Places You'll See
Highlights
- Explore beyond the city limits and travel to multiple locations within and outside of Hiroshima Prefecture
- Marvel at some of Japan's most iconic sightseeing spots such as the "floating" Itsukushima Shrine and Kintaikyo Bridge
- Stop by various temples and shrines to gain a better understanding of Japanese religion
- Board multiple ferries and explore four islands in the Seto Inland Sea
- Discover unique locations and hidden gems such as the "Hill of Hope" in Ikuchijima and Mitaki-dera Temple in the city of Hiroshima
- Experience two scenic ropeway rides with stunning sights from inside the cable cars
- Visit important historic locations, such as the Atomic Bomb Dome and port city of Kure, to better understand Japan's military history
- Tour historic townscapes which retain the charm and look of Japanese towns during the Edo period
- Interact with the local wildlife, such as the deer of Miyajima and the bunnies of Rabbit Island
Description
Explore the many wonderful cities, towns, and islands of Hiroshima Prefecture. At each location, discover the most popular tourist attractions along with numerous hidden gems. Gain a thorough understanding of the history of Hiroshima and immerse yourself in its culture. Enjoy castles, museums, temples, nature, and wildlife as you make your way around the prefecture.
*ESTIMATED BUDGET – Please note that the estimated budget advertised on this page is only for the cost of the tours and what they include. Some tours may include transportation between tour destinations via tour buses. However some tours do not include transportation between tour destinations, and you will need to book your own transportation in such cases. Please refer to each tour listed on this page for further information on what is not included.
Day 1 ONOMICHI
How to Start Off Your Day
Even though you will be joining a tour in Onomichi on your first day, we highly advice visitors to find accommodations in Fukuyama for day one and two of this itinerary. This is due to the fact that Fukuyama has a wider range of options for hotels, it is very close to Onomichi, and this way guests will also not have to change their accommodations three days in a row.
Beyond just staying in Fukuyama, we definitely recommend arriving the night before the first tour of the itinerary as it will make the experience much smoother and enjoyable. In order to get to Fukuyama from places such as Kyoto and Osaka, you will have to make use of the San'yo Shinkansen line. If you are joining from Tokyo, some trains on the Tokaido Shinkansen line will allow you to travel all the way to Fukuyama without having to transfer at Shin-Osaka Station. Once you have arrived at Fukuyama, you can check into your accommodations and be all set to begin your adventure the next day.
In the morning of day one, you will have to take a short train ride to Onomichi Station, where you will meet with your guide. You can take a local train bound for either Mihara or Itozaki on the San-yo Line. Throughout the rest of the day, you will be visiting several Buddhist temples as well as your first island of the trip. You will familiarize yourself with the Seto Inland Sea and the lifestyle of Hiroshima's coastal cities.
1-Day Onomichi & Ikuchijima Island Tour / All Year Round
The city of Onomichi is well-known for its temples and as the access point to many of the small islands lying within the Seto Inland Sea. Connected by multiple bridges, these islands have become a popular cycling and tourist destination. As such, there are some unique and majestic sites to be explored within them. One of Onomichi's most famous islands is Ikuchijima, located around a 40-minute ferry ride from the coast. It is home to Kosan-ji Temple, a peculiar Buddhist temple which differs from all others in Japan. The various buildings and structures within the temple complex were all built in just the past century and are replicas of multiple famous halls, temples, and shrines which can be found in other areas of the country. Additionally, within Kosan-ji, one can find the iconic marble garden "The Hill of Hope." This garden harmonizes perfectly with the natural scenery of the island, creating a magical landscape.
Of course, one cannot visit the city of Onomichi without stopping at two of its most famous and historic temples: Senko-ji and Saikoku-ji. Senko-ji temple lies at the top of a mountain and this tour will take you to its summit on a short and relaxing ropeway ride. Saikoku-ji temple can be found after ascending 108 stone steps and is home to a unique gate adorned with giant straw sandals. By exploring these two Buddhist temples, guests will have the opportunity to learn more about religion in Japan with the help of one of our guides.
This tour also has two convenient pick-up and drop-off locations. The first is Shin-Onomichi Station, which is one of the stops on the San’yo Shinkansen line and is best for those coming into or leaving Hiroshima. The second location is Onomichi Station, which can be accessed by local train from the city of Hiroshima. This train ride is much longer but considerable cheaper, thus making it a good option for those staying near the city center and wishing to save some money. Click "Book Now" to make sure you visit some of Onomichi's most popular and unique sites!
How to End Your Day
Once the tour is over you can head straight back to Fukuyama for dinner and some rest. However, if you want to explore a bit more of Onomichi before getting back to your accommodations, staying in the city for a couple more hours is also a great choice. Trains connecting Fukuyama and Onomichi run till very late at night, so you will not have any issues returning to your hotel afterwards. Onomichi is a beautiful place to enjoy a stroll by the sea, with the walk from the station to Onomichi Bridge being particularly pleasant. There is also a downtown district known as Shingai (新開) where you will be able to find plenty of restaurants and bars. It is a good place to go bar hopping and engage with the locals.
Recommended Accommodation
In Fukuyama, we recommend staying near Fukuyama Station as this is the most convenient location. You will always have some food options available and a nearby tourist information center. Being near the station will also make it easier to get to Onomichi on the first day of the itinerary. As Fukuyama is a large city there will be a good variety of prices and hotel types. You will be able to find accommodations ranging from budget hotels to more luxurious 4-start establishments.
Day 2 FUKUYAMA AND TOMONOURA
How to Start Off Your Day
On your second day you will be exploring the city of Fukuyama, where you will visit your first castle and second island of the itinerary. The meeting spot for this day's tour is Fukuyama Station, so if you are staying nearby getting there will be quite easy. We do recommend visitors to check out of their hotel in the morning before meeting up with the guide as it is best to immediately head out to the city of Hiroshima once the tour is over and we return to the station. You don't have to worry about your luggage, as you can leave it inside one of the many coin lockers at Fukuyama Station.
1-Day Fukuyama Tour: Castle, Tomonoura Port Town, and Sensui-jima Island Visit / All Year Round
Fukuyama is the second largest city within Hiroshima prefecture, as well as the fourth largest in all of Western Honshu. Unfortunately, this wonderful city is often overshadowed by the much more popular city of Hiroshima. To bring more attention to the hidden beauty of Fukuyama, we have designed this 1-day tour which will take guests to iconic locations within the city such as the impressive Fukuyama Castle and picturesque port town of Tomonoura.
The sizeable Fukuyama Castle is the only castle keep in Japan which is protected by iron plates on one of its outside walls. Inside, an interactive and highly educative museum has been opened so that visitors may learn about the history of this former castle town. Your guide will take you on a tour around the castle grounds as well as inside the main tower, providing you with the necessary background information to fully appreciate this magnificent structure.
Afterwards, you will visit the scenic port town of Tomonoura, which to this day retains the charm and look of a historic Japanese town. Bordering the Seto Inland Sea, Tomonoura also possesses a stunning coastline and view of the sea. As you stroll around the area, you will be able to immerse yourself into Fukuyama's past in a peaceful and beautiful setting. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to travel to the small island of Sensui-jima which lies just a 5-minute ferry ride away from the town. This tranquil, uninhabited island is the perfect place to appreciate nature and get the best views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Join this 1-day tour to visit one of Hiroshima's major cities and enjoy a peaceful day by the sea!
How to End Your Day
After the tour concludes, we advise travelers to make their way to the city of Hiroshima. The easiest way to do this is by taking a train on the San'yo Shinkansen line mentioned previously. The fastest trains will get you to Hiroshima in under 25 minutes without having to make any stops along the way. Before you leave Fukuyama Station you can of course grab some dinner there, as it has a great variety of restaurants and cafes. There are also many shops if you wish to purchase any souvenirs before departing. Once you arrive at Hiroshima Station, you can check into your new accommodations and retire for the night.
Recommended Accommodation
There are plenty of great hotel options which can be found around Hiroshima, and where you end up choosing to stay largely depends on how you wish to spend your day when not taking part in tours. For guests who might not have the energy or time to explore the streets of Hiroshima, the best option would undoubtedly be to stay at one of the many hotels near Hiroshima Station. As this is the starting point for all the remaining tours in this itinerary, choosing one of these will greatly minimize the amount of traveling you will have to do.
If you're more interested in walking around the city, eating at local restaurants, shopping, and visiting top tourist spots, we recommend staying in the Central / Hatchobori Station area. Here, you will be closest to the shops and restaurants, and hotel prices can be cheaper than those at the station. Whatever place you end up choosing, it should remain your accommodation for the next five days of the itinerary.
Day 3 HIROSHIMA
How to Start Off Your Day
On the third day you will be exploring the city of Hiroshima, visiting one of its hidden gems along with its most highlighted locations. We recommend getting a good hearty breakfast which will give you plenty of energy to explore Hiroshima on foot. By the time this tour is over, you will be familiar with the city's landscape and history.
1-Day Tour: Hiroshima Hidden Gems & Highlights / All Year Round
For those travelers looking to explore hidden gems while also getting to enjoy popular and iconic locations, this 1-Day Hiroshima tour is the one for you! Your guide will take you to the city's best known sites, such as the Shukkei-en garden, Hiroshima Castle, Atomic Bomb Dome, and Peace Memorial Museum. However, you will also have the unique experience of visiting one of Hiroshima's hidden gems, Mitaki-dera. This Buddhist temple, located in the mountains and away from the city center, is surrounded by a beautiful natural scenery and multiple captivating structures.
Enjoy some time away from the crowded tourist areas by joining this hidden gems & highlights tour. Ensure that your visit to Hiroshima will be unique and unforgettable by booking this tour now!
How to End Your Day
As this will be your first full evening in Hiroshima, we definitely recommend heading out to explore on your own. You can check out Hondori Shopping Street, a bustling shopping area filled with cafes, restaurants, local and international stores, gaming arcades, and more. On the west side, this street faces Peace Memorial Park and on the east side it faces the "entertainment district" Nagarekawa. In Nagarekawa is where you can find Hiroshima's nightlife, with plenty of bars and nightclubs open past midnight. Of course, if you're feeling a bit too tired there is no need to push yourself to go out, as you will many more days to explore the city.
Day 4 MIYAJIMA
How to Start Off Your Day
For the fourth day, you will head to the third island of the itinerary, Miyajima, where you will enjoy a full day of exploring this incredibly stunning and popular destination. Not only will you be able to visit multiple temples and shrines, but also experience a ropeway ride to the top of Mount Misen, the highest point on the island. Miyajima's tranquil atmosphere, natural beauty, and remarkable scenic sights will make for the experience of a lifetime.
1-Day Miyajima Tour: One of Japan’s Most Scenic Spots / All Year Round
Located only a short ferry ride away from the mainland, Itsukushima, popularly known as Miyajima, is a breathtaking island which has long been regarded as one of the three most scenic spots of Japan. This is a must-see destination for those visiting Hiroshima for the first time and is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience for those who decided to spend a day on the island. While Miyajima is best known for its "floating" O-torii gate and shrine, it is also home to many other breathtaking sites. This 1-day tour will allow guests to thoroughly explore the island and all that it has to offer. Apart from visiting Itsukushima Shrine, your guide will also take you to places such as the Daisho-in temple, a prestigious Buddhist temple located by the foot of the mountain, and Senjokaku Pavilion, a building which provides a stunning view of the island. Additionally, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy a Ropeway ride to the top of Mt. Misen, where they will find themselves captivated by the extraordinary view of the Seto Inland Sea.
You can find out more information about this tour by clicking on "View Details" above. Alternatively, you can also click "Book Now" if you are ready to enjoy one of Japan's most mesmerizing sites!
How to End Your Day
A full-day of exploring Miyajima can be very rewarding but also exhausting. Thus, we recommend ending the day with dinner at a local restaurant followed by plenty of rest. If you're looking for a good place to have eat, consider trying out the local specialty, Okonomiyaki. This "savory pancake" can be best enjoyed at Okonomimura, a building full of restaurants which exclusively serve this dish. For those who still have a bit of energy in them and would like to continue exploring the city, you can enjoy a relaxing stroll around Peace Memorial Park and along the Motoyasu River to take in the sight of the Atomic Bomb Dome illuminated at night.
Day 5 IWAKUNI
How to Start Off Your Day
The fifth day of this itinerary will actually take you beyond Hiroshima Prefecture and into the neighboring Yamaguchi Prefecture. You will be visiting the city of Iwakuni, which is less than an hour away from Hiroshima Station by train. While this place is in a complete different prefecture, we believe it is worth visiting due to its proximity and cultural significance. To start your day, we ask that you simply have a filling breakfast and then meet your guide at the designated meet-up spot.
1-Day Iwakuni Tour: Kintaikyo Bridge, Castle Town & Seal Engraving Experience / All Year Round
Located in the westernmost point of Japan's largest Island, lies Yamaguchi prefecture. This prefecture is known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, abundant hot springs, and rich history. Within it one can also find Iwakuni, a city overflowing with significant cultural and historical heritage. This city is best known for the iconic Kintaikyo Bridge, one of Japan's three most famous bridges and a marvel of engineering. With its remarkable wooden arches and stunning natural backdrop, Kintaikyo captivates anyone who lays their eyes upon it.
In this tour, guests can not only cross this iconic bridge, but also enjoy all the other wonderful things that Iwakuni has to offer. You will be able to ride a ropeway cart to the top of the mountain where Iwakuni Castle lies, as well as take part in a unique seal engraving experience which reflects the cultural significance of the area. You can learn more about this tour by clicking "View Details" above or make your reservation now by clicking the "Book Now" button. The spectacular sites of Iwakuni await you!
How to End Your Day
This tour concludes back in Hiroshima, providing you with another night to explore the city. If you're up for a walk and would like to get a great view of the city nightscape, there are two locations which you can visit near Hiroshima Station. One of them is Mount Futaba, which can be hiked in about 30 minutes and has the Peace Pagoda built at its highest point. From here you can get an unobstructed view of the city. The other place is Hijiyama Park, which is located on a small hill close to the station. Here, you can also get a good panoramic view of the city while enjoying the park's nature. Going to either of these locations is a great way to further explore Hiroshima.
Day 6 RABBIT ISLAND
How to Start Off Your Day
The sixth day of exploring Hiroshima will allow your to further immerse yourself in the nature and scenic beauty of the prefecture. You will have the chance to visit your fourth and final island, as well as interact with its wildlife. Make sure to check the weather forecast and dress appropriately as most of the day will be spent walking outside.
1-Day Tour: Takehara Historical Townscape & Rabbit Island / All Year Round
Are you prepared for a fluffy and adorable adventure? If so, then look no further than this 1-Day Takehara & Rabbit Island Tour! Guests will visit Takehara, a charming and beautiful city within Hiroshima Prefecture, which is home to both a historical townscape area and the famous "Rabbit Island." Within the old townscape, you will be able to learn about city's history as a major site of sake and salt production. You will also have the chance to view and explore former family residences, old temples and other historic structures. On Rabbit Island, which is located just a short ferry ride away from the port, you will then feed and interact with the large wild rabbit population of the island. While you do so, you will also discover the many military ruins which litter the island and unveil the dark past of this otherwise charming location.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn more about the history of Hiroshima while exploring an old-fashioned townscape and hanging out with cute bunnies all day!
How to End Your Day
As this might be your last night in Hiroshima it is a perfect time to buy any souvenirs you wish to take with you and pack your bags. If there are any places you feel like you missed out on visiting in the previous days, then this is the time to go to them as well. For those still wanting to enjoy a bit more of the city's nightlife you can try going to the Ekinishi bar district located just 3 minutes away from Hiroshima Station. Here, visitors can enjoy a wide range of local specialties in the many bars and stalls which line the street. The area is usually crowded with workers having a meal before heading home, creating a lively atmosphere. This is the ideal location for those looking to do a pub crawl or interact with the locals. Whatever you end up choosing to do, make sure to still get a good night's sleep so you can feel refreshed and be ready to go the next morning.
Day 7 KURE
How to Start Off Your Day
On your last day of the itinerary you will further explore the history of the prefecture and understand its role as an important military location by visiting the city of Kure, one of Japan's first naval ports. You will also learn about the duties and actions of the Japanese Navy before and after Word War I and II. Not many foreign visitors make a stop by Kure, so you can consider this a niche and special location.
If you are planning to leave Hiroshima immediately after this tour, then it might be best to check-out of your hotel before getting to the meet-up spot. Many hotels will hold your luggage for the day even after you've checked out, or you can always make use of the coin lockers at the station.
1-Day Tour: Port City Kure - Cruise, Battleships, Submarines & More! / All Year Round
This tour is specifically designed for watercraft enthusiasts who wish to learn more about Japan's naval history while getting the opportunity to view submarines, warships, and other vessels from up close! You will visit Kure, one of the greatest shipbuilding cities in the world, where you will enjoy a mini-cruise ride on the Kure Bay area, walk inside a decommissioned submarine, view the inside of the former residence of the Kure Naval Station Commander-in-Chief, and much more! Your guide will provide you with all the necessary information to understand Kure's role as a military port during World War II, and its current importance as one of the major bases of the Japanese Navy. There is no better place to visit if you wish to get a first-hand experience of Japan’s naval technology. If you are ready to embark on this adventure, click on the "Book Now" button above to make your reservation!
How to End Your Day
Once you have returned to Hiroshima you will have two main options. You may either choose to spend one more night exploring the city before leaving the next day in the morning, or immediately head out to your next destination. For those wishing to leave the prefecture after the tour, we recommend booking your Shinkansen tickets late at night so there will be no chance of you potentially missing your train. If you choose to stay, then you can revisit some of the popular shopping areas in Hiroshima or go for a stroll around the city before heading back to your hotel. Many travelers enjoy getting one last look at the Atomic Bomb Dome on their last night.
