2-day itinerary in Hiroshima and Miyajima

Hiroshima is one of those places that you can't miss on any trip. trip to JaJapan.

When I was planning the trip, I had my doubts. I worried that Hiroshima might be a somber, heavy place to visit—maybe even unsuitable for a trip with kids. How wrong I was!

First of all, follow me on Instagram @danae_explore – that’s where you can keep up with my trips, find lots of travel tips, and send me a DM anytime! I love chatting about travel

Hiroshima is a vibrant, modern city that embodies the best of Japan: warm and welcoming people, mouthwatering food, stunning temples, ancient traditions, cutting-edge technology, breathtaking landscapes, and, on top of all that, the opportunity to learn from a chapter of human history that everyone should reflect on. Hiroshima teaches us about resilience, humility, and courage. It stands as proof that it’s possible to rise, rebuild, and create a new chapter in your story.

During our 4 week adventure in Japan, after spending over a week soaking up everything Tokyo had to offer, crossing the Japanese Alps , and hiking the Nakasendo Road, we arrived in Hiroshima. From there, we continued on to Kyoto and Osaka.

So come with me and check out what we did on our two-day itinerary in Hiroshima and Miyajima, and if you have any questions at the end, hit me up on Instagram. @danae_explore I love talking about travel!

We enjoyed our trip to Japan so much that we were back again shortly afterwards.This time in winter: we enjoyed the snow in SapporoWe revisited favorite places (hello Tokyo e KyotoWe've included some new ones like Kanazawa and Himeji. Check them out here on the blog or over at [website address]. Instagram.

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How to get to Hiroshima

Hiroshima is located in southern Japan, and the best way to get there—like most places in Japan—is by train, specifically the Shinkansen, the legendary Japanese bullet train.

We were in Takayama (Check out our 4-week itinerary here.We took a regional train – the Hida Express – to Nagoya, and from there the Shinkansen to Hiroshima. The whole journey took five hours.

At Hiroshima Central Station, we took bus number 50 which dropped us off almost in front of our hotel, the FAV Hiroshima Heiwa OdoriI recommend you consult Google Maps to find the best way to get from one point to another in Japan, especially when it comes to getting around within cities: we used Google Maps every day of our trip and it was perfect, we didn't have any problems. Just follow what the app indicates, you can trust it.

The Shinkansen, by Sanyo LineIt connects Hiroshima to major Japanese cities, especially Osaka. Kyoto e Tokyo To reach Tokyo, the bullet train takes approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes to cover the more than 800 km that separate the cities.

There is also an airport in Hiroshima (code HIJ), with flights to various Japanese cities and some overseas destinations, such as Seoul (Here's our 9-day itinerary in South Korea.), Taipei, Shanghai, Hong Kong and Hanoi.
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Where to stay in Hiroshima

In Hiroshima, we stayed at what ended up being the coolest hotel of our entire 4 week trip to Japan. The kids especially loved it!

O FAV Hiroshima Heiwa Odori It has the largest rooms we stayed in on the trip, with two queen-size beds and, above them, like a bunk bed, a single bed. In addition, it has a sizable living area, a compact kitchen, a bathroom, and a washing machine. Yes, a washing machine inside the room, a dream come true for this traveler who went to Japan. only carry-on luggage.

The location of FAV Hiroshima Heiwa Odori It was great: at night, we would walk to the Hondori area, where there's a good nightlife and many options for dinner. From there, it's possible to walk to the Peace Memorial, but, given the Saharan heat that July in Japan, we opted to travel in the comfort of the air-conditioned bus.

Other options that I had selected for Hiroshima were The Knot Hiroshima and KIRO Hiroshima by the Share Hotels.
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2-day itinerary in Hiroshima and Miyajima

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First of all, I need to say that We stayed 3 nights in Hiroshima.We arrived in the late afternoon, still in time to walk around and get to know the city a bit. We had dinner in the Hondori area, a commercial street with many shops and, on that street and the surrounding ones, several bars and restaurants. We had already been traveling around Japan for almost twenty days and opted for a more Western flavor: we went to The Shack, an Irish-style pub, ate a mediocre hamburger, and the children ordered a pizza that left much to be desired. In short, you can't always get it right.

With two full days ahead of us, we dedicated the first day to exploring Hiroshima and the second to visiting Miyajima.
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Planning a trip to Japan? You're in the right place! We've been twice, and I'm sharing itineraries and complete guides here on the blog and over on Instagram. Start with our full itinerary from our first trip (summer), and our guide on what you need to know before visiting Japan.

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Day 1: Exploring Hiroshima

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1. Hiroshima Peace Memorial

Visiting Hiroshima Peace Memorial is an intense and emotional experience that leaves a lasting impact.

We started our day at the Peace Memorial MuseumIt's a must-see in the city, even if it's emotionally challenging. The exhibits depict what happened in the city on August 6, 1945, and in the days that followed, with original photographs, clothing and objects belonging to the victims, drawings and paintings made by survivors, and accounts. There is a projection of images onto a topographical model of Hiroshima, showing the destruction caused by the atomic bomb, and a section on nuclear weapons.The museum presents a vision of the mistakes we have all made and sees only one way to ensure a safer world for everyone – a total ban on nuclear weapons worldwide."(JTO)

Is this a child-friendly visit? There is no age restriction for visiting the museum. If you're a regular reader of my blog, you know I believe children belong everywhere in the world. They should be introduced to the realities of the world they live in, both the good and the bad, as part of their education and growth. Our daughters were 10 and 12 years old when they visited the museum. We explained what happened, talked with them, and reflected together using language appropriate for their age. Take time to talk with your kids beforehand, explain what they’ll see, why it happened, and how we can work to prevent such tragedies in the future. You’ll be amazed at how much they can take from the experience.

A few months later, we took our daughters to the Tunnel of Hope in Sarajevo, another city scarred by conflict. It’s important to show children the world in all its beauty but also its harsh realities.

We reached the Peace Memorial Museum by bus and bought tickets on-site.

After the museum, we continued our walk through Peace Memorial Park toward the Peace Dome, the ruins of the only building that wasn’t completely destroyed by the explosion.

As you stroll through the park, you’ll come across several monuments, including the Fountain of Prayers, the Cenotaph for the atomic bomb victims, the Pond of Peace, and the Flame and the Bell of Peace. The Children's Monument is particularly touching — the story of Sadako Sasaki and her thousand paper cranes is especially moving.

Across the Motoyasu River stands the Atomic Bomb Dome, a sturdy structure and one of the most powerful reminders of how the city rose from its ashes.

Not far from there is Orizuru Tower, a building featuring exhibitions, a café and bar on the rooftop, and panoramic views of the city. Though it’s not very tall, they say the view is worth it. Unfortunately, we were too hungry and tired to check it out ourselves.

All in all, we spent about three hours visiting the museum and the park.
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2. Hiroshima Castle

After an intense morning, a change of scenery was just what we needed.

We stopped for lunch nearby at Sanukiya Kamiyachoten, though there are plenty of other options around the Peace Memorial Dome.

From there, we took a leisurely walk to Hiroshima Castle, passing by the Hiroshima Museum of Art along the way.

Hiroshima Castle, built in 1591 by the feudal lord Terumoto Mori, It was completely destroyed by the atomic bomb in 1945.What we see today is a reconstruction, completed in 1958, faithful on the outside but modern on the inside. Inside, there is a museum that tells the story of the samurai and the city before the tragedy, with an excellent collection and organization. The view from the top is also impressive – a contrast between modernity and the history that defines Hiroshima.

Be sure to take a stroll through the beautiful gardens surrounding the castle as well.
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This is just the beginning, the Japan There's much more to offer. Here on the blog, in addition to our... 4-week itinerary from the first trip, it has Accommodation tips in Tokyo, itineraries for Kyoto, Sapporo and even the charming villages of Magome and Tsumago and Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine RouteFor those who want to get off the beaten path. Let's make this trip a reality!

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3. Shukkei-en Garden

Now, I’ll be honest—we didn’t have the time or energy to visit Shukkei-en Garden. After spending the day at the Peace Memorial and Hiroshima Castle in the sweltering summer heat, we decided to head back to the hotel for a bit of rest before our evening plans.

But, if you love traditional Japanese gardens and are feeling up for it, or if you have a more relaxed itinerary, I highly recommend setting aside time to visit. Shukkei-en is said to be a lovely place to unwind, with its small lakes, picturesque bridges, and lush vegetation, all in the classic Japanese garden style.
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4. Hiroshima Hondori Shopping Street

After our visit to Hiroshima Castle, we returned to the hotel and later enjoyed dinner at a nearby Italian restaurant called Lucio. I have to say, the food was fantastic!

After dinner, we headed back to the Hondori area, a central district full of shops, restaurants, and bars. While we weren’t there for the food this time, we had one of the activities that both the kids and adults enjoyed the most during our time in Japan — karaoke! If you visit Japan, don’t miss out on this experience.

Karaoke bars in Japan offer private, soundproof rooms and a huge selection of songs. Whether you're into the latest hits (and yes, they have Taylor Swift’s full catalog if you’re traveling with pre-teens, I checked!) and all the 4's rock classics, there’s something for everyone. During our trip, we went to karaoke four times — twice in Hiroshima and twice in Kyoto, all at Big Echo locations. You pay by the hour (or half-hour), and you can also order food and drinks. We didn’t eat, but the draft beer was excellent.
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5. Try Okonomiyaki

Hiroshima’s must-see attractions aren’t just museums, parks, and castles — its food scene is also something to experience.

One dish you absolutely have to try when visiting Hiroshima is okonomiyaki. We had it in Miyajima, and I still dream about that meal! I’ve tried okonomiyaki at my hometown (which has a huge Japanese community), but nothing compares to the Hiroshima version.

Okonomiyaki is often described as a Japanese pancake, but it’s so much more than that. The Hiroshima style is made with eggs and layers of cabbage, noodles, and a mouthwatering combination of ingredients that create an explosion of flavors. There are many restaurants in the area specializing in okonomiyaki, so you won’t have any trouble finding a place to indulge.
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Day 2: Exploring Miyajima

After a busy day in Hiroshima, nOur second day was reserved for one of Japan's most iconic islands: Miyajima.

With the JR Pass, getting there is a breeze. From Hiroshima Central Station, take a local train to Miyajimaguchi Station, then follow the signs (or the crowd) to the JR ferry terminal – JR Miyajima Ferry Station. The ferry to the island is easy to spot and conveniently included in the JR Pass. Once you’re on the island, just follow the flow of people or use Google Maps to reach Itsukushima Shrine, the main attraction. It took us about an hour from our hotel to the shrine’s entrance.

Make sure to enjoy the view during the ferry ride. As the boat approaches Miyajima, you’ll get your first glimpse of the floating Torii gate. We got there during high tide, so the Torii was surrounded by water – an incredible welcome to the island and one of Japan’s most iconic sights.

Another way to reach Miyajima is by boat, which departs from the bridge near the Dome of Peace. The boat, called the World Heritage Sea Route, takes 45 minutes and costs 4.400 yen round trip. On this link There is more information.

Once we arrived, we were greeted by the island’s resident deer, who live peacefully alongside the thousands of tourists who visit every day.
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1. Itsukushima Shrine

Miyajima’s main attraction is the Itsukushima Shrine, and it’s the first stop for most visitors to the island.

The massive floating Torii gate is the star of the show. Depending on the tide, it either appears to float on the water or is accessible by foot at low tide. We were lucky enough to see it during high tide, and the sight of the Torii surrounded by the sea was nothing short of magical – like something straight out of a postcard.

The sanctuary's history dates back to the 6th century, but its existence was only confirmed in 811 AD. It is built on walkways over the water and dedicated to the gods who protect people from wars and maritime disasters. The original buildings were destroyed by fire, then rebuilt and consumed by fire again; the current structures date from the year 1241. In other words, it's impressive. The large floating Torii, being in the water, has suffered more damage and reconstruction over time, the last reconstruction occurring in 1875. It's easy to understand why this place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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2. Climbing Mount Misen

After visiting the shrine, our plan was to climb Mount Misen, but the combination of heat, fatigue, and a delicious lunch made us rethink that idea.

The easiest way up is by cable car, but you can also hike if you’re up for it. It’s about a fifteen-minute walk from Itsukushima Shrine to the cable car station, and if you decide to hike the entire way, it takes just over an hour.

Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Miyajima and the Seto Inland Sea, along with small temples and spiritual areas.
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3. Daisho-in Temple

We made time to visit Daisho-in Temple, which is tucked away and less crowded than Itsukushima Shrine, but just as captivating. Daisho-in has a more intimate and serene atmosphere, filled with statues, lanterns, and charming details. It’s about a fifteen-minute walk from the entrance to Itsukushima Shrine.

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4. Omotesando Street

No trip to Miyajima would be complete without exploring Omotesando Street, the bustling commercial heart of the island. The best route from the ferry terminal to the shrine is right through this street. It’s lined with restaurants and souvenir shops. Be warned, though – while some shops offer unique and beautiful items, others seem like typical tourist traps.

Although there are plenty of dining options along Omotesando, we opted for a restaurant off the main strip. We went to Matochan, a spot specializing in okonomiyaki, and I’m still dreaming about that meal. It was hands down one of the best dishes I had in Japan, and that’s saying a lot in a country known for its incredible food. If you visit Miyajima, you have to try the okonomiyaki at Matochan.

After wandering around a bit more, snacking on momiji manju (a sweet bean-filled pastry shaped like a Japanese maple leaf) and eating lots of ice cream to combat the heat, we headed back to Hiroshima via the same route – ferry and JR train.
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After our time in Hiroshima, we continued our journey on the bullet train to Kyoto. Check out my post on that part of the trip!
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Detailed itinerary of our trip to Japan

Here’s the detailed itinerary of our  four-week trip to Japan and just below is the Google MyMaps link with everything already marked. All you need to do is click on the map and save it to your Google account. When you’re ready to plan your next trip to Japan, you’ll know exactly where to start! 😉

On the map, you’ll find details of everything we did, where we stayed, and the best places we visited. There are different layers, each with a unique color for the various regions we explored.
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Let’s Stay Connected!

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