Hiroshima: 15 Exciting Tours, Activities, and Convenient Tickets

A hub of culture, food, and natural beauty, Hiroshima is one of the most picturesque areas to visit in the southern region of Japan's main island. Whether you're cruising along the scenic bike road along the Seto Inland Sea or savoring a delectable Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, these tour packages and tickets can assist you in arranging your ideal getaway.

Hiroshima: Tours and Activities

Package Tours
1. Hiroshima and Miyajima One-Day Bus Tour
2. Must-See Hiroshima Day Tour
3. Rabbit Island Tour
4. Shimanami Kaido Cycling Tour

Food Tours
5. Half-day Food Tour
6. Local Culinary Tour
7. Bar Crawl Food Tour

Traditional Culture Tours
8. Kimono and Sake Tour
9. Okonomiyaki Cooking Tour
10. Kagura Show and Orizuru Tower Tour

Outdoor Activities
11. Paddleboarding in Hiroshima
12. Tomonoura Sea Kayaking
13. Sea Kayaking in Hiroshima Bay

Convenient Passes
14. Visit Hiroshima Tourist Pass
15. Setouchi Area Pass

Package Tours

1. Hiroshima and Miyajima Bus Tour

Photo by Pixta

Looking for an all-inclusive tour of Hiroshima's highlights in just one day? Whether you seek the tranquil ambiance of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park or the breathtaking natural beauty of Miyajima, this tour has you completely covered.

With a combination of guided sections and self-guided exploration, it offers the ideal blend of structured itineraries and the freedom to discover Hiroshima at your own pace.

What adds to its convenience is the option to start this trip as an extension to your adventures in western Japan. The tour also includes the assistance of a guide who will help arrange your travel from Shin-Osaka or Kyoto Station to Hiroshima, making it the perfect addition to a Kansai trip. And don't forget to greet the friendly deer on Miyajima while you're there!

2. Must-see Hiroshima Day Tour

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This comprehensive tour offers a delightful taste of what Hiroshima has to offer, making it a must-see experience. In just eight hours, you'll have the opportunity to explore various attractions, landmarks, and local cuisine of Hiroshima, accompanied by an English-speaking guide.

The tour includes visits to popular sites like the Japanese garden Shukkeien and the Atomic Bomb Dome. What sets this tour apart is the ability for visitors to personalize their experience. Upon booking, guests receive a questionnaire that allows them to customize the tour according to their preferences.

3. Rabbit Island Tour

Photo courtesy of Klook

Spend a day surrounded by the most adorable furry friends you'll ever encounter, as you play with over 900 charming rabbits on the island of Okunoshima.

This enchanting location has been lovingly dubbed "Rabbit Island" by the thousands of visitors who flock here to witness the cuteness overload and freely interact with these little critters. Immerse yourself in the tranquil natural surroundings while indulging in rabbit-themed souvenirs and culinary delights. Why not treat yourself to a delightful rabbit-themed soft cream or capture a selfie with a cuddly group of bunnies?

After the Okunoshima experience, the tour proceeds to the nearby town of Saijo for a sake tasting session in this historic brewing town. Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, you can discover your favorite sake cup and even bring back a small memento if you wish.

4. Shimanami Kaido Cycling Tour

Experience the joy of gliding along the picturesque Seto Inland Sea on your very own electric assist bike. This is exactly what you can expect when you join the Shimanami Kaido tour available on Klook.

In just one day, this tour allows you to soak in the breathtaking views that this region of Japan has to offer. Your bike will effortlessly cruise along scenic paths, leading you over stunning cable-stay bridges that span the crystal-clear blue waters. Along the way, you'll have the chance to explore charming towns and savor local delicacies, all while being guided by a knowledgeable tour group.

The tour offers flexibility and contingency plans in case of inclement weather, ensuring a seamless experience. Additionally, the company adheres to stringent safety standards to keep all riders well protected. However, it's important to be mindful of your own limits and pack appropriately for a day of cycling.

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Food Tours

5. Half-day Food Tour

Photo courtesy of Klook
This four-hour food crawl takes place in the vibrant shopping streets of downtown Hiroshima, ensuring that you won't go hungry by the end of this journey. The adventure begins with the renowned Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, showcasing crispy noodles, tender steamed cabbage, and a delectably addictive finishing sauce.

Next, you'll savor locally flavored dipping noodles before concluding with a dessert parlor that seamlessly blends old and new flavors, providing the perfect end to a satisfying day of culinary exploration.

6. Local Culinary Tour

Photo courtesy of Klook
Embark on a local-style culinary tour and savor the best of Hiroshima's gastronomic offerings. This immersive journey keeps you in the heart of central Hiroshima city, allowing you to experience the true delights of its food scene.

Before satiating your appetite, capture lasting memories against the backdrop of one of Japan's most stunning gardens, Shukkeien. Nestled near Hiroshima Castle, this meticulously designed oasis provides a serene sanctuary within the bustling city.

Following a moment of relaxation, join a lively standing bar accompanied by a knowledgeable local host who will guide you through Hiroshima's culinary gems. Highlights include the renowned oysters served with a vibrant soy-based sauce and fresh spring onions, imparting a refreshing taste. And, of course, who could overlook the beloved okonomiyaki?

7. Bar Crawl Food Tour

Photo courtesy of Klook
Embark on an enticing local food tour that begins with an explosion of irresistible flavors! Meandering through the charming backstreets of Hiroshima, you'll be treated to the finest culinary experiences the city has to offer.

Your knowledgeable guide has meticulously handpicked a range of must-try establishments, ensuring that even if you're new to Japanese cuisine, you're in for a delightful adventure with unique Hiroshima delicacies. Indulge in various mouthwatering renditions of Hiroshimayaki, experiencing the diverse flavors and styles of this iconic dish.

Additionally, savor the privilege of savoring freshly shucked oysters, a true specialty of Hiroshima. This culinary spectacle promises to tantalize your taste buds. No visit to Hiroshima would be complete without sampling its renowned sake. Feel free to ask your guide for recommendations on delectable pairings, as you may discover the perfect combination that you'll want to bring back home with you as well!

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Traditional Culture Tours

8. Kimono and Sake Tour

Photo courtesy of Klook

Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty and traditional ambiance of Miyajima as you explore the island wearing a kimono! This tour offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience what it would have been like for Japanese individuals in the past when visiting Miyajima as a religious pilgrimage destination.

As one of Japan's esteemed Three Great Views, Itsukushima Shrine is a truly enchanting location. Watch as the sunlight dances on the water, casting rippling patterns on the eaves, and capture stunning photographs of yourself wearing a splendid traditional kimono or yukata.

Following this memorable experience, your local guide will lead you to Saijo, a captivating town known for its rich tradition of sake production.

9. Okonomiyaki Cooking Tour

Photo courtesy of Klook
One of the most famous foods Hiroshima is known for is Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, also known as Hiroshimayaki. And what could be a better way to experience it than by cooking it yourself, guided by an experienced griddle master?

This experience allows you to try your hand at making it while being introduced by the creators of the delicious brown sauce that is famous worldwide as a topping for any type of okonomiyaki. You will be guided through the entire process, from spooning out the thin and crispy batter to topping it with fresh ingredients and then cooking it to perfection under your watchful eye.

There are often two eating styles for Hiroshimayaki - some prefer eating from the outside towards a perfectly cooked center, while others enjoy starting from the inside towards a crispy and crunchy edge.

10. Kagura Show and Orizuru Tower Tour

Photo courtesy of Klook
While it is common to take day trip tours, this tour offers a unique glimpse into the cityscape of Hiroshima during a 4-hour night tour.

The journey begins with a peaceful visit to the grounds of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, where the somber memorial to the victims of the atomic bomb is illuminated to reveal its stark concrete structure. The haunting serenity of the area allows visitors to contemplate the grave danger that nuclear weapons pose to humanity.

Picture from: Hiroshima Kagura

Following this, participants will enjoy the captivating beauty of a Kagura performance, immersing themselves in the traditions and also having the opportunity to meet the performers. The tour concludes with a nighttime visit to Orizuru Tower, a facility with a rooftop observatory that offers a sweeping view of the Hiroshima city skyline.

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Outdoor Activities

11. Paddleboarding in Hiroshima

Photo courtesy of Klook
For those who prefer outdoor activities, paddle boarding offers a unique way to experience Hiroshima. The city is situated on a river delta, making paddle boarding a surprisingly enjoyable and fascinating way to explore its attractions.

You can visit beautiful parks, admire natural scenic spots, and even discover a different perspective of iconic places like the Hiroshima Peace Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome. It is recommended to dress appropriately for this activity, but rest assured that your guides on this exceptional trip are well-trained and bilingual.

12. Tomonoura Sea Kayaking

Photo courtesy of Klook
Tomonoura is a tranquil fishing town renowned for its natural beauty and peaceful waters, perfect for kayaking. Embark on an exhilarating sea kayaking adventure as you explore the numerous islands scattered across the Seto Inland Sea.

With the guidance of an English-speaking guide, you will learn about the fascinating history of these islands as you paddle along.

Additionally, the historic port of Tomonoura holds special significance for film enthusiasts, having been featured in popular movies like "The Wolverine" and serving as inspiration for the serene seaside town depicted in the Studio Ghibli classic "Ponyo."

13. Sea Kayaking in Hiroshima Bay

Photo courtesy of Klook
Visitors from all around the world come to experience the beauty of Itsukushima Shrine, a revered place of worship for those connected with the sea. During this one-hour kayaking excursion, you will have the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of the sailors who once navigated Hiroshima's waters.

Experience the awe-inspiring sight of paddling towards the floating torii gate, just as traditional Japanese sailors have done, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural splendor of Hiroshima Bay. You can also explore the tranquil inlets and bays around Miyajima Island, gaining a unique perspective that few visitors have the chance to witness.

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Convenient Travel Passes for Exploring Hiroshima

14. Visit Hiroshima Tourist Pass

Photo courtesy of Klook

Looking to save some money or explore the charming transportation options in Hiroshima, such as its renowned streetcar?

The convenient Visit Hiroshima Tourist Pass is a great way to save on transportation costs. Available in 1, 2, or 3-day options, it provides flexibility and ensures worry-free travel.

15. Setouchi Area Pass

Another pass worth considering is the Setouchi Area Pass provided by JR West. This pass expands your coverage to the wider region encompassing the Seto Inland Sea, allowing you to not only explore Hiroshima but also venture to Okayama and other areas surrounding the inland sea.

With this pass, you can enjoy unlimited travel on various popular means of transportation in the region, including the Shinkansen. For fans of pop culture, the pass even grants you the exciting opportunity to ride the famous Hello Kitty Shinkansen, which operates on the tracks covered by this pass.

Enjoy Hiroshima through Activities and Tours

Hiroshima and its surroundings are home to many hidden cultural gems and locations with beautiful scenery. In order to learn about the local culture more in-depth and enjoy this area to the fullest, join one of the guided tours and activities featured in this article.

Main image by Pixta