Only those who have more time available are able to include Hiroshima in their itinerary. It’s a shame because despite being totally destroyed by the bomb, it is a city rich in history, resilience and beauty. Hiroshima is known around the world for the tragic atomic bombing of 1945, but today is a vibrant city with many cultural, historical and natural attractions to explore.
1. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum
Every time I return to this place I get chills and seeing the reactions of people who visit it for the first time always makes me emotional.
The Park is dedicated to the memory of the victims of the atomic bombing and to the promotion of world peace.
The Atomic Bomb Dome is one of the few structures left standing after the explosion, today it is a symbol of peace.
The Cenotaph of the Victims of the Atomic Bomb: a simple but touching monument containing the names of all known victims.
The Flame of Peace that will remain lit until all nuclear weapons in the world are destroyed.
The Peace Memorial Museum: A place where you can learn about the history of the bombing through personal objects, photographs and testimonies.
Finally, there is the Children’s Peace Monument, a place where tears fall without you realizing it. It is the monument with a bell that depicts little Sadako Sasaki who, during her stay in hospital, suffering from leukemia due to radiation, continuously built small paper cranes. According to a Japanese legend, by creating a thousand cranes with origami it is possible to have one’s wishes fulfilled. Many tourists leave their cranes, around 3 million a year, especially children and school groups. The cranes are then kept in the building of an old bank as a sign of Peace from the children.
Those who come here do so also and above all to visit the beautiful island of Miyajima, one of the most fascinating islands in Japan and located in Hiroshima Bay. It is the island where Men and Gods coexist and where one can neither born nor die, therefore there are no maternity wards and cemeteries. Miyajima is officially known as Itsukushima and is famous for its water shrine, free-roaming deer and breathtaking views.
1. Itsukushima-jinja Floating Torii
Let’s start with Miyajima’s most iconic attraction: the large red torii that seems to float on the water. Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for this spectacular structure. Visit the torii at high tide to see it surrounded by water and at low tide to walk to the base and place an auspicious coin in one of the cracks in the wood of the supporting trunk.
2. Itsukushima Shrine
After admiring the torii, explore Itsukushima Shrine. This Shinto shrine is built on stilts and is a place of extraordinary architectural beauty. Stroll along the wooden corridors and admire the details of the surrounding structures and gardens. During high tide, the shrine appears to float on the water, creating a magical effect.
3. Mount Misen
My favorite attraction on the island and a place I make sure to visit whenever I get the chance. Climbing Mount Misen, the highest peak in Miyajima, is a must! The walk to reach the cable car station will lead you to admire fantastic scenery along the way through Momijidani Park, at the foot of Mount Misen, famous for its maple trees that light up with vibrant colors in autumn. There are several options to reach the top: you can take the cable car to Shishiiwa Station and then walk for about 30 minutes (recommended route), or tackle one of the hiking trails that start from the base (only for the fittest). Once at the top, the view is breathtaking and you will see hundreds of islands to capture with a 360 degree photo.
4. Miyajima Deer
Miyajima’s deer are considered messengers of the Gods and roam freely around the island. These friendly animals are accustomed to human presence and make a great photo and video opportunity. Some even bow! They love human food so be careful if you stop for a snack because it could be stolen by these sweet little animals without you realizing it.
5. Daisho-in Temple
Daisho-in Temple is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Miyajima and offers a combination of architectural beauty and tranquility. Explore the numerous temple buildings, meditative paths and lantern-lit caves. The temple is less crowded than Itsukushima Shrine, making it an ideal place for a relaxing visit.
6. Omotesando Commercial Street
For a shopping and gastronomic experience, stroll along Omotesando Commercial Street. Here you will find souvenir shops, street food stalls and restaurants. Taste local specialties such as fresh oysters, manju (red bean-filled sweet) and momiji manju (maple leaf-shaped sweet). Oysters are definitely the specialty of the place and I recommend eating them fried in panko… absolutely delicious!
