providing context for why the city was chosen as the bombing site. Once home to Japan’s military command and supply base, Hiroshima’s industrial significance made it a target. 

Exhibits delve into the reasons behind the bombing, including its development costs under the Manhattan Project, the U.S.’s intent to assert dominance over the Soviet Union, and the aim to end the war swiftly. Displays include photographs of pre-bomb Hiroshima, a model of the area before the blast, and footage of the attack and its aftermath. 

The Main Building is harrowing to visit. Items like a half-melted bronze Buddha and the shadow of a person permanently etched into stone steps are haunting reminders of the human cost. The graphic photographs of burned bodies and the stories of children and teenagers who lost their lives make the experience overwhelmingly emotional.

The Peace Memorial Museum is a popular attraction; you may encounter lines to enter, so think about purchasing tickets online beforehand. Visiting the museum on weekdays rather than weekends or public holidays is best to avoid large crowds. The entrance fee is 200 JPY. You can check opening hours here.

4. Explore Hiroshima Castle

Hiroshima Castle, also known as Rijō or “Carp Castle,” was originally constructed in 1589 by feudal lord Mori Terumoto, one of the prominent daimyo of the Sengoku period. Built on a plain rather than a hilltop, the castle showcased the strategic significance of Hiroshima, surrounded by a network of moats and defensive walls. 

The structure served as the political and military center of the Hiroshima domain, housing samurai and government officials. Tragically, the castle was destroyed in the atomic bombing of August 6, 1945.

The current Hiroshima Castle is a faithful reconstruction completed in 1958. Its five-story donjon (main keep) features traditional Japanese architectural elements, such as sweeping tiled roofs, wooden interiors, and white plastered walls. The reconstruction seamlessly blends the historical aesthetic with modern engineering.

The castle’s main highlights include the museum housed inside the donjon, which focuses on Hiroshima’s samurai culture, castle life, and the city’s history during the Edo period. Exhibits include samurai armor, swords, and artifacts. 

Finally, don’t forget to ascend to the castle’s top floor for panoramic views of Hiroshima and the surrounding landscape.

The castle grounds are another highlight, featuring a beautiful garden, remnants of the original stone foundation, and a peaceful ambiance.

Hiroshima Castle is open from 9:00–18:00 (March–November) and 9:00–17:00 (December–February). The entrance costs 370 JPY.

5. Feast on Okonomiyaki at Okonomi Mura

Okonomi Mura (literally “Okonomiyaki Village”) is a vibrant and unique food destination in Hiroshima, dedicated to one of the city’s most beloved dishes: Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. 

Okonomiyaki is an iconic Japanese savory pancake made with layers of batter, cabbage, noodles, eggs, and a choice of toppings like seafood, chicken, pork, or cheese, cooked to perfection on a teppan (iron griddle) and served with a sweet-savory sauce and seaweed flakes. A unique feature of Hiroshima okonomiyaki is that it includes a layer of yakisoba or udon noodles.

While the people of Osaka take credit for popularizing okonomiyaki, Hiroshima’s residents proudly elevate it to an art form. Unlike the Osaka style, where ingredients are mixed together, Hiroshima’s version is crafted in distinct layers. Having eaten okonomiyaki in Osaka, I prefer the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki in terms of taste and texture.

Located in the bustling downtown area near Hondori Street, Okonomi Mura is a multi-story building housing over 20 small, family-run okonomiyaki stalls. Each stall offers its own twist on the classic dish, creating a lively and intimate atmosphere where visitors can interact with the chefs as they prepare the meal right in front of them. The sizzling sounds, enticing aromas, and energetic chatter make it a feast for the senses.

Take a seat at one of the counters and watch as the chef expertly prepares your meal. The process begins with a layer of pancake batter spread onto a hot griddle, followed by a generous helping of cabbage, bean sprouts, and bacon. Finally, an egg is added on top to complete the dish. For an extra touch, you can choose to include Chinese noodles in your okonomiyaki.

What makes Okonomi Mura a must-visit is its authenticity and variety. The experience is as much about the vibrant local culture as it is about the food itself. I suggest wandering through and stopping at the stall that catches your fancy. 

6. Admire the artworks at the Hiroshima Museum of Art

The Hiroshima Museum of Art is a true gem among the city’s cultural offerings and one of my favorite attractions in Hiroshima. Opened in 1978 by the Hiroshima Bank to celebrate its centennial, this private museum is dedicated to promoting peace and beauty through art.

Nestled in a serene garden near Hiroshima Castle and housed in a modern round building, the museum exudes an intimate and tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect retreat for art lovers. 

The museum’s collection is divided into two main sections presented in chronological order in four rooms: Western and Japanese art. The Western collection highlights works from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, focusing on Impressionism and its evolution. 

Though small, virtually every piece is by a well-known artist. Visitors can admire masterpieces by renowned artists such as Monet,  Cézanne, Degas, Chagall, Modigliani, Gauguin, Van Gogh, Matisse, Picasso, Braque offering a vivid glimpse into the transformative period of European art.

Equally captivating is the Japanese collection, which showcases modern works blending traditional techniques with contemporary expressions. These pieces reflect Japan’s unique artistic evolution during the same era, harmonizing perfectly with the Western collection.

One of the museum’s best features is its manageable size, allowing visitors to appreciate each piece without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Its bright, airy architecture further enhances the viewing experience, creating an inviting and serene atmosphere.

Jacky and I love impressionist art and were very glad we took the time to visit this museum.

The Hiroshima Museum of Art is open Tuesday–Sunday from 09:00–17:00; last entrance 30 minutes before closing. The entrance costs 370 JPY.

7. Unwind in Shukkeien Garden

Shukkeien Garden, meaning “shrunken-scenery garden,” is a serene oasis in Hiroshima, originally created in 1620 by Ueda Soko, a renowned tea master, at the request of Asano Nagaakira, the feudal lord of Hiroshima. Inspired by Lake Xi Hu in Hangzhou, China, the garden features a central pond surrounded by meticulously designed miniature mountains, valleys, and forests. 

Streams, islets, and arched stone bridges are carefully arranged to create the illusion of vast landscapes in a compact space, making it a masterpiece of traditional Japanese garden design.

Though the garden was destroyed in 1945, its remarkable restoration captures its timeless beauty, as if it has always been part of Hiroshima. You can take a 30-minute circular stroll along its winding paths, enjoying seasonal highlights such as plum blossoms in spring, vibrant autumn foliage, and lush greenery in summer.

A highlight of Shukkeien Garden is its elegant tea house, where guests can participate in traditional tea ceremonies amidst the tranquil setting. Blending history, artistry, and natural beauty, Shukkeien Garden offers a peaceful retreat and is a must-visit for anyone exploring Hiroshima.

Shukkeien Garden is open from 9:00–18:00 (March 16th to September 15th) and 9:00–17:00 (September 16th to March 15th). The entrance costs 260 JPY.

8. Explore Hondori

Hondori, Hiroshima’s vibrant pedestrian shopping street, is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city. 

Stretching over 500 meters, this lively arcade is lined with a mix of trendy boutiques, local shops, restaurants, and cafes, offering a diverse shopping and dining experience. Its covered walkway makes it a year-round attraction, ideal for strolling no matter the weather.

Highlights include browsing unique souvenirs and discovering quirky specialty shops selling everything from traditional crafts to modern pop culture items. For fashion enthusiasts, Hondori offers an array of boutiques featuring both local and international brands.

Street performers and festive decorations often add to the lively atmosphere, particularly during holidays or events.

9. Take a day trip to Miyajima

Just 40 minutes from Hiroshima, Miyajima is a stunning island gem located only 2km (1.25 miles) off the mainland in the Seto Inland Sea. With the Japanese penchant for categorizing the “three best” of virtually everything in their country, it’s no surprise that Miyajima is ranked as one of the three most scenic spots in Japan (the other two are Matsushima in Tohoku; and Amanohashidate, a remote sand spit, on the Japan Sea coast).

Miyajima has been considered sacred since ancient times. Historically, human acts such as giving birth or dying were forbidden on the island, and even today, there is no cemetery. Its renowned beauty makes it a popular destination, drawing large crowds in summer and autumn. 

Cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant maple leaves in autumn create breathtaking landscapes, while tame deer freely wander the village, adding to its charm. Whether enjoying a leisurely stroll or an invigorating hike, Miyajima offers visitors an enchanting escape.

a. Itsukushima Shrine

The Itsukushima Shrine, located on Miyajima Island, is a masterpiece of Shinto architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dating back to 593 AD, the shrine was later expanded and refined in the 12th century by Taira no Kiyomori, a powerful samurai leader. It was dedicated to the three daughters of Susanoo, the Shinto god of seas and storms, reflecting the island’s sacred status. 

The shrine’s unique design integrates harmoniously with its natural surroundings. Built on stilts over the tidal flats, the structure appears to float on water during high tide, symbolizing the unity between humans and nature. 

Its corridors, supported by vermilion-painted wooden pillars, elegantly connect the various halls. Intricate details, such as the delicate carvings and the lacquered finish, showcase traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

Itsukushima Shrine’s most iconic feature is its majestic Grand Torii Gate (O-torii), which stands 16 meters (52 feet) tall, emerging from the sea in front of the shrine’s vibrant vermilion buildings. Dating back to 1875, this is the seventeenth version of the gate since the original was constructed by Taira no Kiyomori. 

Even if you feel you’ve seen enough Japanese temples, you will certainly be moved by the striking beauty of the bright red camphorwood arch of the Grand Torii Gate. A brilliant vermilion, it contrasts starkly with the wooded hills in the background and the blue of the sky above, casting its reflection in the waters below.

The Grand Torii Gate is one of Japan’s most iconic scenic landmarks, but it often stands over brownish tidal flats that are only a little more glamorous than mud. To fully appreciate its beauty and to get that postcard-perfect photo, plan your visit during high tide.

Itsukushima Shrine is open year-round. You can check opening hours and prices here.

b. Admire the Toyokuni Shrine Five-Story Pagoda

North of Itsukushima Shrine, make your way uphill toward the striking red five-story pagoda peeking through the trees. Next to it stands Senjōkaku, or the “Hall of a Thousand Tatami,” part of the Hokoku Shrine. 

This grand, open hall was commissioned by Toyotomi Hideyoshi but remained unfinished after his death. Originally intended as a library for Buddhist sutras, its spacious interior is adorned with votive plaques, adding a spiritual charm to the tranquil setting.

c. Eat oysters at Kakiya

Sampling oysters on Miyajima is an unforgettable culinary experience and a must for any visitor. Miyajima’s oysters are famous for their plump, creamy texture and rich flavor.

Renowned as one of the island’s most famous oyster establishments, Kakiya has earned its stellar reputation for serving only the freshest, locally sourced oysters. At Kakiya, you can enjoy oysters in a variety of styles—grilled over charcoal to perfection, served raw with a hint of citrus, or cooked in a rich, flavorful broth.

The grilled oysters, smoky and slightly charred, were a highlight, bursting with a natural briny sweetness that spoke of the nearby Seto Inland Sea. Paired with a squeeze of fresh lemon or their house-made dipping sauces, each bite was divine.   

As a seafood aficionado, I couldn’t resist helping myself to plenty, savoring every morsel.

d. Try Grilled Conger Eel Rice (Anago-Meshi) 

Besides oysters, grilled conger eel rice (Anago-Meshi) is a beloved Miyajima specialty, featuring tender, perfectly grilled conger eel served over a bed of lightly seasoned rice. The eel is glazed with a sweet-savory sauce that enhances its natural richness, creating a delightful balance of flavors. 

The dish is both delicate and hearty, with the eel’s smoky, slightly caramelized exterior complementing its soft, flaky texture. It was my first time trying eel, and I was amazed by how delicious it was—the combination of rich, umami-packed eel and fragrant rice was unforgettable. An absolute must-try!

The most famous place to eat grilled conger eel rice on Miyajima is the refined Fujitaya Anagomeshi. 

e. Sample Momiji Manju 

Finally, don’t leave Miyajima without trying Momiji Manju—a delightful, maple-leaf-shaped confection and a signature treat of the island. These soft, sponge-like cakes are traditionally filled with sweet red bean paste, though modern variations include custard, chocolate, and matcha.

The cake is light and fluffy, perfectly complementing its rich, smooth filling. Each bite delivers a comforting sweetness with a subtle nutty aroma.

How to get to Hiroshima

Traveling to Hiroshima is convenient and efficient, especially with the Shinkansen bullet train. With a JR Pass—a must if you plan to explore multiple regions in Japan—you can easily travel between major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima in less than 5 hours. 

Trains depart from key JR stations such as Tokyo, Shinagawa, Kyoto, and Shin-Osaka, all of which are accessible via city metro systems.

The JR Pass covers the Hikari, Sakura, and Kodama trains on the Shinkansen network. The Nozomi and Mizuho trains, the fastest Shinkansen, are not included in the JR Pass. Personally, I found the speed of the Hikari, Sakura, and Kodama trains more than sufficient for seamless travel across Japan, and the speed difference is often negligible for most travelers.

Shinkansen trains rarely sell out except during peak travel times, such as public holidays or New Year, so reservations are usually unnecessary. The JR Pass offers unlimited rides on eligible trains for 7, 14, or 21 days, providing unmatched convenience. 

While individual tickets may be slightly cheaper for 3-4 long-distance trips, the JR Pass is a no-brainer for extended travel, offering flexibility and savings without the hassle of buying separate tickets. Buy your JR Pass now through Klook or GetYourGuide!

How to get around Hiroshima

One legacy of Hiroshima’s destruction was its rebirth into one of Japan’s most navigable cities, with wide, open boulevards instead of the usual cramped streets. 

Walking is convenient in central Hiroshima, where many key sights are close together.  The city’s wide sidewalks, pedestrian-friendly streets, and scenic river views make walking both convenient and enjoyable, offering a close connection to Hiroshima’s rich history and tranquil ambiance.

If you’re interested in a walking tour of central Hiroshima and seeing the city’s most popular highlights, check out this highly-rated Hiroshima Walking Tour.

Getting around Hiroshima is also easy with its efficient transportation network. The Hiroshima Electric Railway (streetcars), locally called Hiroden, connects major attractions like the Peace Memorial Park and Hiroshima Castle. 

Getting around Hiroshima by bus is also convenient, especially for tourists. The Meipuru-pu sightseeing loop bus connects major attractions and is a great option for visiting multiple sites in one day. The bus is JR Pass-compatible, or you can purchase a 1-3 day tourist pass for unlimited rides is also available. 

For short distances, bicycles are a popular option, with rental services available. In case you’re interested in seeing the highlights of Hiroshima on bike, check out this popular Hiroshima Bicycle Tour.

To get to Miyajima from Hiroshima, take the JR Sanyo Line from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station, a journey of about 25 minutes. From Miyajimaguchi, board a ferry to Miyajima Island, which takes around 10 minutes. 

Both the train and ferry are covered by the JR Pass, making the trip convenient and cost-effective for pass holders. Ferries operate frequently, ensuring smooth access to the island.

Alternatively, you can also opt for a Miyajima private day tour from Hiroshima, which offers a personalized and immersive experience of Miyajima Island, including visits to iconic sites like Itsukushima Shrine and the five-story pagoda. With a dedicated guide, you’ll explore the island’s scenic beauty, rich history, and unique culture at your own pace, making it a memorable day trip.

• Click here to book a Miyajima Private Day Tour from Hiroshima

Where to stay in Hiroshima

Hiroshima offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s budget and preferences. Whether you’re looking for luxury, convenience, or a unique cultural experience, the city provides a variety of choices.

Hostel: Roku Hostel Hiroshima, a cozy, minimalist hostel offering affordable accommodations with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, ideal for travelers seeking a comfortable and social base near Hiroshima’s main attractions

Budget: Sotetsu Fresa Inn Hiroshima, a modern, centrally located hotel offering comfortable accommodation, convenient amenities, and easy access to Hiroshima’s key attractions and transportation hubs

Mid-range: The Royal Park Hotel Hiroshima Riverside, a chic and elegant hotel featuring modern rooms with stunning river views, is conveniently located near Hiroshima Station and major city attractions

Luxury: Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel, an upscale hotel offering spacious rooms, premium amenities, and direct access to Hiroshima Station

Final thoughts on Hiroshima

Jacky and I really liked Hiroshima for its remarkable blend of history, resilience, and vibrant modernity. The city’s ability to honor its past through poignant landmarks like the Peace Memorial Park, while thriving with a warm, welcoming culture, is truly inspiring. 

I loved how Hiroshima, nestled between mountains and the Seto Inland Sea, balances serene natural beauty with bustling urban charm (one that never feels overwhelming like Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto). Its culinary scene, especially the famous Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, added a unique flavor to our experience, making it a destination I’ll always cherish.

Miyajima left a lasting impression on me as one of the most beautiful and serene destinations I saw in Japan. The island’s harmonious blend of stunning natural scenery, iconic cultural landmarks like Itsukushima Shrine, and its welcoming, tranquil atmosphere made it a truly unforgettable experience.

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Do you agree with our list? What are some of the best things to do in Hiroshima? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!