Best One-Day Trips from Hiroshima: Discover Nearby Gems
Miyajima
Explore the best of Miyajima in a day!
Iwakuni
Explore the best of Iwakuni in a day!
Onomichi
Explore the best of Onomichi in a day!
Okayama
Explore the best of Okayama in a day!
One-Day Trip from Hiroshima to Miyajima
Distance and Travel Time
- Distance from Hiroshima: 20 km (12 miles)
- Estimated Travel Time: 45 minutes by train and ferry
Transportation Options
- By Car: Drive to Miyajimaguchi and take a ferry to Miyajima Island.
- By Train: Take the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station, then a ferry to Miyajima.
Main Attractions
Itsukushima Shrine A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Itsukushima Shrine is famous for its "floating" torii gate, which appears to float on the water during high tide. The shrine's unique architecture and serene setting make it a must-visit.
Mount Misen Offering panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea, Mount Misen is accessible via a scenic hike or a ropeway. The summit provides breathtaking vistas and is a great spot for photography.
Miyajima Aquarium Home to a variety of marine life, the Miyajima Aquarium offers interactive exhibits and shows. It's a family-friendly attraction that provides insight into the local aquatic ecosystem.
Itinerary Suggestions
Start your day early by taking the train and ferry to Miyajima. Begin with a visit to Itsukushima Shrine to see the torii gate at high tide. Spend the late morning hiking or taking the ropeway up Mount Misen for stunning views. After lunch, explore the Miyajima Aquarium and stroll through the island's charming streets before heading back to Hiroshima.
Local Food
- Momiji Manju: Maple leaf-shaped cakes filled with sweet bean paste.
- Oysters: Freshly grilled or served raw, Miyajima is famous for its oysters.
- Anago Meshi: Grilled conger eel served over rice.
Local Tips
For the best photos of the torii gate, visit during high tide. Don't miss the deer roaming freely on the island—they're friendly but be cautious with your belongings. The island can get crowded, so plan to arrive early to avoid the rush.
One-Day Trip from Hiroshima to Iwakuni
Distance and Travel Time
- Distance from Hiroshima: 40 km (25 miles)
- Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour by train
Transportation Options
- By Car: Drive via the Sanyo Expressway to Iwakuni.
- By Train: Take the JR Sanyo Line to Iwakuni Station.
Main Attractions
Kintaikyo Bridge A historic wooden arch bridge, Kintaikyo is an architectural marvel. The bridge spans the Nishiki River and offers picturesque views, especially during cherry blossom season.
Iwakuni Castle Perched on a hilltop, Iwakuni Castle provides panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape. The castle museum showcases samurai artifacts and local history.
Kikko Park Located near Kintaikyo Bridge, Kikko Park is a beautiful spot for a leisurely stroll. The park features traditional Japanese gardens, historic buildings, and seasonal flowers.
Itinerary Suggestions
Arrive in Iwakuni in the morning and start with a visit to Kintaikyo Bridge. Spend some time exploring Kikko Park before heading up to Iwakuni Castle. Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch in the area and spend the afternoon wandering through the park and along the river before returning to Hiroshima.
Local Food
- Iwakuni Sushi: A unique pressed sushi made with layers of rice and fish.
- Lotus Root Dishes: Various dishes featuring locally grown lotus root.
- Nishiki River Ayu: Sweetfish caught from the Nishiki River, often grilled.
Local Tips
Visit Kintaikyo Bridge early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the best photos. The ropeway to Iwakuni Castle offers stunning views, so have your camera ready. Don't forget to try Iwakuni Sushi, a local specialty.
One-Day Trip from Hiroshima to Onomichi
Distance and Travel Time
- Distance from Hiroshima: 80 km (50 miles)
- Estimated Travel Time: 1.5 hours by train
Transportation Options
- By Car: Drive via the Sanyo Expressway to Onomichi.
- By Train: Take the JR Sanyo Line to Onomichi Station.
Main Attractions
Senkoji Temple Located on a hilltop, Senkoji Temple offers panoramic views of Onomichi and the Seto Inland Sea. The temple complex includes beautiful gardens and historic buildings.
Onomichi Cat Alley A charming alleyway filled with cat-themed shops, cafes, and art. It's a must-visit for cat lovers and offers a unique cultural experience.
Shimanami Kaido A scenic cycling route that connects Onomichi to Shikoku Island. Even if you don't cycle the entire route, renting a bike for a short ride offers stunning coastal views.
Itinerary Suggestions
Start your day with a visit to Senkoji Temple for breathtaking views. Spend the late morning exploring Onomichi Cat Alley and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local cafe. In the afternoon, rent a bike and ride a portion of the Shimanami Kaido before heading back to Hiroshima.
Local Food
- Onomichi Ramen: A soy sauce-based ramen with a rich, flavorful broth.
- Seafood Dishes: Fresh seafood from the Seto Inland Sea, including sashimi and grilled fish.
- Lemon Products: Onomichi is known for its lemons, so try lemon-flavored sweets and drinks.
Local Tips
The best views from Senkoji Temple are during sunrise or sunset. Onomichi Cat Alley is a hidden gem, so take your time exploring the shops and cafes. If you're cycling, make sure to wear comfortable clothing and bring water.
One-Day Trip from Hiroshima to Okayama
Distance and Travel Time
- Distance from Hiroshima: 160 km (100 miles)
- Estimated Travel Time: 1.5 hours by Shinkansen (bullet train)
Transportation Options
- By Car: Drive via the Sanyo Expressway to Okayama.
- By Train: Take the Shinkansen from Hiroshima Station to Okayama Station.
Main Attractions
Okayama Korakuen Garden One of Japan's three most famous gardens, Korakuen features expansive lawns, ponds, and traditional tea houses. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and photography.
Okayama Castle Known as "Crow Castle" due to its black exterior, Okayama Castle offers historical exhibits and panoramic views of the city. The castle grounds are especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.
Kibitsu Shrine A historic Shinto shrine known for its unique architecture and long corridor. The shrine is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful retreat from the city.
Itinerary Suggestions
Arrive in Okayama in the morning and start with a visit to Korakuen Garden. Spend the late morning exploring Okayama Castle and its grounds. After lunch, head to Kibitsu Shrine for a serene afternoon before returning to Hiroshima.
Local Food
- Kibi Dango: Sweet rice dumplings that are a local specialty.
- Okayama Barazushi: A colorful sushi dish with various toppings.
- Fruit Parfaits: Okayama is known for its fruits, especially peaches and grapes, which are often used in desserts.
Local Tips
Korakuen Garden is best visited in the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds. The view from Okayama Castle is particularly stunning during sunset. Don't miss trying Kibi Dango, a sweet treat that makes for a great souvenir.
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