Hiroshima is one of Japan's most historically significant cities, forever linked to the atomic bombing of August 6, 1945, yet reborn as a vibrant modern metropolis and a global symbol of peace and resilience. The city sits on the delta of the Ota River where six channels meet the Seto Inland Sea, giving it a lush, island-laced setting. Beyond its profound memorial sites, Hiroshima offers excellent cuisine — including the iconic layered Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki — beautiful Seto Inland Sea islands like Miyajima with its floating torii gate, and a warm, welcoming local culture.
Hiroshima is exceptionally well-connected. The city lies on the Sanyo Shinkansen line and is served by Hiroshima Airport (HIJ). Within the city, an extensive tram (streetcar) network covers most visitor sites. Miyajima Island is reached by JR ferry from Miyajimaguchi Station. The city center is compact and walkable.
Transport tips
Travel smarter, not harder.
The ICOCA IC card (available at Hiroshima Station ticket machines for ¥500/$3.35 deposit) works on all trams, buses, JR trains, and JR Ferry to Miyajima — much easier than buying single tickets.
The 1-day tram pass (¥700/$4.70) pays off after just 3 rides. Buy from the tram driver on board or at Hiroshima Station Visitor Center.
The JR Pass covers the Shinkansen to/from Hiroshima and the JR Ferry to Miyajima — calculate whether it's worth buying based on total journeys at www.japanrailpass.net.
Hiroshima Station has coin lockers (¥300–¥700/$2–$4.70/day) in the JR concourse for day-trippers arriving by Shinkansen.
Trams stop at request stops — press the button inside before arriving or flag from the curb to board.