Our Picks For The 15 Best Tours In Hiroshima

Hiroshima isn’t just about tragic history; it’s a city of resilience and hope that offers a wide variety of tours for every type of traveler. Whether you’re interested in moving memorials, lively food tours, or scenic boat rides, Hiroshima has something that will leave a lasting impression. We’re especially fond of the Hiroshima Peace (Heiwa) Walking Tour because it combines the emotional weight of Hiroshima’s tragic past with the inspiring story of recovery and peace, all led by a knowledgeable guide. It’s a deeply personal experience that makes history come alive in a respectful way. For those who love combining history with adventure, the Miyajima Half-day Trip offers an unforgettable boat ride and visits to iconic shrines—all in just half a day.

Hiroshima is a city where history is felt deeply, but it also excels at offering engaging, meaningful tours that go beyond the usual. From private walks to cycling tours, culinary nights to full-day explorations, the options are wide and varied. Whether you’re here for a quick visit or an extended stay, each of these experiences provides a unique way to connect with Hiroshima’s past and present.

1. Hiroshima Peace (Heiwa) Walking Tour at World Heritage Sites

At number 1, this Hiroshima Peace Walking Tour is a top-rated, 5-hour journey through Hiroshima’s most iconic and meaningful sites. Led by a MagicalTrip Certified Guide, the tour starts at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, where you’ll confront the realities of the atomic bombing and hear stories of hope and rebuilding. The itinerary includes a walk through Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, visits to the Cenotaph for Atomic Bomb Victims, Children’s Peace Monument, and the Atomic Bomb Dome. The guide’s approach balances somber history with messages of peace, making it suitable for those wanting a respectful yet insightful experience. The reviews highlight the professionalism and depth of knowledge, with one saying, “Kaori was wonderful at seamlessly navigating our group through our different stops.” For its value and emotional impact, this tour remains a favorite for many.

Bottom Line: If you want a comprehensive, heartfelt introduction to Hiroshima’s tragic past and hopeful future, this tour offers a respectful, well-organized experience at a reasonable price.

2. Hiroshima: Hiroshima and Miyajima UNESCO Sites Full-Day Tour

Ranking second is a full-day Hiroshima and Miyajima UNESCO Sites Tour, perfect for travelers eager to see both the city’s landmarks and the stunning island of Miyajima. The 8-hour itinerary includes visits to Hiroshima Castle, the Atomic Bomb Dome, and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, with a ferry ride to Miyajima Island. The highlight is the Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its floating torii gate. The guide provides multilingual audio, and the tour includes regional Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki—an excellent way to taste local culture. Travelers love the guide Marin, who brings warmth and thoughtfulness, and the tour’s mix of historical sites, scenic beauty, and food. It’s best suited for those with a full day to explore and who want variety.

Bottom Line: This tour offers a balanced combination of history, scenery, and culinary delights, making it an ideal choice for a comprehensive Hiroshima experience.

3. Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide

For around $123, this Private Walking Tour lets you customize your experience with a licensed guide. It covers Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, Hiroshima Castle, and Shukkeien Garden—each a window into the city’s past and present. You start with a personalized pickup from your hotel or train station, and your guide will tailor the pace and content based on your interests. Reviewers appreciate the flexibility and the depth of information, often mentioning guides like Kyoko and Mari who make history engaging. The private nature means fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a deep dive without rushing, and the local tips can make your trip smoother.

Bottom Line: Best suited for those who prefer a private, flexible tour with personalized attention and insider tips.

4. Hiroshima Historical Walking Tour – Why A-Bomb was Dropped

Number 4 on our list offers an affordable Hiroshima Historical Walking Tour focused specifically on understanding why the atomic bomb was dropped. It’s a shorter, 2.8-hour experience that dives into Hiroshima’s history, culture, and the reasons behind the devastation. This tour is ideal for travelers on a tight schedule who want a concise but impactful overview. The tour emphasizes storytelling and insight, making complex topics easy to grasp. It’s highly rated, and one reviewer said, “It was very moving and informative,” highlighting the tour’s emotional power. It’s best for those interested in a focused, educational experience that complements other activities.

Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, insightful tour suited for history-minded travelers wanting a quick but meaningful overview.

5. Hiroshima 2hr Peace Cycling Tour with Local Guide

Number 5 is a Peace Cycling Tour, a fun, active way to see Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park. Led by a local raised in Hiroshima, this 2-hour bike ride covers sites like the Atomic Bomb Dome, Cenotaph, and Children’s Peace Monument. The electric bike makes the ride smooth and manageable, even if you’re not a cyclist. Reviewers love Marin’s energy and the personal stories she shares, saying she “made the experience feel warm and welcoming.” The tour is perfect if you prefer a quick, physical activity that offers a different perspective on the city. It’s especially good for those who want a more dynamic way to absorb Hiroshima’s history.

Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of exercise, wrapped in local storytelling.

6. Hiroshima Izakaya Food and Drink Night Tour

Number 6 is a Hiroshima bar-hopping experience that reveals the city’s lively side after dark. Over three hours, you’ll visit up to three local bars and an okonomiyaki restaurant, sampling regional sake and food. Small groups (max 5) ensure personalized attention, and reviews highlight the fun and friendly guides like Yoko and Yuji, who make the night memorable. This tour is excellent for those wanting to connect with local nightlife, try authentic Hiroshima cuisine, and skip touristy spots. If you’re looking for a relaxed, social evening, this offers great value for the price, with plenty of conversation and local flavor.

Bottom Line: Perfect for night owls or anyone eager to experience Hiroshima’s spirited nightlife and culinary culture.

7. Hiroshima: Peace Memorial, Itsukushima and Miyajima Tour

Number 7 combines Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial with a full-day tour of Miyajima Island. Travel by public transport and boat, making it an engaging, scenic day. The tour includes visits to the Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Memorial Museum, and the stunning Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its floating torii gate. The guide’s insights help you understand the significance of each site, and the schedule balances solemn reflection with beautiful island scenery. Reviewers find Ken’s storytelling particularly moving, and the inclusion of Miyajima’s temples and deer makes it a well-rounded day.

Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who want a mix of history and nature, with guided insights and scenic boat rides.

8. Hiroshima Local Guided Hiking Tour & Open-air Tea Ceremony

Number 8 offers a different perspective: a hiking and cultural experience. Led by Michi, the tour combines a morning hike in the Futaba Mountains with visits to shrines and a traditional Nodate tea ceremony on a mountaintop. It’s ideal for active travelers who want to blend physical activity with spiritual and cultural insights. The guide’s stories about Hiroshima’s history and her explanations of Shinto practices enrich the experience. Reviewers praise the thoughtful guidance and the chance to see a quieter, more contemplative side of Hiroshima.

Bottom Line: Best for those interested in combining outdoor adventure with culture, especially if you like mountain views and tea.

9. Miyajima Half-day Trip Historical Walking Tour

Number 9 is an intimate Miyajima tour perfect for those who want a personal touch. With just six participants, this 5.5-hour walk explores Itsukushima Shrine, Daisho-in Temple, Momijidani Park, and local food spots. Your guide, Hiro, provides a comprehensive look at Miyajima’s spiritual and cultural sites, with plenty of personalized attention. Reviewers mention how Hiro’s stories and patience made the trip memorable. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to avoid big-group bus tours and enjoy a relaxed pace.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those seeking a personalized, in-depth experience of Miyajima’s key sites.

10. Hiroshima Walking Tour Why A Bomb was dropped to Hiroshima

Number 10 focuses on the core question: Why was the atomic bomb dropped?. This 2.5-hour tour offers a concise, impactful overview of Hiroshima’s history and the bomb’s context. Led by a knowledgeable guide, it covers Hiroshima Castle, Peace Park, and the Peace Memorial Museum. It’s an excellent option for travelers short on time but eager to understand the city’s tragic past deeply. One reviewer called it “very moving and informative,” speaking to its emotional resonance.

Bottom Line: Perfect for time-crunched visitors who want meaningful insight into Hiroshima’s past.

11. Hiroshima & Miyajima Island Private Guided Tour

This private tour combines the highlights of Hiroshima and Miyajima over six hours. You can customize the route or let your guide shape it, visiting key sites like the Peace Memorial, Atomic Bomb Dome, Itsukushima Shrine, and Daishoin Temple. Since it’s private, you get undivided attention and flexibility. Reviewers mention how the guides, like Ken, make the experience memorable through storytelling and personalized service. It’s best suited for travelers who want a tailored trip with the comfort of a private guide.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those who prefer a flexible, personalized day with deep insights and private transportation.

12. Miyajima Half-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide

Number 12 is a private Miyajima tour led by a licensed guide, lasting about 4 hours. It’s customizable and includes visits to Itsukushima Shrine, Daishoin Temple, and a shopping street. The guide, like Nori, makes sure you experience Miyajima’s rich history and culture beyond the tourist spots. Reviewers love the personalized approach, noting guides’ patience, friendliness, and local knowledge. It’s perfect for travelers who want to enjoy Miyajima without rushing and prefer a private set-up.

Bottom Line: A flexible, in-depth private experience for those wanting to explore Miyajima’s culture and traditions at their own pace.

13. Hiroshima: Peace Cycling Tour with Local Guide

The Peace Cycling Tour is a lively way to see Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park on an electric bicycle. Led by a local, this 2-hour ride covers major sites like the Atomic Bomb Dome and Children’s Peace Monument. Reviews praise the guide’s storytelling and the ease of the electric bikes—perfect for covering more ground than walking. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy active sightseeing and want a more personal, energetic connection to Hiroshima’s stories of resilience.

Bottom Line: Excellent for active visitors who want to combine sightseeing with engaging stories from a local guide.

14. Hiroshima & Miyajima: Full-Day Private Tour & Licensed Guide

Number 14 offers a full-day private experience with tailored itineraries. You’ll explore Hiroshima’s historic sites and Miyajima’s temples, with a professional guide customizing the day based on your interests. The flexibility and deep insights make it suitable for travelers who want a comprehensive, private experience. Many reviews highlight how guides like Etsko and Kippei provide detailed, heartfelt stories that bring the sites to life.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a personalized, all-encompassing tour with expert guidance and flexibility.

15. Hiroshima: Peace Walking Tour of World Heritage Sites

Rounding out the list is a Peace Walking Tour that emphasizes reflection and scenery. This 4.5-hour walk visits UNESCO sites, including the Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Museum, while sharing stories from Hiroshima locals. The tour also includes a scenic lunch overlooking the city, making it an enjoyable, relaxing experience. Reviewers mention how it provides a balanced view of Hiroshima’s tragic past and its hopeful future.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a paced, reflective walk combined with storytelling and scenic views.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Hiroshima

When deciding which Hiroshima tour fits your trip best, consider your budget, time availability, physical ability, and specific interests. If you want a deep, emotional understanding, the Hiroshima Peace (Heiwa) Walking Tour or the Peace Memorial Tour provide comprehensive, poignant insights. For those seeking a blend of history and scenic island exploration, the Full-Day Tour covers it all.

Active travelers might prefer cycling or hiking tours like the Peace Cycling Tour or Hiking & Tea Ceremony. For a personalized experience, private tours such as Hiroshima & Miyajima Private Guided Tour or Half-day Miyajima Private give you flexibility and in-depth storytelling.

Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons like cherry blossom or autumn foliage, to secure your preferred dates and guides.

Hiroshima’s array of tours ensures you’ll find something that resonates with your interests—whether you want to feel the weight of history, enjoy scenic beauty, or indulge in local flavors. For a truly memorable visit, pick a tour that best matches your pace and curiosity, and you’ll walk away with a richer understanding of this resilient city.