Hidden Gems in Hiroshima

While most visitors come to Hiroshima to pay respects at the Peace Memorial, the city and its surrounding region offer so much more. These places reveal a forward-looking city with deep traditions.

Tomonoura: The Harbor Time Forgot

Just 90 minutes from Hiroshima, this historic port looks much as it did during the Edo period. Narrow lanes wind between wooden buildings, temples dot the hillsides, and the harbor still hosts fishing boats. Studio Ghibli's Hayao Miyazaki reportedly found inspiration here for "Ponyo."

Onomichi: Temple Walk & Cats

This hillside town is famous for its Temple Walk, a path connecting 25 temples along the slopes overlooking the Inland Sea. It's equally known for its many cats, literary heritage, and increasingly, its cycling scene as the starting point of the Shimanami Kaido.

Hiroshima's Nagarekawa District

Away from the tourist areas, Nagare is where locals eat and drink. Tiny bars and restaurants serve Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, fresh oysters (the region is famous for them), and the strong local sake.

Mitaki-dera Temple

This forested temple complex in the hills above the city offers a quiet escape. Multiple waterfalls cascade through the grounds, and the walk there takes you through residential neighborhoods far from tourist crowds.

The Islands

Hiroshima Bay is dotted with islands, each with its own character:

• Miyajima: Famous, but less crowded if you stay overnight
• Etajima: Naval history and quiet beaches
• Ninoshima: Hiking trails and quiet beaches; also a sober WWII memorial site

These hidden gems show that Hiroshima is more than its tragic history. It's a region of natural beauty, culinary excellence, and warm hospitality.