1. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial/ Peace Park
Commonly known as the Atomic Bomb Dome, this is undoubtedly the symbol – for better or worse – most associated with Hiroshima. Designated a World Heritage Site in 1996, the former Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall was the only structure left standing after the bombing on August 6, 1945. The twisted metal of the dome and the rubble-strewn surroundings is left the same as it was 70 years ago, a testament to the power of the new weapon and an everlasting symbol of peace.
2. Miyajima Island
A personal favorite, Miyajima (officially named Itsukushima) is a very small island a short jaunt from Hiroshima. After taking a 10-minute ferry, the striking view of the island is unforgettable. Sparsely populated and intensely rural, Miyajima is renowned throughout the country as being the best spot to see the autumn leaves change colors. The island’s many maple trees are turned a brilliant crimson in the fall, making it a top attraction for those looking to snap that perfect picture. And because the island itself is sacred, the trees are protected and cannot be cut. This protection also extends to the tame deer roaming the island, a sacred animal considered to be friends of the gods.
With charm to spare, this town should already be at the top of anyone’s Japan list, but it has an ace up its sleeve. The main feature of the island is undoubtedly the absolutely massive torii gate, a crimson reminder that the island hosts Itsukushima Shrine, a World Heritage Site colloquially known as the Floating Shrine.
First established in the 6th century, the present shrine dates back almost 500 years and boasts one of Japan’s official Three Greatest Views. Because the shrine was built over the water, with stick-like structures lofting it above the sea floor, the entire shrine looks to be floating. Depending on whether the tide is in or out, your views of the surrounding area will change. This beguiling shrine and the surrounding pagodas, temples, and extant buildings, is a great place to visit and one of my favorite places in the entire country.
3. Hiroshima Castle
Offering a fantastic example of traditional Japanese castle construction, Hiroshima Castle is a fine castle indeed. The present castle was, of course, reconstructed after World War II, but is still a fantastic site to behold.
Surrounded by a moat, the five-story tall castle was first built in 1589 by legendary feudal lord Mori Terumoto. The present castle has been sturdily rebuilt out of concrete with a classic wooden exterior. It is also one of the best spots in the city to see cherry and plum blossoms among the sprawling castle gardens.