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Hiroshima and Miyajima

Japan

Why Hiroshima?

An important city with historic and cultural significance

Hiroshima is situated at the centre of the Chugoku region in western Honshu, Japan's main island. Linked by the Shinkansen bullet train, this modern city was rebuilt post second World War when most of the city was destroyed by an atomic bomb in 1945. Here you will find the Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome), a symbol of world peace. Adjacent to the Genbaku Dome, which has been inscribed as a World Cultural Heritage Site, is the Peace Memorial Park, dedicated to the legacy of Hiroshima. The Itsuku-shima-jinja Shrine, also a World Cultural Heritage Site, is located on nearby Miyajima Island, is considered to be one of the three most beautiful sights in Japan. Its symbol is the “floating” Great Torii Gate that stands in the sea. Miyajima is a pretty island with a relaxed atmosphere, small enough to easily explore by foot.

NOTE: Please note that the Itsukushima Shrine (Torii Gate ) is currently undergoing renovation work and may be covered by scaffolding until summer 2020.

atomic bomb dome peace park hiroshima japan

Hiroshima Highlights

Here we have selected a few of the sights and experiences that you really should see on a visit to Hiroshima and Miyajima.

Hiroshima and Miyajima

Peace Memorial Park

The Peace Memorial Park is a large, leafy space, bordered by rivers, crisscrossed by walkways and dotted with memorials and tranquil spaces for reflection. Its central feature is the long tree-lined Pond of Peace leading to the cenotaph. The monument holds the names of all the known victims of the bomb. Also at the pond is the Flame of Peace, set to burn on until all the world's nuclear weapons are destroyed.

Hiroshima and Miyajima

Itsukushima-jinja

With origins as far back as the late 6th century, Itsukushima-jinja gives Miyajima its name. The shrine's pier-like construction is a result of the island's sacred status, as commoners were not allowed to set foot on the island and had to approach by boat through the torii gate in the bay.

NOTE: Please note that the Itsukushima Shrine (Torii Gate ) is currently undergoing renovation work and may be covered by scaffolding until summer 2020.

Hiroshima and Miyajima

Atomic Bomb Dome

Perhaps the starkest reminder of the destruction visited upon Hiroshima in the Second World War is the Atomic Bomb Dome. Built by a Czech architect in 1915, it was the Industrial Promotion Hall until the bomb exploded almost directly above it. Everyone inside was killed, but the building was one of very few left standing near the epicentre. A decision was taken after the war to preserve the shell as a memorial.

Hiroshima and Miyajima

Mazda Zoom Zoom Stadium

This stadium is a good place to catch a baseball game and see the beloved local team, the Carp. A love of baseball is not a prerequisite for having a great time, it's fun just watching the enthusiastic crowd, especially when the despised Yomiuri (Tokyo) Giants come to town.

A selection of tours to Hiroshima and Miyajima

  • Best Value Japan new Flash other
    Japan Group Tour Value

    Private: Best Value Japan

    An 11 day tour staying in Best Value Japanese hostel accommodation, whilst exploring the country's main sights

    View this package
  • Discover Japan by Rail new flash other
    Japan Group Tour Rail

    Discover Japan by Rail

    A tour discovering this fascinating country's main attractions using iconic bullet trains

    View this package
  • Cherry Blossom update flash other
    Japan Group Tour Nature

    Cherry Blossom Tour

    A 13 day tour that explores the very best of Japan’s culture and nature, during the popular cherry blossom season.

    View this package
  • Essential Japan update flash other
    Japan Group Tour City

    Essential Japan

    The Essential Japan tour is perfect for the first time traveller to Japan.

    View this package
  • South Korea Martial Arts
    Japan Group Tour Food

    Essential Japan and South Korea

    A perfect trip for the first time traveller to these two intriguing countries.

    View this package
  • Geisha temple Kyoto japan
    Japan Semi-Escorted Culture

    Japan Heritage

    Explore Japan’s classic sights, starting in the exciting capital city of Tokyo, famous for its fresh sushi.

    View this package
  • Lake Ashi hakone japan
    Japan Semi-Escorted Family

    Japan Family Tour

    Explore the history and culture of this amazing country, with fun-filled excursions for all the family.

    View this package
  • frost snow monkeys pool yudanaka japan
    Japan Semi-Escorted Nature

    Great Trail of Japan

    Journey through Japan, taking in some of the most picturesque locations.

    View this package
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