2 Days in Hiroshima Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
Two days in Hiroshima is a great amount of time to explore this historic city and take a day trip to nearby Miyajima Island.
This itinerary is based on my recent trip to Japan, where I spent three nights in Hiroshima and used one full day to explore the city and the next to visit Miyajima Island.
Below, I’m sharing everything we did, where we stayed, what we ate, and what I’d recommend for your own trip.
2 Days in Hiroshima Itinerary
This itinerary is based on our own trip where we spent one full day in Hiroshima and one day in Miyajima Island.
It includes everything we did and our favorite meals.
I also created a Google Map with all the places mentioned in this itinerary pinned, so you can easily see where everything is and get directions.
Day 1: Exploring Hiroshima’s History
Most people know Hiroshima because of its tragic past, but visiting today, you’ll experience a lively and thoughtful city that honors its history while looking forward.
Everything we saw on Day 1 was walkable and centered around the Peace Memorial Park area.
Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Hypocenter Monument
We started at this small monument, which shows the exact spot where the atomic bomb exploded overhead on August 6, 1945.
It can be easy to miss as it is quite small and located next to a building, but it’s worth a quick stop to grasp the true scale of the blast.
If you use Google Maps directions, it will bring you right to it.
Atomic Bomb Dome
Just a short walk away, the Atomic Bomb Dome is one of the most well-known sites in Hiroshima.
This building was almost directly under the blast and somehow partially survived.
It’s now preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
As you walk around the building, you will see several plaques that you can read about the events that occurred on that day. It was emotional to read but important so that we can remember the lives that were tragically lost.
Peace Memorial Park
The park surrounding the Atomic Bomb Dome is full of sculptures and memorials dedicated to the victims of the bombing.
I recommend taking your time walking through here.
Here are some of the main spots we visited:
- Children’s Peace Monument – Inspired by the story of Sadako Sasaki and the paper cranes.
- Flame of Peace – A flame that will stay lit until all nuclear weapons are gone.
- Cenotaph for the A-Bomb Victims – You can view the Peace Flame and Atomic Bomb Dome through the arch.
You can easily visit all these sites on your own, but if you want to join a guided tour to learn more about the history from a local guide, I recommend checking out this tour on Get Your Guide. You can book tickets here or below!
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum was one of the most powerful museums I’ve ever visited.
The exhibits walk you through the events of the bombing, with personal stories and belongings from victims.
Some of it is hard to look at and emotional, but I think it’s a must-visit. I would recommend saving it for later in the day since it can feel pretty heavy, and you might want some time afterward to decompress.
We spent around 3 hours here. It could take longer depending on how busy the museum is.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Rest House
This small building near the Peace Memorial Park looks like a regular tourist information center, but it actually has a powerful story behind it.
It was originally a kimono shop and was one of the few buildings in the area that partially survived the atomic bomb.
We went inside and visited the basement exhibit, which is free and only takes a few minutes.
In the exhibit, you can read about the story of Eizo Nomura, an employee who happened to be in the basement grabbing work papers when the bomb exploded.
He was just 170 meters from the hypocenter and survived because he was underground. He was the only person in the building who survived.
The basement has been preserved almost exactly as it was that day, and standing down there feels heavy knowing the horrors he must have faced, but it also feels meaningful to be able to remember him and his story.
It’s a quick stop, but one of those places that really sticks with you.
Hiroshima Castle
If you have the time, I recommend walking over to Hiroshima Castle.
The original was destroyed in 1945, but the reconstructed version is surrounded by a moat and pretty grounds.
The top floor has panoramic views of the city.
Optional: Catch a Carp Baseball Game
If you’re visiting Hiroshima during baseball season (March to September), you might want to check out a Hiroshima Carp game.
We didn’t go, but I’ve heard the atmosphere is fun and lively. Their stadium is not far from downtown, making it easy to get to.
We went to a Yakult Swallows baseball game in Tokyo and had a great time! We loved the team spirit and chants from the crowd during the game.
Day 2: Miyajima Island Day Trip
On our second day in Hiroshima, we took a day trip to Miyajima Island.
It’s super easy to get to and was one of my favorite places we visited in Japan.
I recommend checking out my full blog post about my visit to Miyajima Island for all the details!
Here’s a quick overview of what we did in Miyajima:
- Visited Itsukushima Shrine and saw the famous floating torii gate.
- Hiked up Mount Misen via Daisho-in trail and took the scenic ropeway down.
- Walked through Omotesando Shopping Street for snacks and souvenirs. This street is close to where you will be after exiting the ferry.
We spent about 6 to 7 hours on Miyajima Island including travel time.
We took the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station from Hiroshima Station and then the JR ferry to Miyajima Island, which is covered by the JR Pass. In total, transportation time took about 45 minutes to 1 hour (one-way).
You can pay for both modes of transportation using your Suica (IC) card.
You can easily explore Miyajima Island on your own, but if you’re short on time and want to combine Hiroshima and Miyajima Island into one day, I recommend checking out this guided tour on Get Your Guide. You can book tickets here or below!
Where to Stay in Hiroshima
We stayed at The Knot Hiroshima, and while it wasn’t terrible, I don’t think we’d stay there again.
The room felt a bit dated, and there were noticeable stains on the carpet and walls, which gave it a worn-out feel.
That said, the bed was clean and comfortable, and the bathroom was in good shape, so it worked out fine for a short stay. For three nights, we paid $270, which makes it a solid budget option.
On the plus side, it was in a central location and had a rooftop bar with nice views of the city.
Here are more highly-reviewed hotels in Hiroshima worth checking out:
- Hotel Granvia Hiroshima – Right next to Hiroshima Station
- Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel – Also connected to the station.
- Hilton Hiroshima – Newer and more upscale, a bit farther from the Peace Park but still walkable.
If you plan on doing lots of train travel, staying near Hiroshima Station is convenient.
If not, anywhere near the Peace Memorial Park area works great too.
Check out this interactive map below for more options on places to stay in Hiroshima!
Best Places to Eat in Hiroshima
- Okonomimura – You can’t visit Hiroshima without trying Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, and this is the place to go. It’s a multi-story building with small okonomiyaki stalls on each floor. We went to the first stall we saw after climbing up the stairs, and it was great! It is cash only so make sure to have cash.
- Caffe Ponte – Right by the river near the Peace Park. They serve pasta, pizza, and fresh-squeezed orange juice. We came here for lunch, and you can even sit outside by the water. I highly recommend the strawberry gelato – it was delicious!
- Okkundou Mazemen – This spot is known for mazemen, a soupless ramen. It was really good!
- Ichiran – This is a chain ramen shop that you will find all throughout Japan. I really liked the ramen here, and it is pretty affordable!
- Sushiro – Another chain but really good and affordable sushi that you can order on a screen and then it arrives to your table on a conveyor belt!
- Mister Donut – I got a delicious strawberry donut from here while walking around Hondori Shopping Street!
Joining a food tour is another fun way to learn about the hidden gems and best food in Hiroshima from a local. Here is a food tour on Get Your Guide I recommend! You can book tickets here or below.
Best Coffee Shops in Hiroshima
I always like to start my days off with a good cup of coffee, and we had some really good coffee while in Hiroshima!
Here are a few coffee shops in Hiroshima we liked:
- Kiki Coffee – Small café with great drinks.
- Choueccha – A cozy spot, good if you want to hang out for a while and get food along with your coffee.
- Obscura Coffee Roasters – A chain with good coffee!
How to Get to Hiroshima
We traveled to Hiroshima from Osaka using the shinkansen (bullet train), which was fast and easy.
- From Tokyo – It takes about 4 hours to get to Hiroshima from Tokyo. The bullet train leaves from Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station. I would choose whichever station is closest to you. We bought our tickets at the station and were always able to easily get on the next train.
- From Kyoto or Osaka – It takes around 1.5 to 2 hours on the bullet train to get to Hiroshima from Kyoto or Osaka. You can do a day trip to Hiroshima from Kyoto or Osaka if you’re short on time and don’t want to spend the night. If you have the time, I do recommend spending at least one night or two in Hiroshima so you can take the day trip to Miyajima Island.
How to Get Around in Hiroshima
We mostly got around by bus while in Hiroshima or walking.
The bus system is easy to use, and the bus stops are well-marked. I recommend using Google Maps public transit directions, and it will tell you which bus stop to get on and off at.
You can pay with an IC card like Suica or Pasmo.
When to Visit Hiroshima
We visited in early June, and while it was a little humid, it was still manageable.
If you are flexible on travel times, I would avoid visiting Japan in July and August due to the extreme heat and humidity.
But, if summer is the only time you can visit Japan, it is better to visit than not at all!
Spring (March to May), fall (October to November), and winter (December to February) are probably the best times to go weather-wise for less humidity.
Just keep in mind that late March and early April tend to be more crowded in Japan because of cherry blossom season, and Golden Week (late April to early May) is also a busy travel time.
Final Thoughts on Spending 2 Days in Hiroshima
Two days in Hiroshima is the perfect amount of time to explore the city’s historical landmarks and enjoy a day trip to Miyajima Island.
It was a really meaningful part of our trip to Japan and gave us time to slow down and reflect.
If you’re planning a longer Japan itinerary, I highly recommend adding Hiroshima. It’s easy to get to and offers a different perspective from Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto.
Check out my other Japan blog posts to help you plan your Japan itinerary!
One Comment