Travel : Hiroshima- Highlights of the historic city of Japan

 

Hiroshima, located in the Chūgoku region of Japan’s Honshu Island, is a city deeply marked by history. Known worldwide as the first city to suffer a nuclear attack in 1945, Hiroshima has transformed into a symbol of peace and resilience. Despite its tragic past, it has grown into a vibrant city, with modern attractions, historical sites, and natural beauty. Its serene landscapes, including the nearby islands of the Seto Inland Sea, combined with poignant memorials, make it a compelling destination for visitors interested in both culture and history.

Best Spots to Visit in Hiroshima:

1. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum:

This park is dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing and features various monuments, including the A-Bomb Dome (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Children’s Peace Monument, and the Peace Flame. The museum provides detailed exhibits on the bombing and its aftermath, aiming to educate visitors about the horrors of war and the importance of peace.

2. Miyajima Island (Itsukushima Shrine):

Just a short ferry ride from Hiroshima, Miyajima Island is famous for the Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic "floating" torii gate, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The shrine appears to float on water during high tide, creating a picturesque and spiritual atmosphere. Visitors can also hike up Mount Misen for panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea.

3. Hiroshima Castle:

Also known as Carp Castle, Hiroshima Castle was originally built in the 16th century but was destroyed by the atomic bomb. The reconstructed castle serves as a museum, showcasing the history of the samurai and the region. The surrounding grounds, particularly in spring, are a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing.

4. Shukkeien Garden:

A traditional Japanese garden located in central Hiroshima, Shukkeien features meticulously landscaped ponds, tea houses, and bridges. It is a peaceful retreat within the city and offers beautiful seasonal displays of cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, and plum blossoms.

5. Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art:

Situated on a hill in Hijiyama Park, this museum offers an impressive collection of contemporary art, both from Japanese and international artists. The surrounding park is a great place for a leisurely walk with views over the city.

6. Hondori Shopping Street:

A lively pedestrian street filled with shops, cafés, and restaurants. It’s a great place to experience Hiroshima’s urban vibe and pick up local souvenirs, including Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki kits.

Best Seasons to Visit Hiroshima:

Spring (March to May):

Spring is one of the best times to visit Hiroshima, especially for cherry blossom viewing. Hiroshima Castle, Peace Memorial Park, and Shukkeien Garden are all popular spots to see the sakura in bloom. The weather is mild, making it ideal for sightseeing.

Summer (June to August):

Summer can be hot and humid, but it's also festival season in Hiroshima. The Toro Nagashi (lantern floating ceremony) is held every August 6th as part of the city's remembrance of the atomic bombing. Miyajima Island’s summer festivals, including fireworks displays, are also highlights.

Autumn (September to November):

The autumn months bring cooler weather and stunning fall foliage, particularly at Shukkeien Garden and Miyajima Island. The deep reds and golds of the leaves create a beautiful contrast with the historical landmarks and natural scenery.

Winter (December to February):

Winters are relatively mild in Hiroshima, making it a great time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds. Although the landscape is less vibrant, the Peace Memorial Park and other historical sites take on a quieter, more reflective atmosphere. Hiroshima's illuminations during the holiday season are also worth seeing.

Best Cuisines to Try in Hiroshima:

1. Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki:

A must-try dish in Hiroshima, this savory pancake differs from the Kansai (Osaka) version. In Hiroshima, the ingredients are layered rather than mixed, and include noodles (yakisoba or udon), cabbage, bean sprouts, and a choice of meats or seafood, topped with a rich sauce.

2. Oysters (Kaki):

Hiroshima is famous for its oysters, particularly from the Seto Inland Sea. The oysters are large, plump, and can be enjoyed grilled, raw, or deep-fried (kaki-furai). The best time to try oysters is in winter when they are at their freshest.

3. Tsukemen:

Hiroshima's version of tsukemen is a cold noodle dish served with a spicy dipping sauce. Unlike ramen, the noodles are eaten separately from the broth, which allows you to control the spiciness with each bite. This dish is refreshing and popular during the summer.

4. Momiji Manju:

A sweet treat shaped like a maple leaf, momiji manju is a sponge cake filled with sweet fillings such as red bean paste, custard, or chocolate. This iconic sweet is especially popular on Miyajima Island and is a great souvenir to take home.

5. Anago (Conger Eel):

Often overshadowed by its freshwater counterpart unagi, anago is a local delicacy in Hiroshima. Grilled anago is served over rice (anago-meshi) and is a light, flavorful dish that’s especially popular on Miyajima Island.

6. Hassaku Daifuku:

A unique dessert from Hiroshima, this is a type of daifuku (mochi) filled with a sweetened whole Hassaku orange, a local citrus fruit. The balance between the mochi's sweetness and the tartness of the fruit makes it a refreshing dessert.

Airlines Connectivity:

Hiroshima is well-connected domestically and internationally via Hiroshima Airport (HIJ), located about 50 kilometers from the city center. The airport offers a range of services for travelers:

International Flights:

Hiroshima Airport handles several international flights, primarily to destinations in Asia, such as South Korea (Seoul), China (Beijing, Shanghai), and Taiwan (Taipei). These connections make Hiroshima easily accessible for travelers from the region.

Domestic Flights:

There are frequent domestic flights to and from major Japanese cities, including Tokyo (both Haneda and Narita airports), Osaka, Sapporo, Fukuoka, and Okinawa. The airport is a convenient option for those traveling across Japan.

Ground Transportation:

Hiroshima Airport is connected to the city center via an airport limousine bus, which takes about 45-50 minutes. Alternatively, taxis and car rentals are available. For international visitors, the JR Sanyo Shinkansen offers direct access to Hiroshima from major cities like Osaka and Tokyo, making it easy to combine Hiroshima with other Japanese destinations.

In conclusion, Hiroshima offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the solemn memorials, enjoying local delicacies, or taking in the natural wonders of the nearby islands, Hiroshima provides a profound and memorable travel experience.