Hiroshima

Tours

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.

Head out of 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. Our staff will give you your round-trip Shinkansen tickets at the meeting point. 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 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)

Join us for an inspiring peace walking tour at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Our passionate guides, from diverse educational and cultural backgrounds, hold Masters and PhD degrees in fields such as Tourism, Anthropology, History, Peace Studies, and more. With years of experience living in Hiroshima, they offer unique perspectives on the city's history. Their immersion in local culture and history provides deep insights into the atomic bombing that changed history forever. Discover what Hiroshima was like before the tragedy, why it was selected as the primary target, and how it rose from the ashes to become a symbol of peace. If you're curious about these profound questions and more, join our tour and let us illuminate the journey of Hiroshima together. Follow your guide as you explore the details of that fateful day in August 1945 and learn about the bombing that forever changed the lives of the survivors. Next, head outdoors to visit the Peace Memorial Park, a space dedicated to the victims of the nuclear attack, both direct and indirect. Listen to the stories behind landmarks, statues, and squares, and discover important symbols hidden in plain sight. During the tour, you will visit both famous and hidden monuments within Hiroshima Peace Park, where our professional guides will not only share the history behind these monuments but also connect them to the stories and testimonies of Atomic Bomb victims, tying the history together. The tour will begin at the Peace Gates and then proceed to other significant monuments, such as Mother and Baby in the Storm, Dr. Marcel Junod Memorial Monument, Norman Cousins Monument, Peace Watch, Peace Cenotaph for Atomic Bomb Victims, Flame of Peace, Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for Atomic Bomb Victims, Hiroshima Peace Park Rest House, Children's Monument, Peace Bell, and the Hypocenter of the Atomic Bomb. Finally, visit the Atomic Bomb Dome, the only structure that survived the blast. Today, this ruin stands as a memorial to those killed in the bombing. Leave your tour with a deeper understanding of the events of August 6, 1945, how the bombing affected Hiroshima, and its impact on present-day life in the city.

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. For those who plan to use the Shinkansen for the return or next trip, we recommend booking a schedule after 18:30. 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.

Kyudo is a Japanese martial art which consists of shooting at a target with a Japanese bow so as to achieve complete focus in the mind and body. The main difference between kyudo and western archery is that in kyudo every movement follows a traditional routine which pays respect to the equipment and to the opponent. Just a fifteen-minute walk from the Atomic Bomb Dome, this activity allows you to enjoy a genuine Japanese archery experience while in Hiroshima.  Upon arrival to the archery range, get kitted out in an authentic kyudo uniform, including dogi upper-wear and hakama lower-wear. Listen to a brief explanation of the art of kyudo and to instructions and demonstrations throughout the experience. With the knowledge and skills picked up, shoot at the target with the arrows, along the way gaining an understanding of the fun and challenging aspects of the sport, particularly those arising from wearing the traditional hakama and armor.  Typically in kyudo, you're not allowed to pull the arrow until you master the basics, but during this experience, you'll have the chance to enjoy the real sport even as a complete beginner. It's a bit difficult to hit the target at first, which makes it that much more exciting when you finally do. Hitting the target is also believed to bring good luck and make your wishes come true, even in the mini-sized kyudo ground you'll be shooting in.

Embark on a memorable adventure to two of Japan’s most iconic locations: Hiroshima and Miyajima Island. This tour offers the perfect mix of history, culture, and stunning scenery for an enriching experience. Your journey starts in Hiroshima, where you’ll visit the Peace Memorial Park, a place of profound historical importance. Here, you’ll encounter the Peace Memorial, the Atomic Bomb Dome, and other monuments dedicated to the victims of the 1945 bombing. As you walk through this poignant area, you’ll have the opportunity to reflect on the significance of peace and the strength of the Japanese people. Next, you’ll travel to the coast and board a ferry to the picturesque Miyajima Island. Renowned for its peaceful ambiance and awe-inspiring natural beauty, the island is home to the UNESCO-listed Itsukushima Shrine. Its iconic floating torii gate, which rises majestically from the water during high tide, is one of Japan’s most famous landmarks and makes for a perfect photo opportunity. While exploring the island, you’ll stroll along charming streets, visit ancient temples, and sample local specialties, including Miyajima’s famous oysters and momiji manju, delicious maple leaf-shaped pastries. You’ll also encounter the friendly deer that roam freely around the island, adding a whimsical touch to your visit. After a day of history, nature, and cultural exploration, you’ll board the ferry back to Hiroshima, with unforgettable memories of two of Japan’s most captivating destinations.

Join an expert-led walking tour, guided by a PhD scholar, to explore Hiroshima’s rich history, cultural heritage, and the impact of the atomic bombing. This immersive experience covers key landmarks, personal stories, and the city's inspiring journey toward peace and reconstruction. Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park to discover the heart of Hiroshima’s peace movement. See the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Atomic Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome). Pay tribute to the lives lost in 1945 at the Cenotaph for A-bomb Victims and the Flame of Peace. Gain deep insights through exhibits, artifacts, and survivor testimonies at the Peace Memorial Museum. Learn the story of Sadako Sasaki and the thousand paper cranes at the Children’s Peace Monument. Ring the bell as a symbol of hope and world peace at the Peace Bell. Understand the city's remarkable recovery and modernization after the war. Explore Hiroshima’s traditions, food, and contemporary landmarks.