Hiroshima’s streets are clean, and one may come across a silent procession of people carrying placards of peace messages, at any corner of the city. Alternatively, one may like to focus on the rather positive reminders of resilience - an Izakaya serving beer to rugby fans, a teenage girl singing romantic songs in a busking setup, tourists chattering along the shops with glowing facades. The shinkansen ride to Hiroshima felt like stepping into a poignant chapter of history, after facing battering typhoons on my 15 day long maiden trip to the land of the rising sun. But the city greeted me with an unexpected warmth and energy. Hiroshima is a symbol of humanity’s capacity to rebuild and forgive—a place where history and hope coexist. My journey here was not just about visiting the sites that tell tales of its tragic past but also about experiencing the unexpected vibrance of life itself, that makes Hiroshima a unique travel destination today.
Walking into Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was like entering a sanctuary of remembrance. The Atomic Bomb Dome stood silently, its skeletal structure a stark reminder of the devastation of August 6, 1945. I felt a wave of sorrow, imagining the lives lost and the pain endured. Yet, amidst the sadness, the park radiates an air of resilience, with memorials and monuments dedicated to peace.
Visiting the Children’s Peace Monument is another deeply moving experience. The colourful paper cranes folded by children around the world symbolize hope and healing, I added one to the glass box as well. Nearby, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum offers a somber but essential narrative of the bombing’s aftermath. The exhibits, featuring personal belongings, photographs, and survivor testimonies, leaves an indelible mark on the soul—a sobering reminder of the importance of peace.
A short train journey followed by a ferry ride from the city transported me to Miyajima Island, a destination that feels like stepping into a Japanese fairy tale. The iconic “floating” Torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine greeted me as I approached. The shrine’s vermillion gates, set against the shimmering Seto Inland Sea, were breathtaking.
Exploring the island, I hiked up Mount Misen, passing through lush forests and enjoying panoramic views of the sea and surrounding islands. The climb was invigorating, and at the summit, I felt a deep sense of tranquility—a stark contrast to the heaviness of the morning. On my way back, I strolled through Omotesando Street, where I sampled freshly grilled oysters and momiji manju, maple leaf-shaped cakes filled with sweet bean paste.
The island’s deer, considered sacred, roamed freely, adding a whimsical touch to the experience. They were curious and playful, occasionally nudging visitors for a treat. Miyajima’s beauty and serenity left me spellbound; it’s a place where nature and spirituality harmonize perfectly.
For a more immersive cultural experience, I hiked the Futabanosato Temple Trail, a serene route that connects several historic temples in Hiroshima’s outskirts. The trail meanders through quiet neighbourhoods and lush greenery, offering moments of reflection and a deeper appreciation of the region’s spiritual heritage. Each temple along the way has its unique charm, from ancient wooden architecture to peaceful gardens, making it a rewarding journey for both the mind and body. Adding the hike through a tunnel of red shrine gates to the Peace Pagoda at Mt. Futaba’s summit introduces an extra challenge, with the effort rewarded by breathtaking panoramic views.
Hiroshima stands tall as a testament to human resilience and the pursuit of peace. The city’s ability to rise from the ashes and embrace its past while moving forward is inspiring. From the solemnity of the Peace Memorial Park to the enchanting beauty of Miyajima Island, Hiroshima offers a journey of contrasts—one that stirs the soul and soothes the spirit.
As my train departed, a profound sense of gratitude washed over - for the experiences I had embraced and the lessons the city had so graciously shared. Hiroshima’s story is not just about tragedy at all! It is about hope, strength, and the unyielding desire for a better world, as the ever lit oil lamps at the Peace Park would indicate. It’s a place that lingers in your heart long after you’ve left its shores.
Reaching Hiroshima is convenient, with multiple travel options. By air, Hiroshima Airport connects to major Japanese cities and select international destinations. From Tokyo or Osaka, the Shinkansen (bullet train) offers a fast, scenic journey directly to Hiroshima Station. Travelers on a budget can opt for highway buses, though these take longer. Once in Hiroshima, the city’s efficient tram and bus network makes getting around seamless and hassle-free.
For my stay, I chose a backpacker’s hostel near the Peace Park. The dorm rooms and communal meals offered a quintessentially Japanese experience. For those who prefer modern comforts, Hiroshima has a range of hotels, from luxury options like the Sheraton Grand Hiroshima to budget-friendly ryokans. Staying in the city center is ideal for easy access to major attractions and transport links.
Hiroshima’s food scene is a treat for the senses. The city is renowned for Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a savoury pancake layered with noodles, cabbage, fresh oysters and a choice of toppings. Watching it being prepared on a hot griddle at a local eatery was as enjoyable as eating it.
I also indulged in anago meshi (grilled sea eel on rice), a delicacy that pairs perfectly with a glass of sake. Don’t miss the fresh oysters, harvested from the nearby waters, which are served grilled, fried, or raw. For dessert, the creamy matcha ice cream was a delightful end to my meal.
Hiroshima offers a mix of traditional and modern shopping experiences. At Hondori Street, a bustling shopping arcade, I found everything from quirky souvenirs to trendy fashion. Miyajima Island is perfect for picking up unique mementos, such as handcrafted wooden spatulas (shamoji) and momiji manju gift boxes. If you’re a sake enthusiast, Hiroshima’s breweries produce excellent varieties; I brought back a bottle as a reminder of my visit.
