[Hiroshima& Miya Island Sightseeing] A classic 2-day/1-night itinerary! Visit popular spots without a car.

2026.07.24

From the deep history you can feel at the World Heritage site of Miya Island and the Peace Memorial Park, to the many local delicacies, Hiroshima is a travel destination with a variety of attractions, from classic tourist spots to hidden gems and restaurants. Here's a itinerary for enjoying Hiroshima without a car!

On the first day, we'll explore the central area of ​​Hiroshima City, and on the second day, we'll visit Miya Island using public transportation and on foot!

Not only does it offer a balanced blend of history, nature, cuisine, and culture, but it also features classic Hiroshima dishes you'll encounter along the way, as well as local specialties perfect for souvenirs.

This travel guide, which condenses the charm of Hiroshima into a concise format, is sure to be a useful resource.

[Hiroshima Sightseeing Day 1] A itinerary to Enjoy History, Gourmet Food, and Nature

On the first day of Hiroshima sightseeing trip, you'll efficiently explore the Hiroshima City center, learn about its history, enjoy delicious food, and relax in nature.

Since you can get around using only public transport and walking, you can rest assured even without a car. This is a classic plan that is perfect for your first trip to Hiroshima.

9:30 | Learn about the tragedy of the atomic bomb at Peace Memorial Park

If you arrive at Hiroshima Station around 9 AM, head straight to Peace Memorial Park, one of Hiroshima's must-see tourist attractions. It's about a 15-minute ride on the Hiroshima Electric Railway streetcar, and you'll find it right in front of you when you get off at the "Atomic Bomb Dome" streetcar stop.

Peace Memorial Park is a place established to pass on to future generations the tragedy caused by the atomic bombing on August 6, 1945.

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Monument (officially known as the Hiroshima Peace City Memorial) and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum are scattered throughout the area, embodying a wish for world peace.

Right next to the Peace Memorial Park is the Atomic Bomb Dome, which was near the hypocenter of the atomic bombing and still retains its original appearance.

This building was once used as an industrial promotion hall, and now it quietly conveys the horrors of nuclear weapons and the importance of peace.

Name: Peace Memorial Park Location: 1 Nakajima Naka Ward, Hiroshima City Hiroshima Prefecture (1-10 Otemachi)
Opening hours (Atomic Bomb Museum):
[March to July] 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM
[August] 7:30 AM - 8:00 PM (*Until 9:00 PM on August 5th and 6th)
[September to November] 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM
[December to February] 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Official website: https://www.city.hiroshima.lg.jp/living/park-green/1005983/1026353/1003127.html
↓ Approximately 15-20 minutes on foot (approximately 15 minutes by train)

12:00 | Lunch at "Okonomimura," an okonomiyaki theme park.

When we got hungry, we headed from Peace Memorial Park to "Okonomimura" for lunch.

This is a gourmet spot where several okonomiyaki ( Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki) restaurants are gathered, and you can enjoy authentic okonomiyaki at any of them.

Enjoy watching it being cooked on the griddle right before your eyes as you savor a hearty okonomiyaki filled with plenty of cabbage and stir-fried soba (or udon) noodles.

Each shop has its own unique seasoning and grilling method, so finding your favorite is one of the joys of sightseeing in Hiroshima .

Name: Okonomimura Location: 5-13 Shintenchi, Naka-ku , Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture Naka Ward
Opening hours: Varies by store. Official website: http://www.okonomimura.jp/index.html
↓ Approximately 17 minutes on foot (approximately 15 minutes by train)

13:30 | Enjoy the seasonal beauty of nature at Shukkei-en Garden

Shukkei-en is a daimyo garden built in the early Edo period by Asano Nagaakira, the lord of the Hiroshima domain.

Having survived several fires and the atomic bombing, it is a beloved historical garden that celebrated its 400th anniversary in 2020.

The park is designed as a strolling garden centered around a pond, and despite being located in the heart of Hiroshima City , it is a precious place where visitors can find solace in the beautiful scenery of each season: cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and plum blossoms and camellias in winter.

Name: Shukkei-en Garden Location: 2-11 Kaminobori- Naka Ward, Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture Prefecture
Opening hours:
[March 16th - September 15th] 9:00 - 18:00
[September 16th - March 15th] 9:00 - 17:00
*Entry is permitted until 30 minutes before closing time. Official website: https://shukkeien.jp/
↓ Approximately 9 minutes on foot

15:30 | View of Hiroshima city from Hiroshima City Castle

Next, we'll visit Hiroshima Castle, built by Mori Terumoto, the lord of the Hiroshima domain. The castle tower houses a history museum where you can see swords, armor, and other historical materials.

The experience corner has samurai helmets (for adults and children) on display, making it perfect for commemorative photos.

Additionally, the top floor (5th floor) is an observation deck offering panoramic views of Hiroshima.

The castle tower is open from 9:00 to 18:00 (last entry at 17:30) from March to November, and from 9:00 to 17:00 (last entry at 16:30) from December to February.
Please note the closing time.

Name: Hiroshima Castle Location: 21-1 Motomachi , Naka Ward, Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture Prefecture
Opening hours:
[March to November] 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Last entry at 5:30 PM) [December to February] 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM) Official website: https://www.rijo-castle.jp/

↓ Approximately 17 minutes by train

17:30 | Return to Hiroshima Station and enjoy Hiroshima local cuisine.

After visiting Hiroshima Castle, we'll take the train back to Hiroshima Station. The area around the station is full of great restaurants perfect for sightseeing in Hiroshima.

The commercial complex "ekie," directly connected to Hiroshima Station, and the department store "Fukuya" both feature a variety of restaurants where you can enjoy Hiroshima local specialties.

Furthermore, to the west of Hiroshima Station is "Ekinishi," a restaurant district with a traditional atmosphere that is popular with locals.

Hopping from one small shop to another along the narrow alleyways, and experiencing the unique local flavors and warm hospitality, is one of the great attractions of sightseeing in Hiroshima.

Name: Hiroshima Station area (ekie, Hiroshima Station store, Ekinishi area)
Location: Around Hiroshima Prefecture, Minami- Minami Ward , Hiroshima City, Matsubara Prefecture
↓ Approximately 25 minutes by train and on foot

20:00 | Stay at Oriental Hotel Hiroshima

After enjoying Hiroshima's history and cuisine to the fullest, head to the Oriental Hotel Hiroshima, located along Heiwa-dori Avenue in the city center.

While conveniently located for both sightseeing and dining, stepping inside the hotel reveals an artistic and tranquil space.

The guest rooms are attractive for their sophisticated interiors and stylish spatial design.

All rooms are equipped with original amenities, including bath items containing Japanese and Chinese herbal extracts, bamboo towels, and waffle-knit nightwear, with attention paid to every detail.

Additionally, we offer a welcome service exclusively for hotel guests that can be enjoyed multiple times during your stay. You can freely sample local drinks and Hiroshima's famous sweets, allowing you to experience the charm of the region without leaving the hotel.

Enjoy a relaxing time while savoring the memories of your trip.

Name: Oriental Hotel Hiroshima
Location: 6-10 Hiroshima Prefecture, Naka Ward, Hiroshima City Prefecture
Official website: https://www.oriental-hiroshima.com/

[ Hiroshima Sightseeing Day 2] Experience the breathtaking scenery and gourmet food that you absolutely must see on Miya Island

On the second day, we went to Miya Island, a World Heritage site.

A journey begins where you can enjoy the magnificent torii gate floating in the sea, breathtaking scenery, and the unique cuisine of Hiroshima.

6:45 | Buffet breakfast at Oriental Hotel Hiroshima

On the second day, we started the morning with Oriental Hotel Hiroshima 's renowned "morning buffet."

From Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki and fried oysters (both seasonal), to conger eel rice and other Hiroshima specialties, to nikujaga (meat and potato stew) made with plenty of potatoes from Akitsu, the menu is full of dishes that let you experience the local Hiroshima flavor.

Of course, we also offer a lineup of classic Japanese and Western dishes.

Start your day with a lively early morning buffet to fully recharge your energy and prepare for sightseeing in Miya Island.

↓ Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes by train and ferry

9:30 | Arrived at Miya Island by ferry

Starting from Oriental Hotel Hiroshima , the journey involves a train and a ferry, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. The ferry ride itself takes about 10 minutes, and ferries run every 15 minutes during the daytime.

We headed to Miya Island, gazing at the large torii gate floating on the sea from the ferry. Stepping off the pier, we could feel the calm island air enveloped in the sea breeze.

Name: JR West Miya Island Ferry, Miya Island Matsudai Kisen Location: Miyajimaguchi Official Website: https://jr-miyajimaferry.co.jp/ , https://miyajima-matsudai.co.jp/
↓ Approximately 14 minutes on foot

10:00 | The torii gate soaring above the sea is breathtaking! Visiting Itsukushima Island Shrine.

From Miya Island Pier, it's about a 14-minute walk to Itsukushima Island Shrine, whose symbol is the large torii gate that rises from the sea.

The mystical scenery, which changes its appearance with the ebb and flow of the tides, is one of Hiroshima's most spectacular scenic spots and has even been registered as a World Heritage Site.

The shrine itself is characterized by its unique structure, built as if jutting out over the sea. As you walk along the corridor, you can enjoy the fantastical scenery created by the interplay of the sea and the architecture up close.

Please note that the nearby five-story pagoda is under construction until around December 2026, and the entire tower is covered with scaffolding and sheets, so you cannot see its exterior.

If you have some extra time, why not stop by Daiganji Temple, which is within walking distance? It is a historic temple and is considered one of Japan's three greatest Benzaiten temples.

Name: Itsukushima Island Shrine Location: 1-1 Miyajima-cho, Miya Island Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture Prefecture
Visiting hours: 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM (may vary depending on the season)
Official website: https://www.itsukushimajinja.jp/
↓ Approximately 5 minutes on foot

11:00 | Enjoy Miya Island cuisine in Omotesando Shopping Street

After finishing your visit to Itsukushima Island Shrine, head to Omotesando Shopping Street, which is about a 5-minute walk away.

Along the approach to the shrine, you'll find a row of restaurants and souvenir shops, creating a lively atmosphere where you can enjoy Miya Island's cuisine and shopping.

For lunch, we recommend trying the fluffy grilled conger eel rice. Conger eel rice is a local Miya Island dish consisting of fragrant grilled conger eel served over rice.

In addition, there are plenty of street food options, including momiji manju (maple leaf-shaped steamed buns) and oyster dishes, so enjoying a little bit of everything that catches your eye is a unique way to experience Miya Island.

In addition, we have a wide selection of souvenirs perfect for remembering your trip, including Miya Island's famous rice paddles.

While you're out and about, be sure to find your favorite item!

Name: Omotesando Shopping Street Location: Hiroshima Prefecture , Hatsukaichi City , Miya Island Prefecture (around Miya Island Pier)
Opening hours: Varies by store

↓ Approximately 15 minutes on foot

14:00 | Enjoy the spectacular views and nature by riding the Miya Island Ropeway.

Next, let's head to Mount Misen Misen, one of the island's top power spots.

Mount Misen is a mountain on Miya Island with an elevation of approximately 535m. To reach the ropeway station leading to the Mount Misen area, you can walk from Omotesando Shopping Street (about 15 minutes), or you can take a free shuttle bus (which may not operate during certain hours).

The ropeway requires one transfer before reaching Shishiiwa Station at an altitude of 430m. The charm of this ride lies in the 15-minute aerial stroll, where you can enjoy views of the lush forests of Mount Misen and the Koshima Island floating in the Seto Naikai outside the windows.

From Shishiiwa Station, you can enjoy spectacular views of the Seto Naikai and primeval forests.

If you have the energy and time, I recommend trying a hike to the summit of Mount Misen.

From the observation deck at the summit, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the beautiful islands of the Seto Naikai, the large torii gate of Miya Island , and the Hiroshima City of Hatsukaichi City and Hiroshima on the opposite shore.

There are no shops along the way, so don't forget to bring your own water and other supplies. Also, as you approach the summit, there are sections with a series of steep stone steps.

Wear appropriate hiking gear such as sneakers or trekking shoes, and pay close attention to your footing. Since the weather in the mountains can change quickly, it's a good idea to bring rain gear and warm clothing.

Please note that the ropeway's operating hours vary depending on the season. When planning your trip, be sure to check the latest operating hours on the Miya Island Ropeway's official website beforehand.

【reference】
Hatsukaichi City: Mount Misen Walking Map
Miya Island Ropeway: Miya Island Stamp Rally

Name: Miya Island Ropeway Location: Miyajima-cho, Miya Island Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture Prefecture Business Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Last descent at 4:30 PM) *Hours may vary depending on the season Official Website: https://miyajima-ropeway.info/
↓ Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from Shishiiwa Ropeway Station

18:30 | Arrived at Hiroshima Station

After enjoying sightseeing on Miya Island, take a ferry and then a train to Hiroshima Station. It's a moment to reflect on the scenery of the Setouchi and savor the lingering memories of your trip.

After returning to Hiroshima Station, enjoy some more delicious food, look for souvenirs, and fully experience the charm of Hiroshima until the very end.

Name: JR West Miya Island Ferry, Miya Island Matsudai Kisen Location: Miya Island
Official websites: https://jr-miyajimaferry.co.jp/ , https://miyajima-matsudai.co.jp/

Three must-try gourmet dishes when you visit Hiroshima

If you want to fully enjoy sightseeing in Hiroshima, you can't miss out on the local cuisine.
Here are three must-try gourmet dishes you should definitely try when you visit Hiroshima.

1. Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki (Hiroshima-yaki)

While typical okonomiyaki (Kansai style) is made by mixing the batter and ingredients together before cooking, Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, commonly known as "Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki," is characterized by its generous layering of cabbage and soba (or udon) noodles.

By slowly steaming and grilling the ingredients on a hot plate, the sweet cabbage and fragrant soba (or udon) noodles blend together perfectly.

Be sure to try a freshly baked one at a local specialty shop.

2. Oysters (Oyster dishes)

Oysters, often called "milk of the sea" due to their high nutritional value, are particularly popular in Hiroshima Prefecture, which boasts the highest production volume in the country.

Many restaurants offer oysters year-round, not just in winter, and you can enjoy them in a variety of dishes, including grilled oysters, fried oysters, and dotenabe (a miso-based hot pot), a local specialty of Hiroshima Prefecture.

Let's enjoy the bounty of the Setouchi with fresh oysters.
【reference】
Hiroshima Prefecture: Regarding the "Hiroshima Oyster Production and Shipment Guidelines for Fiscal Year 2024" (3. Statistical Data)

3. Conger eel rice

This Miya Island specialty features fragrant grilled conger eel served over rice with a secret sauce. The fatty conger eel and the rice soaked in the sweet and savory sauce are a perfect match.

There are many long-established specialty shops, where you can enjoy the fluffy, soft texture and savor the flavors of your trip.

Top 3 Must-Buy Souvenirs in Hiroshima

When visiting Hiroshima, you'll definitely want to check out some of the local souvenirs.

Finally, here are three classic items that evoke the essence of Hiroshima.

1. Momiji Manju (maple leaf-shaped steamed bun)

Momiji Manju is a famous confectionary representing Hiroshima Prefecture and is a classic Hiroshima souvenir that is enjoyed by people of all ages.

Made with a soft, sweet dough similar to castella cake, it comes in a variety of fillings, including smooth red bean paste, chunky red bean paste, and matcha green tea paste.

Recently, "Nama Momiji," which has a moister and chewier texture, has also become popular.

2. Sweets related to Setouchi lemons

Hiroshima Prefecture is known not only for its oysters but also for being the top producer of lemons in Japan, and various sweets made with Setouchi lemons, such as cookies, rusks, and jellies, are popular souvenirs.

Setouchi lemons, grown under plenty of sunshine, are often safe to use even with the peel on, and are characterized by their rich aroma and mellow acidity.

Therefore, its appeal lies in its wide range of products, including not only sweets, but also dressings that enhance the flavor of dishes and refreshing drinks.

【reference】
Hiroshima Prefecture: What is Setouchi Hiroshima Lemon?

3. Miya Island rice paddle

The rice paddle (shamoji), originating in Miya Island, is a popular souvenir and a symbol of good fortune.

This item is the origin of the term "kachi-meshi" (winning meal), and is popular as a good luck charm for victory and business prosperity.

With a wide variety of options available, from small to decorative pieces, they make excellent souvenirs and gifts.

Enjoy your sightseeing in Hiroshima!

From famous sights in Hiroshima City to the World Heritage site of Miya Island, you can enjoy a trip that packs in Hiroshima's history, nature, and cuisine, even in just two days and one night.

Furthermore, the Oriental Hotel Hiroshima , which combines convenience with a tranquil atmosphere, will support a comfortable stay as your base for your travels.

Despite its prime location in the city center along Heiwa-dori Avenue, the building offers a tranquil space adorned with art.

The hotel offers a variety of features to enhance your stay, including a breakfast buffet featuring Hiroshima Hiroshima ingredients and a welcome service exclusively for hotel guests.

It's an excellent location for sightseeing and enjoying Hiroshima local cuisine.

Immerse yourself in the unique charm of Hiroshima and enjoy a rich and memorable travel experience.