Hiroshima

Hiroshima Castle

Hiroshima Castle was constructed by Mouri Terumoto, one of the most significant servants ("Godairou") of Hideyoshi Toyotomi. The Fukushima family and later Asano family lived there during the Edo era. This castle tower was designated as National Treasure in 1931 and later destroyed by atomic bomb. In 1958 the exterior of the castle was renovated and in 1989 the inside was restored. Today, it has turned into a history museum featuring Samurai culture.

Shopping

There are some great places to shop in Hiroshima. Walk through Hiroshima’s covered arcade, Hon-dōri for clothes and beauty products. Or peruse the popular Namiki-dōri street for some funky clothing brands. For a big-name department store visit Tokyo Hands, you’ll find fun trinkets for the home, new technology and homewares. Into brands? Head to designer mall Mitsukoshi. It’s got all your international designer labels as well as a gourmet food hall and supermarket.

Getting around

From the airport: the main way to get from Hiroshima Airport to the city is via bus, taxi or private transfer. There is no train service from the airport. The shuttle bus has several routes to Hiroshima station, Hiroshima Bus Center, Fukuyama station, Mihara station and Shiraichi station.

In and around the city: Hiroshima has an extensive tram (streetcar) network. The trams run approximately every 10 minutes per line at a flat rate. Bus and metro lines run throughout the city generally used by locals. Bike hire is a great way to get around too.