Hiroshima is a tourist destination that is rich in attractive sightseeing spots and a wide range of gourmet options, including the famous ‘Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki‘. Many people might consider taking advantage of weekends or long holidays to plan a 2-day, 1-night trip, right?
In this article, we introduce a model course for a 2-day, 1-night tour of Hiroshima. We’ll visit classic spots registered as World Heritage Sites, such as the ‘Atomic Bomb Dome’ and ‘Itsukushima Shrine‘, as well as leisure facilities that are enjoyable even for families with small children. Let’s spend a fulfilling time exploring these tourist destinations and enjoying a memorable trip.
目次
- 1 [Hiroshima Sightseeing 2 Days, 1 Night – Model Course] Day 1: Exploring Tourist Attractions in Hiroshima City
- 1.1 [10:00 AM – 11:30 AM] Historical Walk Through Hiroshima Castle
- 1.2 [12:00 PM – 12:45 PM] Enjoy Local Delicacies at ‘Denko Sekka Ekimae Hiroba’!
- 1.3 [1:30 PM – 1:45 PM] The World Heritage Site ‘Atomic Bomb Dome’
- 1.4 [2:00 PM – 3:30 PM] Reflecting on Peace at the ‘Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum’ with Precious Exhibits
- 1.5 [6:00 PM – 7:30 PM] Enjoy Dinner at ‘Waku Bar’, Offering Everything from Fresh to Grilled Oysters
- 2 [Hiroshima Sightseeing 2 Days, 1 Night – Model Course] Exploring the Scenic Miyajima Area
- 2.1 [10:00 AM – 10:30 AM] To Miyajima by Ferry from Miyajimaguchi Pier!
- 2.2 [12:00 PM – 1:00 PM] Snack on Miyajima’s Famous ‘Momiji Manju’ at ‘Momijido Honten’
- 2.3 [1:15 PM – 3:30 PM] Fun for All Ages at ‘Miyajima Aquarium (Miyaji Marine)’
- 2.4 [3:30 PM – 4:30 PM] Explore Culture and History at ‘Miyajima History and Folklore Museum’
- 2.5 [5:00 PM – 7:00 PM] Taste Miyajima’s Famous ‘Anago Meshi’ at ‘Ueno’
- 3 Hiroshima Sightseeing 2 Days, 1 Night Model Course Introduction! Enjoy Your Trip with World Heritage Sites and Local Cuisine
[Hiroshima Sightseeing 2 Days, 1 Night – Model Course] Day 1: Exploring Tourist Attractions in Hiroshima City
Hiroshima is a popular area visited by tourists from all over Japan. It is easily accessible from other prefectures, and with various famous spots concentrated in the city, many people enjoy sightseeing over a 2-day, 1-night stay.
The first day of sightseeing starts at the gateway, JR ‘Hiroshima Station‘. Enjoy the local specialty ‘Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki‘, and appreciate the World Heritage Site ‘Atomic Bomb Dome‘ to make the most of your time in Hiroshima city.
By the way, when moving around the city, it is recommended to use the streetcars or buses, which are somewhat rare in Japan.
[10:00 AM – 11:30 AM] Historical Walk Through Hiroshima Castle
For a 2-day, 1-night model course in Hiroshima, the first recommended spot is ‘Hiroshima Castle‘. Climbing to the top of the restored castle tower, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Hiroshima city, which you’ll be exploring.
The Hiroshima Castle area is filled with attractions beyond the view from the tower, including exhibitions inside the castle and reconstructed buildings in the Ninomaru (second circle of defense). If you have extra time, it’s also a great idea to visit the lush ‘Shukkeien Garden’ adjacent to Hiroshima Castle.
Address: 21-1 Moto-machi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City
Phone Number: 082-227-7512
Admission: Adults 370 yen, High School Students 180 yen, Seniors (65 and over) 180 yen, Free for Junior High School Students and younger (Admission fee for the castle tower)
Access: 15-minute walk from Hiroshima Electric Railway’s ‘Kamiya-cho Higashi’ or ‘Kamiya-cho Nishi’, 7-minute walk from the ‘Godo Chosha-mae’ bus stop.
[12:00 PM – 12:45 PM] Enjoy Local Delicacies at ‘Denko Sekka Ekimae Hiroba’!
When planning a 2-day, 1-night sightseeing tour of Hiroshima, a must-try is the local specialty ‘Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki‘. For those who want to taste this Hiroshima gourmet, ‘Ekimae Hiroba‘ is highly recommended.
Located just a 3-minute walk from JR ‘Hiroshima Station’, this facility is lined with famous Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki restaurants. Among them, especially popular during peak times and known for its queues, is ‘Denko Sekka Ekimae Hiroba Shop‘. Even if there’s a line, the turnover is quick, so a wait of 30 minutes or less is typical even with 5-10 people in line.
The dome-shaped Okonomiyaki, cooked to wrap ingredients in egg, is unique. Enjoy the sizzling and deliciously hot Okonomiyaki as it cooks.
Address: 6F Full Focus Building, 10-1 Matsubara-cho, Minami-ku, Hiroshima Prefecture
Phone Number: 082-568-7851
Closed Days: None (follows the facility’s schedule)
Access: 3-minute walk from the South Exit of JR ‘Hiroshima Station’
[1:00 PM – 1:30 PM] Stroll through ‘Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park’ and Learn History
The ‘Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park‘ is an urban park where you can learn about Hiroshima’s history while experiencing its rich nature. The park, located at the epicenter of the atomic bombing, was created with the hope for perpetual world peace.
Within the park, the ‘Peace Memorial Statue‘ was created by a sculptor from Nagasaki, another city that suffered atomic bombing, like Hiroshima. The statue, with its left hand symbolizing peace and lightly closed eyelids praying for the repose of the atomic bomb victims, is one of many. Visitors can tour the park’s peace museum and monuments, deeply learning about history and culture.
In spring, the park becomes a popular cherry blossom viewing spot with its blooming sakuras. There are also cafes with terrace seating scattered throughout the park, making it pleasant to take a break at a cafe or enjoy the seasonal scenery while savoring gourmet food.
Address: 1 Nakajima-cho and 1-10 Otemachi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City
Phone Number: Varies for each facility within the park
Access: Directly by Hiroshima Bus No. 24 Yoshijima Line at ‘Heiwa Kinen Koen’ bus stop, or by the sightseeing loop bus ‘Meipuru-pu’ at the ‘Peace Park Mae’ bus stop
[1:30 PM – 1:45 PM] The World Heritage Site ‘Atomic Bomb Dome’
One of the main spots in the Hiroshima Sightseeing 2-Day, 1-Night Model Course is the ‘Atomic Bomb Dome‘, a World Heritage Site. This structure, bombed during World War II by the first-ever used atomic weapon, continues to convey the horrors of war and the terror of nuclear weapons to the present day.
Since it is not possible to enter inside the Atomic Bomb Dome, it is best viewed from the ‘Peace Memorial Park‘. If you want to capture the entire building in a photo, viewing the Dome from Motoyasu Bridge or Aioi Bridge within the park is recommended.
Address: 1 Nakajima-cho and 1-10 Otemachi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City
Access: Immediately on foot from Hiroshima Electric Railway’s ‘Atomic Bomb Dome-mae’ stop
[2:00 PM – 3:30 PM] Reflecting on Peace at the ‘Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum’ with Precious Exhibits
A must-visit spot in the Hiroshima Sightseeing Model Course is the ‘Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum‘. The museum features exhibitions that depict the horrific state of Hiroshima as the first city to suffer from an atomic bombing, as well as the struggles of people who continue to suffer from the effects of the bombing to this day.
For your information, it takes about 3 hours for a thorough visit and the average viewing time is around 45 minutes, covering both the Main Building and the East Building. The museum gained international attention as a symbol of peace when it was visited by leaders from various countries during the 2023 G7 Hiroshima Summit.
Address: 1 Nakajima-cho and 1-10 Otemachi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City
Phone Number: 082-241-4004
Admission Fee: Adults 200 yen, High School Students 100 yen, Free for Junior High School Students and younger
Access: Directly by Hiroshima Bus No. 24 Yoshijima Line at ‘Heiwa Kinen Koen’ bus stop, or by the sightseeing loop bus ‘Meipuru-pu’ at the ‘Hiroshima Koen Mae’ bus stop
[4:00 PM – 5:30 PM] Check into the Stylish ‘Nest Hotel Hiroshima’
After enjoying the first night’s model course of Hiroshima sightseeing, check into your hotel and take a break. ‘Nest Hotel Hiroshima‘ is conveniently located with easy access to the bustling downtown area and the station.
The stylish hotel impresses right from the lobby. The charm lies in its modern yet calming atmosphere, with wood furnishings and greenery placed throughout. After settling your luggage in your room and taking a short rest from sightseeing, it’s time to head out for dinner.
Address: 3-11 Kojin-machi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima Prefecture
Phone Number: 082-262-6250
Access: 5-minute walk from the South Exit of JR ‘Hiroshima Station’
[6:00 PM – 7:30 PM] Enjoy Dinner at ‘Waku Bar’, Offering Everything from Fresh to Grilled Oysters
For the perfect end to the first night of the Hiroshima sightseeing model course, Hiroshima’s famous ‘oyster dishes‘ are a must-try. At ‘Uogashi Sakaba Ekimae Hamaken‘, located just a 2-minute walk from the hotel, you can savor Hiroshima’s specialty oysters, along with freshly delivered seafood, grilled on a net or served as sashimi.
Among the many menu items, the ‘Generous Steamed Grilled Oyster Bucket‘ is a standout, offering a plump texture and rich umami taste characteristic of steamed grilled oysters. In addition, indulge in a variety of oysters, including raw and grilled ones, sourced from the best available across Japan until you’re fully satisfied.
Address: 4-22 Sarugakucho, Minami-ku, Hiroshima Prefecture
Phone Number: 082-236-7610
Closed Days: None
Access: 5-minute walk from the South Exit of JR ‘Hiroshima Station’
[Hiroshima Sightseeing 2 Days, 1 Night – Model Course] Exploring the Scenic Miyajima Area
On the second day of the Hiroshima 2-Day, 1-Night Sightseeing Model Course, consider extending your journey to the Miyajima area, another popular tourist destination like the city center.
It takes about 20 minutes by rapid train from JR ‘Hiroshima Station’ to ‘Miyajimaguchi Station‘, the gateway to Miyajima. Surrounded by the sea, the area boasts attractions like a shrine and an aquarium that’s perfect for family fun. Enjoy sightseeing in the enchanting Miyajima area, dotted with attractive spots.
[10:00 AM – 10:30 AM] To Miyajima by Ferry from Miyajimaguchi Pier!
For the second day of the Hiroshima 2-Day, 1-Night Sightseeing Model Course, to head to the main destination, Miyajima, take a ferry from the Miyajimaguchi Pier, which is a short walk from JR ‘Miyajimaguchi Station‘.
To travel from Miyajimaguchi Pier to Miyajima, it’s recommended to use either the ‘JR West Japan Miyajima Ferry‘ or the ‘Miyajima Matsudai Kisen’. While both options are fine, if you want to view Miyajima’s most famous site, the ‘Itsukushima Shrine‘ Great Torii Gate, from the sea, you should take the Great Torii Gate route offered by ‘JR West Japan Miyajima Ferry‘.
Address: 1-11-5 Miyajimaguchi, Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture (Ferry Pier)
Phone Number: 0829-56-2045
Fare: Adults 180 yen, Children 80 yen (one way)
Access: 1-minute walk from JR ‘Miyajimaguchi Station’
[10:45 AM – 12:00 PM] Visit the World Heritage Site ‘Itsukushima Shrine’
When touring Hiroshima over a 2-day, 1-night trip, a must-visit is ‘Itsukushima Shrine‘, which was registered as a World Heritage Site in 1996. The shrine grounds, housing over 10 Important Cultural Properties and 6 National Treasures, are a power spot visited daily by worshippers from both within Japan and abroad.
The shrine boasts unique attractions, including the only ‘Noh stage‘ set over the sea in Japan and scenery that dramatically changes with the tides. The majestic atmosphere of the shrine, combined with the natural beauty of the entire Miyajima area, is counted among Japan’s three most scenic places, alongside Amanohashidate and Matsushima.
With its corridors, the Great Torii Gate, and the Noh stage, the shrine grounds are filled with photogenic spots, making it an ideal place to take memorable photos of your trip.
Address: 1-1 Miyajima-cho, Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Phone Number: 0829-44-2020
Access: 10-minute walk from the Miyajima Ferry Pier
[12:00 PM – 1:00 PM] Snack on Miyajima’s Famous ‘Momiji Manju’ at ‘Momijido Honten’
In the area around ‘Itsukushima Shrine‘, there are plenty of sweet shops perfect for snacking while walking around, such as soft ice cream and manju (sweet buns). Among them, ‘Momijido‘ in Miyajima is the perfect place to enjoy the tourist vibe with its ‘Momiji Manju‘.
The ‘Age Momiji‘, a deep-fried version of Momiji Manju, is especially noteworthy for its fluffy dough and crispy coating, making it a perfect match. With various fillings like sweet bean paste, cream, and cheese available, it’s fun to try and compare different flavors.
Moreover, ‘Momijido‘ is located in the ‘Omotesando Shopping Street‘ of the Miyajima area, which is one of the leading dining and souvenir shopping districts. So, purchasing souvenirs to remember your trip is also recommended.
Address: 448-1 Miyajima-cho, Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Phone Number: 0829-44-2241
Closed Days: None
Access: 5-minute walk from Itsukushima Shrine
[1:15 PM – 3:30 PM] Fun for All Ages at ‘Miyajima Aquarium (Miyaji Marine)’
Just a 5-minute walk from the area around Itsukushima Shrine is ‘Miyajima Aquarium (Miyaji Marine)‘. It is a popular spot recommended for all ages within the Hiroshima Sightseeing 2-Day, 1-Night Model Course. Its indoor setting makes it an attractive destination regardless of the weather, adding to the ease of planning your visit.
The aquarium, which features Japanese-style architecture taking advantage of its proximity to Itsukushima Shrine, houses over 15,000 creatures of 380 species. Among these, the ‘Finless Porpoise‘, often referred to as the whale of the Seto Inland Sea, particularly captures the attention of tourists. Be charmed by the endearing gestures and expressions of the finless porpoise, which sometimes responds to visitors waving at them.
Additionally, the aquarium hosts engaging events and exhibits, such as the impressive ‘Sea Lion Show‘ and the ‘Setouchi Research Institute‘, where keepers answer intriguing questions about marine life.
Address: 10-3 Miyajima-cho, Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Phone Number: 0829-44-2010
Admission Fee: Adults 1,420 yen, Elementary & Middle School Students 710 yen, Toddlers 400 yen
Access: 5-minute walk from Itsukushima Shrine
[3:30 PM – 4:30 PM] Explore Culture and History at ‘Miyajima History and Folklore Museum’
The ‘Miyajima History and Folklore Museum‘, a 5-minute walk from the aquarium, is a historical and cultural tourist spot where the building itself is designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property.
Centered around a garden with a pond, the museum offers a variety of exhibits divided into six sections, including themes like ‘Itsukushima Shrine and Taira no Kiyomori’ and ‘Stone Pavement and Storehouse‘. Among the exhibits, there are props used in historical drama TV series, making it a must-see for drama enthusiasts.
Address: 57 Miyajima-cho, Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Phone Number: 0829-44-2019
Admission Fee: Adults 300 yen, High School Students 170 yen, Free for Elementary & Middle School Students
Access: 5-minute walk from ‘Miyajima Aquarium (Miyaji Marine)’
[5:00 PM – 7:00 PM] Taste Miyajima’s Famous ‘Anago Meshi’ at ‘Ueno’
A fitting gourmet specialty to conclude the Hiroshima 2-Day, 1-Night Sightseeing Model Course is ‘Anago Meshi‘. Unlike Tokyo’s simmered anago, this dish features grilled anago generously placed over rice in a bowl, offering a hearty and satisfying meal.
Among the many restaurants in Miyajima, the highly recommended one is ‘Anagomeshi Ueno‘, a venerable establishment with over 100 years of history.
Their signature dish, ‘Anago Meshi Ue (basic size)‘, serves fresh eel grown in Hiroshima’s seas in a rice bowl. The eel laid on top of steaming hot rice has a crispy surface with a soft and fluffy interior. Enjoy the rich, juicy flavor of the fatty eel to the fullest.
Address: 1-5-11 Miyajimaguchi, Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Phone Number: 0829-56-0006
Closed Days: None
Access: 2-minute walk from JR ‘Miyajimaguchi Station’
Hiroshima Sightseeing 2 Days, 1 Night Model Course Introduction! Enjoy Your Trip with World Heritage Sites and Local Cuisine
If you’re planning to tour Hiroshima Prefecture over 2 days and 1 night, we recommend exploring the popular Miyajima area as well as the famous sights within the city.
For those visiting Hiroshima Prefecture for the first time, or if you’re unsure about which spots to visit, please take a look at this article. It offers a model course that efficiently covers popular tourist spots, which should be quite helpful.
Apart from these, there are many other tourist attractions in Kanazawa City. For more information, make sure to check out AVA Travel as well!
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