Should You Visit Hiroshima?

Is Hiroshima worth visiting?

This city is a good place to visit for two to three days. It's often mentioned as one of the best places to visit in major publications, such as in U.S. News Best Places to Visit in Japan. Hiroshima is often recognized for its role in World War II. It was the tragic setting of the world's first nuclear attack. Today it is a modern city that is home to a memorial, museum, and park that commemorates those who lost their lives during those tragic events. The city and memorial promote everlasting peace in the world. The city also has many gardens and parks.

Hiroshima, Japan

Reasons to Visit Hiroshima

Museums
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was built to commemorate the victims of the world's first nuclear attack. The park also serves as a sight to promote long term peace. In the park you'll find the Peace Memorial Museum, the Memorial Cenotaph, the Atom Bomb Dome, and the Flame of Peace. Other sights in Hiroshima include the Itsukushima shrine, the Hiroshima Castle, and Mitaki-dera Temple.

Food
There are many local dishes that you'll find in restaurants around town. Some of the best dining areas are around Hiroshima Station and in downtown Hiroshima. Make sure you try the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, the local oysters, and tsukemen.

Shopping
There are outlet malls as well as morning markets, that make for interesting shopping. Head to old Sanyodo Road to shop where the locals shop and for international brands head to Hondori Central Shopping District.

Nightlife
The city has many hidden pubs and traditional Japanese bars. The most vibrant nightlife scene is in the Chugoku-Shikoku district, particularly around Nagarekawa Street.

Authenticity
Hiroshima has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.

Is Hiroshima worth visiting in the Summer?

The high season for travel in Hiroshima is the summer, so expect to see more tourists than usual. This destination is somewhat touristy, so in the high season it's usually busier.

The weather in Hiroshima is fairly warm during summer, and stays around 26°C (79°F). But it can get as warm as 29°C (85°F) at times, too. It's also quite rainy during this season, so be prepared.

You'll also find it quite easy to get around on foot, because this is a very walkable city, especially in the nice weather. During this season it's fun to experience the museums and landmarks and the nightlife.

Is Hiroshima worth visiting in the Autumn?

Keep in mind that it can be fairly rainy during autumn, and temperatures hover around 17°C (63°F).

Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Hiroshima, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. Even though Hiroshima is fairly busy with tourists, in the shoulder season there will be smaller crowds and better prices.

Autumn is a great time of year to explore the numerous museums and landmarks around town. They are fun for the whole family as well great for couples. This is a great time of year to wander through the museums.

Is Hiroshima worth visiting in the Winter?

Winter is the low season for travel in Hiroshima. This destination is fairly touristy, but in the low season you can find fewer crowds and better deals.

The weather in Hiroshima can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 4°C (40°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

You'll like that you can take public transit easily in the winter, too. You can get around quickly while avoiding bad weather if needed. You'll find plenty to do during winter, as you'll be able to browse through museums, taste delicious cuisine, and enjoy an evening out.

Is Hiroshima worth visiting in the Spring?

This is the shoulder season for travel in Hiroshima. Even though Hiroshima is fairly busy with tourists, in the shoulder season there will be smaller crowds and better prices.

Keep in mind that it can be fairly rainy during spring, and temperatures hover around 14°C (56°F).

During this season it's fun to experience the shops and boutiques, the famous sights and museums, and the nightlife scene.

Related

What is Hiroshima most famous for?

Hiroshima is most famous for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation. People visit this impressive city for its great museums. It is also known for its great food and shopping. And many visitors also come to this city for its nightlife. It is often described as park-filled, memorable, and meaningful.

What is the most famous sight in Hiroshima?

The most popular sight in Hiroshima is Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Hiroshima on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and other attractions here.

How touristy is Hiroshima? Is it a popular city to visit?

Hiroshima is more popular with local tourists than with international visitors. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

• Full-Day Private Guided Tour in Hiroshima: $270
• Half Day Private Guided Walking Tour in Hiroshima City: $200
• Kimono and Calligraphy Experience in Miyajima: $66
• Hiroshima Miyajima and Bomb Dome Private Tour: $278
• Hiroshima Custom Full Day Tour: $198
• eMTB tour to see the beautiful islands from the summit: $119
• Traditional lacquer art gallery & studio tour: $182
• Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Guided Tour: $230

How long should I spend in Hiroshima?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Hiroshima is two to three days. Since Hiroshima has a variety of activities such as museums, most people need this much time to see and do everything here.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Hiroshima? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Hiroshima?.