Hiroshima: Peace Walking Tour of World Heritage Sites

The "Hiroshima: Peace Walking Tour of World Heritage Sites" offers visitors a chance to explore the city’s profound history and journey towards peace. This guided tour takes participants to significant landmarks, including the serene Shirakami-sha Shrine and the impactful Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. With a focus on messages of reconciliation, the tour encourages reflection on the past while promoting a vision for the future. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or finding inspiration, this tour promises a deeply meaningful experience.

Key Points

• A 4.5-hour guided tour exploring Hiroshima’s historical and cultural sites, including Shirakami-sha Shrine, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, and Atomic Bomb Dome.
• The tour is priced from $91.15 per person, with a maximum of 8 participants, and conducted in English with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Visitors can learn about Hiroshima’s spiritual heritage at the Shirakami-sha Shrine, established in the 8th century and dedicated to the gods Susanoo and Kotoshironushi.
• The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum offers a powerful and educational experience, guiding visitors through the devastating effects of the atomic bomb and promoting peace and nuclear disarmament.
• The Atomic Bomb Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a haunting reminder of the destruction, inspiring contemplation on nuclear warfare and peace.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The "Hiroshima: Peace Walking Tour of World Heritage Sites" is a 4.5-hour guided tour that takes visitors through Hiroshima’s most significant historical and cultural sites.

Priced from $91.15 per person, the tour is limited to 8 participants and conducted in English. Travelers can book their spot with no upfront payment and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour starts at Montbell and covers key locations, including the Shirakami-sha Shrine, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, and Atomic Bomb Dome, culminating with lunch at the Hiroshima Orizuru Tower.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting at Montbell, the tour takes visitors on a journey through Hiroshima’s most significant sites.

The first stop is Shirakami-sha Shrine, where participants learn about Hiroshima’s spiritual heritage.

Next, the group visits the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum to gain insights into the city’s harrowing past.

Afterwards, they explore the serene Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

The tour then highlights the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome, a poignant reminder of the destruction.

Finally, the group enjoys lunch at the Hiroshima Orizuru Tower before concluding the tour at the Akushu Cafe.

Shirakami-sha Shrine

Shirakami-sha Shrine stands as a spiritual oasis within the bustling city of Hiroshima. This Shinto shrine, built in the 8th century, is dedicated to the gods Susanoo and Kotoshironushi.

Visitors experience a sense of tranquility as they pass through the vermilion tori gates and wander the shrine’s peaceful grounds. The main hall, with its traditional architectural features, serves as a gathering place for religious ceremonies and rituals.

Inscriptions on the wooden tablets offer prayers for peace, a poignant reminder of Hiroshima’s tragic past. The shrine’s serene atmosphere provides a welcomed respite from the tour’s heavy historical content.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

As visitors exit the tranquil Shirakami-sha Shrine, they’re immediately confronted with the somber reality of Hiroshima’s past at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum.

The museum guides visitors through:

• Exhibits on the devastating effects of the atomic bomb
• Personal accounts and artifacts from survivors
• Educational displays on the historical context and aftermath
• Interactive experiences to promote peace and nuclear disarmament

Through this powerful experience, guests gain a deeper understanding of the horrors of the past and the city’s resilient journey towards healing and reconciliation.

More Great Tours Nearby

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Visitors to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park are immersed in a serene and contemplative atmosphere. The park’s design, with its meticulously landscaped grounds, serene ponds, and symbolic monuments, encourages reflection on the devastating events of August 1945.

At the center of the park stands the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome, a chilling reminder of the destruction caused by the nuclear bomb. Visitors can also explore the Children’s Peace Monument, dedicated to the memory of the children who perished in the attack.

The park’s message of peace and nuclear disarmament resonates with all who visit, leaving a lasting impact on their understanding of Hiroshima’s tragic history.

Atomic Bomb Dome

The Atomic Bomb Dome, a haunting reminder of the devastation wrought by the atomic bomb, stands as a poignant symbol of Hiroshima’s tragic past.

Visitors can observe the skeletal remains of the building, once the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall.

The dome:

• Showcases the power of the explosion, with walls partially destroyed but the building’s frame still intact.
• Serves as a memorial to the thousands who perished in the blast.
• Inspires contemplation on the horrors of nuclear warfare and the pursuit of peace.
• Remains a UNESCO World Heritage site, preserving this somber legacy for future generations.

Hiroshima Orizuru Tower

After contemplating the somber legacy of the Atomic Bomb Dome, the walking tour continues to the Hiroshima Orizuru Tower.

This 50-meter-tall structure offers panoramic views of Hiroshima and the Peace Memorial Park. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely lunch at the café on the observation deck.

During the tour, participants make origami peace cranes, a symbolic gesture of hope and healing. The tower’s design and activities reflect Hiroshima’s commitment to peace and reconciliation.

It’s a poignant contrast to the devastating history explored earlier, providing a sense of resilience and optimism as the tour progresses.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

The overwhelmingly positive customer reviews and ratings underscore the walking tour’s exceptional quality.

With an average rating of 4.9/5 from 154 reviews, travelers commend the tour’s personal approach, friendly and knowledgeable guide, and excellent value for money.

Customers praise:

• The guide’s emotional and educational storytelling
• The small group size that allows for an intimate experience
• The ability to learn about Hiroshima’s past, present, and future
• The inclusion of activities that promote peace, such as making paper cranes

These glowing reviews indicate the tour’s ability to provide a meaningful and impactful exploration of Hiroshima’s history and message of peace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Join the Tour if I’m Traveling Solo?

Yes, solo travelers can join the tour. The group size is limited to 8 participants, providing a personal experience. The tour welcomes individuals seeking to learn about Hiroshima’s history and promote peace.

What Should I Bring on the Tour?

When joining a walking tour, one should bring water, a hat, and any necessary medications. Comfortable shoes are also recommended to ensure an enjoyable and comfortable experience exploring the various historical sites.

How Physically Demanding Is the Walking Tour?

The walking tour involves moderate exertion, with approximately 4.5 hours of walking and touring. Participants should be prepared for several stops that require standing and walking on uneven terrain. Those with mobility issues may find the pace challenging.

Can I Take Photos During the Museum Visits?

During the museum visits, guests are generally allowed to take photos, though some exhibits may restrict photography. It’s important to be respectful and follow any guidelines provided by the museum staff.

Is There Any Age Limit or Restriction for the Tour?

There is no age limit or restriction for the tour. It’s suitable for all ages, though some exhibits may contain graphic imagery that may not be appropriate for young children. Participants of all ages are welcome to join the tour.

The Sum Up

The "Hiroshima: Peace Walking Tour of World Heritage Sites" offers a profound exploration of the city’s history and culture, focusing on its journey towards peace. Participants will visit significant sites, including the Shirakami-sha Shrine, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, and the Atomic Bomb Dome, while promoting messages of peace and reconciliation. With flexible cancellation options and a maximum of eight participants, this intimate experience encourages reflection on the past.

You can check availability for your dates here: