Is it safe to visit Hiroshima regarding radiation from the atomic bomb?

Yes, absolutely safe. Radiation levels have been normal for decades, and the city is completely safe for residents and visitors.

How do I get to Miyajima Island from Hiroshima city?

Take a JR train from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station (about 25 minutes), then walk to the ferry pier for a short ferry ride to the island.

What is Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, and where can I try it?

It's a savory pancake with layers of batter, cabbage, noodles, pork, and egg, cooked on a hotplate. Try it at Okonomimura, a building with multiple okonomiyaki restaurants in central Hiroshima.

Do I need a visa to visit Hiroshima?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many countries have visa-free short-term tourist stays. Check Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for current regulations.

Can I use credit cards in Hiroshima?

Yes, major credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, department stores, and restaurants in the city. However, carry some cash for small shops, street food, and rural areas.

Varies by nationality; many get 90-day tourist visa on arrival.

What is the best way to get to Miyajima?

Take the JR ferry from Miyajimaguchi Station (10 min).

Can I use credit cards everywhere?

Major cards accepted in cities, but cash needed for small shops.

Is English widely spoken?

Limited; learn basic phrases or use translation apps.

What should I eat in Hiroshima?

Try okonomiyaki, oysters, and momiji manju (maple leaf cakes).

Are there any cultural taboos?

Avoid walking while eating, and don't tip.

How many days should I spend?

2-3 days for city and Miyajima.

Is the Peace Museum free?

Admission fee applies (¥200 for adults).

What is the weather like in summer?

Hot and humid, 30-35°C, with typhoon risk.

Yes, but parking is expensive; public transport is better.

Are there onsen (hot springs) nearby?

Yes, Miyajima has several, like Iwaso.

Hiroshima

PrefectureJapan, Asia

Hiroshima is a STATE in Japan, Asia.

Hiroshima Prefecture offers a profound journey through resilience, natural beauty, and cultural depth. The city of Hiroshima, a symbol of peace and rebirth, is anchored by the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum—a moving testament to the 1945 atomic bombing and a powerful call for global harmony. Just a short ferry ride away lies the iconic Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, famous for its 'floating' torii gate, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Japan's most scenic spots. Beyond its historical significance, Hiroshima boasts stunning natural landscapes, from the serene Seto Inland Sea with its picturesque islands to the lush mountains ideal for hiking. Food lovers will savor Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a savory layered pancake, and fresh oysters from the inland sea. The prefecture also features the charming town of Onomichi, a gateway to the Shimanami Kaido cycling route across six islands, offering breathtaking coastal views. Hiroshima seamlessly blends solemn history with vibrant culture, warm hospitality, and breathtaking scenery, making it an unforgettable destination that inspires reflection and discovery.

Best time to visit Hiroshima

Spring (March to May) for mild weather and cherry blossoms, especially beautiful at Hiroshima Castle and Peace Park. Autumn (October to November) offers cool temperatures and vibrant fall foliage, perfect for visiting Miyajima and hiking. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid but features festivals like the Hiroshima Flower Festival (May) and Peace Memorial Ceremony (August 6). Winter (December to February) is mild with fewer crowds, ideal for oyster season and peaceful sightseeing.

October

Now

Right now

Condition: Drizzle
Temperature: 20°
Feels like: 23°
Humidity: 94%
Wind: 5 km/h
Precipitation: 0.1 mm

Typical for October

Weather: Mild 16-23°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Moderate
Prices: Moderate

Autumn foliage begins

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

HIJ

Hiroshima Airport

International

50 km away

UKB

Kobe Airport

International

200 km away

ITM

Osaka International Airport (Itami)

Domestic

280 km away

KIX

Kansai International Airport

International

320 km away

FUK

Fukuoka Airport

International

280 km away

Getting around

"Hiroshima's public transportation is efficient and user-friendly. The Hiroshima Electric Railway (Hiroden) streetcar network is iconic and covers major attractions, including direct lines to the Peace Park and Miyajima ferry terminal. JR trains connect to wider regions, and the Hiroshima City Bus network fills gaps. For Miyajima, take a JR ferry or Matsudai ferry from Miyajimaguchi. The Hiroshima Sightseeing Loop Bus (Meipuru-pu) is convenient for tourists. Taxis are plentiful but expensive. Renting a car is useful for exploring rural areas like Sandankyo Gorge, but not necessary in the city. Bicycles can be rented for exploring Onomichi or the Shimanami Kaido. Useful apps include Google Maps, Japan Travel by Navitime, and local transit apps."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in cities and cafes

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5

Calling code

+81

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very safe; occasional touts near tourist spots

Night safety

8/10

Very safe; occasional touts near tourist spots

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

7/10

"Hiroshima is extremely safe with low crime rates. Exercise normal precautions in crowded areas like train stations to prevent petty theft. The Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima are very safe, even at night. Be cautious when cycling the Shimanami Kaido—follow traffic rules and wear a helmet. No specific areas need to be avoided, but as always, stay aware of your surroundings. Natural disaster awareness is key: familiarize yourself with tsunami evacuation routes in coastal areas and earthquake safety procedures. Scams are rare, but be wary of overly persistent touts in nightlife districts."

Police

110

Ambulance

119

Fire

119

Tourist Police

Entry and health

Health information

"Hiroshima has excellent medical facilities, including Hiroshima University Hospital and Hiroshima City Hospital. No specific vaccinations are required for travel, but routine vaccines (MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, chickenpox, polio, flu) are recommended. Tap water is safe to drink. Be aware of pollen allergies (especially cedar) in spring. Medical services are high-quality but can be expensive; comprehensive travel insurance is advised. Pharmacies (yakkyoku) are widely available, but some medications common elsewhere may require a prescription."

Culture

Local customs

"Bow when greeting; handshakes are also acceptable. Remove shoes before entering homes, temples, and some traditional inns (ryokan). At Itsukushima Shrine and other sacred sites, behave quietly and respectfully—avoid loud talk. Tipping is not customary and can be considered rude; excellent service is standard. When using public baths (onsen), wash thoroughly before entering the bath and do not wear swimsuits. Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at local restaurants where you cook it yourself on a hotplate. Dispose of trash properly, as public bins are scarce. Dress modestly when visiting temples and shrines."

Japanese

Costs and practicals

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY) · ¥

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$5-10 | a cheap local meal costs around $5-10

Hotels

$40-80 | budget hotels range $40-80/night

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Mid-range hotels $80-150; luxury $200+

Timezone

Asia/Tokyo +09:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

2,800,000

Area

8,479 km²

Government

Prefectural government with a governor and elected assembly

ISO code

JP-11

Type

Prefecture

Frequently Asked Questions

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