This 3-day Hiroshima itinerary is a guide to one of the most powerful and hopeful cities in the world. In three days, you will not only bear witness to the profound history of the 20th century but also discover a vibrant, modern city full of incredible food, stunning natural beauty, and an inspiring spirit of peace.
- Day 1: A Day of Remembrance and Peace. We’ll spend this essential day at the Peace Memorial Park, visiting the A-Bomb Dome, the Children’s Peace Monument, and the deeply moving Peace Memorial Museum, finishing with a life-affirming meal of local okonomiyaki.
- Day 2: The Sacred Island of Miyajima. A full-day trip to the magical island of Miyajima. We’ll see the world-famous “floating” torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, explore the island’s temples, meet its friendly deer, and ascend Mt. Misen for breathtaking ocean views.
- Day 3: The Resilient Modern City. We’ll explore the city’s symbols of rebirth, including the beautifully reconstructed Hiroshima Castle (“Carp Castle”) and the serene Shukkei-en Garden, before diving into the bustling Hondori shopping arcade.
Complete Itinerary Based on Personal Experiences & Anecdotes
Before my first trip, I thought I knew what Hiroshima was. I braced myself for a city of somber gray, a place defined by a single, tragic moment in history. I expected to feel heavy, to be walking through a living memorial. And while that memorial is the city’s undeniable heart, I was completely unprepared for what I actually found: one of the most vibrant, warm, and hopeful cities I have ever visited.
Hiroshima is not a dark place. It’s a city of light. The air feels clean, the people are exceptionally kind, and the entire city is built around a mission of peace that you can feel in its wide avenues and beautiful, green parks. The city’s famous streetcars (the “Hiroden”) rattle past bustling shopping arcades, and the smell of savory okonomiyaki fills the air. It’s a city that looks its past square in the eye, but it doesn’t live there. It’s a testament to resilience, a masterclass in how to rebuild with hope and grace.
Three days is the perfect amount of time to experience Hiroshima’s dual soul. It gives you one day to dedicate to quiet reflection and understanding, one day to be awestruck by the natural and spiritual beauty of Miyajima Island, and one day to celebrate the living, breathing, modern city that rose from the ashes. This itinerary is designed to give you that balance, showing you the city that I was so moved by and that I fell in love with.
Day 1: Remembrance, Reflection & Resilience
Today is the day we visit the place that everyone comes to Hiroshima to see. It’s an emotionally powerful day, one that will stay with you forever. My advice is to take it slow, be present, and allow yourself time to process.
Morning: Walking Through the Peace Memorial Park
Start your day not at the museum, but by simply walking through the Peace Memorial Park. It’s a vast, beautiful green space, and the best way to orient yourself. I find it’s best to start at the south end and walk north. As you walk, you’ll approach the Cenotaph for the A-bomb Victims, a simple, saddle-shaped monument. If you stand in front of it, it perfectly frames the Flame of Peace and the A-Bomb Dome in the distance. The flame, I learned, will be extinguished only when the last nuclear weapon on earth has been dismantled.
Spend some time at the Children’s Peace Monument. This is dedicated to Sadako Sasaki and the thousands of other children who were victims. You’ll see thousands of colorful orizuru (paper cranes) sent from all over the world. It’s an incredibly moving and beautiful symbol of hope.
Afternoon: The Peace Memorial Museum & A-Bomb Dome
After walking the park, it’s time to visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. This is one of the most powerful museums on earth, and I want to be honest: it is heartbreaking. But it is essential. It doesn’t just show statistics; it tells the personal stories. You will see items a child was carrying, a watch stopped at 8:15 a.m., and the haunting shadows left on stone. It’s an unflinching look at the human cost of war. Take your time. Sit down if you need to.
When you finish, you’ll need a moment to decompress. Walk across the Motoyasu River to the A-Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome). This is the skeletal ruin of the former Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, one of the few buildings left standing near the hypocenter. Seeing it with your own eyes, standing against the sky, is a haunting and unforgettable experience. It’s the city’s most powerful scar, preserved as a permanent reminder.
Evening: A Life-Affirming Meal at Okonomimura
After an emotionally heavy day, you need an evening that is all about life, community, and comfort. And in Hiroshima, that means okonomiyaki. We’re heading to Okonomimura (“Okonomiyaki Village”). It’s a four-story building absolutely packed with over 20 different stalls, all serving the local specialty.
Don’t be intimidated. Just pick a stall that has a few open seats at the long teppan (grill). Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is different from the Osaka version. It’s layered, not mixed. The chefs build a masterpiece in front of you: a thin crepe, a mountain of cabbage, pork, tempura bits, and then—the key ingredient—a layer of soba or udon noodles, all topped with an egg and a sweet, savory sauce. Sitting shoulder-to-shoulder, hearing the sizzle and the chatter, and eating this incredible food is the most life-affirming experience. It’s the perfect end to the day.
Day 2: The Sacred, “Floating” Island of Miyajima
Today is a complete change of pace. We’re leaving the city for one of the most beautiful and magical places in all of Japan: Itsukushima Island, known to the world as Miyajima. This is a full-day trip, so start early.
Morning: The Floating Torii Gate
To get there, take the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station (about 25 minutes), then follow the signs for the 10-minute ferry. My personal tip: If you have a Japan Rail Pass, the JR Ferry is included for free! Try to get a spot on the right side of the top deck, as it makes a special pass to give you the best first view of the main event.
And what an event it is. As the ferry approaches, you’ll see it: the giant, vermilion-red Grand Torii Gate of Itsukushima Shrine. It’s built in the water, and at high tide, it looks like it’s floating magically on the sea. It is truly breathtaking. After you land, walk along the waterfront, stopping to greet the island’s famous (and very polite) wild deer. They will bow for a snack, but they’re much gentler than their cousins in Nara.
Head to the Itsukushima Shrine complex itself, which is also built on stilts over the water. Walking through its bright-red corridors feels otherworldly. Check the tide tables—it’s a completely different (and equally cool) experience at low tide, when you can walk all the way out onto the seabed to the base of the gate.
Afternoon: Ascending Mt. Misen
After visiting the shrine, it’s time to get a heavenly view. We’re going up Mt. Misen, the island’s highest peak. You can hike, but I recommend the Miyajima Ropeway. It’s a two-stage gondola ride that gives you increasingly stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea.
From the top ropeway station, it’s about a 30-minute hike to the true summit. It’s a proper hike, so wear good shoes, but the payoff is one of the best views in Japan. At the top, you’ll find several small temples, including the Reikado (Hall of the Spiritual Flame), which houses an eternal flame that has supposedly been burning for over 1,200 years.
Evening: Oysters, Eels, and a Sunset Return
Once back down in the main village, it’s time to eat. Miyajima is famous for two things: oysters (kaki) and conger eel (anago). You will see stalls everywhere grilling fresh, plump oysters with a splash of soy sauce. Get one. Or three. For a more substantial meal, find a restaurant serving anago-meshi, a local specialty of grilled saltwater eel over rice, which is more delicate and fluffy than the more common freshwater unagi.
As the sun begins to set, the day-trippers head home. This is a magical time on the island as the lanterns light up. Grab a famous momiji manju (a maple-leaf-shaped cake) for the ferry ride back. Seeing the torii gate illuminated as you sail away is a perfect, peaceful end to the day.
Day 3: A Reborn Castle and a Perfect Garden
For our final day, we’ll explore the symbols of Hiroshima’s incredible rebirth and its vibrant modern life.
Morning: The “Carp Castle”
Start your day at Hiroshima Castle, known as the “Carp Castle” (Rijo). The original 16th-century castle was completely destroyed by the atomic bomb. What you see today is a beautiful, faithful reconstruction from 1958, which itself has become a powerful symbol of the city’s resilience. The five-story main keep houses a museum about the castle’s history, and the view from the top floor is fantastic, giving you a 360-degree look at the modern city that grew up around it.
Afternoon: Shukkei-en Garden & Modern Life
A short walk from the castle is Shukkei-en Garden, a true hidden gem. The name means “shrunken-scenery garden,” and that’s exactly what it is. This traditional garden, which also dates back to the 17th century, was designed to represent famous mountains, valleys, and lakes in miniature. It was, of course, destroyed in 1945 and lovingly restored. It’s an incredibly peaceful place. I spent an hour just sitting on a bench by the central pond, watching the koi and the turtles. It’s the perfect place to pause and reflect.
From the garden, it’s time to see the city’s modern heart. Head to the Hondori Shopping Arcade. This massive, covered pedestrian street is the city’s main shopping artery. It is absolutely buzzing with life. You’ll find everything from high-end department stores to quirky shops, cafes, and game centers. This, as much as the museum, is the real face of Hiroshima: a bustling, happy, and thriving city.
Evening: A Farewell Drink and Dinner
For your final night, explore the alleys of Nagarekawa, the city’s main entertainment district (it’s right next to Okonomimura). It’s packed with hundreds of tiny restaurants and izakayas (Japanese pubs). Find a spot that looks good, slide open the door, and have a final farewell meal, perhaps trying some of the region’s famous sake.
Walking Guide: The 3-Hour Peace & Life Loop
This 3-4 hour walking route is a journey through Hiroshima’s past and its vibrant present. It’s a walk of two halves—one of deep reflection, the other of bustling, modern life.
Start at the A-Bomb Dome. See it in the morning light and take a moment to absorb its presence. From here, cross the Motoyasu River on the Aioi Bridge (the T-shaped bridge that was the original target of the bomb) and enter the Peace Memorial Park.
Slowly make your way south through the park. Your key stops will be the Children’s Peace Monument (with the paper cranes) and the Memorial Cenotaph, where you can pay your respects. Tip: This part of the walk should not be rushed. Give it at least an hour.
Continue south to the Peace Memorial Museum. Plan to spend at least 90 minutes inside; two hours is more realistic. When you come out, you will likely feel emotionally drained. Now, the walk changes. Head east from the park, crossing the wide Peace Boulevard. In about 5-10 minutes, you will reach the entrance of the Hondori Shopping Arcade. Tip: This is the perfect place to decompress. Grab a coffee, buy a pastry, and just sit for a moment, watching the world go by.
Finally, walk the entire length of the arcade. Emerge on the other side and feel the energy. This walk shows you the full circle: from the epicenter of the destruction to the vibrant heart of the city that refused to be defined by it.
You can explore this route easily using this Google Maps link (insert your Google Map overview here).
Local Food Highlights
Hiroshima is a paradise for foodies. The food here is distinct, comforting, and delicious.
- Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki: The undisputed champion. Unlike its Osaka counterpart, this is layered with a thin crepe, a mountain of cabbage, and, most importantly, a full layer of soba or udon noodles. Find it at Okonomimura or a local favorite like Hassei.
- Oysters (Kaki): Hiroshima Bay produces the most oysters in Japan. On Miyajima, you must try them grilled fresh from a roadside stall. In the city, find restaurants serving kaki-furai (fried oysters).
- Anago-meshi (Conger Eel): A specialty of Miyajima. This saltwater eel is grilled until fluffy and basted in a sweet soy sauce, then served over rice. It’s more delicate than unagi (freshwater eel).
- Momiji Manju: The iconic souvenir of Miyajima. It’s a small, maple-leaf-shaped cake, traditionally filled with sweet red bean paste, but now available with cheese, custard, or chocolate.
My Personal Tips and Experiences
My biggest tip for Hiroshima is to use the trams. The “Hiroden” streetcar system is fantastic. It’s cheap, covers the whole city, and is an experience in itself. Some of the trams are sleek modern vehicles, while others are charming, old-school cars imported from cities all over Europe. You can tap on and off with a Suica or Pasmo card.
Second, use your Japan Rail Pass for the trip to Miyajima. It covers the JR train to Miyajimaguchi Station and the JR Ferry to the island, saving you money and time.
Third, be prepared for Day 1. The Peace Museum is heavy, and it’s okay to be emotional. I saw people from all over the world, all ages, quietly crying. It’s a shared human experience. My advice is to plan a light, comforting evening afterward, like our Okonomiyaki dinner.
Finally, talk to people. I found the locals in Hiroshima to be incredibly open and kind. This is a city that wants to share its story and its mission of peace with the world.
Where to Stay: My Hotel Recommendations
Staying near Hiroshima Station is convenient for arrival and the Miyajima trip. Staying near the Peace Park/Hondori is best for being in the center of the action.
- Best Hostel: WeBase Hiroshima This is a modern, stylish hostel that feels more like a boutique hotel. It’s in a fantastic location, right near the Hondori arcade and a short walk to the Peace Park. Guests rave about its cleanliness, social atmosphere, and comfortable, private-feeling bunks.
- Best Ultra-Budget Hotel: APA Hotel Hiroshima-Eki Oohashifuchi The classic Japanese business hotel. The rooms are famously tiny, but they are immaculately clean, high-tech, and incredibly efficient. This one is right by the station, making it the perfect, no-frills base if you’re traveling light and want pure convenience.
- Best Budget Hotel: Dormy Inn Hiroshima I will always recommend a Dormy Inn. This is one of the best-value chains in Japan. Why? It has its own onsen (natural hot spring bath) on the top floor. After a long day of walking, soaking in that bath is heaven. Plus, they offer a free bowl of “night-time ramen” every evening.
- Best Premium Hotel: The Knot Hiroshima For style and location, this is my top pick. It’s incredibly chic, with a modern, minimalist design. It’s located right on the edge of the Peace Park, and its stunning rooftop bar offers what is arguably the best view in the city, looking right over the park and the A-Bomb Dome.
- Best Luxury Hotel: RIHGA Royal Hotel Hiroshima This is the city’s grand, classic luxury hotel. Its main selling point is its location—right next to the Hiroshima Castle and within walking distance of the Peace Park. Upper-floor rooms offer breathtaking, sweeping views of the castle, the gardens, and the city.
Scams to Avoid & Safety Tips
Hiroshima is one of the safest cities you will ever visit. Crime is practically non-existent. The “dangers” are more like minor annoyances.
- Miyajima Deer: They are cute, but they are wild animals. Unlike the deer in Nara, they’re less aggressive, but they will snatch food, maps, or any piece of paper right out of your hands or from an open bag. Keep your belongings secure.
- Nightlife Touts: In the main nightlife district of Nagarekawa, you might see a few touts trying to get you into a bar or club. This is far less common than in Tokyo, but the rule is the same: never follow a street tout. Only go into establishments you choose yourself.
- Tipping: This is not a scam, but it’s crucial: Do not tip in Japan. It is not part of the culture. Tipping can be seen as confusing or even insulting. The best way to show your appreciation is with a polite “gochisosama deshita” (“it was a delicious feast”) as you leave.
FAQs
Is 3 days in Hiroshima enough? Yes. Three days is the perfect amount of time. It gives you one full day for the Peace Park, one full day for Miyajima Island, and one day for the modern city. You will not feel rushed.
Is Hiroshima a sad or depressing city to visit? No. This is the biggest misconception. The Peace Park and Museum are deeply sad, but the city itself is vibrant, modern, and full of life. I left feeling inspired and hopeful, not depressed.
What is the best time of year to visit Hiroshima? Spring (March-April) for the stunning cherry blossoms (they are beautiful in the Peace Park) or Autumn (October-November) for comfortable weather and beautiful fall foliage, especially on Miyajima. Summer is very hot and humid.
How do I get around the city? Walking and the “Hiroden” streetcar system. The city center is very walkable, and the trams will get you everywhere else you need to go, including the station for the Miyajima ferry.
Is the Japan Rail (JR) Pass useful in Hiroshima? Absolutely. It will cover your Shinkansen (bullet train) to get to Hiroshima. Crucially, it also covers the JR Sanyo Line train to Miyajimaguchi and the JR Ferry to Miyajima Island, which saves you money.
Conclusion
Hiroshima is a city that stays with you. It’s not a place you can visit passively; it demands that you think, feel, and reflect. I went to Hiroshima to see the past, but I fell in love with its present. I fell in love with the sizzling comfort of okonomiyaki, the stunning, sacred beauty of Miyajima, and the resilience of a people who chose to build a future dedicated to peace.
You will leave Hiroshima a different person than when you arrived. You’ll leave with the memory of the paper cranes, the taste of grilled oysters, and the sight of a modern, bustling city. More than anywhere else I’ve been, Hiroshima is a city that isn’t just a destination; it’s a profound and essential lesson for all of humanity. And that is a trip worth taking.