Itinerary for Hiroshima, Japan 2-day self-guided trip

When mentioning Hiroshima, people often remember the atomic bombing years ago. But now, this city has risen up, becoming one of the economic centers of Japan and attracting a large number of tourists every year. Visitors to Hiroshima not only want to learn about history but also because of the picturesque scenery and the fresh weather here. If you are planning to travel to Hiroshima independently, Vietjet suggests a 2-day 1-night itinerary in Hiroshima with must-visit places!

1. A brief introduction to Hiroshima

1.1 Where is Hiroshima?

Located in the southwest of Japan, Hiroshima was once known as one of the two cities that suffered from the atomic bombing in August 1945. However, with the resilient spirit and efforts of the people and the Japanese government, Hiroshima has gradually revived and risen, earning the title of “A tourism paradise reborn from the ruins.” Now, this city has become a symbol of peace and one of the ideal tourist destinations in Japan with pleasant weather year-round and beautiful, serene natural landscapes.

Hiroshima itinerary, Japan – 2-day independent travel

Hiroshima has gradually revived and risen, becoming a famous tourist destination for international visitors.

1.2 The ideal time to travel to Hiroshima independently

The weather in Hiroshima is divided into 4 distinct seasons, each with its own beauty and suitable for travel:

Spring (March - May): The weather is cool and fresh, and it is also the season when cherry blossoms bloom, you can check-in for beautiful photos under the cherry blossom trees. This is also the busiest tourist season.
Summer (June - August): Higher temperatures, more rain, but still pleasant thanks to the sea breeze. This is also the season with the peace anniversary in August and traditional festivals.
Autumn (September - November): The transitional weather is very fresh and pleasant, and it is the season when the maple leaves turn red in the mountains around Miyajima, creating a very picturesque landscape.
Winter (December - February): The weather starts to get cold, there is some snow but not much, suitable for relaxation travel.

Hiroshima in the season of red leaves.

2. Guide to traveling to Hiroshima

2.1 Traveling to Hiroshima

Currently, Vietjet has launched many direct flights from Vietnam to Hiroshima at very reasonable prices, helping you save time and costs for your trip. The flight time is about 4 hours and 30 minutes. You should book tickets 1-2 months in advance to ensure the best price and arrange a reasonable travel schedule!

Refer to more flight tickets to Hiroshima HERE.

2.2 Getting around Hiroshima

Within Hiroshima, you can get around using the following means:

Hiroshima Electric Railway (Hiroden) Tram: You can buy a single ride ticket if you don't need to travel much or purchase a day-pass that allows unlimited travel.
Bus: Affordable, suitable for combining travel with sightseeing in the city, experiencing local public transport.
Ferry to Miyajima: When you want to visit Miyajima, you need to take a ferry to the island for about 10 - 15 minutes.

If you want to save more, you can plan your itinerary in advance and buy a combined ticket for multiple modes of transport (Pass ticket), which can include tram + ferry + bus for the entire journey at a better price.

3. Interesting sightseeing spots in Hiroshima

3.1 Peace Memorial Park

This is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Hiroshima. The memorial area covers a vast space of over 12,000 m², built in 1955 to commemorate the victims who lost their lives in the atomic bombing in August 1945.

The Peace Memorial Park includes:

Peace Memorial Park: The park is located in the bombed area, designed elegantly and peacefully with lush greenery on both sides of the path and a tranquil blue lake. In the center of the park is the memorial monument inscribed with the names of the victims who perished in the atomic bombing.
Peace Memorial Museum: When you visit here, you will hear explanations and see firsthand the artifacts left after the bombing, as well as view 3D reconstruction models to better understand the pain of war and the messages of peace that the Japanese convey.
Atomic Bomb Dome: This is the only structure that remained after the atomic bombing, and now serves as a historical witness and has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

The Children's Peace Monument at the Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima.

3.2 Hiroshima Castle

Hiroshima Castle, also known as Carp Castle, is one of the prominent symbols of this city. This castle is unique in that it was built in the city center rather than on a hilltop or high mountain like other castles. The castle was constructed around the late 16th century by Lord Mori Terumoto, featuring a 5-story architecture with an observation deck at the top, surrounded by a deep moat and high ramparts. Although it was largely destroyed by the atomic bomb, the castle has been rebuilt and has become a tourist attraction. Inside the castle, there is a shrine along with several restored structures.

Hiroshima Castle in autumn.

3.3 Shukkeien Garden

Shukkeien Garden, meaning "shrunken scenery garden," has become a symbol of traditional art whenever Japanese-style gardens are mentioned. The garden's elegance, sophistication, and uniqueness in every detail are due to its design by tea master Ueda Soko. Each bonsai tree here is carefully tended and pruned, as well as arranged harmoniously to create valleys, cliffs, or small picturesque forests. Surrounding the lush greenery of the plants is the clarity of the tranquil pond, highlighted by the stone bridge Kokokyo designed like a rainbow spanning the pond. Around the pond, there are also tea huts for visitors to rest, enjoy tea, and take in the scenery.

3.4 Miyajima Island

"Shrine Island" Miyajima is one of the three most beautiful scenic spots in Japan. Here, there are two incredibly famous landmarks: the sacred Itsukushima Shrine and the bright red Torii gate on the sea - places you cannot miss on your journey to explore Miyajima Island. The natural scenery on the island is also very picturesque and romantic. When you come here, in addition to sightseeing, you will also encounter wild deer or stroll around the sightseeing area, which are very friendly to visitors.

The bright red Torii gate on the sea.

4. Suggested itinerary for 2 days in Hiroshima

Below is a suggested self-guided travel itinerary for 2 days and 1 night in Hiroshima:

Day	Itinerary
Day 1	Arrive in Hiroshima.
	Have a light breakfast.
	Visit the Peace Memorial Area: Peace Memorial Park, Peace Memorial Museum, Atomic Bomb Dome.
	Have lunch in the Hondori area: Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki - layered savory pancakes.
	Visit Hiroshima Castle.
	Visit Hiroshima Castle.
	Dinner with Hiroshima tsukemen (spicy cold noodles).
	Stroll through Hondori Street.
Day 2	Depart for Miyajima Island
	Arrive at Miyajima Island: Visit Itsukushima Shrine and the Torii gate.
	Hike Mount Misen or take the cable car to the top of Misen, enjoy the panoramic view of the Seto Sea.
	Lunch with grilled oysters, Anago-meshi eel rice, and Momiji manju cake.
	Return to central Hiroshima.
	Shop for souvenirs at the Hondori Shopping Arcade.
	Move to the airport.
	Return to Vietnam.

5. Experience traveling to Hiroshima

Below are some experiences traveling to Hiroshima that you need to keep in mind:

Apply for a visa about 1-2 months in advance to allow for processing and to prevent any issues.
Book flight tickets 1-2 months in advance to get better prices and have more suitable options.
Book train tickets early if you want to travel during peak seasons such as: cherry blossom season, autumn leaves season, or the Obon holiday (August).
Respect the solemn atmosphere in the Peace Memorial Park, do not joke around, speak loudly, or litter.
Check the weather forecast in advance, especially the weather on Miyajima Island for a complete trip.
Wear comfortable clothing, especially choose well-fitting, comfortable shoes, as you will have to walk a lot.

Hopefully, this article will help you gain more experience traveling independently in Hiroshima.

Don't miss the opportunity to hunt for flight tickets to Japan and the zero-dollar ticket hunting program for domestic and international flights from 12 PM to 2 PM daily HERE.

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