Hiroshima Guide: Best things to do for first time visitors

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When planning how I’d spend three weeks in Japan, I wasn’t sure if I would initially stop in Hiroshima – but as I researched more, it became the part of my trip I was most excited about.

Hiroshima is modern, but has so much depth and emotion tied to it. I’d say – it’s a “must visit” on your Japan trip.

This Hiroshima Guide will give you insight on the best things to do in for your first time in the city and also help you learn from my mistakes when I visited.

Hiroshima Guide: Children’s Peace Memorial — Children’s Peace Monument

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

August 6, 1945, at 8:15 AM – the first atomic bomb used in warfare dropped on Hiroshima.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is the emotional center of the city and should be the focus of your Hiroshima itinerary.

My first stop in Hiroshima was the Children’s Peace Monument. I had so much fun exploring Miyajima Island, that I stayed later than anticipated – leaving me to arrive in Hiroshima at sunset.

My hostel was near the peace park and so after checking in I headed there first and stumbled upon this site.

It is one of the most moving sites in Japan, and actually brought me to tears. You’ll see thousands of colorful origami cranes (orizuru) left by visitors from around the world, honoring children affected by the atomic bombing.

Hiroshima Guide: Orizuru, paper cranes — Children’s Peace Monument

These origami cranes represent hope, peace and remembrance; and are closely tied to the story of Sadako Sasaki and her paper cranes.

Key stops inside the park:

Atomic Bomb Dome – the preserved ruins of the only structure left standing near the hypocenter
The Cenotaph for the A-bomb Victims
The Flame of Peace
The Fountain of Prayer

By late morning the crowds and tours will start through out the peace park. If you want to experience the same solace I did, arrive early morning or after night fall to walk through.

👉 Plan at least an hour here to explore the park and its sights.

Hiroshima Guide: Cenotaph for the A-bomb Victims — Reflection of the Cenotaph for the A-bomb Victims memorial

Other things to do in hiroshima:

Orizuru Tower

For a more interactive experience, visit Hiroshima Orizuru Tower. This experience is what solidified my visit to Hiroshima, as it created meaningful way to engage with Hiroshima’s message of peace.

Inside, you can:

Fold your own paper crane and add it to the tower’s collection
Learn about peace initiatives through modern exhibits
Slide down the spiral slide between floors
Take in panoramic views overlooking Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome

👉 Read my full guide on visiting Orizuru tower

Hiroshima Castle

Hiroshima Castle offers insight into the city’s history before World War II. The reconstructed castle sits in a large green space and is an easy add-on for your itinerary after visiting Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

Even if you don’t go inside, walking the grounds is supposed to be pleasant – especially during cherry blossom (sakura) season.

👉 You can also take a Japanese archery class at the castle

Unfortunately, I didn’t get to visit the castle on my visit due to poor timing. I stayed later than anticipated in Miyajima Island and then had a bullet train to catch to Kyoto the following day. It’s on my “must do” list next time I visit Hiroshima!

Hiroshima Guide: Atomic Bomb Dome — The Atomic Bomb Dome in black & white

Walking Tours & Museums

While the city is easy to explore on your own, Hiroshima’s history is layered and deeply personal. A knowledgeable guide can add important context that you may not get otherwise – for that reason, consider a guided walking tour.

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is located within the peace park too. While you can spend significant time walking the park and viewing memorials, the museum offers a deeper historical framework that helps connect what you see outside with the lived experiences of those affected.

Many of the guided tours include the memorial museum as part of the tour.

👉 If you’d rather visit the museum on your own – this guided tour offers slightly different sites and does not include the museum.

Due to my time constraints, I wasn’t able to do either. But, if you have the emotional space and the time, I’m sure it will be an important addition to your visit.

Hiroshima Cherry Blossom — White blossoms in Hiroshima

What to Eat in Hiroshima

Hiroshima is famous for its food scene, especially its own style of okonomiyaki – which is in constant competition with Osaka for their style.

Okonomiyaki, (translated as “whatever you like, grilled”) is a savory Japanese pancake made from a cabbage-based batter mixed with ingredients like meat, seafood, or noodles, then cooked on a hot griddle and topped with okonomiyaki sauce, Japanese mayo, seaweed, and bonito flakes.

Okonomiyaki Hiroshima Style in Osaka, Japan — Okonomiyaki Hiroshima style

In short: Osaka-style uses all ingredients mixed together and turns out fluffy; Hiroshima-style layers the ingredients and is thicker, noodle-heavy, and topped with an egg

During my visit to Osaka, I was able to taste Osaka and Hiroshima Okonomiyaki side by side, and I preferred the Hiroshima style.

Okonomimura is a popular, multi-story building packed with okonomiyaki stalls. It’s recommended to go early as lines build fast and stalls may sell out.

There are many spots to eat okonomiyaki in the city, but another popular spot is Hassei. I didn’t venture out to grab okonomiyaki here as I had just had it a few days prior, so it will be on my to-do list for the next trip.

👉 Check out this fun Okonomiyaki tour that takes you through Okonomimura

Ekohiiki is a local favorite for oysters. Yes, like Miyajima Island – oysters are still a popular dish here. I recommend arriving here early or snagging a reservation.

I attempted to eat at Ekohiiki for dinner – but when I arrived they had already filled up for the night 🙁

I ended up at a nearby izakaya that was open late: Hiroshima MIRAIZAKA Hondori. I had some classic izakaya dishes like gyoza and karaage, which really hit the spot after a long day trekking to Mount Misen and exploring the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

Anango Meshi (conger eel over rice) is another famous dish for this region – I really wanted to try this since I love unagi, but again, didn’t have enough time. Anagomeshi Ueno is one of the most popular spots and has locations in both Hiroshima and Miyajima.

Nearby, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park I visited Hoshino Coffee for breakfast and coffee. It was a nice spot open earlier than many places around the area.

Lucky Bakery was my favorite food stop. It’s located near Hiroshima Gate Park, right outside of Orizu Tower. The line was long, but it moved quickly. They had so many sweet and savory goods – it was hard to choose!

👉 This food tour takes you to an okonomiyaki spot, sushi bar and izakaya

Hiroshima Guide: Hiroshima from Orizuru Tower — The city of Hiroshima from Orizuru tower

Where to Stay in Hiroshima

Staying near Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park keeps everything walkable – ideal if you want to visit memorials early or return in the evening when crowds thin.

I stayed at Guesthouse Hiroshima Mange Tak, a local hostel. I only stayed for one night, but I had a good experience here and it was only a quick walk from the peace park and local bus system. This is a great budget- friendly spot, which I desperately needed after my overnight Miyajima trip.

Other options nearby –

Hiroshima no Yado Aioi – Solid mid-range ryokan option right by the park
The Hilton Hiroshima – A reliable brand name – a little further, but still close to major sites
Grand Base Hiroshima Peace Park – An apartment style stay close to the peace park

Hiroshima Guide: Hiroshima peace park cherry blossoms — Wandering around Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, viewing cherry blossoms

How Much Time Do You Need in Hiroshima?

I highly recommend at least two full days in Hiroshima. This will allow you to cover some highlights – Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, Hiroshima Castle, Orizuru Tower and eating the classic okonomiyaki.

If you want to stay longer in Hiroshima, there are plenty of fun tours to take part in too!

Why Hiroshima Belongs on Your Itinerary

Hiroshima was everything I was hoping it would be and more. From my somber walk around the peace park at night, to making paper cranes in Orizu Tower – Hiroshima changed my heart.

Overall, Hiroshima may not be the loudest stop on your itinerary – but it will be one of the most meaningful. This Hiroshima guide pairs especially well with an overnight stay before or after visiting Miyajima Island & apart of a larger trip including Osaka.

Take your time here and allow space for the experience to settle. Many travelers leave Hiroshima saying it was one of the most impactful stops of their entire Japan trip.

If you loved this Hiroshima Guide, be sure to check out these other guides:

👉 Hiroshima Orizuru Tower: A Powerful Experience Folding Paper Cranes

👉 Miyajima Day Trip Versus Overnight Stay: Which Is Better?

👉 The Best Way To Get To Miyajima Island From Hiroshima

👉 2 Day Miyajima Island Itinerary From Hiroshima

👉 Complete Osaka Travel Guide: What To Do, Where To Eat & How Long To Stay

Hi, I’m Amber —

A Michigan native now living in Washington with a deep love for travel and the outdoors. What started with church mission trips and traveling across the U.S. as a nurse has grown into a passion for exploring the world through hiking, food, culture, and the beauty of God’s creation. Sometimes I’m joined by my goldendoodle, Millie, but I’m always traveling with my camera. My goal is to help you feel inspired and confident that travel is possible — no matter where you’re starting from.