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Hiroshima: A City of Resilience and Remembrance
As a National Geographic journalist, it is my privilege to visit and explore the rich and diverse cultural landscapes of the world. In this article, I am excited to share my experience of visiting Hiroshima, one of the most iconic cities in Japan that witnessed the world’s first atomic bombing during World War II. Hiroshima is a city of incredible resilience, perseverance, and hope, where history and modernity coexist harmoniously, creating a unique blend of tradition and innovation.
Hiroshima Cityscape
Hiroshima is located on the southwestern coast of Honshu, Japan’s largest island. The city is surrounded by scenic mountains, forests, and rivers, making it a picturesque destination for nature enthusiasts. The city’s streets are dotted with vibrant neon lights, bustling markets, and tranquil temples, offering a visual feast for visitors.
What I Liked About Hiroshima
One of the most striking things that I liked about Hiroshima is the city’s commitment to peace and reconciliation. The city’s Atomic Bomb Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a symbol of the horrors of war and the resilience of humanity. The city is also home to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, where visitors can learn about the stories of the bombing victims and the city’s efforts towards peacebuilding.
What I Disliked About Hiroshima
One thing that I found challenging about the city is the language barrier. Hiroshima is not as tourist-friendly as other Japanese cities, and many of the locals speak limited English. However, this can also be a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture and learn some Japanese.
Average Cost of Living in Hiroshima per day
Hiroshima is moderately expensive compared to other Japanese cities, but it offers a good value for money. The average cost of living per day would be around 7,000-8,000 JPY (approximately 64-73 USD), including accommodation, food, transport, and entertainment.
20 Must-Visit Places in Hiroshima
1. Atomic Bomb Dome – 1-10 Otemachi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0051, Japan
2. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum – 1-2 Nakajima-cho, Naka-ku, Hiroshima, 730-0811, Japan
3. Miyajima Island – 1-1 Miyajimacho, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima 739-0588, Japan
4. Hiroshima Castle – 21-1 Moto-machi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima, 730-0011, Japan
5. Shukkei-en Garden – 2-11 Kaminoboricho, Naka-ku, Hiroshima, 730-0014, Japan
6. Hondori Shopping Street – Naka-ku, Hiroshima, 730-0035, Japan
7. Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art – 1-1 Hijiyama Koen, Minami-ku, Hiroshima,730-0042, Japan
8. Hiroshima Museum of Art – 1-1 Hijiyama Kōen, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 732-0822, Japan
9. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park – 1-2 Nakajimacho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0811, Japan
10. Hiroshima Bay – Hiroshima, Japan
11. Hiroshima Prefectural Art Museum – 2-22 Kaminoboricho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0014, Japan
12. Mitaki-dera Temple – 411 Mitakiyama, Nishi Ward, Hiroshima, 733-0805, Japan
13. Hiroshima Children’s Museum – 5-83 Motomachi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0011, Japan
14. Mazda Museum – 3-1 Morikidori, Fuchu-cho, Aki-gun, Hiroshima, 735-0028, Japan
15. Hijiyama Park – Hijiyama Park, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 732-0816, Japan
16. Iwakuni Castle – 1-1 Shiroyama, Iwakuni, Yamaguchi 741-0081, Japan
17. Kintai-kyo Bridge – 1-1 Yokoyamacho, Iwakuni, Yamaguchi 740-0000, Japan
18. Kure Maritime Museum – 5-20 Sakaimachi, Kure, Hiroshima 737-0024, Japan
19. Kure Old Naval Base – JMSDF Kure Museum, 5-20 Kaminosecho, Kure, Hiroshima 737-0046, Japan
20. Okonomimura – 5-13 Shintenchi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0034, Japan (Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki theme park)
Top 20 Street Foods to Try in Hiroshima
1. Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki (savory pancake)
2. Oysters
3. Momiji Manju (maple leaf-shaped sweets filled with red bean paste)
4. Anago Meshi (grilled eel over rice)
5. Oyster Kakiage (deep-fried oyster fritters)
6. Tsukemen (cold noodles dipped in a separate broth)
7. Ikinari Dango (sweet potato dumplings)
8. Momiji Tempura (deep-fried maple leaves)
9. Yaki Shumai (grilled pork dumplings)
10. Butaman (steamed buns filled with pork)
11. Hiroshima-style Tsukemen (cold noodles topped with soy sauce and vinegar)
12. Kaki Fry (fried oysters)
13. Hiroshima-style Yakisoba (stir-fried noodles with vegetables and meat)
14. Okonomiyaki Dorayaki (sweet pancake filled with Okonomiyaki sauce)
15. Kusagiri Dango (steamed sticky rice balls with sweet soy sauce)
16. Hiroshima-style Gyoza (pan-fried dumplings)
17. Amagoi (deep-fried flying fish)
18. Iwakuni Sushi (sushi from Iwakuni City)
19. Uni (sea urchin)
20. Hiroshima-style Tamagoyaki (sweet rolled omelet)
Top 10 Hotels and Airbnb in Hiroshima with Detail and Price in US Dollars
Hotels:
1. Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel – 12-1 Wakakusa-cho, Higashi-ku, Hiroshima, 732-0053, Japan. Price starts at 125 USD per night. (Yelp 4.3/5)
2. ANA Crowne Plaza Hiroshima – 7-20 Nakamachi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima, 730-0037, Japan. Price starts at 108 USD per night. (Yelp 4.5/5)
3. Granvia Hiroshima – 1-5 Matsubaracho, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 732-0822, Japan. Price starts at 117 USD per night. (Yelp 4.2/5)
4. Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima – 6-78 Motomachi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima, 730-0011, Japan. Price starts at 110 USD per night. (Yelp 4.4/5)
5. Hotel Sunroute Hiroshima – 3-3-1 Ote-machi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima 730-0051, Japan. Price starts at 76 USD per night. (Yelp 4.1/5)
Airbnb:
1. Cozy apartment with view – 10-14 Hakushima Kita-ku, Hiroshima, 732-0054. Price starts at 40 USD per night. (Rating 4.9/5)
2. Riverside house near Peace Park – Hagashi-ku, Hiroshima 732-0053, Japan. Price starts at 68 USD per night. (Rating 4.9/5)
3. Modern Studio in Central Hiroshima – 2 Chome-17-9 Takara-machi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima, 730-0031. Price starts at 45 USD per night. (Rating 4.8/5)
Top 5 Accommodations in Hiroshima Worth the Money:
1. ANA Crowne Plaza Hiroshima: Located in the heart of the city, the hotel offers a cozy stay with stunning views of the city. It is close to major tourist attractions and offers world-class amenities and services.
2. Airbnb – Riverside house near Peace Park: With a beautiful view of the river, the house is designed for comfort, privacy, and tranquility. The host is friendly and accommodating, and the location is perfect for exploring the city.
3. Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel: The hotel offers luxurious rooms, an indoor pool, and a spa. It is a great option for families and business travelers who want world-class amenities and services.
4. Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima: The hotel is conveniently located near major shopping and entertainment districts, offering easy access to some of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Rooms are clean, spacious, and well-equipped.
5. Airbnb – Modern Studio in Central Hiroshima: The apartment is centrally located, clean, and well-maintained. It is perfect for solo travelers or couples who are looking for a cozy and private stay with all the necessary amenities.
Overall rating of Hiroshima: 9.5/10
3-Day Trip Itinerary in Hiroshima
Day 1:
– Visit the Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Museum
– Take a ferry to Miyajima Island and visit Itsukushima Shrine and the Giant Torii gate
– Try Oysters and Anago Meshi for lunch
– Watch the sunset at Hiroshima Bay
– Try Hiroshima Okonomiyaki and Tsukemen for dinner in Okonomimura
Day 2:
– Visit Hiroshima Castle and Shukkei-en Garden
– Walk around the Hondori Shopping Street
– Try Hiroshima-style Yakisoba and Kaki Fry for lunch
– Visit Hiroshima Prefectural Art Museum and Hiroshima Museum of Art
– Take a stroll around Hijiyama Park
Day 3:
– Visit Mitaki-dera Temple and Mazda Museum
– Try Momiji Manju and Yaki Shumai for lunch
– Visit Kure Maritime Museum and Kure Old Naval Base
– Take a day trip to Iwakuni and visit Iwakuni Castle and Kintai-kyo Bridge
– Try Iwakuni Sushi and Uni for dinner.
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