Hiroshima
Hiroshima is one of Japan's most misunderstood cities. It deserves far more than a half-day. This section gathers the places that have stayed with me — off the usual circuits, in a city that has found a way to hold beauty and history in the same breath.
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Hiroshima for first-timers
1 article · more to come
If you have never been to Hiroshima before, start here. The river, the Peace Park, Miyajima — and how to feel the city rather than just visit it.
Explore → 穴場スポットHidden & local Hiroshima
1 article · more to come
For those who have already seen the Memorial, or who simply want to go further. Temples, gorges, islands and the places most visitors never find.
Explore →Featured
Hiroshima · Hidden spots
Hidden spots in Hiroshima locals love
From a forest temple almost no tourists visit to a sake district an hour east — five places that reveal another Hiroshima, for those who take the time to look.
- Mitaki-dera — forgotten mountain temple
- Daisho-in — ten minutes beyond Miyajima's shrine
- Mazda Museum — the factory that built the city
- Kure — Japan's great naval city
- Saijō — sake breweries and free tastings
All articles — Hiroshima
Hidden & local · 5 spots
Hidden spots in Hiroshima
Temples, a naval city, sake breweries — the places I recommend to everyone who has already seen the Memorial.
First-timers · 2 days
Two days in Hiroshima
The river at sunrise, the Peace Park, Miyajima at sunset — two days that leave you wanting more.
History & recovery · 8 min
The buildings that stood — and the people who came back
Three buildings survived within 500 metres of the hypocentre. What they tell you about Hiroshima's recovery.
First-timers · Museum
The Peace Memorial Museum: what to expect
A local's account of what you find inside — and what it feels like to come out.
Food & local life · 5 min
A local's guide to Hiroshima okonomiyaki
What it actually is, why the name matters, and why you are missing something if you haven't tried it.
First-timers · 5 min
Is two nights in Hiroshima worth it?
One night gives you the history. Two nights gives you the city. Here is why staying longer changes everything.