Hafen
Hiroshima

View the landmarks of Hiroshima, some commemorating the atomic bomb blast here in 1945 and others reflecting the city’s celebration of peace. At the poignant Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, you will behold the ruins of some of the few concrete buildings left after the atomic bomb was dropped. One of them, the Atomic Bomb Dome, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site and has become a symbol of Hiroshima. You will also browse the Peace Memorial Museum whose exhibits show Hiroshima before and after the bombing and personal artifacts from the victims that humanize the devastating event. The museum encourages visitors to make a vow for universal peace. While the mood there is somber, serenity is the overarching theme at Shukkei-en Garden. Besides being a wonderful respite from the hubbub of the city, the garden is a visual delight, as plants are always in bloom. Although the atomic bomb destroyed the garden, it has been fully restored.

Visit a memorial park that recounts the devastation from the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima in 1945 and then enjoy the wonders on beautiful Miyajima Island. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was built after World War II as a memorial to the tens of thousands of people who died in the atomic bomb blast. While here, you will see the Atomic Bomb Dome, one of the few structures left after the blast, and the Peace Memorial Museum, a repository for enlightening artifacts from the bomb blast. Following lunch, you will enjoy an entirely different perspective of the area at Miyajima Island, which you will reach by ferry. Revered for its breathtaking beauty since ancient times, the island is home to the glorious Itukushima Shrine, a World Heritage site renowned for its “floating” red torii gate. You will have time to wander through the main hall and the adjoining shrines, which can be reached through bright-red passageways.

Visit what may be Japan’s most famed bridge, a 17th-century feat of engineering constructed without a single nail, and then meander through a park built to symbolize everlasting peace. The bridge of five wooden arches spans the Nishiki River and although once thought to be indestructible, the bridge has been rebuilt numerous times because of flooding. It will be quite the experience to walk cross this national treasure, as the bridge has changed little over the centuries. Following lunch, you will head for the poignant Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, whose attractions are grim reminders of the devastation from the atomic bomb that was dropped here in 1945. The Atomic Bomb Dome, one of few buildings left somewhat intact after the blast, has become a symbol of Hiroshima. The concrete section of the dome melted away in the blast, leaving only the skeletal steel frame. UNESCO has declared it a World Heritage site, as an expression of hope for world peace.

Enjoy a panoramic drive through Hiroshima, pausing on occasion at attractions that highlight the city’s history and rise from near total devastation by an atomic bomb in 1945.

Your first stop for photos will be at the Atomic Bomb Dome, the only structure left standing near the epicenter of the atomic blast. While a stark, powerful reminder of the destructive force of an atomic bomb, the building has also become a symbol of peace and hope for the elimination of nuclear weapons. The skeletal remains of the dome stand exactly as they did right after the bomb blast. Continuing on, you will see a wonderful reconstruction of the 16th-century Hiroshima Castle, a historical building that the atomic bomb leveled. Rebuilt in 1958, the stone and wooden castle rises five stories above its immaculately landscaped grounds and is surrounded by a protective moat.

Take the ferry to Miyajima, a small forested island known for its stunning natural beauty and ancient shrines. Upon arriving, you will first notice the giant red torii gate that rises up out of the ocean as if it were floating. The revered primary shrine is also built over the water and together these iconic attractions have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, as they illustrate the Japanese concept of scenic beauty, in which nature and human creativity harmoniously combine. If it is high tide, you will notice that the 12th-century shrine also seems to be floating on the water. To alleviate friction from the rising tides and more severe water conditions, the shrine’s wooden floors have spaces between the planks and were constructed without metal nails that would restrict the planks from moving with the tides. The shrine was established in the 6th century and a 12th-century warrior modified it into its present form.

Explore the history, production, and uses of the renowned Kumano brushes during this immersive, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Hiroshima, Kumano

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive to the town of Kumano, where approximately 80% of the brushes made in Japan are still made by hand from animal fur. Years ago, Kumano rose to prominence in the brush-making industry when it was encouraged by Hiroshima officials to produce the brushes to supplement its local farming economy. Later, Japanese calligraphy was introduced as a school subject, and the increased demand for brushes bolstered the industry in Kumano.  

Fudenosato Kobo Museum, Guided Tour, Exhibits

Upon arrival at Kumano, proceed for a visit to the Fudenosato Kobo Museum. The museum plays a central role in presenting the history, various uses, and distinct characteristics that go into these renowned brushes, which have a variety of uses that include painting, writing, and calligraphy. Following a guided walking tour of this captivating museum and its exhibits, you are invited to try your hand at utilising the Kumano brushes yourself during an interactive drawing activity.

Interactive Drawing Activity, Hanging Scroll, Kumanofude, Shopping, Souvenirs, Brushes

On a large, white sheet of traditional Japanese paper, you can draw words or anything that inspires you. After completing your art, the paper is made into a hanging scroll that you can bring home with you to utilise as a decoration. Before you leave, some free time is made available for shopping at Kumanofude, the museum’s store, which offers a selection of more than 1,500 types of fude (brushes). At the conclusion of your tour, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 45-minue drive back to the pier.

Experience the beauty and tranquillity of an Edo-period castle and Shukkei-en Garden during this panoramic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Hiroshima Castle, Central Keep, Museum, Shrine, Ruins, Fortifications, Panoramic City Views

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 40-minute drive to the Hiroshima Castle, an imposing, feudal-era, flatlands fortress built by a powerful Samurai clan in 1589. The castle's five-story main keep was destroyed by the firestorm following the explosion of the atomic bomb that was dropped on Hiroshima at the end of World War II. Reconstructed in 1958, its central keep is now a museum, and today houses a shrine, ruins, and a section of defensive fortifications. Your approximately 100-step ascent to the top of the castle is rewarded with panoramic views overlooking the city.

Shukkei-en Garden, Miniature Forests, Valleys & Mountain Landscapes, Garden Paths, Pond

Next, re-board your coach and transfer to the nearby Shukkei-en Garden (Shrunk Scenery Garden). As its name implies, the garden offers uniquely-beautiful images of miniature natural formations. The Shukkei-en Garden was built after the Hiroshima Castle, and dates from 1620. The charming miniature forests, valleys, and mountain landscapes are refreshing and peaceful. Upon arrival, take a leisurely stroll along winding garden paths surrounded by the central pond. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 40-minute drive back to the pier via some of the residential and business districts of Hiroshima.

Explore the island of Miyajima and its majestic Itsukushima Jinja Shrine, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Hiroshima, Hiroshima Castle, Miyajima-Guchi Ferry Terminal, Ferry-Ride, Miyajima Island

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive to the Miyajima-guchi Ferry Terminal. Upon arrival, embark a ferry for the short ride to Miyajima Island. Only 12 square miles (about 31 square kilometres) in area and consisting mostly of steep, wooded hills, Miyajima is ranked as one of the three most scenic spots in the country. During your guided walking tour of Miyajima Island, take in exquisite views of your picturesque surrounds and stop for a visit at the majestic Itsukushima Jinja Shrine.

Itsukushima Jinja Shrine, Torii Gate, Boardwalks, Buildings, Prayer & Main Halls, Noh Theatre Stage

This UNESCO World Heritage Site, National Treasure, and Important Cultural Property is thought to date from the mid-16th century. Its dramatic, approximately 50-foot-tall (about 15.2-foot-tall), reddish-orange-coloured Torii Gate is distinctively built over water, giving it the illusion of ‘floating’ in the sea during high tide. Built on pillars, the shrine complex consists of multiple buildings, including a Prayer Hall and Main Hall, all of which are connected by boardwalks. There is also the Noh Theatre Stage, where plays that paid homage to the gods were once performed, and, surprisingly, many wild deer that can be seen walking around the island.

Free Time, Independent Shopping & Browsing, Ferry-Ride, Hiroshima

Following your tour, some free time is made available to explore the streets of the island and browse the local shops at your leisure. Afterward, return to the ferry terminal and embark your ferry for the short ride back to Hiroshima. Upon arrival, disembark the ferry, re-board your coach, and commence the approximately 45-minute drive back to the pier.

Explore the history and highlights of Hiroshima during this scenic and informative, full-day sightseeing excursion with lunch.

Hiroshima, Hiroshima Castle, Miyajima-Guchi Ferry Terminal, Ferry-Ride, Miyajima Island

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive to the Miyajima-guchi Ferry Terminal. Upon arrival, embark a ferry for the short ride to Miyajima Island. Only 12 square miles (about 31 square kilometres) in area and consisting mostly of steep, wooded hills, Miyajima is ranked as one of the three most scenic spots in the country. During your guided walking tour of Miyajima Island, take in exquisite views of your picturesque surrounds and stop for a visit at the majestic Itsukushima Jinja Shrine.

Itsukushima Jinja Shrine, Torii Gate, Boardwalks, Buildings, Prayer & Main Halls, Noh Theatre Stage

This UNESCO World Heritage Site, National Treasure, and Important Cultural Property is thought to date from the mid-16th century. Its dramatic, approximately 50-foot-tall (about 15.2-foot-tall), reddish-orange-coloured Torii Gate is distinctively built over water, giving it the illusion of ‘floating’ in the sea during high tide. Built on pillars, the shrine complex consists of multiple buildings, including a Prayer Hall and Main Hall, all of which are connected by boardwalks. There is also the Noh Theatre Stage, where plays that paid homage to the gods were once performed, and, surprisingly, many wild deer that can be seen walking around on the island.

Free Time, Independent Shopping & Browsing, Ferry-Ride, Hiroshima, Local Restaurant, Lunch

Following your tour, some free time is made available to explore the streets of the island and browse the local shops at your leisure. Afterward, return to the ferry terminal and embark your ferry for the short ride back to the Miyajima-guchi Ferry Terminal. Upon arrival, disembark the ferry, re-board your coach, and proceed for a Japanese, set-menu lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, re-board your coach and transfer to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum, Memorials, Monuments, Statues

The area where the park now lies was ground zero for the atomic bomb on August 6, 1945. Following the bombing, Peace Memorial Park was created and dedicated to those who lost their lives during and after the attack. Take a guided stroll through the park to discover its many memorials, monuments, and statues, then enter the Peace Memorial Museum, the park's main attraction. The museum consists of two buildings depicting the history of Hiroshima and day of the atomic bomb, August 6, 1945. See displays of personal belongings, compelling photographs, and stories of the sadness and suffering after the bomb. Following your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

Explore the pathos of war and impact of the nuclear bomb dropped on Hiroshima during this compelling, half-day sightseeing excursion to the Hiroshima Peace Park Memorial & Museum.

Hiroshima, Peace Memorial Park & Museum, Memorials, Monuments, Museums, Lecture Halls

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum. The location of the park was once the busiest downtown commercial and residential district, and it was subsequently built on an open field created by the explosion. Today, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is home to many memorials, monuments, museums, and lecture halls, and draws over a million visitors annually. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is dedicated to the legacy of Hiroshima as the first city in the world to suffer from a nuclear attack at the end of World War II, on August 6, 1945. The park also honours the memories of the bomb’s direct and indirect victims, which number well over 200,000 people.

Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall Remains, Arched Tomb Cenotaph, Stone Chest

Upon arrival, proceed for a stop at the skeletal remains of the former Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, the only building left standing near the hypocentre of the bomb's blast. The hall’s hollowed dome, appropriately named the ‘Atomic Bomb Dome’, was intentionally left in ruins as a stark visual reminder of the bomb’s destruction. During a stop at the Arched Tomb Cenotaph, you may take a moment to remember the victims of the bomb. Each one of the 220,000 victims’ names are inscribed on the stone chest beneath the arch.

Museum Visit, Displays, Personal Belongings, Compelling Photographs, Related Stories, Shopping

Your final stop is at the Museum, which consists of two buildings depicting the history of Hiroshima and day of the atomic bomb. The displays include personal belongings, compelling photographs, and stories of the sadness and aftermath of the bomb. In sharp contrast to the atrocities of war and atomic bomb, bear witness to the miraculous, decades-long recovery of Hiroshima, whose remarkable restoration is truly inspiring in its scope. Following your visit, you may opt to re-board your coach for the drive back to the pier or remain in the city for shopping and exploration at your leisure, then return to the ship on your own.

Explore Hiroshima at your leisure during your full-day (8-hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Hiroshima at your leisure during your half-day (4-hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Hiroshima at your leisure during your full-day (8-hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Hiroshima at your leisure during your half-day (4-hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.