About
Hiroshima is a historic city in the Chugoku Region of western Japan, the capital of Hiroshima Prefecture. It is best known as a place of remembrance and as a symbol of peace and reconciliation, and many visitors come to spend time on its memorial grounds before exploring the wider area.
What to see in the city
- Peace Memorial Park is the heart of the city, a green space of monuments and memorials laid out in the centre of Hiroshima.
- The Atomic Bomb Dome is the skeletal remains of a building close to where the bomb exploded. It stands as a direct reminder of the city's past and is one of the most visited sights here.
A visit to the park and the Dome makes a quiet, reflective half-day. Allow time to walk slowly, read the inscriptions, and consider what the site represents.
Beyond the city
Nearby Miyajima Island is a short journey from Hiroshima and is famous for its floating torii gate, which appears to rise from the water at high tide. The island pairs well with a visit to the city, offering a change of pace and a different kind of scenery.
Hiroshima suits travellers who want history, reflection and a gentle look at a city that has rebuilt itself around a commitment to peace. Plan your time around the memorial sites, and leave room for the island if you can.
