Have you ever thought of combining the deep history of Hiroshima with the vibrant energy of Osaka for an exciting adventure? From ancient shrines to bustling city streets, this guide covers the top sights and must-try foods, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable in Hiroshima and Osaka.

Hiroshima: A City of Peace and Beauty

Once marked by tragedy, this city located in the Kansai region (Western side of Japan) now stands as a symbol of peace and strength. Here are some of the recommended sightseeing locations in Hiroshima.

Must-see Sights in Hiroshima

1. Atomic Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome / Hiroshima Peace Memorial)
   An iconic structure in Hiroshima which survived the atomic bombings, today stands as a reminder of the devastations of war.
2. Hiroshima Castle
   This castle was subsequently rebuilt after the atomic bombings, with a museum interior giving insight into the past.
3. Shukkeien Garden
   Conveniently located in the city centre, this garden is modeled after Xi Hu in Hangzhou, China. Also, it is a popular attraction during the Sakura season.

Must-try Food in Hiroshima

• Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki: Definitely give this savour pancake a try when you visit Okonomimura – it is different from Osaka version with the various layers of food.
• Oysters: With its close proximity to the sea, Hiroshima is blessed with abundance of good seafood – especially oysters! These are perfect for winter season – whether it is grilled or raw.
• Momiji Manju: This maple-shaped baked wagashi, made from buckwheat and rice cake, filled with various flavours. Be sure to purchase this as a souvenir when you visit Miyajima Island.
• Various types of local Noodles: Soupless Dandan noodles, Hiroshima Tsukemen, Onomichi Ramen and many more! Check this page for more information.

Nearby Islands Worth Exploring

1. Miyajima Island & Itsukushima Shrine (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
   Highly recommended! Take a 30 mins ferry ride to see the famous floating torii gate or simply chill with the deers on the island, don’t forget to stick by during sunset. You might be able to walk out to the Torii gate if the tide becomes low.
2. Okunoshima (Rabbit Island)
   If you are an animal lover, do check out Okunoshima! This place is accessible by train and ferry, about 90 mins from Hiroshima. You can try out the various hiking trails available on this island!
3. Ninoshima Island
   Just 20 mins ferry ride away from the main island, this place is known as “Little Mt. Fuji” due to its volcanic shaped mountain “Aki-no-kofuji”. If you enjoy hiking, then this place is a must-visit for you.

Travel Tip in Hiroshima: Get any JR Pass that covers Hiroshima and you can use it for both the bullet train ride as well as the JR ferries to Miyajima Island (there are special timings where the ferries sail nearer to the Itsukushima Shrine too!)

Osaka: Japan’s Food Capital and Urban Wonderland

Once you are done exploring Hiroshima, simply hop on a 90 mins shinkansen bullet train ride from Hiroshima station to Shin-Osaka station. This bustling city is especially famous for its unique food offerings and shopping.

Must-visit Places in Osaka

1. Umeda Sky Building
   One of the striking skyscraper located in the city centre, this building offers amazing views from its paid observation deck – “Floating Garden Observatory”.
2. Osaka Castle
   Another iconic landmark in the area which is very popular during the Sakura season, you can spend visit the museum located inside. One of the notable point is that this historical building is now equipped with elevators!
3. Shinsaibashi, Dotonbori, Namba
   Start your walk from the bustling Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street and you will eventually end up at Namba! Remember to take a photo with the Glico man at Dotonbori area for keepsake.

Must-try Food in Osaka

• Takoyaki: You can say that this is Okonomiyaki’s cousin in a way, but this octopus-filled street food is now a symbol of Osaka.
• Kushikatsu: Head over to Shinsekai to enjoy this Osaka specialty – skewered and deep-fried meats with seafood and vegetable.
• Fugu (Pufferfish): Are you up for a challenge? Try this unique but yet dangerous dish in Sashimi (raw), Tecchiri (Hotpot), Deep-fried or Hire-zake (Hot Sake).

Travel Tip in Osaka: Get an Osaka Amazing Pass or ICOCA Card to facilitate your trips around the area as the most convenient line is generally via the local subway (not JR).

Direct Chartered Flight to Hiroshima

Do you want to experience Hiroshima and Osaka in-person? Now you can do so via our direct chartered flight to Hiroshima – departing on 30 Dec 2024. Skip the hassle of flight transits and wasted time which you can spend exploring the area.

In summary, here is what our 5D4N package consists of:

• Return direct flights to Hiroshima, with 20 KG check-in baggage
• 2 nights hotel stay in Osaka city
• 2 nights hotel stay in Hiroshima city
• 5 days JR Kansai-Hiroshima Pass

For more information, refer here.

In addition, we have an ongoing offer – air tickets only from $298* while the tour package is from $998*. All offers are while stocks last, limited seats only and operate on a first-come-first-serve basis.