Solo Hiroshima Itinerary: Best things to do in Hiroshima in 2 days

Hiroshima is the capital city of Hiroshima Prefecture and the largest city in western Honshu, Japan’s main island. Most people know Hiroshima because of its dark past. But Hiroshima is more than that. The city is lively, and has fantastic local cuisine and friendly people. It is a wonderful city to visit while you are in Japan.

However, I will admit that the mood felt sombre touring around the Peace Memorial Park. It is a little sad to see half-destroyed buildings and photos of Hiroshima after the Second World War.

But I was also reminded of how great Japanese people are. No matter where I travel to Japan, I am always in contact with someone friendly, gentle and open. The hospitality in Japan is one of the best in the world. Even though there was a dark past, they bounced back and rebuilt their city and country. And they do it with such grace and courage.

If you are travelling solo in Japan, follow my solo Hiroshima itinerary and see all the best things to do in Hiroshima in 2 days in the “City of Peace”.

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What you need to know before planning your Hiroshima itinerary

Before you travel solo to Hiroshima, take a look at my post on everything you need to know before going to Japan. I included information, including how to get around Japan and other travel tips.

Here are additional travel tips that you may find useful for spending 2 days in Hiroshima:

• ICOCA is the prepaid IC card for Hiroshima Prefecture. It is a rechargeable smartcard where you can take public transportation, including trains, streetcars, etc. It is helpful to have, especially when you take the streetcar in Hiroshima and take a day trip to Miyajima.
• You can comfortably see everything in 2 days in Hiroshima
• Walking is the best way to see Hiroshima.
• But certain attractions are a bit far. Take the convenient streetcar and travel around Hiroshima.
• The streetcar costs a flat rate of ¥180 within the inner city and ¥280 beyond the city. Grab a streetcar map from any of the tourist information sites. It will show you all the stops.

How to travel to Hiroshima Japan

Air

Hiroshima Airport is located 50km east of Hiroshima. Many domestic and international flights (Seoul, Hong Kong, Taipei and Shanghai) fly into Hiroshima Airport.

Train

If you take Japan Railway, you may come from cities east of Hiroshima like Osaka, Okayama, etc. or cities west of Hiroshima like Fukuoka.

Depending on the distance, taking the Shinkansen (bullet train) might be best, so you can spend less time in transit and enjoy Hiroshima a bit more. Check Hyperdia for schedules and fares. Here are a few sample routes:

Hiroshima 2 day itinerary: best things to do in Hiroshima Japan

When someone mentions Hiroshima, you immediately think of the atomic bomb, World War II, etc. And yes, many tourists visiting Hiroshima want to see how the devastating day has shaped the city and how the beautiful city of Hiroshima rebuilt itself.

Besides all the Peace Memorial-related sites, there are plenty of other things to see in Hiroshima that show how the city rebuilt itself. There is so much beauty in the city, preserving the past and yet building a bright future.

Every attraction mentioned on this blog is pinned on the interactive map. Follow the sequence of the pins and find more information about each attraction by clicking on the individual pin.

Hiroshima Itinerary Day 1 (orange pins)

1. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Hiroshima was the first city to be attacked by the atomic bomb. And today, Hiroshima has emerged as a “City of Peace.”

And one of the top things to do in Hiroshima is to visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. The centrally located park is dedicated to Hiroshima’s legacy of surviving the atomic bomb, to commemorate those who were affected and to remember peace. The park has numerous monuments, memorials and museums attracting millions of visitors annually.

2. Children’s Peace Monument

The Children’s Peace Monument is dedicated to Sadako Sasaki, a little girl exposed to atomic bomb radiation at the age of two and later developed leukemia. The statue was created with the help of students from 3,100 schools in Japan and various countries.

Today, thousands of paper cranes have been donated to the memorial. Hence, the Children’s Peace Monument is nicknamed the Tower of a Thousand Cranes.

3. Flame of Peace

The structure of Flame of Peace resembles two hands spreading towards the sky where the wrists are put together. And in the middle is the eternal flame. The flame was first lit on August 1, 1964, and continues to burn. The idea is that the flame will continue to burn until all the nuclear bombs have disappeared from humanity.

4. Cenotaph for the A-bomb Victims

The Memorial Cenotaph is an arch-shaped structure where the arch’s opening is designed so that when you stand on the west side of the structure, you can see both Flame of Peace and Atomic Bomb Dome at the same time. Kenzo Tange, a Pritzker Prize-winning architect, designed the beautiful cenotaph.

Furthermore, the centre of the arch is a tombstone with the names of all the atomic bomb victims. New names will be added to the central stone vault whenever they are discovered.

5. Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims

The Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall is dedicated to all atomic bomb victims and is a place to think about peace. Photographs and names of 140,000 people who died on August 6, 1945, are in the database. Admission is free.

6. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum was built to document the bombing of Hiroshima, to stop the use of nuclear weapons and to promote world peace. For a small fee of ¥200, you can tour the East Building and see photographs and displays on Hiroshima, Second World War and everything related to the fateful day. Also, you can learn about atomic bombs through interactive exhibits, the effect of radiation on people’s lives, and see displays of the artifacts that were left behind.

7. Atomic Bomb Dome

On August 6, 1945, the atomic bomb attack on Hiroshima destroyed almost everything within the two-km radius of the Hypocentre. A building very close to the centre of the blast was severely damaged. Still, for some unexplainable reasons, the majority of the structure of the building remained, even though the Hypocentre was only 160 metres away.

Today, the famous building is called the Atomic Bomb Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

8. Hiroshima Museum of Art

Besides seeing all the Hiroshima attractions related to WWII, there are other highlights in Hiroshima that are not to be missed. And one of them is the Hiroshima Museum of Art.

The beautiful museum is built in Central Park, in the heart of Hiroshima, where the main gallery spaces contain modern European artwork (Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec, Matisse, Chagall, Picasso, Modigliani, etc.), and the Annex gallery showcases contemporary Japanese artwork from the Meiji Period to the present day.

Once in the museum, you can log into the museum guidance on your smartphone, which explains most of the artwork. First, you must log into the museum’s wifi; then, the guidance will display automatically.

The entrance fee is ¥1,400, and the museum guidance is free.

9. Hiroshima Castle

Hiroshima Castle was first constructed in 1589. But the central tower was severely destroyed during the bombing of Hiroshima. However, the castle was restored and designated National Treasure in 1931. Today, the castle is a history museum featuring the culture of the Samurai.

Hiroshima Itinerary Day 2 (purple pins)

1. Mitaki-dera

Named after the three waterfalls in Mount Mitaki, the Mitaki-dera dates back to 809 and is a true hidden gem. The temple used to be in Wakayama until it was moved to Hiroshima. It is said that the temple is used to comfort the souls of those affected by the atomic bomb. Luckily because the temple is buried in the valley, it was not damaged by the atomic bomb.

Look for the beautiful pagoda, numerous stone guardian statues, waterfalls and a couple of hiking trails up the mountain.

And if you visit during the fall, the temple is especially pretty because of the bright red autumn leaves. 

Mitaki-dera has a peaceful atmosphere and is an excellent place for spending a few hours exploring.

The easiest way to get there is by taking the train from Hiroshima Station to Mitaki Station on the JR Kabe Line (8 minutes,¥190). Then walk 13 minutes to Mitaki-dera.

2. Shukkeien Garden

Built around the same time as Hiroshima Castle, Shukkeien Garden served as a villa during the Meiji Period but suffered extensive damage from the atomic bomb. Since 1940, the garden has been reconstructed and is open to the public.

For ¥260, visit the Japanese garden and follow the path as it takes you to various spots around the garden, including different miniature gardens. The beautiful Koko-kyo Bridge is worth seeing. It is placed in the centre of the pond with a picturesque background.

While you are at Shukkeien Garden, visit one of the teahouses to see the traditional Japanese tea room and have green tea.

And if you are in Hiroshima in spring, you must visit Shukkeien Garden because it is one of the best spots for cherry blossom viewing.

3. Hiroshima Prefectural Art Museum

For an entrance fee of ¥510, you can see over 4,000 pieces in the permanent Hiroshima Prefectural Art Museum collection. The collection includes artworks associated with Hiroshima, Japanese and Asian art. The museum also holds special exhibits throughout the year, including Western art. Check their website for the latest exhibitions.

4. Hondori Shopping Street

I’m not a huge fan of shopping, but the Hondori Shopping Street is worth visiting.

In part of downtown Hiroshima, you will find all the retail stores lining both sides of the covered pedestrian arcade. And if you venture off the side streets, you will find department stores, cute cafes, and local restaurants serving ramen and okonomiyaki.

Hondori Shopping Street has many souvenir shops, so pick up some souvenirs before you leave Hiroshima.

5. Hiroshima Orizuru Tower

Named after the folded paper crane, the Hiroshima Orizuru Tower offers a different view of Hiroshima. The observatory level is a modern wood deck called “Hiroshima Hill.”

For ¥1,700, you can enjoy the contemporary observatory space and take in the panoramic view of Hiroshima, including the entire Peace Memorial Park and Mount Misen of Miyajima.

Hopefully, you can watch the sunset on the wooden deck. It is a must-see in Hiroshima!

Other things to do if you are staying more than 2 days in Hiroshima

Hiroshima is an excellent hub for day trips to different cities in western Japan.

With its close vicinity to Miyajima Island, taking a day trip to Miyajima is easy peasy. Moreover, if you have a JR Pass, you can take day trips to Iwakuni, Onomichi City and even cycle on Japan’s best bikeway, Shimanami Kaido.

1. Miyajima

One of the best things to do in Hiroshima is take a day trip to Miyajima. Also known as Itsukushima, the small island less than an hour away from Hiroshima. It is famous for Itsukushima Floating Torii Gate, which appears floating on water and the Itsukushima Shrine surrounding the Torii gate.

Plus, you can follow the hiking trails, take the ropeway up Mount Misen and enjoy the view from up top at the Shishi-iwa Observatory. On your way down, visit Daishoin Temple to see the numerous Buddha statues. Some of them are quite whimsical.

How to get to Miyajima: take the train on JR San-yo Line from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station (27 minutes,¥410). Walk a few minutes towards the harbour, and you will see two ferries for Miyajima. A one-way ferry ticket is ¥180, the same for both ferries.

2. Iwakuni

A fantastic day trip to Iwakuni includes visiting the picturesque Kintai-kyo Bridge over the Nishiki River. The typhoon damaged the wooden five-arch bridge and was not maintained well. However, extensive renovation in the early 2000s re-established the bridge’s beauty.

After crossing the bridge, take your time and wander through Kikko Park. It is an excellent spot for cherry blossom viewing in the spring. And visit Iwakuni Art Museum, which is not very far from Kikko Park. And before you leave Iwakuni, visit Iwakuni Castle to see the reconstructed castle, the view of the city, and the display of samurai swords and armour.

How to get to Iwakuni: take the train on the JR San-yo Line from Hiroshima Station to Iwakuni Station. From Iwakuni Station, change trains and hop on the train on JR Gantoku Line to Kawanishi (Yamaguchi) Station (65 minutes, ¥860).

3. Onomichi

Onomichi City is a small quaint port town 40km east of Hiroshima. Known for temples, cats and cycling, the hilly city has many attractions, including Onomichi Temple Walk, Cat Alley and several museums. The city is particularly pretty during cherry blossom season as Senko-ji Park is covered with pink flowers.

How to get to Onomichi: take the Shinkansen from Hiroshima Station to Mihara Station (31 minutes, ¥3,630) and change to JR Sanyo Line to Onomichi Station (13 minutes, ¥240).

4. Shimanami Kaido

If you are a bike enthusiast, you must rent a bike and cycle Shimanami Kaido, Japan’s most famous bikeway. The 70km marked bike route starts from Onomichi on the main island, crosses over six islands in the Seto Inland Sea and ends in Imabari on Shikoku Island.

It is possible to bike Shimanami Kaido in one day and see the best highlights along the bike route, including Kosanji Temple and the Instagram-worthy spot, Miraishin no Oka.

How to get to Shimanai Kaido: go to Onomichi City first. Once you arrive at Onomichi Station, walk five minutes to the harbour, rent a bicycle, and off you go! Start your bike journey before 8am so you have a full day on the bike path.

Two days in Hiroshima: where to stay

Budget accommodations are just outside the city centre and along the streetcar lines, whereas mid-range options are abundant and centrally located. However, there aren’t too many high-end options available in Hiroshima. But if you want to splurge, Miyajima has some high-end, authentic ryokans.

If you are following my 2 day Hiroshima itinerary, stay at one of these centrally located hotels to maximize your time seeing the city and less time travelling around.

• Candeo Hotels Hiroshima Hatchobori ($$) – A brand new hotel with clean and modern interiors. The centrally-located hotel has indoor and outdoor Japanese hot springs and laundry facilities. The single room is spacious, and it even has a desk for those who work on the road.
  • Check prices & reviews: Agoda
• Hiroshima Tokyu REI Hotel ($$) -The 3-star hotel has comfortable modern rooms. There are laundry facilities in this centrally-located hotel.
  • Check prices & reviews: Agoda
• Hiroshima Washington Hotel ($$) – The 3.5-star hotel has clean, standard rooms. Close to the city centre and the shopping street.
  • Check prices & reviews: Agoda

What to eat in Hiroshima

From comfort food like Hiroshima-style ramen and Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki to gourmet cuisine that features seafood from the Seto Inland Sea, you will find everything you want to satisfy your taste buds. Plus, eating in Hiroshima is not expensive at all!

While you are dining solo in Hiroshima, try some of these local specialties:

• Hiroshima okonomiyaki – similar to Osaka’s okonomiyaki, the one in Hiroshima starts with a thin crepe base. Add cabbage, bean sprouts, a few slices of pork, soba noodles, fried egg, and okonomiyaki sauce, and top with dried seaweed flakes.
• Hiroshima-style ramen – shoyu-tonkotsu ramen features thin, straight noodles and is served in a milky pork bone and soy sauce-based broth.
• Hiroshima Tsukemen – ramen noodles dipped in a concentrated soup is popular in Hiroshima. Also known locally as reimen, the bowl of ramen noodles is topped with cooked cabbage and charsiu pork and served with an extra-spicy dipping sauce.
• Shiru-Nashi Tantanmen – another Hiroshima-style ramen, but this one is very spicy. The ramen comes with minced meat, spring onions, onsen egg and cabbage, and you mix all the ingredients in the thick spicy broth at the bottom of the bowl.
• Oysters – the Hiroshima region produces two-thirds of the oysters in Japan! The big and juicy oysters can be eaten raw, in the hot pot and may be added to okonomiyaki.
• Anago – grilled conger eel smoked over a charcoal grill served over rice called angao-meshi is a favourite in Hiroshima!
• Lemon – a lot of desserts and treats are infused with locally grown lemon
• Momiji Manju – a small cake shaped in a Japanese maple leaf with akuzi (red bean paste) inside
• Sake – Hiroshima is a sake region with clear streams and fertile soil. The local rice is excellent for making sake!

Where to eat in Hiroshima

Food is relatively cheap in Hiroshima, and many local specialties are in budget restaurants. Check out some of these affordable restaurants:

• Okonomiyaki Yocchan ($) – the second floor at Hiroshima Station has the best Okonomiyaki restaurants. Locals love coming here, and the price is low. I had one of the best okonomiyaki with udon noodles for ¥760 only!
• Hassei ($) – another great place for Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. The cozy little restaurant serves inexpensive okonomiyaki.
• Okonomimura ($) – the entire building is dedicated to Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki! The selection is quite good and not too expensive. Some restaurants have English menus.
• Bakudanya ($) – try their Hiroshima Tsukemen (ramen with dipping sauce) for just ¥700. Pick between cold or warm noodles and choose your level of spiciness. There are other branches in Hiroshima, like the popular location near the Shinkansen exit of JR Hiroshima Station.
• Okkundou Mazemen ($)- get a bowl of cold or warm ramen noodles in this tiny restaurant. Add any additional charsiu pork or cheese and choose your level of spiciness!
• Kunimatsu ($) – try their spicy soupless tantanmen for less than ¥600! This restaurant is very popular!
• Ekohiki ($$) – a restaurant specializing in Hiroshima favourites, including oysters. I had grilled oysters, fried gansu (Hiroshima deep-fried fish paste), rice made with tea and topped with eel and tempura oysters. And I washed them all down with a local Kirei sake. This restaurant is considered to be one of the best restaurants in Hiroshima!
• Akushu Cafe ($$) – the cafe serves okonomiyaki stick, okonomiyaki donburi, and Hiroshima burger. Try their Setouchi lemon sorbet!

Hiroshima 2 day itinerary conclusion

I hope you find my Hiroshima solo guide helpful in planning your own Hiroshima itinerary. Japan is a wonderful country and has so much to see! And Hiroshima is not to be missed!

If you have any other questions about Hiroshima, leave me a comment below.

Thank you for reading my Hiroshima itinerary

You might also like these other posts on solo travel in Japan:

Introduction to Japan

• Solo Travel to Japan: 17 best cities for solo travellers
• Things I wish I knew before going to Japan
• 11 Off-the-beaten-path places in Japan
• Japanese Food Culture: 11 must-try food
• One month in Japan: from Tokyo to Hiroshima

Kansai region

• Kyoto 2-day itinerary
• Uji day trip from Kyoto
• Nara day trip from Kyoto or Osaka
• 2-day Osaka itinerary
• Osaka to Kobe day trip: 1-day itinerary
• Himeji day trip from Osaka

Chugoku region

• Naoshima Art Island: 1-day itinerary
• How to spend one day on Teshima Island
• 17 Best things to do in Kurashiki Japan
• 13 Top things to do in Onomichi Japan
• Shimanami Kaido: how to spend one day cycling Japan’s best bike route
• Day trip to Miyajima from Hiroshima

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