Hiroshima , Japan

Hiroshima Naval Heritage Tour

Active

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

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The greatest appeal lies in experiencing all this in a single day: visiting the First Technical School on Etajima Island, strolling through Kure’s historic district, viewing the Irifuneyama Memorial Museum, and taking the Kure Bay Fleet Tour to see the fleet of vessels gleaming in the sunset. A professional guide provides clear explanations of naval heritage and port town scenery, creating a tour that blends learning with inspiration.

Available options

Hiroshima Naval Heritage Tour

What's included

Museum and cruise

Local guide-interpreter

Detailed itinerary

On the campus, with its imposing Meiji period buildings, you can experience first-hand the history of military education, view historical exhibits, and feel the disciplined environment. An interpreter guide offers deeper insights.

After returning to Kure from Etajima, enjoy a lunch featuring local dishes, including the famous Navy curry.

The afternoon involves a stroll through the historic district, recognised as a Japan Heritage site. At the Irifuneyama Memorial Museum, an Important Cultural Property, you learn about architecture associated with the former Navy and the cultural backdrop that supported Kure’s development. The city walk reveals the life of both naval personnel and civilians.

The journey concludes with the Kure Bay Fleet Tour, a cruise unique to this port town that built the battleship Yamato. Timed for sunset, the cruise offers magnificent views of shipyards and active naval vessels bathed in the evening light, allowing you to experience the scale of the maritime city of Kure up close.

What's not included

Lunch

Transport to Kure Center Pier Terminal and return, ferry to Etajima and return, and bus to Naval School and return

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet your guide at the ticket gate of Kure Port.

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.