Hiroshima Culture & history

Head out of Fukuoka or Osaka or Kyoto on a day trip to Hiroshima to visit the sobering Atomic Bomb Dome, as well as the uplifting Itsukushima Shrine. Sit back and relax in a bullet train from your starting point, then enjoy the comfort of a tour bus while you visit Hiroshima. Meet your guide and head to your bullet train, also known as shinkansen, to make your way to Hiroshima. Once arrived, hop onto your tour bus to begin your visit of the city's main attractions and world heritage sites. First, make your way to the Atomic Bomb Dome in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. See and feel the weight of the effects of nuclear warfare firsthand, as you look at the derelict dome in front of you. Lunch is Authentic Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki which is topped with pork, cabbage, bean sprout and noodles (*in stated as included in the plan) Next, head back into the bus and make your way to catch the ferry to Miyajima Island. Once there, marvel at one of the most scenic sites in Japan, the Itsukushima Shrine. Stroll on the island, known as the historic site of Shinto, literally translated as "the way of the Gods", taking in the peaceful scenery. End your day by heading back to Fukuoka or Osaka or Kyoto by bullet train. Equipment Use Policy We provide earphone guides for your convenience during the tour. Please handle them with care and return them after use. In case of loss or damage, participants may be required to cover a replacement fee of up to 18,000 yen.

Take the hassle out of your vacation transportation with the Japan Rail Pass. Explore the whole country with just one ticket and ride the famous Shinkansen bullet train. Travel from Tokyo to Kyoto, Osaka to Hiroshima, and Hokkaido to Kyushu – Japan's your oyster with a 7, 14, or 21-day pass. Get your voucher mailed to your home or office address, then exchange this for your actual Japan Rail Pass at a major train station or international airport in Japan and start traveling. Use the free guide booklet to make the best of your Japan trip, thanks to insider tips and train details. Delivery this included in the price JP (¥2.500+ yen value). Travel as much as you like for 7, 14, or 21 consecutive days. The pass includes: • All Japan Rail Group Shinkansen bullet trains, except the Nozomi and Mizuho departures • All Japan Rail Group limited express, express, rapid, local, trains, and Bus Rapid Transit in Tohoku • Tokyo Monorail between Haneda airport and Hamamatsucho station (no service to Narita) • Aomori Railway services between Aomori and Hachinohe (some exceptions) • Ishikawa Railway services between Kanazawa and Tsubata (local, limited departures only) • Ainokaze Toyama Railway services between Toyama and Takaoka (local departures only) • All Japan Rail Bus local lines (some exceptions, no express services), including services from JR Hokkaido Bus, JR Bus Tohoku, JR Bus Kanto, JR Tokai Bus, West Japan JR Bus, Chugoku JR Bus, JR Shikoku Bus, and JR Kyushu Bus • JR-West ferry service between Miyajima and Miyajimaguchi (JR station near the pier with ferry services for Miyajima)

1. Departure from Hiroshima Station Your journey begins at Hiroshima Station, where you’ll board a comfortable bus. Relax and enjoy the scenic views of the city as your guide introduces the tour’s highlights. 2. Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Atomic Bomb Dome) The first stop is the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, also known as the Atomic Bomb Dome. The preserved dome stands as a powerful symbol of the city’s commitment to peace. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. 3. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Next, take a stroll through Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. The park, dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing, includes the Cenotaph for the A-bomb Victims and the Children's Peace Monument, commemorating Sadako Sasaki, a girl who died from radiation-induced leukemia. 4. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum You’ll have free time to explore the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which offers detailed exhibits about the atomic bombing and its aftermath. This is an opportunity to understand the emotional and historical impact of the event. 5. Travel to Miyajima Island by Ferry After the museum, we will board a ferry for Miyajima Island. The ferry ride offers breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea, with its calm waters and surrounding islands. 6. Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki Lunch (if selected) Arriving on Miyajima, enjoy a traditional Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki lunch. This savory pancake, made with layers of cabbage, pork, noodles, and egg, is a local specialty. It’s a delicious way to experience the unique flavors of Hiroshima. (Vegetarian Okonomiyaki abailable. Please request when you make a booking. No gluten free, No vegan option so please book with "No lunch" option.) 7. Visit to Itsukushima Shrine After lunch, visit Itsukushima Shrine, one of Japan’s most famous Shinto shrines. Known for its "floating" torii gate, which appears to stand in the sea at high tide, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a spiritual and cultural treasure. The serene beauty of the shrine, set against the backdrop of the island’s lush mountains, makes it one of Japan's most iconic landmarks. 8. Visit to Daishoin Temple Next, we’ll visit Daishoin Temple, a historic Buddhist temple on Mount Misen. The temple is famous for its beautiful gardens and numerous stone statues. Its peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect place for quiet reflection. From here, you’ll enjoy views of Miyajima and the Seto Inland Sea. 9. Free Time at Omotesando Street After visiting Daishoin, enjoy some free time to explore Omotesando Street, Miyajima’s main shopping area. The street is lined with shops selling local specialties and souvenirs. You can try local snacks or purchase unique items like hand-painted fans or maple-themed crafts. 10. Return to Hiroshima Station In the late afternoon, we will take the ferry back to the mainland and board the bus for the return journey to Hiroshima Station. Relax and reflect on the day’s experiences as we head back to the city.

Join us on a profound journey through Hiroshima to understand why the atomic bomb was dropped on this city. Our thematic tour covers three key sites: Gokoku Shrine, Hiroshima Castle, and the Peace Memorial Park. Each location provides unique insights into Hiroshima's military significance during World War II, the strategic reasons behind its selection as a target, and the devastating human and cultural consequences of the bombing. Explore the historical and military context at Gokoku Shrine and Hiroshima Castle, and then reflect on the tragic aftermath and the enduring call for peace at the Peace Memorial Park. This tour offers a comprehensive look into the events leading up to the bombing, fostering a deep appreciation for peace and reconciliation. Join us to explore the profound impacts and the ongoing legacy of one of the most pivotal events of the 20th century.

Meet your guide and head to your first stop amidst the vibrant cityscape, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a place that transcends time and emotion. This sacred sanctuary stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of humanity in the face of unimaginable adversity. Amid serene greenery and tranquil waters, find a solemn reminder of the past and a beacon of hope for the future. At the center, see the Atomic Bomb Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a witness to the devastating events of August 6, 1945, carrying a message of peace resounds stronger than ever. As you walk through the park’s winding paths, encounter the Cenotaph for the A-bomb Victims, where countless paper cranes symbolize the world’s collective wish for peace. Nearby, the eternal Flame of Peace burns brightly, a commitment to a world free from nuclear weapons. Also step into the poignant Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, a solemn tribute to the enduring spirit of hope and resilience. Gain profound insights into the tragic atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Continue to the Shinto Shrine of Itsukushima crafted with precision and devotion, standing on the very edge of the Seto Inland Sea. During high tide, the shrine appears to float on the water’s surface, as if suspended between the earthly and the divine. Then, behold Tenshinkaku, the “Pavilion of Heavenly Spirits,” is a serene retreat nestled in a peaceful setting. Marvel at Japanese architectural beauty with intricate wooden design and traditional tatami interiors, offering a glimpse into Japan’s rich heritage. Move onward to explore the serene nature and hills behind the shrine on Miyajima Island and gain a deeper appreciation for these environs. During your hour of free time before departure, walk through charming streets that will lead you to vibrant shops and stalls. Sample local delicacies like Momiji Manju, a maple-leaf-shaped cake with sweet or savory fillings. Discover hidden treasures, from quaint boutiques offering handcrafted souvenirs to tea houses where you can savor the flavors of Japan. Finally, gather at the ferry to return to central Hiroshima. Professional photo option Join us on a memorable journey with our expert guide-photographers, as we delve into the poignant history of Hiroshima at the Peace Memorial Park. Amidst the solemn atmosphere, our guides skillfully capture moments of reflection and reverence. Then, journey to Miyajima Island, where our guide-photographers transform your experience into timeless memories, expertly framing each moment. Join us for a tour that ensures every step is captured in stunning professional photos.

Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park to see the A-Bomb Dome, a memorial in the ruins of a building damaged by the atomic blast. Travel by ferry to Miyajima Island, the site of the Itsukushima Shinto Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a Japanese pancake or Okonomiyaki for lunch. Come to the meeting point and board the bus to depart from Hiroshima station. First, head to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park to visit the A-Bomb Dome, the ruin of a former building, which is now the Hiroshima Peace Memorial. Learn about the tragic effects of nuclear warfare and the importance of peace. Try an authentic Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki, or Japanese pancake, with pork, cabbage, bean sprout and noodles in Hiroshima city. Afterwards, take a ferry over to Miyajima Island, a small island in Hiroshima Bay. See the famous Itsukushima Shrine, a Shinto shrine, and a famous red gate which appears to float in the sea.

In Hiroshima City, there are many heritage sites in the suburbs in addition to the Peace Memorial Park, each with a story connected to the atomic bombing. While at the heritage site of the bombing, we will introduce you to the power of the atomic bomb and the situation at the time. 70 years after the war, the destroyed Hiroshima has been dramatically revitalized, and now you can see it full of greenery. You can get a real sense of it through your own eyes, and cycling is the best way to do that. With the guidance of our local staff, who grew up in the city, come and experience the real Hiroshima that you can't experience through photos and books. ＜About the route: 2h Course＞ [11:00 / 15:00] Meeting up [11:05 / 15:05] Peace Memorial Park What is the Peace Memorial Park? Learn about the memories contained in the monuments and the Atomic Bomb Dome and what happened 70 years ago. [12:00 / 16:00] Did you know that there is still a train running today that survived the atomic bombing, known as the A-Bombed Streetcars?The guide will show you the actual townscape of Hiroshima in the suburbs away from the touristic area. You will find beautiful Hiroshima vigorously revived from the tremendous damages by the atomic bombing while visiting numerous A-bomb heritage sites and listening to the episodes handed down in Hiroshima. [13:00 / 17:00] The tour finishes at the meeting point. ＜About the route: 3h Course＞ [10:00 / 14:00] Meeting up [10:05 / 14:05] Hiroshima Castle [10:25 / 14:25] Hiroshima Gokoku Shrine and Shrine Gate [10:40 / 14:40] Hiroshima Central Park [11:00 / 15:00] Aioi Bridge [11:10 / 15:10] Atomic Bomb Dome [11:25 / 15:25] Motoyasu River and the Peace Bridge [11:40 / 15:40] Higashisenda Park [12:00 / 16:00] Hiroshima Red Cross Hospital [12:20 / 16:20] Hiroshima Railway [12:30 / 16:30] Miyuki Bridge and Kobayashi River [12:40 / 16:40] Suriving Weeping Willow Tree [12:50 / 16:50] Peace Boulevard [13:00 / 17:00] The tour finishes at the meeting point. *This tour is an English guided tour. *It will be a mixed tour for up to 10 people. *As this is a shared tour, if there are guests in other groups who are not accustomed to cycling, especially children, we will adjust the pace accordingly. We appreciate your understanding. *You will be given data of the photos taken on the day. *The timetable may change depending on the situation on the day.

Upon arrival, your guide will take you on a tour through the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. Here, you will learn the horrors of the atomic bomb and how the people of Hiroshima coped with the tragedy. This will be a tour filled with hope, as the people of Hiroshima learned never to give up even in the darkest days. Feel the breeze as you go up to the Orizuru Tower's observatory area. Here you can get wide view of the city and feel the strength of the people of Hiroshima. The Orizuru (paper crane) is considered as a symbol of peace; learn how to make a paper crane and make a wish for peace.  After visiting Orizuru Tower, have lunch. Following, your guide will take you to see the Aorigi Tree, which brought hope after the atomic bomb. The final destination is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Atomic Bomb Dome. Learn more about Japanese life and feel the revival of the city.

※Please note that the duration of this tour has been changed from 7 hours to 8 hours, effective November 6th, 2024. If your reservation was made before November 6th, 2024, your tour will still be 7 hours and you will be charged for the 7 hour tour only. We kindly ask for your cooperation in reviewing the tour duration details in the confirmation email you received. Thank you for your understanding. Discover Hiroshima and Miyajima Island on a fully customizable private tour. Choose what you would like to experience, what time you would like to start your tour, and the local partner will arrange a tour to suit you. Start your day by meeting your guide at your hotel, then choose to sites you wish to visit depending on your interests. Example 8-hour Itinerary: Meet your guide at your hotel in Hiroshima and first visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. See the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, known today as the Atomic Bomb Dome, which was one of the very few buildings that survived the atomic bombing of Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. Today, the building serves as a memorial to the victims of the bombing, and as a symbol of international peace. Visit the onsite Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and learn more about the bombing. See poignant artifacts from the time of the atomic explosion on display, as well as various educational exhibits. Afterward, take the ferry to Miyajima island. Take a walking tour of the picturesque island and visit Itsukushima Shrine. This shrine is famous for the mysterious floating red torii gate that stands in the middle of the sea.

Explore Hiroshima and Miyajima Island with a fully customizable private tour tailored to your preferences. You can choose your experiences and start time, allowing our local partner to create the perfect itinerary for you. Begin your day by meeting your guide at your hotel and select the sites you'd like to visit based on your interests. **Example 4-7-Hour Itinerary:** Start your adventure by meeting your guide at your hotel in Hiroshima and head to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Here, you'll find the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, now known as the Atomic Bomb Dome, one of the few buildings that survived the devastating atomic bombing on August 6, 1945. This site now serves as a memorial for the victims and a symbol of global peace. Next, visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum to gain a deeper understanding of the bombing. The museum features poignant artifacts from the time of the explosion and offers various educational exhibits that provide insight into this significant event. Afterward, take a scenic ferry ride to Miyajima Island. Enjoy a walking tour of this picturesque island and visit the famous Itsukushima Shrine, renowned for its iconic floating red torii gate that appears to rise from the sea.