Resort Glamping.com
Nationwide (Hokkaido, Tohoku, Kanto, Koshin, Kansai, Tokai, Chugoku, Shikoku, Kyushu, Okinawa)
Resort Glamping.com
Nationwide (Hokkaido, Tohoku, Kanto, Koshin, Kansai, Tokai, Chugoku, Shikoku, Kyushu, Okinawa)
June 5, 2026
Hiroshima is the economic and cultural center of Japan's Chugoku region. Its World Heritage sites and the beautiful natural scenery unique to the Seto Inland Sea attract many tourists. This article will introduce how to get from Hiroshima Airport to the city center, and highlight seven of Hiroshima's most popular tourist spots. Furthermore, we'll provide information on the latest must-do experiences in Hiroshima, such as the increasingly popular "luxury glamping" trend in Japan.
table of contents
Hiroshima is located in the center of the Chugoku region and faces the Seto Inland Sea to the south, so it enjoys a very mild and pleasant climate. Compared to major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, it is characterized by having many sunny days throughout the year. According to tourism data, the best seasons to visit Hiroshima are "spring" and "autumn". In spring (from late March), the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and famous places like Hiroshima Castle are dyed in a soft pink color. On the other hand, in autumn, the magnificent autumn leaves spread across Miyajima and Sandankyo Gorge, and the mountains are painted in vivid reds and yellows.
After arriving at Hiroshima Airport on an international flight, figuring out how to get to the city center and various tourist attractions is a crucial part of the trip. Since Hiroshima Airport is not directly connected to Shinkansen or JR conventional train stations, the most common and convenient option is to use the "Hiroshima Airport Limousine Bus," which operates frequently.
List of major limousine bus routes departing from Hiroshima Airport
| Route name | Main destinations (stations/spots) | Recommended traveler types |
|---|---|---|
| Hiroshima Station Line | JR Hiroshima Station Shinkansen Exit | For those transferring to the Shinkansen or staying near Hiroshima Station |
| Hiroshima Bus Center Line | Hiroshima Bus Center | For those who want to go directly to the downtown shopping district (such as Hondori Shopping Street) |
| Fukuyama Station Line | Fukuyama station | For those exploring the Fukuyama area or heading to tourist destinations along the Setouchi coast. |
| Mihara Station Line | JR Mihara Station | For those traveling to islands such as "Rabbit Island (Okunoshima)" via Mihara |
The greatest appeal of sightseeing in Hiroshima lies in the fact that World Heritage sites, modern history, cats roaming the slopes, and abundant nature and islands are all compactly integrated into one place.
One of Japan's three most scenic spots and awarded the highest rating of three stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan, this is an absolute must-see sacred site for Hiroshima sightseeing. Founded in 593 AD (the first year of Emperor Suiko's reign), the entire island has been revered as a sacred object, so to avoid damaging the sacred land, the shrine buildings were constructed on the sea, where the tides ebb and flow (a unique Shinden-zukuri architectural style). At high tide, it presents a fantastical and sacred sight floating on the sea, and at low tide, you can walk right up to the base of the large torii gate.
Official HP: https://www.itsukushimajinja.jp/
Located in the heart of Hiroshima, on the banks of the Motoyasu River (near the hypocenter of the atomic bombing), this park has earned two Michelin stars. Designed by Kenzo Tange, one of Japan's leading architects, it was completed in 1954. It continues to serve as a place of remembrance for the victims of the atomic bombing and a message of hope for world peace and the abolition of nuclear weapons. Within the park are the Atomic Bomb Dome, a World Heritage Site; the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which displays artifacts and valuable footage of atomic bomb survivors; and the Peace Bell.
Official HP: https://www.city.hiroshima.lg.jp/living/park-green/1005983/1026353/1003127.html
Built at the end of the 16th century by the Sengoku daimyo Mori Terumoto, this is a typical flatland castle and is counted among Japan's 100 Famous Castles. It is characterized by its wooden clapboard siding that resembles fish scales and is covered in black lacquer, and is also known as "Rijo" (Carp Castle). In spring, approximately 400 cherry trees bloom, and visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the historic castle tower and pink cherry blossoms reflected in the moat's water.
Official HP: https://hiroshimacastle.jp/
Located on the slopes of Senkoji Mountain in Onomichi, this narrow, cobblestone path is about 200 meters long and less than a meter wide. It got its name from artist Haruji Sonoyama, who began placing "Fukuishi Neko" (cat art drawn on round stones) along the alley and stone steps. Currently, there are more than 1,000 Fukuishi Neko hidden throughout the narrow path. The area, which has been renovated from old Showa-era houses, is home to the "Maneki Neko Museum in Onomichi," which displays more than 3,000 lucky cat figurines, the retro cafe "Fukurou no Yakata," and the "Fukuishi Neko Shrine," which enshrines the first Fukuishi Neko, making it very popular with photographers and couples.
Located in Akiota Town in northwestern Hiroshima Prefecture, this 16-kilometer-long gorge is a nationally designated Special Place of Scenic Beauty. Known as one of the most secluded spots in western Japan, its five main attractions include the "Kurobuchi" (Black Abyss), a sheer cliff that stretches for 100 meters. Around Kurobuchi and the Nidan-taki (Two-tiered Waterfall), visitors can enjoy traditional human-powered ferry rides, as well as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and in autumn, breathtaking autumn foliage viewing.
Official HP: https://cs-akiota.or.jp/sandankyo/
Located in the Seto Inland Sea off the coast of Takehara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, this small island has a circumference of approximately 4.3 kilometers (area of about 0.7 square kilometers). More than 700 wild rabbits inhabit the island, and it is loved by people all over the world as "Rabbit Island." During the war, it was home to a chemical weapons (poison gas) manufacturing plant, and was once known as "the island erased from maps." Even now, ruins such as the remains of a power plant and poison gas storage facilities remain. When you arrive on the island, the friendly rabbits will rush towards you all at once, looking for food.
Tourism website:https://dive-hiroshima.com/explore/1384/
Hiroshima's charm lies not only in its scenery, but also in the opportunity to experience its unique craftsmanship and traditional culture. It's also a great place to create your own special souvenir.
This workshop is located in the bustling Hondori shopping street in Hiroshima. You can experience making your own original lip balm using 100% plant-derived vegan ingredients, or create your own perfume by blending your favorite scents. Prices range from 2,200 to 4,400 yen, making it perfect for creating a souvenir of your trip or a special gift for someone special.
Official HP: https://hiroshima-angeelabo.com/
Located in the heart of Onomichi's Hondori shopping street, this pottery studio blends the beauty of the Seto Inland Sea with the warmth of handcrafted work. It was established in 2016 by Yoshifumi Fujimoto, a potter who returned to his hometown after teaching pottery to over 1 people for more than 10 years in places like Hakone. Here, you can book pottery experiences such as painting adorable "Sora Neko" (sky cats), hand-building, and using a professional electric potter's wheel.
Official HP: https://onomichi-sora-shop.com/
Immerse yourself in Japanese traditions with a historical experience at Miyajima, a World Heritage Site. Around 1000 years ago, during the Heian period, Miyajima was a sacred place visited by aristocrats and princesses. A representative experience available here is the "Heian Tsubo-shozoku" (Heian period court attire). Rentals of men's "Kariginu" (hunting robes) and high-quality kimonos and yukatas are also available.
Official HP: https://momijinoga.jp/
Luxury outdoor leisure is booming in Japan. Glamping facilities in Hiroshima offer the ultimate relaxation spots, combining natural hot springs, top-notch cuisine, and luxurious resort spaces. Here are three representative facilities.
Located on Ikuchijima Island in Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, this resort boasts a superb location with panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea. Each unit is equipped with a private barbecue (BBQ) space, and features open, dome-shaped tents with large windows. For dinner, you can enjoy steaks made with the brand-name beef "Setouchi Beef" or Hiroshima's famous "Lemon Hot Pot." At night, you can enjoy roasting marshmallows with family and friends under a sky full of stars.
This resort is located on the beachfront of Osakishimojima, known as the "Island of Hiroshima Lemons." Every guest room boasts a private open-air bath with natural hot spring water and a spacious private garden. In the evenings, guests can enjoy luxurious time gathered around their own private fire pit. Meals include hearty BBQ dishes such as wagyu beef steak and beer can chicken. The beds feature Simmons mattresses, a favorite of luxury hotels, guaranteeing the finest sleep.
This is a top-class villa resort surrounded by the rich seasons of the forest and a beautiful starry sky, complete with a private pool, jacuzzi, and sauna. All rooms are equipped with an authentic Finnish-style "barrel sauna." For dinner, enjoy a luxurious BBQ using plenty of fresh ingredients from Hiroshima Prefecture, including thick-cut Hiroshima Wagyu beef steak, carefully selected pork, and grilled bone-in sausages.
A1: A 3-night, 4-day itinerary is the most recommended.
On the first two days, it's best to visit Hiroshima's city center, including Peace Memorial Park, the Atomic Bomb Dome, and Hiroshima Castle, then browse for souvenirs at the newly opened station building "minamoa" and enjoy some Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. On the third day, spend the entire day sightseeing at Miyajima and Itsukushima Shrine, and try on Heian period costumes. On the fourth day, travel to Onomichi by Shinkansen or other means and take a leisurely stroll through Cat Alley for the perfect itinerary.
A2: Spring (cherry blossom season) and autumn (autumn foliage season) are the best times to visit.
Hiroshima has a mild climate typical of the Seto Inland Sea region, with little rainfall, making it pleasant year-round. However, the cherry blossoms at Senkoji Park and Hiroshima Castle in spring, and the beautiful autumn foliage around Miyajima and Sandankyo Gorge in November are particularly spectacular.
A3: The "Hiroshima Airport Limousine Bus" is the most convenient and recommended option, as it has the most frequent service.
Upon arrival, you can access the city center smoothly without transfers by choosing either the "JR Hiroshima Station Shinkansen Exit" or "Hiroshima Bus Center (Kamiyacho area)" bus, depending on the area of your accommodation.
Future tourism in Hiroshima will go beyond the appeal of its World Heritage sites and historical landmarks, becoming deeply intertwined with the region's "cultural experience industry" and "regional revitalization." In particular, the evolving luxury glamping and high-end resort villas in Japan are expected to further crossover (partner) with Hiroshima Airport and hot spring resorts, providing tourists with an even more top-class resort experience than ever before.
He is an editor at Resort Glamping.com, a glamping-focused media outlet visited by approximately 100 million people a month. He has written over 150 articles introducing glamping facilities and experience reports, and is involved in a wide range of glamping facility services, from planning and development to operation and customer acquisition consulting.
