Remembered most as the site of the first dropping of an atomic weapon, there is no denying Hiroshima’s place in history, and Peace Memorial Park is a must when looking to understand the wartime events that took place here.
But this resilient city by the bay quickly picked itself up after the earth-shattering events of 1945, and today Hiroshima is filled with the same exuberant lifestyle found in other modern Japanese cities. The cityscape charms with a rich tapestry of UNESCO World Heritage shrines and temples, peaceful riverfront parks and gardens. Visitors can explore an array of museums, bustling shopping and dining districts, and even nearby hot springs, relaxing in the beauty of an open-air mountain setting.
EEvents and festivals are held throughout the year too, allowing visitors to join in the fun of seasonal celebrations. Flower and cherry blossom festivals in the spring and the viewing of colourful leaves in the autumn are just some of the most popular annual occasions. And if you are a fan of Japanese alcoholic beverages, don’t miss the Sake Festival held every October in Saijo District. And no trip to Hiroshima is complete without savouring its famous oysters or indulging in the ever-popular Tsukemen noodle soup
Cheap flights to Hiroshima, Japan: HK Express currently operates flights into and out of Hiroshima Airport (HIJ) and service to other popular cities in Japan. Please use our search feature above to find the cheapest flights for your travel date!
Explore Hiroshima on Bicycle
Enjoy a scenic tour around the city and nearby islands on one of the many designated bike paths. Long bridges connect coastal areas and islands for an easily navigable ride. The beautiful surroundings provide the perfect opportunity for sightseeing, photography or a picnic. Bicycle rentals are available at one of the terminals located around the city.
Parks and Gardens
Peace Memorial Park and Shukkeien Garden are two must see parks when visiting Hiroshima. Peace Memorial Park features a museum and many historical structures and landmarks that tell the story of the Hiroshima bombing. Established in 1620, the Shukkeien Gardens are famous for their serene settings and most notably, its plum trees and cherry blossoms.
Hiroshima Castle
One of Hiroshima’s oldest and most significant landmarks, this historic castle dates back to 1590. The castle was reconstructed in 1958 after being damaged in the 1945 bombing of the city and is today a favourite location during cherry festival season. The elaborate five-story castle features sloped roofs and intricate Japanese design characteristics.
Hiroshima is composed of eight geographic regions, including Asaminami, Minami, Naka-ku, Higashi, Nishi, Aki-ku, Asakita-ku, and Saeki-ku.
Naka-ku
Naka-ku is the heart of Hiroshima, housing both the city’s business district and the Peace Memorial Park. Major attractions include the Hondori shopping arcade and Okonomimura, a building with numerous restaurants serving Hiroshima's famous food.
Higashi
Constructed in the 1300s, the Fudoin Temple is located within the Higashi. It has been designated as the only national treasure in the city.
Hiroshima is filled with hostels and reasonably priced guest houses within walking distance of the JR Hiroshima Train Station and city attractions, including the Atomic Bomb Dome area. Hostels are simple but clean while guest houses offer a charming Japanese style atmosphere.
Hiroshima International Airport (HIJ), also known as Hiroshima Airport, is located in Mihara City, Hiroshima Prefecture. Hong Kong Express currently operates direct flights from Hong Kong to Hiroshima International Airport (HIJ).
Hiroshima International Airport is conveniently located about 43 kilometres from Hiroshima city centre. Travellers can easily reach the city centre by airport shuttle bus, JR rail, or taxi. If you opt for the airport shuttle bus to JR Hiroshima Station’s Shinkansen entrance, the journey takes approximately 50 minutes.
Alternatively, taking the JR rail involves a quick 15-minute bus ride on the airport line to JR Shiraichi Station (Sanyo Main Line), followed by a 45-minute train ride into Hiroshima.
Hiroshima offers a range of transport options, including rail, streetcar, tram, bus, ferry and taxi service. From the airport, buses and taxis provide transport to the city and to Japan Railway stations where bullet train connections can be made to points throughout Japan.
The Hiroden streetcar is one of the best ways to get around the city cheaply. The eight-route network covers much of the urban area with one line stretching to the suburbs. The fare is paid in coins. The Astramline transit system is another cheap and efficient way to get around the city. The tram system also covers suburban areas. Tickets are distributed from vending machines at each station.
One of the most fun and popular ways to get around Hiroshima is by bicycle. City footpaths are wide and designated bike paths provide scenic routes for touring. Hotels can help with bike rentals.
Hiroshima is blessed by a generally warm climate. Nevertheless, the difference between the mountainous area in the north and the seaside region in the south is quite pronounced.
The average temperature and rainfall in the north are 12 Centigrade and 1,700mm, respectively, compared to 15 Centigrade and 1,500mm in the south.
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Electricity
100V 50Hz
Language
Japanese, English
Timezone
UTC+9
Tel code
+81
Religion
Shinto, Buddhism
