Itinerary for Hiroshima Trip
Planning a trip to Hiroshima is an exciting endeavor, especially with the rich history, beautiful landscapes, and unique culinary delights that the region offers. If you’re heading to Hiroshima for two nights and three days in
early April, your itinerary looks promising! Below is a detailed breakdown of your planned activities along with some culinary recommendations to make your experience even more memorable.
Day 1: A Journey Through Onomichi and Shimanami Kaido
Your adventure begins bright and early with a 9:00 AM departure from Hiroshima Airport by rental car. The first stop on your itinerary is Onomichi, a charming city known for its picturesque hills and temples. Exploring Onomichi: – Senkoji Temple: Start your visit at Senkoji Temple, perched atop a hill, offering stunning views of the city and the Seto Inland Sea. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for reflection. – Cat Alley: Next, make your way to Cat Alley, a narrow lane filled with feline-themed decorations and, of course, real cats! It’s a delightful spot for photos and a quirky experience. – Onomichi Ramen: After exploring, treat yourself to Onomichi Ramen, a local specialty known for its soy sauce-based broth, topped with pork and green onions. It’s a must-try for any food lover. Shimanami Kaido Adventure: Continue your journey along the Shimanami Kaido, a scenic route that connects Honshu and Shikoku islands. – Shiomachi Shopping Street: Stop by Shiomachi Shopping Street, where you can find local crafts and souvenirs. – Oyamazumi Shrine: Visit Oyamazumi Shrine, which is famous for its historical significance and beautiful surroundings. – Kameyama Park: Finally, take a leisurely stroll in Kameyama Park, where you can enjoy the views of the bridges and the sea. After a day filled with exploration, drop off your rental car at Mihara Station and take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima Station. Spend the night at a hotel near the station, giving you easy access to the city’s attractions.
Day 2: Discovering Hiroshima and Kure
Your second day is dedicated to exploring the historical and cultural landmarks of Hiroshima city. Hiroshima City Highlights: – Peace Memorial Park: Start your day at the Peace Memorial Park, a poignant reminder of the tragic events of World War II. Don’t miss the Atomic Bomb Dome and the Peace Memorial Museum, which provide profound insights into the city’s past. – Hiroshima Castle: Next, visit Hiroshima Castle, a beautiful reconstruction of the original castle that was destroyed in the bombing. The surrounding gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll. – Peace Wing Hiroshima: This museum focuses on the stories of Hiroshima’s residents before and after the bombing, offering a unique perspective on resilience and hope. Exploring Kure: In the afternoon, venture to Kure, a city known for its naval history and maritime attractions. – Kure Bay Ship Tour: Enjoy a scenic tour of Kure Bay, where you can see various ships and learn about the city’s maritime heritage. – Whale Museum: Visit the Whale Museum to discover fascinating information about these magnificent creatures. – Yamato Museum Satellite: End your Kure visit at the Yamato Museum, which showcases the history of the Japanese Navy and the famous battleship Yamato. After a fulfilling day, return to your hotel near Hiroshima Station for another restful night.
Day 3: A Day of Spirituality and Scenic Beauty
On your final day, immerse yourself in the natural beauty and spiritual significance of Miyajima and Iwakuni. Miyajima Island Exploration: – Toyokuni Shrine: Begin your day on Miyajima Island with a visit to Toyokuni Shrine, known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture. – Itsukushima Shrine: Next, head to Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its iconic floating torii gate. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see, especially during high tide when the gate appears to float on water. – Daisho-in Temple: Conclude your Miyajima visit at Daisho-in Temple, one of the most important temples in the region, surrounded by lush greenery and featuring stunning statues. Iwakuni Adventure: After exploring Miyajima, hop over to Iwakuni. – Kintai Bridge: Marvel at the Kintai Bridge, an architectural wonder with its five-arched structure, set against a backdrop of beautiful mountains. – Iwakuni Castle: Finally, make your way to Iwakuni Castle. The hike up to the castle offers breathtaking views, and you can learn about its history at the museum inside. Conclude your trip with a 5:45 PM return from Iwakuni Airport, cherishing the memories made during your journey.
Culinary Recommendations
While in Hiroshima, don’t miss out on the local cuisine: – Okonomiyaki: A savory pancake layered with ingredients like cabbage, meat, seafood, and topped with a special sauce. – Hiroshima-style Tsukemen: Cold noodles served with a rich dipping sauce, perfect for a refreshing meal. – Anago Meshi: Grilled eel over rice, a delicacy that showcases the region’s seafood. With this itinerary, you’re set for an unforgettable trip to Hiroshima. Enjoy the sights, the flavors, and the stories that this remarkable city has to offer!
