Hiroshima Private Tour: Best Highlights in a Day

Hiroshima , Japan

Hiroshima Private Tour: Best Highlights in a Day

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About this experience

Hiroshima is a city that carries a deep message of peace and resilience. Known around the world for its history, it now stands as a place of reflection, beauty, and hope. This tour offers a moving journey through its past and a chance to experience the natural and cultural wonders nearby.
From historic landmarks to island views and sacred shrines, Hiroshima is more than a destination it’s a story to be felt and remembered.

・Visit the Atomic Bomb Dome, symbols of Hiroshima’s powerful message of peace
・Take a ferry to Miyajima Island and witness the famous “floating” torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine.
・Explore charming temple paths and traditional streets surrounded by serene seaside scenery

Available options

Hiroshima Private Tour: Best Highlights in a Day

Pickup included

What's included

Ferry tickets connecting Miyajimaguchi Pier and Miyajima Island

Hotel pick-up/drop off

English speaking guide

Public transportation

Entry to Itsukushima Shrine and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

Photos of Tour Participants

Detailed itinerary

The Atomic Bomb Dome is a symbol of peace for the city of Hiroshima. Used originally as a prefectural hall, the dome was blown up during the blast, killing everyone inside. However the structure of the dome remained and has been used as a symbol of the people’s wish for peace ever since, and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. Your guide will offer you history and explanations, while allowing you to reflect on the tragedy that occurred.

Stop 2

Located next to the Dome, the Peace Memorial Park was once a busy commercial downtown area. These days it is a quiet green space, dedicated to remembering those we lost and our hope for a more peaceful future. The guide will help you traverse the park, providing history and explanations when you wish.

Stop 3

The Memorial Museum will be a somber experience, where you will see belongings left by the victims of the bombing as well as heart-wrenching testimony by the survivors. View photos of the massive devastation at the time and learn about the military aspect of the attack. The guide will step back and allow you to process the exhibits in your own way.

Known worldwide for its iconic floating torii gate, Itsukushima is the symbol of Miyajima Island. This is a beautiful, peaceful place where you can bask in the sun while enjoying the seaside views. The roaming deer that wander everywhere make this island quite unique too. After viewing the tori gate, move on to Itsukushima Shrine. The shrine consists of a prayer hall, a main hall and a noh theater stage, which are connected by boardwalks and supported by pillars above the sea.

Daiganji Temple is dedicated to Benzaiten, the Goddess of eloquence, music, wisdom and wealth, and is known as one of the three most famous Benzaiten Temples in Japan.

This old shopping street is filled with deer and many shops, restaurants and cafes. Wander at your own pace, stop for a snack or to buy some souvenirs.

What's not included

Lunch

Taxi / Private Car or Bus (Available for an extra fee)

Cruise Terminal pick-up/drop off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

13 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

34 reviews

5★

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3★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The allotted time if for lunch and for transporting on the ferry from Hiroshima to Miyajima and back.

About Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a vibrant city known for its poignant history and remarkable resilience. It is the capital of Hiroshima Prefecture and serves as a powerful reminder of the atomic bombing during World War II, while also offering rich cultural experiences and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Peace Memorial Park and Museum

A poignant and powerful site dedicated to the memory of the atomic bombing in 1945. The park and museum serve as a symbol of peace and a reminder of the horrors of war.

Historical 2-3 hours Free (Museum: ¥200)

Miyajima Island

A beautiful island known for its floating torii gate, scenic views, and historic temples. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination near Hiroshima.

Nature/Historical Full day Ferry: ¥360 (round trip), Shrine: ¥300

Shukkeien Garden

A beautiful traditional Japanese garden with ponds, bridges, and meticulously landscaped areas. It offers a peaceful retreat from the city bustle.

Nature 1-2 hours ¥260

Hiroshima Castle

A reconstructed castle that offers a glimpse into Hiroshima's feudal past. The castle houses a museum and provides panoramic views of the city.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours ¥370

Hiroshima Okonomimura

A multi-story building dedicated to Hiroshima's famous okonomiyaki (savory pancake). It houses several restaurants and offers a fun, interactive dining experience.

Food/Cultural 1-2 hours Budget to Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki

A layered savory pancake made with noodles, cabbage, and various toppings, typically cooked on a teppan (iron griddle).

Dinner Contains wheat, meat, and seafood. Vegetarian and vegan options may be available.

Hiroshima-style Oysters

Hiroshima is famous for its oysters, which are often grilled, fried, or served raw. They are typically harvested from the Seto Inland Sea.

Snack/Dinner Contains shellfish. Not suitable for those with seafood allergies.

Hiroshima-style Udon

Thick, chewy wheat noodles served in a hot broth, often with various toppings like tempura or beef.

Lunch/Dinner Contains wheat. Vegetarian and vegan options may be available.

Hiroshima-style Anago Meshi

Grilled saltwater eel served over rice, a local delicacy with a rich, savory flavor.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish. Not suitable for those with seafood allergies.

Popular Activities

Hiking on Miyajima Island Cycling around Hiroshima Kayaking in the Seto Inland Sea Visiting Shukkeien Garden Taking a leisurely streetcar ride Enjoying a traditional tea ceremony Visiting the Peace Memorial Park and Museum Exploring the Hiroshima Castle

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

Spring offers cherry blossoms and mild weather, while autumn provides comfortable temperatures and vibrant foliage. These are the best times to visit for pleasant weather and outdoor activities.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Hiroshima is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and pickpocketing or petty theft is uncommon. However, travelers should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of unlicensed taxis and always check that the taxi has a meter.
• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
• Use reputable tour guides and services, and be wary of offers that seem too good to be true.

Getting there

By air

Hiroshima Airport • 50 km from city center

By train

Hiroshima Station

By bus

Hiroshima Bus Center

Getting around

Public transport

The streetcar system is the main form of public transport in Hiroshima, offering an affordable and convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Naka-ku Higashi-ku Nishi-ku Minami-ku Asaminami-ku

Day trips

Miyajima Island

10 km from Hiroshima • Full day

A beautiful island known for its floating torii gate, scenic views, and historic temples. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination near Hiroshima.

Onomichi

80 km from Hiroshima • Full day

A charming port city known for its historic temples, scenic views, and literary connections. Onomichi offers a mix of cultural attractions and natural beauty.

Iwakuni

50 km from Hiroshima • Full day

A historic city known for its stunning castle, beautiful gardens, and traditional samurai district. Iwakuni offers a mix of cultural attractions and scenic views.

Festivals

Hiroshima Flower Festival • May 3-5 Hiroshima International Animation Festival • August (varies by year) Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony • August 6

Pro tips

Get a Hiroshima Amazing Pass for unlimited rides on the streetcar, bus, and ferry to Miyajima Island, as well as entry to major attractions.
Visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum early in the morning for a more serene and reflective experience.
Try cooking your own Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Okonomimura for a fun and interactive dining experience.
Hike Mount Misen on Miyajima Island for stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea and the surrounding area.
Use IC cards like ICOCA for seamless payments on public transport and to save money on fares.