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There is a lot to do in Hiroshima. And, you could easily spend a few days exploring the city.

However, sometimes it is nice to a break from the busy city life and discover some places around it. There are plenty of rewarding and easy day trips from Hiroshima that will help you discover another side of Japan.

Map of Day Trips from Hiroshima

Map of Day Trips from Hiroshima

Legend: 1. Naoshima Island, 2. Miyajima Island, 3. Sandankyo Gorge, 4. Takehara, 5. Iwakuni

Day Trip from Hiroshima to Naoshima (Japan's Art Island)

Naoshima Island, also known as ‘Japan’s Art Island’ is an art lover’s paradise. It is definitely one of a kind experience.

However, even if you are not an art or architecture buff, you should still visit the island for the breathtaking views, stunning landscapes, and charming island atmosphere.

It is one of my favorite day trips from Hiroshima!

Intrepid’s Tip:

There is a private guided tour that you might want to look into Naoshima Art Island Guided Tour. It is worth the extra money, in my opinion. The guides are excellent. You will visit Benesse House and Chichu Art Museum. Transport around Naoshima is included as well as a ferry ride from Uno Port to Miyanoura.

How to Get from Hiroshima to Naoshima

First, take Shinkansen from Hiroshima Station to Okayama Station. Next, from Okayama Station, take the local train (JR Uno Line) to Uno, and finally, from Uno take a ferry to Miyanoura.

Once you are on the island, you can practically walk everywhere, or you can rent a bike. There is a local bus that you can take as well. Finally, there is a free shuttle that operates between Miyanoura and Chichu Art Museum.

Intrepid’s Tip:

Make sure to buy JR Pass! It will save you a lot of money on transportation in Japan. You can buy JR Pass here.

Things to Do in Naoshima

Map of Naoshima

Legend: 1. Chichu Art Museum, 2. Benesse House, 3. The Art House Project, 4. Akakabocha 5. Lee Ufan Museum, 6. Cafe Salon Nakaoku

NUMBER 1

Chichu Art Museum

When I first visited Chichu Art Museum I was in awe by the building’s unique space designed by Tadao Ando.

First of all, the museum is mostly underground. However, a lot of natural light beautifully filters into each room. Depending on the time of the day and the season of the year, the natural light changes the appearance of the artwork and the ambiance of the space.

On permanent display are selected pieces from three masters: Claude Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria.

My favorites are five paintings from the Water Lilies series produced by the great Impressionist painter Claude Monet. In my opinion, this alone is worth going to Naoshima.

Walter De Maria’s artwork is stunning and thought-provoking. It features a sphere and gilded geometric forms.

Day Trips from Hiroshima

Chichu Art Museum / Day Trips from Hiroshima

Intrepid’s Tip:

Don’t miss James Turrell‘s play on space and light. It is stunning.

If you are visiting during springtime, make sure to stroll by a recreation of Monet’s garden.

For opening hours and entrance fees click here. You can book your tickets online. Make a note that the museum is closed on Mondays.

NUMBER 2

Benesse House Museum

Benesse House Museum is my favorite museum on Naoshima Island.

The entire facility was designed by Tadao Ando and it houses a modern art museum as well as an exquisite hotel (read about the hotel in Where to Stay in Naoshima section right below).

The complex sits on high ground and overlooks the Seto Sea. Needless to say, the views are simply breathtaking!

The art displayed in and around the museum is a variety of paintings, sculptures, photography, and installations.

The fans of Yayoi Kusama will not be disappointed. Yes! If you are a fan of her giant pumpkins then you are for a treat.

Perfectly positioned and overlooking the Seto Sea is the famous Yayoi Kusama’s ‘Yellow Pumpkin’.

Day trips from Hiroshima

Yayoi Kusama’s ‘Yellow Pumpkin’ / Day Trips from Hiroshima

For hours and admission click here.

NUMBER 3

The Art House Project

The Art House Project is a collection of old houses and workshops that have been converted into art installations and venues for contemporary art by artists and architects from Japan and abroad.

The art houses are scattered throughout Honmura village (located on the east side of the island).

By the way, once you get to Honmura Village head straight to The Honmura Lounge. It is located just a few steps away from the bus stop!

The Honmura Lounge serves as an information center for the Art House Project. Here, you will be able to get all the details regarding the artists and architects who are part of the Art House Project.

My three favorites of the Art House Project are Go’o Shrine, Kadoya, Minamidera, and Ishibashi.

  • Go’o Shrine  – Go’o Shrine was designed by Hiroshi Sugimoto. An interesting glass staircase connects the worship hall with an underground chamber and represents unity between heaven and earth.
  • Kadoya – Kadoya is a restored residence that houses the artworks of Tatsuo Miyajima.
  • Minamidera – Minamidera is a structure designed by Ando Tadao. It houses the artwork by James Turrell.
Day Trips from Hiroshima

Go’o Shrine was designed by Hiroshi Sugimoto / Day Trips from Hiroshima

NUMBER 4

Akakabocha

Akakabocha, the ‘Red Pumpkin’ is one of the two installations by famous Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama on Naoshima Island.

The ‘Red Pumpkin’ can be found at Miyanoura Port. Actually, when you step out of the ferry, ‘The Red Pumpkin’ will be right in front of you.

Day Trips from Hiroshima

Akakabocha, the ‘Red Pumpkin’ / Day Trips from Hiroshima

NUMBER 5

Lee Ufan Art Museum

The incredible structure of the museum designed by Tadao Ando houses a collection of only 7 items. The 7 items are by one artist – Lee Ufan.

Be the judge yourself, however, in my opinion, the building and the art pieces are coherent. The entire complex invites you to look in new ways at the surrounding nature and presented art, light, and shadow.

Where to Stay in Naoshima

Benesse House Museum Hotel is my top choice for an overnight stay.

It has Western-style rooms in the Museum, Oval, Park, and Beach buildings. It is expensive, however totally worth it. You get to enjoy magnificent views and furthermore, you can wander around and explore the museum after the closing hours.

For prices and availability click here.

Day Trips from Hiroshima

Where to Stay in Naoshima / Day Trips from Hiroshima

Where to Eat in Naoshima

The best choices are either Honmura village or Miyanomura village.

My recommendation is to head straight to Cafe Salon Nakaoku located in Honmura Village.

I have to say that everything I tried at Cafe Salon Nakaoku was delicious. I am recommending that you try miso soup, omurice with tomato sauce, and sauteed octopus. These dishes are my favorites! However, they always have specials of the day, and they are great as well!

The inside is very attractive and cozy with lots of wood elements and quiet places to enjoy your meal.

Naoshima Island

Where to Eat in Naoshima / Day Trips from Hiroshima 

Day Trips from Hiroshima

Where to Eat in Naoshima / Day Trips from Hiroshima 

Day Trip from Hiroshima to Miyajima (The Island of Gods)

If you are looking for a perfect day trip and a little adventure, then Miyajima Island, the “Island of Gods” is a perfect day trip from Hiroshima.

Miyajima is located less than an hour away from Hiroshima and has an overwhelming range of things to do. In addition, Miyajima Island is one of my favorite day trips from Hiroshima.

How to Get from Hiroshima to Miyajima Island

Let’s start with how to get to Miyajima Island. The good news is that it is super easy! In no time you will be on your way to Miyajima Island day trip.

Trains depart from Hiroshima Station every 15 minutes and will take you to Miyajimaguchi Station. It is about a 30-minute ride from Hiroshima to Miyajimaguchi Station. Once you arrive at Miyajimaguchi Station, follow the signs for the Miyajima Island ferry.

By the way, the ferry is located no more than a 10-minute walk from the station.

Things to Do in Miyajima

Miyajima Map

Map of Miyajima Island / Day Trips from Hiroshima

NUMBER 1

Miyajima Island Floating Torii

The number one attraction as well as the symbol of Miyajima Island is a giant torii (gate). During the high tide, it appears as if the torii is floating out in the sea.

My recommendation is to rent a kayak for a couple of hours and go around and under the torii. You can check Paddle Park for prices and availability. The website is in Japanese. However, if you scroll down, you will get to the English section.

If you are visiting the island during the low tide, you can walk up all the way to the torii and really get the feel of how enormous this structure is.

Miyajima Island

Miyajima Island Floating Torii / Day Trips from Hiroshima

NUMBER 2

Itsukushima Shrine

Next, head on to Itsukushima Shrine. The shrine was built in 593 and became an important place of worship in about 1168. In 1996 the World Heritage Committee officially inscribed Itsukushima Shinto Shrine as a World Cultural Heritage.

Itsukushima Shrine is well known for its unique construction. It consists of four main areas: the Holy Hall where the gods live (Heiden), the inner part where only the priests enter (Haiden), the external area for worship (Haraiden), and the noh theater stage.

All the sections are connected by numerous boardwalks and supported by pillars above the sea. During the high tide, the shrine looks as if it is floating in the Seto Sea.

Interestingly enough, the reason why the shrine was built out in the sea was that the island was originally thought to be too sacred for commoners to set foot upon.

Arched Bridge on Miyajima Island

Itsukushima Shrine / Day Trips from Hiroshima

NUMBER 3

Daishoin Temple

Daishoin Temple is about a 10 to 15-minute walk from Itsukushima Shrine and it is well worth the visit.

Founded by Kobo Daishi in 806, Daishoin Temple is the headquarters of the Omuro branch of the Shingon Buddhists.

The path leading to the temple is adorned with thousands of Buddha statues.

These are the statues of the disciples of the historical Buddha, Shaka Nyoria. They all look adorable wearing different colored beanies.

Next, follow the path, which will gradually climb through a beautifully designed garden. The design is so perfect that at the first sight, it is not possible to determine whether it is a man-made garden or a scenery crafted by nature.

Eventually, the path will take you to Daishoin Temple. Make sure to step inside the temple.

The ceiling of the temple is studded with lanterns emitting low warm light. My recommendation is to linger inside the temple for a few minutes and enjoy this peaceful and meditative atmosphere.

Daishoin Temple

Daishoin Temple / Day Trips from Hiroshima

NUMBER 4

The Ropeway

Next, take the ropeway to catch the magnificent views of the island.

The ropeway leaves from Momijidani Station. You can take a bus or you can walk to the station. My recommendation is to walk to Momijidani Station. It is no more than a 10-minute hike up a slight incline. Simply, take the path leading from Itsukushima Shrine to Momijidani Park.

On the way to Momijidani Station, you will pass through Momijidani Park.

Momijidani Park is a hang-out place for the famous Miyajima Island deer. They will be happy to see you and eager to find out if you have any treats. In addition, if you are planning your day trips from Hiroshima during the fall months, then keep in mind that Momijidani Park is one of the most famous maple leaf parks in Japan.

The ropeway goes from Momijidani Station to Kayadani Station. Once you reach Kayadani Station, you will take a second ropeway to your final destination which is Shishiwa Station.

The Shishiwa Station is 430 meters above sea level. The views of the Seto Sea from the station are breathtaking.

Day Trip to Miyajima

The Ropeway on Miyajima Island / Day Trips from Hiroshima

Where to Stay in Miyajima

If you decide to spend a night on Miyajima Island, then I am recommending Iwaso Hotel

It is one of the places that I keep coming back to. It is a luxurious Japanese-style hotel. The service is superb and the cuisine is outstanding.

The Iwaso Hotel occupies a traditional wooden building as well as some cottages dating back to 1900. It is situated no more than a 5-minute walk from Itsukushima Shrine and from the Giant Floating Torii.

My recommendation is to experience a traditional kaiseki meal, which is served in your room!

Where to Eat in Miyajima

If you are an oyster lover, then head straight to Yakigaki No Hayashi Restaurant. You will not miss it! First of all, there is always a small line of people waiting for a table, secondly, the smell of the grilled oysters will lead you right to this place.

They have the best selection of fresh oysters. You can choose from boiled, grilled, deep-fried, or raw oysters. All delicious!

Intrepid’s Tip: 

Learn more about Miyajima

Read:  DAY TRIP to MIYAJIMA (9 Things to Do)

Day Trip from Hiroshima to Sandankyo Gorge

A day trip to Sandankyo Gorge is a perfect choice for nature lovers and hikers. It is one of the day trips from Hiroshima that will let you completely escape the busy city life.

How to Get to Sandankyo Gorge from Hiroshima

First, get to Hiroshima Bus Center and purchase a bus ticket bound for Sandankyo Gorge. Next, head to Platform # 7. Finally, board the bus and get off at the last stop.

The express buses will get you to Sandankyo in about 80 minutes; the local bus will take about 2 hours before you get to Sandankyo.

My recommendation is to take the 8:18 am express bus. It will get you to Sandanyo Gorge by about 9:30 am.

And, take the return express bus at 3 pm. It will get you back to the Hiroshima Bus center at about 4:20 pm.

Things to Do in Sandankyo Gorge

Sandankyo Gorge runs through the mountains northwest of Hiroshima City. It is 13 km long.

The hike runs along the gorge and takes you through the most beautiful natural scenery around Hiroshima.

Personally, I loved this hike. The trail has plenty of ups and downs and the breathtaking scenery changes at every turn.

Sandankyo Gorge

Sandankyo Gorge / Day Trips from Hiroshima

Now, what you need to know is that you can take it as a leisurely stroll and turn back when you had enough of trekking.

Or you can take a full hike, which takes about 5 hours one way and leads up to Hijiri Lake.

The gorge contains five famed scenery spots and it is one of the Top 5 Special Valleys of Scenic Beauty in Japan.

  • Shimaidaki Waterfall (Sister Falls)

The first viewpoint that you will reach is Shimaidaki Waterfall (Sister Falls). It takes no more than 10 minutes to reach this point.

Shimaidaki Water is actually two waterfalls that flow parallel to each other.

Sandankyo Gorge

Sandankyo Gorge / Day Trips from Hiroshima

  • Tatsunokuchi (Dragon Mouth Torrent)

Next, after about 30 minutes, you will reach Tatsunokuchi (Dragon Mouth Torrent). Here, the water picks up some speed and creates a few rapids.

Sandankyo Gorge

Sandankyo Gorge / Day Trips from Hiroshima

  • Akadaki (Red Falls)

Continue on, and maybe after 10 minutes, and on your right, you will spot a smaller waterfall called Akadaki (Red Falls). It is a really beautiful waterfall with red soil showing through the cascading water.

  • Meotobuchi

After about 1-hour hike from the entrance of the gorge, you will arrive at Meotobuchi.

Meotobuchi is a pool and it is famous for its blue water. It is one of the most scenic spots on the hike. Furthermore, it is also known as one of the most romantic places on this hike.

There is an elevated platform, which gives great views and it is a perfect spot to take some pictures.

  • Ishidoi

Next, you will reach Ishidoi. Here the walls of the gorge narrow, creating a breathtaking point with the river pushing through among high rocks on either side.

  • Kurobuchi (Black Abyss)

Kurobuchi is one of the most famous spots along this trail. It is a deep pool surrounded by 100–meter-tall rocks.

Sandankyo Gorge

Sandankyo Gorge / Day Trips from Hiroshima

Sandankyo Gorge

Sandankyo Gorge / Day Trips from Hiroshima

My recommendation is to take a boat ride to Kurobuchiso. It costs 300 yen, and it is totally worth it! The boats run from the end of April through the end of November.

When you reach Kurobuchiso, you should stop for lunch. There is a restaurant Kurofuchi-so where you can taste famous grilled yamame (landlocked salmon) and rice balls cooked in the super soft water of Sandankyo Gorge. The views of the ravine are absolutely splendid here!

Sandankyo Gorge

Sandankyo Gorge / Day Trips from Hiroshima

Next, it all depends on how much time you have! You can continue on the trail up to the remaining key sights of Sarutobi, Nidandaki, and Sandandaki, or head back to the bus stop.

Day Trip from Hiroshima to Takehara (Hiroshima's Little Kyoto) and Okunoshima (Rabbit Island)

Take a stroll back in time at Takehara, also known as ‘Hiroshima’s Little Kyoto’, and then visit Okunoshima Island, also known as ‘Rabbit Island’. It is one of the most diverse day trips from Hiroshima.

How to Get from Hiroshima to Takehara and Okunoshima

First, get to Hiroshima Bus Center. Next, take the bus to Takehara. It is about an 1hour and 20 minutes ride. And, then walk to the town center, which is no more than a 15-minute walk.

If you prefer to take the train, then head to Hiroshima Station. Next, take either a bullet or a regular train to Mihara Station. Finally, transfer to the JR Kure Line for Hiro and get off at Takehara Station.

Once you are done visiting Takehara, it is time to head to Okunoshima.

First, take a train from Takehara Station to Tadanoumi Station. It is about a 15-minute train ride. Next, from Tadanoumi Station walk to Tadanoumi Port to catch the ferry. It is no more than a 5-minute walk to where the ferry is located. Finally, board the ferry and enjoy the views. You will reach Okunoshima in about 15 minutes.

Day Trips from Hiroshima

Map of How to Get from Hiroshima to Takehara and Okunoshima / Day Trips from Hiroshima

What to See in Takehara

NUMBER 1

Takehara Preserved Historical Town

Takehara achieved its modest fame and Edo-era prosperity from sea salt cultivation and sake making. At present,  the area is famed for its preserved historical townscape.

The streets of Takehara are lined with traditional wooden buildings going back to the Edo period (1603-1867).

While you are taking a stroll, take a closer look at the buildings and notice the paper-art-like panel lattice. It is called ‘Takehara Lattice’ and it is adorning many buildings.

You should know that Takehara’s old town is designated as an important preservation district of historic buildings.

Takehara

Takehara Preserved Historical Town / Day Trips from Hiroshima

Day Trips from Hiroshima

Takehara Preserved Historical Town / Day Trips from Hiroshima

NUMBER 2

Taketsuru Sake Brewery and Ozasaya Sake Museum

Next, visit the Taketsuru Sake Brewery and Ozasaya Sake Museum to learn about how sake is brewed.

In addition, find out about Masataka Taketsuru who was born in Takehara and who is the founder of The Nikka Whisky, one of the renowned whisky brewers in Japan.

What to See on Okunoshima Island

Once you are done visiting Takehara, head to Okunoshima Island.

Okunoshima Island is a small island, with a circumference of about 4 km.

At present, it is known as a home to a bunch of roaming rabbits.

However, Okunoshima was formerly a secret island producing poison gas for the Japanese military. Make sure to visit the Poison Gas Museum to learn about the effects of the deadly gas and to remember the victims of the attacks.

NUMBER 1

See and Feed the Rabbits

It is just fun and relaxing to see all these rabbits roaming around.

Make sure to buy some carrots and cabbage before heading to the island.

Day Trips from Hiroshima

See and Feed the Rabbits on Okunoshima Island / Day Trips from Hiroshima

See and Feed the Rabbits on Okunoshima Island

See and Feed the Rabbits on Okunoshima Island / Day Trips from Hiroshima

See and Feed the Rabbits on Okunoshima Island / Day Trips from Hiroshima

NUMBER 2

Poison Gas Museum

Poison Gas Museum was created in 1988 to remind us about the deadly gas that was manufactured on the island. It displays the materials from that time and explains the misery brought by the gas.

Okunoshima Island

Poison Gas Museum / Day Trips from Hiroshima

NUMBER 3

Hike Around the Island

Finally, go for a hike around the island and stop once in a while to feed the rabbits and take some pictures of them

The views from the island are breathtaking!

Hike Around Okunoshima Island

Hike Around Okunoshima Island / Day Trips from Hiroshima

Hike Around Okunoshima Island

Hike Around Okunoshima Island / Day Trips from Hiroshima

Day Trip from Hiroshima to Iwakuni

The Kintaikyo Bridge has been Iwakuni’s most distinguished landmark and a subject of admiration for hundreds of years.

However, there is so much more to explore in Iwakuni. Visiting Iwakuni is another of my favorite day trips from Hiroshima.

How to Get from Hiroshima to Iwakuni

Take JR Sanyo Line from Hiroshima Station to Iwakuni Station. It takes about 1 hour to reach Iwakuni from Hiroshima.

Next, take a bus from Iwakuni Station to Kintaikyo Bridge. The bus stop is right outside the station. The trip on the bus takes about 20 minutes.

Intrepid’s Tip:

Once you arrive at Iwakuni Station, make sure to purchase a combination entrance ticket which will include:

  • entrance to cross the bridge
  • ropeway to and from Iwakuni Castle
  • Iwakuni Castle castle admission ticket

What to See in Iwakuni

Day Trips from Hiroshima

Legend: 1. Kintaiko Bridge, 2. Kikko Park, 3. The Ropeway, 4. Iwakuni Castle, 5. The White Snake Museum

NUMBER 1

Kintaikyo Bridge

Kintaikyo bridge is a magnificent pedestrian wooden bridge. It is made of five massive arches standing atop four stone piers.

Kintaikyo was built in 1673 using only wood (no metal pins or nails were used in the construction). Five different types of wood were used in the construction of the bridge – Japanese zelkova, pine, chestnut, oak, and cypress.

Interestingly enough, only samurai were allowed to cross the bridge.

Kintaikyo Bridge kept standing until 1950 when it was destroyed by a typhoon. The reconstruction of the bridge was completed in 1953.

In the early 2000s, Kintaikyo underwent extensive renovations, which cost over two billion yen.

The admission cost to the bridge (round trip over the bridge) is 300 yen. However, if you are continuing to explore the area, then make sure to purchase a combo ticket that includes the bridge, castle, and ropeway.

Iwakuni

Kintaikyo Bridge / Day Trips from Hiroshima 

Day Trips from Hiroshima

Kintaikyo Bridge / Day Trips from Hiroshima 

NUMBER 2

Kikko Park

If you are planning your day trips from Hiroshima during springtime, then Kikko Park is a place to be!

Kikko Park is one of the top best cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan!

Iwakuni

Cherry Blossoms in Iwakuni  / Day Trips from Hiroshima 

Day Trips from Hiroshima

Cherry Blossoms in Iwakuni  / Day Trips from Hiroshima 

The entrance to the park is overseen by a statue of Hiroyoshi Kikkawa, the feudal lord who directed the construction of the Kintaikyo.

Inside the park, there are several samurai family-owned houses, however, they are used as private residences and it is not possible to tour them.

As you are strolling through the park, there are places where cormorant birds are housed. If possible, be there around noon when it’s feeding time.

If you happen to be visiting in the summertime, check out the ancient Japanese art of cormorant fishing.

The fishermen dressed in traditional costumes use trained cormorant birds to catch fish. The birds have a ring around their necks that keeps them from swallowing the fish.

It is quite a spectacular event. It takes place in the evening and into the night. The fishermen use torches to lure the fish. You can watch from ashore, or you can join the boat.

The cormorant fishing boats start leaving at around 6:30 pm from a spot next to Kintaikyo Bridge and the fishing starts at around 8 pm.

In addition, there are two museums worth checking out:

  • the Choko-ka – is a library with historical documents and scroll paintings
  • the Kikkawa Museum – is dedicated to the family of warlords, and includes some of their weapons

NUMBER 3

The Ropeway

Next, take the cable car up Shiroyama mountain to the Iwakuni Castle. The views along the way to the top are pretty spectacular!

The top of Shiroyama mountain is a nature preserve. If you have time, then go for a short hike as well.

Iwakuni

Views of Iwakuni / Day Trips from Hiroshima

NUMBER 4

Iwakuni Castle

Iwakuni Castle was built in 1608. The site of the castle was chosen for its natural defensive advantages. It is perfectly positioned on top of Mount Shiroyama and half surrounded by a natural moat, the Nishiki River.

Interestingly enough, the castle lasted only about 7 years when it was torn down by the decree of Tokugawa Ieyasu.

The present castle was reconstructed in 1962.

Day Trips from Hiroshima

Iwakuni Castle / Day Trips from Hiroshima

Inside the castle, you will find a great display of samurai swords, armor, and other items related to the castle’s history.

In addition, there is a very informative display on Kintaikyo Bridge, as well as other famous bridges across Japan.

Iwakuni Castle

Iwakuni Castle / Day Trips from Hiroshima

Iwakuni Castle

Iwakuni Castle / Day Trips from Hiroshima

Iwakuni Castle

Iwakuni Castle / Day Trips from Hiroshima

NUMBER 5

The White Snake Museum

The White Snake Museum has a collection of white snakes, which are native to the Iwakuni area.

Interestingly enough, white snakes can grow to around 1.8 meters in length. They are quite beautiful with red eyes and white or ivory-yellow scales.

White snakes have been designated as national treasures.

By the way, the Japanese revere these animals and believe that they are messengers of Beten, the Japanese goddess of wealth. Also, they are considered a sign of good luck

Admission to the museum is free and for opening hours click here.

White Snake Museum in Iwakuni

The White Snake Museum / Day Trips from Hiroshima

Where to Stay in Iwakuni

If you decide to stay the night in Iwakuni, I would recommend that you check out Iwakuni Kokusai Kanko Hotel.

First of all, the hotel is located right by all the main attractions in Iwakuni. Actually, you will be able to see the stunning Kintaikyo Bridge right from your room!

Where to Eat in Iwakuni

Iroro Sanzoku ‘Chicken Shack’ is one of the most popular places to grab a bite while you are visiting Iwakuni.

It is a large sprawling restaurant on the side of a mountain. There is inside dining, as well as open-air dining. If you are visiting during the summer months, then grab a seat under the trees.

They serve grilled chicken on a stick. I recommend that you add a miso soup, rice, or some other accompaniments to complete your meal. My favorite is their Sanzoku Yaki and most definitely their gyoza!

For location, hours, and how to order click here.

Day Trips from Hiroshima

Where to Eat in Iwakuni / Day Trips from Hiroshima 

Day Trips from Hiroshima

Where to Eat in Iwakuni / Day Trips from Hiroshima 

Intrepid Scout's Tips for Day Trips from Hiroshima

That is quite a list, right? What if you only have time for one day trip from Hiroshima? Where should you go?

  • Hands down, if you like art then head to Naoshima! And make sure to spend the night at the Benesse House Museum Hotel.
  • If you like nature and hiking, then head to Sandankyo Gorge. The scenery is breathtaking.
  • My favorite day trip from Hiroshima is Miyajima Island. it has it all… history, nature, and great places to eat and stay. You can’t go wrong with a day trip to Miyajima! Before you start planning make sure to read Day Trip to Miyajima (9 Things You Can’t Miss).

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Comments:

13 thoughts on “5 Fun and Easy DAY TRIPS from HIROSHIMA (How to Get There+Things to Do+Where to Stay)


  1. josypheen
    2019-11-04

    Fab post Anna! You found sooo many fantastic things to do near Hiroshima.

    I am most interested in Sandankyo Gorge. I have been to Hiroshima quite a few times, but somehow that never came onto my radar. It looks beeeautiful though! I would love to visit Bunny Island and Naoshima too. Dammit, Japan has sooo much to see!

    1. 2019-11-05

      Thank you, Josy! I apologize if I misspelled your name in my previous responses.
      You know, you are so right, I have traveled the world, yet I am still writing about Japan. And, if you asked me: where would you like to go next? I would say, I need to go back to Japan to explore some more.

      1. josypheen
        2019-11-05

        Lol I am exactly the same. I keep needing to go home to the UK (to visit new babies) but I want to visit Japan again and again!! I really miss living there. <3

  2. backpackandsnorkel
    2019-11-04

    Wonderful post – thank you for sharing. Sadly, we did not have time to visit Hiroshima on our trip to Japan a few years ago.

    1. 2019-11-05

      I see! Well, maybe next time?

  3. 2019-11-05

    Unbelievably fascinating! I didn’t know Hiroshima would be this interesting. I love the yellow pumpkin most of all. So definitely Naoshima Island for me. But the Iwakuni bridge is also special. Never mind the white stankes.

    1. 2019-11-05

      Hi Carol!
      Thank you for your comment! Hiroshima and the area around Hiroshima is definitely worth exploring.

  4. I heard a lot about how Japan is a great country to visit! I really wish to go there someday and this island sounds a great place to spend time with family. I love how their are lots of things to do here and the foods you mentioned here is to die for. I love Japanese foods and their healthy options!

    1. 2019-11-05

      Thank you for your comment, April!
      I am sure you will go to Japan one day!

  5. 2019-11-06

    wow very informative post! Cant wait to go in Japan <3

    1. 2019-11-07

      Hello!
      Oh, plan your trip! you will love it!

  6. LABELAS
    2023-09-20

    Superb! thanks for all the information.

    1. 2023-09-20

      I am glad you found it useful!

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