Hiroshima Itinerary in 2 Days: What to Do, Where to Eat, Where to Shop

Not every traveler in Japan will consider making a side trip to Hiroshima, with so many activities to do in places like Tokyo and Osaka, right? But several frequent tourists who keep coming back to Japan would recommend that you visit Hiroshima.

History.

Okonomiyaki. 

A selfie with the iconic torii gate. 

Hiroshima is something to be proud of and to show your friends. While some would jam up their Hiroshima trip in just one day, others would really maximize their experience here by staying for two days! So, if you wish to join this bandwagon, here are the things to do, the best restaurants, and where to shop. 

2-Day Itinerary in Hiroshima

Day 1: Hiroshima City

No, you do not need to worry about cramming your city tour because there’s no Miyajima Island yet on your first day. Rather, it’s all about history and city sightseeing tours.

Peace Memorial Museum

In 1945, Hiroshima became the first-ever city in the world to experience the impacts of an atomic bomb dropped by aircraft from the skies. And it’s not like a merry-go-round tour, but a tragic event that claimed several people’s lives. To commemorate and give honor to those lives, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum was founded.

Peace Memorial Park

A short walk from the Peace Memorial Museum is the Peace Memorial Park, where you can stop and linger for a while to just feel the lives lost from the atomic bombing. If it’s your first time here, view the Flame of Peace, touted an eternal flame continuously burning since lit last August 1st, 1964. 

Atomic Bomb Dome

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the dome is historic as it became the only structure left standing untouched, even with the devastating atomic bomb in 1945. It has since served a warning to the world that Japan won’t be fazed by threats from outside its territories. 

ALSO READ: HIROSHIMA DAY TRIP FROM KYOTO AND OSAKA

Hiroshima Castle

Constructed in the 1600s, the time when Europe was enjoying the Renaissance period, the Hiroshima Castle is pretty inside and out. Since it was the residence of the daimyō of the Hiroshima Domain, you can still smell, see, and feel centuries-old history inside this magnificent castle.

Shukkeien Garden

Your last stop for your first day in Hiroshima is Shukkeien Garden. Take a relaxing stroll with the site’s plants and treescapes. Did you know this historic garden, aged 400 years old, once belonged to the feudal lords of Hiroshima? 

Day 2: Miyajima Island

You’ve been waiting for this, the fabulous Miyajima Island. It’s an excursion you don’t want to miss, so be prepared for surprises. 

The Floating Torii Gate

It’s a landmark, a simple-looking gate that several tourists flash their cameras at. It’s the sole attraction amidst the sea, but it’s not like it is a remnant from a larger structure, no. 

The iconic torii gate was built over the water to stand as a symbol for the transition between the real but mundane and the sacred realms, constructed to reiterate that the island is a sacred place. It has a story that you ought to know and appreciate.

Itsukushima Shrine

Another star attraction on the Island, this shrine dates back to the 700s, a vibrant red-orange complex built along shoreline stilts. Just like the torii gate, your experience changes here according to the tides. The shrine appears to float during high tide, while you get access to the beach in low tide. Worth visiting.

Five-Storied Pagoda

Perched on top of a hill overlooking Itsukushima Shrine, the majestic Five-Storied Pagoda from the 1600s is certainly a sight to behold!

Mount Misen Observatory

If you want to release all the tension with the surroundings listening to you, then climb Mount Misen Observatory and enjoy stunning views from this tallest peak in Hiroshima.

Daisho-in Temple

Right as you descend Mount Misen, you will be able to see the Daisho-in Temple, renowned for its wonderful natural setting. It is regarded as one of the most significant Shingon Buddhist places of worship in the west of Japan.

ALSO READ: MUST-VISIT STREET MARKETS IN HIROSHIMA

Must-Try Restaurants in Hiroshima

In between those tours, you must satisfy your hungry stomachs. Be sure to check out the delicious food in these restaurants: 

• Nagata-ya: Hiroshima’s famous okonomiyaki are best tasted here!

• Ekohiiki: Experience the seas of this historic destination with authentic Japanese oysters in this diner.

• Tsuki Akari: Meanwhile, this restaurant specializes in anago meshi, another star food in Hiroshima, which is a broiled conger eel served on a mound of rice.

• Okkundou Mazemen: Ever heard of soupless ramen? If not, this is the best place to try it!

• Kakiya: Here is where you can find the best oysters on Miyajima Island

ALSO READ: MUST-VISIT HISTORICAL LANDMARKS IN HIROSHIMA

Best Places to Shop in Hiroshima

Are you looking for the best places to shop for items you’ll bring home to your loved ones? Check these out!

• Hondori Central Shopping District: The central shopping district of Hiroshima

• The Outlets Hiroshima by Aeon Mall: Aside from shops, it also has a movie space and a bowling alley. Now, if you miss your hometown, right?

• Aioi Street: The largest downtown and business district of Hiroshima.

• youme Town Hiroshima: The Walmart of Hiroshima, only that it’s regarded as more cheerful.

• Hiroshima PARCO: Shop with friends!

Truly, Hiroshima is the undisputed fun historical spot in Japan. So, a day in this destination won’t be enough. Take a moment and enjoy every bit of this amazing place.

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