Hiroshima, the largest city in western Honshu, Japan, is a must-visit destination for travelers. The city has a deep and tragic history, as it was the target of the first atomic bomb in world history during World War II. Today, Hiroshima is a symbol of peace, and it has several monuments and parks that commemorate the victims of the bombing. One of the most important of these parks is the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. In this guide, we will explore the park, including two outdoor activities, two must-see places, and one unusual tip for travelers.
Outdoor activities
Hiroshima is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, and there are several outdoor activities that visitors can enjoy. From hiking to kayaking, these activities offer a unique perspective on the city and its surroundings.
Rent a Bicycle and Explore the Park
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a large and sprawling park that covers over 120,000 square meters. While walking around the park is a great way to see everything, renting a bicycle can make your visit even more enjoyable. You can rent a bicycle for around 1000 yen (about $10 USD) per day at several locations around the park. With a bicycle, you can see more of the park and cover more ground than you could on foot. You can also take advantage of the many bike paths and trails that run through the park.
Take a Boat Ride
The Ota River flows through the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, and taking a boat ride on the river is a unique way to see the park. The boat ride takes about 30 minutes, and it offers a different perspective on the park and the monuments. You can also see the famous A-Bomb Dome from the river, which is a sight you won’t forget. The boat ride costs around 2000 yen (about $20 USD) per person, and it is available from March to November.
Must See Places
Hiroshima is a city rich in history and culture, and there are several must-see places that visitors should not miss. From the beautiful Shukkeien Garden to the Mazda Museum, these places offer a glimpse into the city's past and present.
The A-Bomb Dome
The A-Bomb Dome is probably the most famous monument in Hiroshima. The dome is the ruins of the former Industrial Promotion Hall, which was destroyed by the atomic bomb on August 6, 1945. The dome was preserved as a reminder of the bombing, and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can visit the dome for free, and it is open every day from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm (5:00 pm from November to February).
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is another must-see place in Hiroshima. The museum tells the story of the atomic bombing and its aftermath, and it has several exhibits that are both informative and heartbreaking. Some of the exhibits include artifacts from the bombing, such as clothing and personal belongings of the victims. The museum is open every day from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (4:30 pm from November to February), and the admission fee is 200 yen (about $2 USD).
Unusual Tip
Hiroshima is full of surprises, and there are several unusual tips that visitors can take advantage of to make their trip more memorable. From a hidden bar to a traditional bathhouse, these tips offer a unique and authentic experience of the city.
​​Visit the Hiroshima City Manga Library
If you are a fan of manga, you should definitely visit the Hiroshima City Manga Library. The library has a huge collection of manga, including rare and out-of-print titles. You can read manga for free at the library, and the library also has several events and activities for manga fans. The library is open every day except Mondays and national holidays, and the admission is free.
Hidden Wonders
For travelers looking for off-the-beaten-path destinations, Atlas Obscura is a great resource. Hiroshima has several fascinating and unusual attractions that are featured on Atlas Obscura, including a museum dedicated to Mazda cars and a beautiful traditional Japanese garden.
Shukkeien Garden
Shukkeien Garden is a beautiful traditional Japanese garden located in the heart of Hiroshima. The garden dates back to the 17th century, and it features several ponds, streams, and tea houses. The garden is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city, and it is a great place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of modern life.Â
Mazda Museum
The Mazda Museum is a must-visit destination for car enthusiasts. The museum tells the story of Mazda, one of Japan’s most iconic car brands, and it has several exhibits that showcase Mazda’s history and technological innovations. Some of the highlights of the museum include a collection of vintage Mazda cars, interactive exhibits that let you experience Mazda’s technology firsthand, and a factory tour that shows you how Mazda cars are made. The museum is open every day except Tuesdays and the New Year holidays, and the admission is free.
Accommodation Suggestions
Finding the right accommodation is an important part of any trip. Hiroshima offers a range of options for travelers, from affordable guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Whether you're on a budget or looking for a unique experience, there's something for everyone in Hiroshima's accommodation options.
Budget:
Guesthouse Roku is a cozy and affordable guesthouse located in the heart of Hiroshima. The guesthouse offers both dormitory-style and private rooms, and it has several common areas where guests can relax and socialize. The guesthouse is located within walking distance of several attractions, including the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the A-Bomb Dome.
Mid-range:
The Hiroshima Washington Hotel is a comfortable and convenient hotel located in the center of Hiroshima. The hotel offers several types of rooms, including single, double, and twin rooms, and it has several amenities, including a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness center. The hotel is located within walking distance of several attractions, including the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Hiroshima Castle.
Luxury:
The Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel is a luxurious and elegant hotel located in the heart of Hiroshima. The hotel offers several types of rooms, including deluxe rooms, suites, and club rooms, and it has several amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and several restaurants and bars. The hotel is located within walking distance of several attractions, including the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Hiroshima Castle.Â
Unique:
The Hiroshima Kokusai Hotel is a unique and quirky hotel located in the center of Hiroshima. The hotel is decorated with a variety of unusual and eclectic objects, including antique furniture, artwork, and taxidermy animals. The hotel offers several types of rooms, including single, double, and twin rooms, and it has several amenities, including a restaurant, a bar, and a coffee shop. The hotel is located within walking distance of several attractions, including the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the A-Bomb Dome.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a must-visit destination for travelers to Japan. The park has a rich history and several monuments that commemorate the victims of the atomic bombing. In this guide, we explored two outdoor activities, two must-see places, and one unusual tip for travelers. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or just want to experience something unique, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park has something for everyone.
