Guide Velo Hiroshima

Hiroshima, known for its tragic history and remarkable resilience, is a city that offers rich cultural experiences, delicious food, and poignant historical sites, all within a compact area that makes it ideal for busy travelers.

Getting There and Around

Hiroshima is easily accessible via the Hiroshima Airport (HIJ), which is about 50 kilometers from the city center. You can take the Airport Limousine Bus (1,700 JPY / $15.50) directly to Hiroshima Station, which takes around 50 minutes. Alternatively, the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Hiroshima takes approximately 4 hours and costs about 19,000 JPY ($175) one way. If you're traveling from Osaka, the ride is about 1.5 hours and costs around 5,600 JPY ($51).

Once in the city, you can utilize Hiroshima's efficient tram network. A single ride costs 200 JPY ($1.80), and a one-day pass is available for 600 JPY ($5.50), allowing unlimited travel on trams and buses. The trams connect major attractions like the Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima Castle, and the shopping district of Hondōri.

Where to Stay

For a central location, consider staying at the Hotel Granvia Hiroshima, located within the Hiroshima Station complex. Rates start around 15,000 JPY ($136) per night, providing luxurious amenities and easy access to transportation. For a budget option, the Capsule Hotel Anshin Oyado is nearby, with rates from 3,300 JPY ($30) for an overnight stay. This unique experience allows you to rest in a compact pod and is ideal for solo travelers.

If you're looking for a traditional experience, stay at Ryokan Sansui, which offers tatami-matted rooms and kaiseki dining, with prices starting at 12,000 JPY ($110) per person including breakfast. Whichever option you choose, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.

What to Eat

Hiroshima is famous for its unique style of okonomiyaki, a savory pancake filled with various ingredients. Head to Okonomimura (Okonomiyaki Village) located in the city center at 1-5-13 Otemachi. Here, you can find numerous stalls serving this local delicacy for around 1,200 JPY ($11) per serving. Don’t miss out on trying Hiroshima-style oysters at Kaki Koya, where grilled oysters start around 1,000 JPY ($9) for a half dozen, showcasing the city’s coastal bounty.

For a quick lunch, visit the Hiroshima Station's Ekikatsu food court to try fried pork cutlets known as “katsu,” with prices around 750 JPY ($7). If you prefer something sweet, indulge in a momiji manju, a maple-leaf-shaped cake filled with red bean paste, widely available across the city for about 200 JPY ($1.80) each.

Key Activities

A visit to Hiroshima would be incomplete without exploring the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park is dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb, and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum (admission 200 JPY / $1.80) is an educational experience that offers a sobering glimpse into the city's past. Allocate at least two hours to fully appreciate the exhibits and reflect on their impact.

Afterward, walk to the Atomic Bomb Dome, a preserved ruin that serves as a stark reminder of the devastation. The dome is beautifully illuminated at night, making it a great spot for photos. For nature lovers, take a ferry to Miyajima Island (round trip 2,000 JPY / $18) to see the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, a stunning sight and a symbol of Japan. You can easily spend a day here hiking Mount Misen or enjoying the coastal scenery.

Practical Tips

Hiroshima is a compact city, making it easy to explore on foot, but here are some tips to maximize your visit:

• Purchase a Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Pass (1,600 JPY / $14.50) which includes entry to multiple attractions in the park.
• Learn basic Japanese phrases; locals appreciate the effort, and it can enhance your experience.
• Keep an eye on the weather—Hiroshima can be quite humid in summer, so dress comfortably and carry water.
• Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid crowds at major tourist sites.