Hiroshima Prefecture boasts numerous scenic attractions, encompassing magnificent landscapes, exquisite cuisine, and rich history. There are many places worth admiring here, including the breathtaking views of the Shimanami Kaido（しまなみ海道） and Hiroshima's renowned oysters and Okonomiyaki! We will guide you through the things you would like to do when visiting Hiroshima Prefecture, so come and experience the allure of this region!
Culinary Delights around Miyajima
Miyajima is one of the finest tourist destinations in Hiroshima and has been selected as one of Japan's three major scenic spots. The approach to Itsukushima Shrine is a shopping street where you can savor a variety of culinary delights.
A must-try is Hiroshima's specialty, "oysters." Known for their firm texture, rich creaminess, and profound freshness, these oysters are generously sized, providing a truly satisfying experience. Especially during the season from January to March, the flavor is exquisite, enriched with abundant vitamins and iron elements, making them highly nutritious.
While Miyajima is renowned for grilled oysters, there are also shops selling fresh, raw oysters on the island! Each shop has its unique grilling method, and it's recommended to try and compare the different flavors!
Strolling through the Elegant Onomichi
Onomichi, known as the "Mountain City," is an elegant town adorned with cobblestone streets and stone staircases. Many private residences and cafes are scattered on steep hillsides, and walking through narrow alleys lets you experience the nostalgic charm of the locality.
As you ascend the slopes, you'll reach a spectacular observation deck overlooking the beautiful Seto Inland Sea. On clear days, you can clearly see the islands and the Onomichi Bridge, creating a vast and open feeling! It's also a popular spot for night views, making it ideal for romantic dates.
Additionally, don't forget to take a ride on the Senkoji Ropeway! You can enjoy the exhilarating experience of strolling through the air while appreciating the magnificent views of Onomichi in 360 degrees.
Indulge in Hiroshima's Okonomiyaki
Hiroshima's representative specialty is "Okonomiyaki," and the prefecture boasts the highest number of Okonomiyaki shops in Japan, each offering distinct and unique flavors.
The characteristic of Hiroshima's Okonomiyaki lies in spreading thinly rolled dough with cabbage, pork, yakisoba noodles, and a fried egg, then steaming it. Unlike Osaka-style Okonomiyaki, the ingredients are arranged in a sandwich shape, allowing you to truly savor each flavor! Complemented by the sweet and savory sauce.
Moreover, since it is eaten with a spatula on an iron plate, it remains consistently fresh and piping hot, making it a must-try culinary delight when visiting Hiroshima!
Visiting Submarines and Destroyers in Kure City
Before World War II, Kure City was a thriving industrial port town, flourishing as a crucial Japanese naval base. Today, several historical museums and submarine exhibitions have been established, making the area increasingly popular as a historical tourist destination.
Around the port, there are numerous maritime-related attractions, such as the "Iron Whale Museum" showcasing the I-401 submarine, the "Array Kozushima" park for a close-up view of Japanese submarines, and the "Yamato Museum" providing insights into the activities of the Yamato-class battleships. The impressive sight of giant submarines and destroyers neatly arranged leaves a lasting impression!
We also recommend indulging in a close-up experience with a boat cruise. Enjoy the splendid views of the sunset during the cruise.
Visit the Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Park, Reflect on Peace
Hiroshima Prefecture is the historical site of Japan's first atomic bomb. There are many sites related to the atomic bomb and war, offering in-depth insights into the horror of nuclear devastation and the importance of peace.
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, established for world peace, and the Atomic Bomb Dome, showcasing the power of nuclear weapons, are must-visit attractions. The park features numerous monuments and memorials, and the Atomic Bomb Dome was inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 1996.
Other points of interest include the Children's Peace Monument, the Flame of Peace, and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. If you visit Hiroshima, be sure to explore these sites, ensuring you do not forget the terror of war.
Bicycle Tour of the Shimanami Kaido
The "Shimanami Kaido" is a maritime route connecting Honshu's Hiroshima Prefecture and Shikoku's Ehime Prefecture, spanning approximately 60 kilometers. Regarded as Japan's only sea route that can be crossed on foot or by bicycle, it is an excellent location for an exhilarating cycling experience!
Selected as one of the world's seven most breathtaking cycling routes, it is renowned as a gathering place for cycling enthusiasts from around the world. The beautiful Seto Inland Sea stretches on both sides of the bridges, providing excellent photo opportunities! We recommend the Tatara Bridge（多々羅大橋）, resembling a swan about to take flight. Clapping your hands here allows you to experience a marvelous sound, resembling the roar of a dragon.
Moreover, the Shimanami Kaido has a blue line, making it easier for beginners to cycle, ensuring safety even for first-time riders!
Visit Sake Breweries in Saijo
"Hiroshima City Saijo" is a renowned sake brewing location where you can visit sake breweries. Around JR Saijo Station, there is a street called Saijo Sakagura-dori, featuring seven sake breweries, making it a must-visit for liquor enthusiasts!
Saijo Sake Brewery Street presents a typical sake brewery street view, with red tiles and white-plastered walls, making it a recommended picturesque location. Sake breweries not only sell sake but also offer tastings, allowing you to compare the flavors of various sakes.
The surrounding area has many restaurants and izakayas offering dishes that complement the local sake, providing an opportunity to savor the unique and delicious sake of the region in a luxurious setting.
Visiting Okunoshima to See Rabbits
Okunoshima, a 15-minute boat ride from Takehara City, is known as "Rabbit Island," home to around 500 to 600 rabbits. Once a hazardous island with a chemical weapons factory, it has now transformed into a renowned tourist destination and designated national park.
For an enjoyable interaction with rabbits, we recommend the grassy park! Without a doubt, you will be charmed by the sight of fluffy rabbits gathering together.
During sunset, you can capture picturesque silhouettes of the rabbits. The island also offers accommodation facilities, allowing you to stay overnight. With various camping, tennis, and fishing facilities, it's recommended for those seeking an energetic experience!
[Address] Takehara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, Tadanoumi-cho, Okunoshima
[Access] About a 7-minute walk from JR Geibi Line Tadanoumi Station to Tadanoumi Port - About 15 minutes by boat from Tadanoumi Port
Related Reading: Would You Like to Play with The Rabbits on Okunoshima Island? Then Stay at Kyukamura Ohkunoshima!
Strolling Through Takehara's Ancient Streets
Takehara City thrived during the Edo period due to salt production and sake brewing. It still retains the street layout from that time and was designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Historic Buildings in 1982.
Featuring beautiful and elegant historic street views, it is also known as the "Little Kyoto of Aki." Many sites related to Japanese celebrities are scattered along the streets, allowing you to feel the history while taking a leisurely walk. The serene atmosphere will make you forget the usual hustle and bustle.
The main street, Honmachi-dori, is lined with stylish row-house-style cafes. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon tea while appreciating the beautiful scenery!
Seasonal Flowers at Serokogen Plateau
Serokogen Plateau（世羅高原） is a place to enjoy magnificent natural landscapes and blooming seasonal flowers. The vast land houses multiple facilities, each cultivating different varieties.
The main attraction is the Serokogen Plateau Farm, covering an area of approximately 150,000 square meters. The scenery of blooming flowers is breathtaking, with cherry blossoms and tulips in spring, sunflowers in summer, and dahlias in autumn.
In addition to flower viewing, you can indulge in experiential activities and culinary delights. There are many other attractions such as Hananochi (Flower Place), Serokogen Plateau Flower Forest, and Serokofuji Garden!
Enjoy the Charming Sightseeing in Hiroshima to the Fullest!
Hiroshima Prefecture offers various ways to enjoy its magnificent scenery, delicious cuisine, and rich history. With a diverse range of options, it caters to occasions like female travel, solo travel, family trips, and more!
The attractions in Hiroshima Prefecture cannot be fully appreciated in just one visit. Please explore multiple times to experience the many charms of Hiroshima Prefecture.
