Hiroshima’s Heart: A 4-Hour Private Storytelling Walk

Hiroshima , Japan

Hiroshima’s Heart: A 4-Hour Private Storytelling Walk

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(9 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Discover Hiroshima through a personal storytelling walk with a guide who has lived here for over two decades. After studying Japanese arts and spending time with an atomic bomb survivor, I share a perspective shaped by real connections and lived experience.

We can begin at Shukkeien Garden or Peace Memorial Park, depending on your preference. From there we explore Hiroshima Castle and Gokoku Shrine, learning about the city’s culture and resilience. As we follow the Peace Line into the Park, I highlight small details and stories most visitors miss.

We continue to the A-Bomb Dome and, if you choose, the Peace Memorial Museum. The pace is relaxed, with time for questions, reflection, and even a coffee break. This is not a rushed sightseeing tour, but a warm and meaningful introduction to Hiroshima’s past and present.

Available options

Hiroshima’s Heart: A 4-Hour Private Storytelling Walk

Pickup included

What's included

English speaking local guide

Flexible meeting point within central Hiroshima

Customize the itinerary

Private walking tour

Personal recommendations for food and things to do afterward

Detailed itinerary

We’ll meet at a location that’s convenient for you. I can meet you directly in Peace Memorial Park or in front of Shukkeien Garden, depending on where you’d like to begin. I’ll confirm the exact meeting point with you before the tour.

A beautiful traditional garden offering a calm introduction to Hiroshima. We explore winding paths, ponds, and bridges while talking about the city’s early history and cultural roots.

A reconstructed castle that once stood at the center of Hiroshima’s samurai-era city. We visit the grounds to understand life before 1945 and how this area changed after the bombing.

Built in 1589 by the powerful feudal lord Mori Terumoto, Hiroshima Castle was once a formidable fortress and the economic center of the city. Its five-story main keep, surrounded by a moat, offers stunning views of the city. Today, the castle has been meticulously reconstructed, allowing visitors to step back in time and explore its historical significance.

Beyond its imposing exterior, Hiroshima Castle also carries a poignant message of peace. The atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945 devastated the city, including the castle. Yet, from the ashes, a symbol of hope and resilience emerged. Today, the castle stands as a reminder of the tragedy of war and the enduring human spirit.

A peaceful Shinto shrine dedicated to local history and tradition. It’s a great place to learn about rituals, festivals, and everyday spiritual life in Hiroshima.

Stop 5

The heart of Hiroshima’s message of peace. We visit key monuments—such as the A-Bomb Dome and the Children’s Peace Monument—while I share stories from survivors and local families.

Stop 6

We visit the Peace Memorial Museum, and when conditions allow, I guide you through the key sections to give context and clarity. If the museum is crowded or you prefer to explore quietly, I provide an introduction and clear guidance before you enter.

What's not included

lunch

Transportation ( if needed)

Shukkeien Garden: ¥360 (adults), free for children and guests over 65

Peace Memorial Museum entrance fee (¥200 per person, paid on-site)

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN NL

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

9 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

I can meet you directly at the Orizuru Tower in Peace Memorial Park, or at the entrance of Shukkeien Garden, depending on where you'd like to start our tour. However, I'm flexible and happy to meet at your preferred location. Just let me know what works best for you!

About Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a vibrant city known for its poignant history and remarkable resilience. It is the capital of Hiroshima Prefecture and serves as a powerful reminder of the atomic bombing during World War II, while also offering rich cultural experiences and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Peace Memorial Park and Museum

A poignant and powerful site dedicated to the memory of the atomic bombing in 1945. The park and museum serve as a symbol of peace and a reminder of the horrors of war.

Historical 2-3 hours Free (Museum: ¥200)

Miyajima Island

A beautiful island known for its floating torii gate, scenic views, and historic temples. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination near Hiroshima.

Nature/Historical Full day Ferry: ¥360 (round trip), Shrine: ¥300

Shukkeien Garden

A beautiful traditional Japanese garden with ponds, bridges, and meticulously landscaped areas. It offers a peaceful retreat from the city bustle.

Nature 1-2 hours ¥260

Hiroshima Castle

A reconstructed castle that offers a glimpse into Hiroshima's feudal past. The castle houses a museum and provides panoramic views of the city.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours ¥370

Hiroshima Okonomimura

A multi-story building dedicated to Hiroshima's famous okonomiyaki (savory pancake). It houses several restaurants and offers a fun, interactive dining experience.

Food/Cultural 1-2 hours Budget to Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki

A layered savory pancake made with noodles, cabbage, and various toppings, typically cooked on a teppan (iron griddle).

Dinner Contains wheat, meat, and seafood. Vegetarian and vegan options may be available.

Hiroshima-style Oysters

Hiroshima is famous for its oysters, which are often grilled, fried, or served raw. They are typically harvested from the Seto Inland Sea.

Snack/Dinner Contains shellfish. Not suitable for those with seafood allergies.

Hiroshima-style Udon

Thick, chewy wheat noodles served in a hot broth, often with various toppings like tempura or beef.

Lunch/Dinner Contains wheat. Vegetarian and vegan options may be available.

Hiroshima-style Anago Meshi

Grilled saltwater eel served over rice, a local delicacy with a rich, savory flavor.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish. Not suitable for those with seafood allergies.

Popular Activities

Hiking on Miyajima Island Cycling around Hiroshima Kayaking in the Seto Inland Sea Visiting Shukkeien Garden Taking a leisurely streetcar ride Enjoying a traditional tea ceremony Visiting the Peace Memorial Park and Museum Exploring the Hiroshima Castle

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

Spring offers cherry blossoms and mild weather, while autumn provides comfortable temperatures and vibrant foliage. These are the best times to visit for pleasant weather and outdoor activities.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Hiroshima is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and pickpocketing or petty theft is uncommon. However, travelers should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of unlicensed taxis and always check that the taxi has a meter.
• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
• Use reputable tour guides and services, and be wary of offers that seem too good to be true.

Getting there

By air

Hiroshima Airport • 50 km from city center

By train

Hiroshima Station

By bus

Hiroshima Bus Center

Getting around

Public transport

The streetcar system is the main form of public transport in Hiroshima, offering an affordable and convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Naka-ku Higashi-ku Nishi-ku Minami-ku Asaminami-ku

Day trips

Miyajima Island

10 km from Hiroshima • Full day

A beautiful island known for its floating torii gate, scenic views, and historic temples. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination near Hiroshima.

Onomichi

80 km from Hiroshima • Full day

A charming port city known for its historic temples, scenic views, and literary connections. Onomichi offers a mix of cultural attractions and natural beauty.

Iwakuni

50 km from Hiroshima • Full day

A historic city known for its stunning castle, beautiful gardens, and traditional samurai district. Iwakuni offers a mix of cultural attractions and scenic views.

Festivals

Hiroshima Flower Festival • May 3-5 Hiroshima International Animation Festival • August (varies by year) Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony • August 6

Pro tips

Get a Hiroshima Amazing Pass for unlimited rides on the streetcar, bus, and ferry to Miyajima Island, as well as entry to major attractions.
Visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum early in the morning for a more serene and reflective experience.
Try cooking your own Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Okonomimura for a fun and interactive dining experience.
Hike Mount Misen on Miyajima Island for stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea and the surrounding area.
Use IC cards like ICOCA for seamless payments on public transport and to save money on fares.