2-Day Local Couples Retreat: Relaxation and Shopping in Hiroshima

Hiroshima, Japan

2 days

Aerial view of Naka ward
Children's peace monument
Miyajima Tori gate
Aerial view of Hiroshima Peace Memorial
Hiroshima Castle

About Hiroshima, Japan

Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Hiroshima, Japan. This city, once devastated by the atomic bomb in 1945, has risen from the ashes and is now a symbol of peace and resilience. Visit the poignant Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, where you can learn about the tragic event and its aftermath. Explore the beautiful Shukkei-en Garden, a perfect example of traditional Japanese landscaping. Don't miss the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Itsukushima Shrine, located on the nearby Miyajima Island, famous for its floating torii gate. Enjoy local delicacies like Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki and fresh oysters. Hiroshima, a city of rebirth and beauty, awaits you.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Relaxation and Reflection in Hiroshima

Morning

Start your day with a peaceful stroll through the serene Shukkeien Garden. This historic garden, dating back to the Edo period, offers a tranquil setting with miniature landscapes, tea houses, and a central pond. It's a perfect spot for relaxation and photography.

Lunch

Enjoy a local delicacy for lunch. Hiroshima is famous for its Okonomiyaki, a savory pancake filled with a variety of ingredients. You can find numerous eateries serving this dish in the downtown area.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. This park is a symbol of peace and houses several monuments, including the iconic A-Bomb Dome and the Children's Peace Monument. It's a place for reflection and understanding.

Dinner

For dinner, try Hiroshima-style sushi, which is unique to the region. It's a perfect blend of flavors that will leave you wanting more.

Evening

End your day with a leisurely walk along the Motoyasu River. The riverside offers a beautiful view of the city lights reflecting on the water, creating a romantic atmosphere perfect for couples.

Morning

Kick off your second day with a visit to the Hiroshima Castle. This five-story castle offers panoramic views of the city and a glimpse into Japan's feudal past.

Lunch

For lunch, indulge in some Hiroshima-style ramen. This local version of the popular dish features a rich, soy-based broth and is a must-try.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon shopping at the Hondori Shopping Street. This pedestrian-only street is lined with a variety of shops selling everything from traditional Japanese goods to trendy fashion items.

Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner. Hiroshima offers a variety of restaurants serving local and seasonal dishes that are sure to satisfy your palate.

Evening

End your Hiroshima journey with a relaxing soak in one of the city's public baths. These baths, known as 'onsen', offer a unique cultural experience and a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration.

Attractions in Itinerary (5)

Shukkeien Garden

1
Shukkeien Garden

A beautiful traditional Japanese garden.

Gardens
Cultural Experiences
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

2
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

A beautiful park dedicated to the legacy of Hiroshima as the first city in the world to suffer a nuclear attack.

Attractions
Parks
Monuments
A-Bomb Dome

3
A-Bomb Dome

A part of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. The ruin serves as a memorial to the people who were killed in the atomic bombing of Hiroshima on 6 August 1945.

Monuments
Landmarks
Children's Peace Monument

4
Children's Peace Monument

The Children's Peace Monument is a statue dedicated to the memory of the children who died as a result of the bombing. The statue is of a girl with outstretched arms with a folded paper crane rising above her.

Monuments
Attractions
Hiroshima Castle

5
Hiroshima Castle

A castle that offers a great view of Hiroshima and a glimpse into its past.

Attractions
Landmarks
Architecture

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Hiroshima Okonomiyaki

Hiroshima Okonomiyaki

A savory pancake filled with a variety of ingredients like cabbage, bean sprouts, pork, squid, and topped with a sweet sauce, mayonnaise, and green onions. It's a must-try dish that's synonymous with Hiroshima's local cuisine.

Anago Meshi

Anago Meshi

A popular dish in Hiroshima, Anago Meshi is a bowl of rice topped with grilled sea eel (anago). The eel is typically basted in a sweet soy-based sauce, giving the dish a unique, rich flavor.

Momiji Manju

Momiji Manju

A traditional Japanese sweet, Momiji Manju is a maple leaf-shaped cake filled with sweet red bean paste. It's a popular souvenir from Hiroshima, especially from Miyajima Island.

Hiroshima Oysters

Hiroshima Oysters

Hiroshima is famous for its oysters, which are larger and meatier than most. They can be enjoyed in various ways such as raw, grilled, fried, or in a hot pot.

Tsukemen

Tsukemen

A type of ramen where the noodles and broth are served separately. The noodles are dipped into the broth before eating. Hiroshima's version often includes local ingredients like oysters and lemons.

Kaki no Dotenabe

Kaki no Dotenabe

A hot pot dish featuring Hiroshima's famous oysters. The oysters are cooked in a pot with tofu, vegetables, and a miso-based broth.

Hiroshima Nihonshu

Hiroshima Nihonshu

Hiroshima is known for its high-quality sake (Nihonshu). The region's soft water and favorable climate contribute to the production of a smooth and mild sake.

Yaki-gaki

Yaki-gaki

Grilled oysters, a popular way to enjoy Hiroshima's famous oysters. They are typically grilled over charcoal and served with a squeeze of lemon.

Kumano Beef

Kumano Beef

A local brand of beef from the Kumano region of Hiroshima. Known for its marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor.

Chifun

A local Hiroshima dish made of thin rice noodles stir-fried with various ingredients like vegetables, meat, and seafood.

Hiroshima Lemon Sour

A refreshing cocktail made with Hiroshima's famous lemons. The lemons give the drink a fresh, tangy flavor.

Mikan Juice

Mikan Juice

A sweet and tangy juice made from Hiroshima's locally grown mikan (Japanese mandarin oranges).

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Hiroshima, Japan, is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these periods, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, and the scenery is at its most beautiful with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn leaves. These seasons also coincide with several cultural festivals, providing an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in Japanese traditions. However, please note that these are also peak tourist seasons, so it's advisable to book accommodations and activities in advance.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 8

Mon

Coming of Age Day

February 11

Sun

National Foundation Day

February 12

Mon

National Foundation Day observed

February 23

Fri

Emperor's Birthday

March 20

Wed

Spring Equinox

April 29

Mon

Shōwa Day

May 3

Fri

Constitution Memorial Day

May 4

Sat

Greenery Day

May 5

Sun

Children's Day

May 6

Mon

Children's Day observed

July 15

Mon

Sea Day

August 11

Sun

Mountain Day

August 12

Mon

Day off for Mountain Day

September 16

Mon

Respect for the Aged Day

September 22

Sun

Autumn Equinox

September 23

Mon

Autumn Equinox observed

October 14

Mon

Sports Day

November 3

Sun

Culture Day

November 4

Mon

Culture Day observed

November 23

Sat

Labor Thanksgiving Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Hiroshima's tram network, also known as Hiroden, is one of the most extensive in Japan. It's a convenient and popular way to get around the city, with routes covering most major attractions including the Peace Memorial Park and Hiroshima Castle.

Hiroshima's bus network is extensive and can take you to places not covered by the tram. The Hiroshima Bus Terminal, located in the city center, is the main hub for local and long-distance buses.

Hiroshima is well-connected by train to other cities in Japan via the Shinkansen (bullet train) network. Within the city, the JR Hiroshima Station is the main hub, with local lines providing access to suburban areas and nearby attractions like Miyajima.

Hiroshima is a bicycle-friendly city with numerous rental shops and dedicated bike lanes. It's a great way to explore the city at your own pace, especially the downtown area which is relatively flat and compact.

Taxis are readily available throughout Hiroshima and can be hailed on the street or found at taxi ranks at major transport hubs and hotels. They offer a convenient but more expensive option for getting around.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Hiroshima, offering a convenient and often cheaper alternative to taxis. They can be booked via smartphone apps.

Ferries operate from Hiroshima Port to nearby islands, including the famous Miyajima Island. The ferry ride offers beautiful views of the Seto Inland Sea.

Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to explore outside of Hiroshima city, especially in more rural areas where public transport is less frequent. Note that an International Driving Permit is required for foreign drivers in Japan.

Many of Hiroshima's main attractions, including the Peace Memorial Park and Hiroshima Castle, are within walking distance of each other in the city center. Walking is a pleasant way to explore the city, especially in good weather.

The Hiroshima Airport is located about 50km east of the city. Shuttle buses run between the airport and the city center, providing a convenient transport option for air travelers.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency¥ JPY

Time zoneUTC+9

Driving sideLeft

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 119; Fire: 119; Police: 110

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type B

Voltage100 V

Things to know about Hiroshima, Japan as a first time visitor

1

Hiroshima is located in the Chugoku Region on the western side of the main island of Honshu.

2

The city has a humid subtropical climate, with hot and humid summers (up to 90°F/32°C) and mild winters (down to 35°F/2°C).

3

The official language is Japanese, but English is commonly understood in tourist areas.

4

The local currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments.

5

Hiroshima is in the Japan Standard Time zone, which is 9 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT +9).

6

Tipping is not customary in Japan, including Hiroshima. It can even be seen as rude, so it's best to avoid it.

7

Public transportation in Hiroshima is excellent. The city has a comprehensive tram system, buses, and ferries.

8

The city is known for its local delicacy, Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki, a savory pancake you should try.

9

Hiroshima is a very safe city, but like anywhere, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

10

The city has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to traditional Japanese inns (ryokan) and budget hostels.

11

Hiroshima is a modern city with a tragic history. It's respectful to be mindful of this when visiting certain sites and interacting with locals.

12

The city is very pedestrian-friendly, with many areas accessible by foot or bicycle.

13

Tap water in Hiroshima is safe to drink, but bottled water is also readily available.

14

Public Wi-Fi is widely available in Hiroshima, including in many public spaces, cafes, and hotels.

15

Hiroshima has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues open late into the night.

16

The city has a number of festivals throughout the year, including the Hiroshima Flower Festival in May and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony in August.

17

Japanese etiquette is important. For example, it's customary to bow when greeting someone, and it's considered rude to eat or drink while walking in public.

18

Hiroshima has a number of shopping districts, offering everything from high-end fashion to traditional Japanese crafts.

19

The city is surrounded by beautiful nature, including the Seto Inland Sea and the Chugoku Mountains. It's worth taking a day trip to explore the surrounding area.

20

Emergency numbers in Japan are 110 for police and 119 for ambulance and fire services. It's a good idea to have these numbers saved in your phone.

Basic Japanese to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

こんにちは

Konnichiwa

Greeting someone

Goodbye

さようなら

Sayonara

Leaving or parting ways

Please

お願いします

Onegaishimasu

Making a request

Thank you

ありがとう

Arigatou

Showing gratitude

Excuse me

すみません

Sumimasen

Getting attention or apologizing

Yes

はい

Hai

Affirming or agreeing

No

いいえ

Iie

Denying or disagreeing

I don't understand

わかりません

Wakarimasen

When you don't understand something

Do you speak English?

英語を話せますか?

Eigo o hanasemasu ka?

When you need to communicate in English

I'm sorry

ごめんなさい

Gomen nasai

Apologizing

Where is the bathroom?

トイレはどこですか?

Toire wa doko desu ka?

When you need to find a bathroom

How much does this cost?

これはいくらですか?

Kore wa ikura desu ka?

When you want to know the price of something

I need help

助けが必要です

Tasuke ga hitsuyou desu

When you need assistance

Can I have the menu, please?

メニューをください

Menyū o kudasai

When you want to order food at a restaurant

Water

Mizu

When you want to order water

Beer

ビール

Bīru

When you want to order beer

Delicious

おいしい

Oishii

Complimenting food

I'm lost

迷子になりました

Maigo ni narimashita

When you can't find your way

Train station

Eki

When you're looking for the train station

Good night

おやすみなさい

Oyasuminasai

Before going to bed or parting late at night

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Rain jacket or umbrella

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Travel-sized body wash

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel-sized first aid kit

  • Prescription medications

  • Sunscreen

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Emergency contact information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Chargers for all devices

  • Universal power adapter

  • Portable power bank

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Travel guidebook for Hiroshima

  • Phrasebook or language app

  • Notebook and pen

  • Ziplock bags for organization

Weather Conditions

Hiroshima, Japan, experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons, which can greatly influence your travel plans. Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Hiroshima, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). It's the cherry blossom season, so don't forget to visit the parks and gardens. However, it's also a popular time for tourists, so expect some crowds. Summer (June to August) in Hiroshima is hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 86°F (30°C). It's also the rainy season, particularly in June and July, so pack an umbrella or raincoat. Despite the weather, summer is a vibrant time in Hiroshima, with numerous festivals taking place. Autumn (September to November) is another great time to visit Hiroshima. The temperatures are comfortable, ranging from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C), and the fall foliage is spectacular. It's also less crowded than spring. Winter (December to February) is relatively mild in Hiroshima, with temperatures usually between 35°F and 50°F (2°C to 10°C). Snowfall is rare but possible, so pack accordingly. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Don't forget to bring comfortable shoes for exploring the city, and remember that the weather can change quickly, so it's always a good idea to carry a light jacket or umbrella.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

10° / 2°

January is the coldest month in Hiroshima, with occasional snowfall. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy cooler weather and fewer crowds.

February

11° / 2°

February is still quite cold, with a slight increase in temperature. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

March

15° / 5°

March sees the arrival of spring, with cherry blossoms starting to bloom towards the end of the month. The weather is cool and comfortable for sightseeing.

April

20° / 10°

April is one of the best months to visit Hiroshima, with pleasant temperatures and full bloom of cherry blossoms. It's perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

May

25° / 14°

May offers warm weather and is the start of the rainy season. It's a good time to visit Itsukushima Shrine and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

June

29° / 19°

June is the rainy season in Hiroshima, with high humidity. However, the lush greenery and fewer crowds make it a unique time to visit.

July

34° / 24°

July is hot and humid, with occasional rain showers. It's a good time to visit indoor attractions or enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife.

August

34° / 24°

August is the hottest month in Hiroshima, with high humidity. It's a good time to visit the beaches or enjoy the city's summer festivals.

September

30° / 20°

September sees the end of summer, with temperatures starting to cool down. It's a great time to visit for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

October

24° / 14°

October offers comfortable temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage. It's a great time to visit parks and gardens.

November

19° / 9°

November is a beautiful month to visit Hiroshima, with autumn foliage at its peak. The weather is cool and comfortable for sightseeing.

December

14° / 4°

December is a cool month with occasional snowfall. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy Christmas festivities and cooler weather.

Did you know?

Did you know that Hiroshima is known as the 'City of Water' due to the six rivers that flow through it?

1 of 10

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