48 Hours itinerary to Hiroshima- Weekend trip to the most underestimated city!

Posted on August 4, 2020 by Ghoomophiro

Hiroshima city in Japan is best known for the deployment of the Atomic Bomb on 6th August 1945 during World War II (1939- 1945). The explosion was massive, and everything nearby was devastated. Declaration was made that the city could never be habitable, but today it is a survivor of humanity and signifies prosperity and peace. Still, there is one part of the town known as ‘lonely planet’ due to atomic effects. Our 48 hours itinerary to this lovely place serves a perfect weekend plan for their getaway in Japan. 

Checklist for a travel plan to Hiroshima

• Local language- Nihongo is also known as ‘Japanese,’ is the national language of Japan. Every signage in the country has English and Nihongo options that reduce your concerns. If you are a lousy navigator, locals are quite helpful in Japan and Hiroshima. Getting a basic hang of Nihongo can, however, help recognize the basic gestures of the country. For example:

Arigato Gozaimasu means ‘Thank You.’

Sumimasen says ‘Excuse Me.’

Ohayou Gosaimasu means ‘Good Morning.’

Oyasumi Nasai refers to ‘Good Night.’

Onegai Shimasu means ‘Please.’

Eigo o hanashimasu ka?- It means ‘Do you know English?’

• Etiquette- First-hand information about the place you wish to visit is always advisable. Japanese are very friendly, but following some necessary rituals is mandatory. Modest dressing before temple trips and removing shoes off is vital. 
• Currency- Yen is the currency of Japan and is available easily at foreign exchange counters. Although it is a bit pricey destination, local travel would not hurt your pockets. 
• Travel to Hiroshima- A walking tour to Hiroshima city is a perfect way to explore its legacy and vibes. However, if you are short of time, a tram trip or private taxi can help you cope with the journey with convenience. 
• How to reach?- You can extend a Tokyo visit for two days or approximately 48 hours to explore Hiroshima. Flying from Tokyo takes about one and a half hours to reach Hiroshima. You can travel directly from other countries as well. 
• Accommodation- Stay at Hiroshima is comfortable and budgeted. From a hotel with a historic touch like Ryokan to modern and contemporary stay options are available here. Popular hotels in Hiroshima are Sheraton hotel, Hotel Granvia, Urbain Hiroshima Central, and many others. 

After getting a glimpse of the essential guide on a visit to Hiroshima, let’s start exploring the beautiful city that itself is a symbol of proud warrior against all the odds. The history of this city was devastating, but how they revived life and nature here is worth a watch. Vigilance, dedication, and commitment of the inhabitants to nurture the town shows up in each scenic view. Without a wait, let’s start with 48 hours itinerary to Hiroshima:

Day 1: Start with the salute to galore of Hiroshima!

Morning- Visit Genabku

You will have breakfast and move ahead with a city tour to Hiroshima. It starts with giving a tribute to A-bomb domes and other memorials of the city. Genbaku (prime Atomic Bomb) is a sight to visit and stand amongst only structures that sustained the Allies bombing on the town. Locals have sentimental value with this place, and it remarks the epitome of ‘beginning and end of life.’ It keeps reminding the people what the city went through and paid tribute to everyone who lost life then. Nuclear effects are disastrous, and Hiroshima is a live example of this. You might get goosebumps after a visit at this historic point. 

Every tour to this city starts from the dome standing near the river bank that signifies its past. Now you will walk through the Ota Riverbank and reach Peace Memorial park. Cenotaph flame at the memorial would is a commitment to destroy the last nuclear weapon. You would further explore the history with a visit to Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall that displays the sacrifice of Atomic Bomb victims. Spectacular fact about this monument is its underground construction by famous architect Kenzo Tange. 

Just after four months when the Nuclear Bomb dropped on Hiroshima, almost 1,66,000 collapsed with its effects. It is mystifying to discover the impact of this attack, and hundreds of stories are associated with it. A museum visit can confine you to the saddening part of this place. Few guides can help you figure out every bit of atomic attacks like cracked roofs and tiles ruptured with heat rays. If you have kids with you, stay cautious as the museum depicts frightening visuals of radiation burns on victims through paintings and miniature. Every bit of the museum represents the Hiroshima’s revolution to abandon and destroy nuclear weapons globally. It tirelessly works towards establishing peace and harmony. 

Afternoon- Explore Hiroshima’s culture

Step to the next destination with a historic trip to Hiroshima-jo. It is the castle built by ‘Five Great Elders’ and feudal squabbles from the past many centuries. If you are visiting here in spring, you can stroll around the gardens to witness beautiful cherry blossoms. After a long walk through the memorials of Hiroshima, you must take a break and enjoy lunch at any exotic food joints or restaurants. Now move ahead towards the next destination. Visit Mitaki-Dera temple popularly known as the ‘three waterfalls’ temple behind the Mitaki-Yama mountain range. Rounded dome walls are cozy, and continuously flowing fountain water gives a salute to the attack victims.

Evening- Ponder through the shopping markets of Hiroshima and enjoy cocktails

If you manage to reach on time, visit famous baseball-check to enjoy flying balls. Soothe the sunset view t Hiroshima bay and enjoy kayaking near the shores. Hondori arcade is the next spot to unwind with some exciting shopping in the markets over there. You can also relax at Izakaya, an excellent eatery joint, and bar. Do not forget to experiment with Ninjo Ganko Yatai to get okonomiyaki, a popular recipe for this area. It is a perfect preparation of vegetables, noodles, and authentic sauces that give you a spiritual experience. 

Night- Hiroshima’s entertainment district

At the 5 minute walk from Hondori towards the east is the most happening street of Hiroshima. Witness the nightlife on this street, and there are multiple spots on the top floors of the place. You can choose the elevator ride to reach the areas. 

Day 2: Absorb the Island treasure of Hiroshima

Morning: Visit Miyajima Island 

Miyajima is a prime attraction of this place. You can get a ferry from Miyajimaguchi, which is 25 minutes from Hiroshima station. Getting the advance passes for a ferry ride is a good idea. A small boat trip gives a fascinating view of the historical gates of the Shinto shrine. While protruding towards the island, you can locate exciting deer but avoid getting too close for a close escape from wildness. Walking along the beautiful island takes you to Itsukushima shrine that replicates the beauty and majesty of the holy place. You need to wander for quite a while without shoes to capture the astonishing temple places. Relax and enjoy lunch at famous Island oysters to enjoy barbeque of popular oysters. Ask the locals to spot some vegetarian joints to enjoy food. 

Afternoon: Nightlife and culture

There is a lot to explore at Miyajima, but as you might fall short of time, get back to the ferry to discover the culture of this city. Art houses museum exhibits explicit collection from artists like Picasso and Monet. It also has the complete art restoration of the region and works great to figure out the vast culture quickly. If you could spare an extra night to stay, do not skip the scouring lanes of Aioi-dori or groove to rock music mayhem at Koba. Spend the pleasant night with the scenic beauty of the place and pack up to leave the next morning. 

Happy Hiroshima memories!