Exploring Hiroshima & Surrounds.

#Hiroshima.

Be it the stately-looking castle, the impressive shrines, the confronting image of the Atomic Bomb Dome, or its tranquil parks and gardens, the City Of Hiroshima certainly has much to draw visitors in.

Highlights: Atomic Bomb Dome (pictured) and Peace Park, Hiroshima Castle, Shukkein Garden, Hiroshima Gokuku Shrine, Nigitsu Shrine, Kinkoinari Shrine, and Hiroshima Toshugu Shrine.

#Day Trips from Hiroshima.

If looking to explore further afield of Hiroshima City, consider the following options:

1. Onomichi and Fukuyama.

Neko no Hosomichi (Cat Alley), Onomichi.

With its quirky alleyways and picturesque views, the charming city of Onomichi is sure to delight visitors. Meanwhile, nearby Fukuyama boasts a castle, some noteworthy shrines, and an impressive Automobile Museum.

Journey Duration: From Hiroshima Station to Mihara Station the Shinkansen will take around 25 minutes. From Mihara take a regular train onto Onomichi (about 10 to 15 minutes). A train to Fukuyama from Onomichi will take about 20 minutes.
Highlights - Onomichi: Mi Te Mi Observation Deck, Senkoji Park and Observatory, Senkoji Temple, Neko no Hosomichi (Cat Alley - pictured), Misode Tenmangu Shrine, Saikokuji, and Jodoji.
Highlights - Fukuyama: Fukuyama Castle Museum, Sanzo Inari Shrine, Fukuyama Hachimangu, 惣門番所 (a red arched bridge over the canal), Auto and Clock Museum, and Fukuyamanokimonshugo Ushitora Shrine.
Rail Pass: A JR Rail Pass can be used for this trip.
Bonus Tip: If travelling back from Fukuyama to Hiroshima on the Shinkansen, opt for the Sakura service over the slower Kodama service.

2. Okunoshima & Takehara.

The Island of Okunoshima, known mostly for its population of free-roaming rabbits, makes for a unique and memorable day out. Meanwhile, the city of Takehara boasts some unique temples and shrines, a historic townscape area, and a scenic coastline.

Journey Duration: The journey between Hiroshima Station and Tadanomi Station takes about an hour via Shinkansen and regular train with a change at Mihara. Takehara Station can be reached by regular train from Tadanomi Station in under 15 minutes.
Highlights - Tadanomi Station: Alight at Tadanomi Station for ferry to Okunoshima (Rabbit Island), Tadanomi Port, Kagi Castle Ruins, and Tokoura Shrine.
Highlights - Takehara Station: Alight at Takehara Station for Maison Morikawa, Jizodo Temple, Choseiji Temple, Saihoji Temple, Takehara Townscape Conservation Area, Machinami Takekobo Bamboo Craft, Matsuzaka-tei, and Shorenji Temple.
Rail Pass: A JR Rail Pass is valid for train travel between Hiroshima Station, Tadanomi Station, and Takehara Station. Note: The Okunoshima Ferry is not covered by the JR Pass - for more details see - http://rabbit-island.info/en/#visit
Bonus Tip: If time permits, take the Kure Line back to Hiroshima to experience the coastal scenery.