HIROSHIMA TRAVEL
JAPAN
This Hiroshima Japan page was last updated on September 2, 2022
Hiroshima City (広島市)
Hiroshima Japan is a city that should top every traveler’s life list as it is a destination worth visiting. A vibrant modern city, best known as a city having risen from its ashes of the past. Yet, a visit to this historic city tells you a lot more than that. The remarkable people, rich culture, warm heritage, extraordinary experiences, an island where serenity abounds, unique dishes and unforgettable memories await those who travel to this out-of-the-ordinary city.
Located in the southwest of Japan’s Honshu Island, the city is the capital of Hiroshima Prefecture. Hiroshima’s lush natural landscapes can be seen in its impressive Chugoku Mountains to the north and the scenic clear waters of the Seto Inland Sea in the south. Added to this are the historic sites sprinkled throughout the city, monuments that honours the past and a castle rebuilt as testament to its culture.
VISITING HIROSHIMA
I spent 2 days in Hiroshima and wished that I had spent more as this beautiful city has so much more to offer. If you have the time, try and spend 3 to 4 days. With so many choices of accommodation, there is plenty to do in Hiroshima. Enjoy travel on the slow side, watch the sunset over the floating torii and savour on the fresh oysters caught each day. Hiroshima makes a good base for exploring the surrounding areas too. The preserved district of Takehara, Sandan-kyo Valley and Naoshima Island are all destinations for perfect cultural day trips.
Every year, thousands of tourists make their way to Hiroshima mainly for the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. A grim reminder of war as well as a focus for prayers for world peace. Whilst this makes for an essential stop for a Hiroshima travel itinerary, one should also make time to take in the natural beauty of historical Miyajima Island which is a short ferry ride away and is easily accessible.
BEST TIME TO VISIT HIROSHIMA JAPAN
Generally, the seasons in Japan have clearly distinct weather patterns along with monsoon circulation.
Hiroshima Japan is a year-round travel destination and each season offers its own charm and beauty to visitors.
The best time to visit Hiroshima Japan is in spring, March/April/May and in fall, September/October.
Spring in Hiroshima
The spring months of March, April, May and a sneak into early June is a perfect time to visit Hiroshima. March and April sees the sakura season in bloom, turning the city, like most of Japan, into a vibrant colour of pink. Temperatures are comfortable during this season, although it can fluctuate at times.
The weather in March begins to get milder with the average high of 14 °C and the average low at 5 °C. The weather is pretty stable and spring stays until late May. In May the temperature ranges from 11 °C to 25 °C. Spring makes the best and most pleasant time of the year to visit Hiroshima. The sight of cherry blossoms, and trees becoming lush and green is a beautiful experience.
Autumn in Hiroshima
The autumn months of September and October brings on another spectacle of warm, beautiful autumn colours in brown, orange and red. Temperatures during the autumn months remain steady, ranging from 18 °C to 22 °C.
Autumn in Hiroshima begins late September and lasts through November. October is generally mild and if you are planning a fall visit, this is the perfect month to go. Autumn foliage makes its appearance from mid/late October and the natural display of colours attracts many visitors.
Tip for spring and autumn travel to Hiroshima: Dress in layers and take a light jacket with you.
ARTICLES ABOUT HIROSHIMA JAPAN TRAVEL
Here are all the articles about Hiroshima to peruse:
Guide to the Best of Hiroshima City
Most people visit Hiroshima because it was the place where the first atomic bomb was dropped. Today, it is a vibrant modern city, and offers so much to visitors. Read this one day guide to Hiroshima before you go.
Guide to 10 Unmissable Experiences in Miyajima Island
Explore Miyajima Island, home to the famous floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine. Hike the mountains and witness the fire that has been burning for 1200 years in Mt Misen. Read this detailed travel guide about what to see and do including hiking options in Miyajima Island.
Hiroshima and Miyajima 2-Day Itinerary
This 2-day itinerary has all the things you must see and do for a timeless travel experience. Go here >> Hiroshima & Miyajima in two days…
The Best Okonomiyaki Hiroashima Style
The humble okonomiyaki is well-known throughout Japan but Hiroshima holds an exclusive claim to fame. Okonomiyaki Hiroshima style became the cherished hearty food of the local people and a symbol of their resilience and spirit …
The Best Ways to Get to Hiroshima
Hiroshima is easily accessed by trains, the Shinkansen and by bus as well as by air. Here is an easy guide on how you could navigate to Hiroshima city.
HIROSHIMA TRIP USEFUL CHECKLIST
- For an overview of my essential tips about visiting Japan, see my Japan Travel page;
- Need tips on when to visit Japan? See this essential guide about the Best Time to Visit Japan;
- Check Hiroshima accommodation availability on Booking.com : You can usually reserve your room with no upfront payment. Pay at the hotel when you get there. Free cancellation too.
- Buy an E-SIM Mobile Data Plan to suit and activate it as soon as you need it. You could also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router which I personally found especially invaluable during my stay in Japan;
- Visiting more than one city? Save a ton of money with a Japan Rail Pass;
“When you look at Japanese traditional architecture, you have to look at Japanese culture and its relationship with nature. You can actually live in a harmonious, close contact with nature – this very unique to Japan.” – Tadao Ando
TRAVEL INSPIRATION?
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OUR BEST READ ARTICLES ABOUT JAPAN
1 | One Day Guide to the Best of Hiroshima City Travel
2 | Two Days on the Best of Hiroshima and Miyajima Island
3 | Ultimate Guide to Things to do in Miyajima Island
5 | The Unmissable Best 5 in Kyoto
6 | Kyoto City Guide
7 | The Two Best Flea Markets in Kyoto
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Hiroshima Japan first published at timelesstravelsteps.com
Regularly edited and updated. Last update was on March 3, 2023
