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, a trip to the City Of Hiroshima is one not to be missed.

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

#Onomichi.

With its quirky alleyways and picturesque views, the charming city of Onomichi is sure to delight visitors.

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.
Transport: Trains run from JR Hiroshima to JR Onomichi, taking around an hour or less. Note: a change, usually at JR Fukuyama or JR Mihara, is required for this journey.

#Fukuyama.

With a stunning castle and some interesting museums and galleries, Fukuyama is definitely a place worthy of one's time.

Highlights: Fukuyama Castle (pictured), Fukuyama Auto & Clock Museum, Fukuyama Art Museum, Bingo Gokoku Shrine, 惣門番所 (site with a lovely arched red bridge).
Transport: Trains run directly between JR Hiroshima and JR Fukuyama and take less than 30 minutes.

#Tomonoura Port.

The picturesque port of Tomonoura makes for a lovely side trip from the central area of Fukuyama City.

Highlights: 福山市鞆町重要伝統的建造物群保存地区 (Tomo-cho, Fukuyama City, Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings), Joyato Stone Lighthouse, Harbour front area (pictured), Joyato Stone Lighthouse.
Transport: From outside JR Fukuyama Station, take the Tomo Bus (Stand 5) to Tomo Ko (the final stop). Note: JR Fukuyama can be reached by direct train from JR Hiroshima in less than 30 minutes.