Hiroshima
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Itsukushima Shrine
A World Heritage site featuring an iconic vermillion torii gate floating in the sea and corridor-style architecture. At high tide, the shrine buildings appear to float on the water, while at low tide, visitors can walk beneath the torii gate. The nighttime illumination is mystical, offering different expressions depending on season and tide levels.
Address: 広島県廿日市市宮島町1-1
Access: About 1 hour from Hiroshima Station by JR and ferry
Transportation: Get off at JR Miyajimaguchi Station → 10-minute ferry ride from Miyajimaguchi Pier
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Atomic Bomb Dome
Ruins of the former Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall damaged by the atomic bombing on August 6, 1945, serving as a symbol advocating nuclear weapons abolition and world peace. Located within Peace Memorial Park, surrounded by the Peace Memorial Museum and cenotaphs. The nighttime illumination reflecting on the river surface is also a must-see.
Address: 広島県広島市中区大手町1-10
Access: About 15 minutes by tram from Hiroshima Station, get off at Genbaku Dome-mae
Transportation: Trams are convenient
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Kure Maritime Museum (Yamato Museum)
Features a 26-meter 1/10 scale model of the battleship Yamato and Zero fighter aircraft displays. Learn about the history of Kure as a city of shipbuilding and science and technology, with hands-on experimental devices themed on ships that children can enjoy. The adjacent Tetsu no Kujira Museum (Submarine Museum) makes for a standard combo visit.
Address: 広島県呉市宝町5-20
Access: About 45 minutes from Hiroshima Station by JR Kure Line to Kure Station, 5-minute walk
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Onomichi Slope Townscape
Famous as a setting for literature and films, featuring sloping streets, narrow alleys, and temples including Senkoji Temple. Cat Alley, retro shopping streets, and a ropeway offering views of the Setouchi islands captivate visitors. Popular as a hub for cafe hopping and Shimanami Kaido cycling.
Address: 広島県尾道市東土堂町周辺
Access: About 1 hour from Hiroshima Station by Shinkansen + local line to Onomichi Station
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Taishakukyo Gorge
An 18km gorge formed by limestone erosion, designated as a quasi-national park. The natural bridge Onbashi and sightseeing boats on Lake Shinryu offer spectacular views of fresh greenery and autumn foliage. Well-maintained hiking trails allow cool stream walks in summer and brilliant fall foliage viewing in autumn.
Address: 広島県庄原市東城町
Access: About 2.5 hours from Hiroshima Station by express bus and local bus
Transportation: Private car/rental car recommended
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Sandankyo Gorge
One of Japan's five great gorges, spanning approximately 13km. Continuous highlights include Kurobuchi pool and Nidan Falls, with particularly beautiful fresh greenery and autumn foliage seasons. In addition to walking trails, hand-rowed ferries offer experiences, allowing year-round nature enjoyment from summer stream play to winter frozen waterfall viewing.
Address: 広島県山県郡安芸太田町柴木
Access: About 75 minutes by express bus from Hiroshima Bus Center to Sandankyo stop
Transportation: Bus service reduced in winter
Model Courses
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World Heritage & Setouchi Gourmet 2-Day Course
Day 1 features peace education and food exploration in Hiroshima City, while Day 2 offers World Heritage sites and Setouchi nature on Miyajima in this classic itinerary.
- Thorough visit including Peace Memorial Museum
- Okonomiyaki lunch
- Check low tide times to walk beneath the torii gate