Takehara Historical Townscape & Rabbit Island

Hiroshima , Japan

Takehara Historical Townscape & Rabbit Island

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Located within Hiroshima prefecture, Takehara is a charming and beautiful city on the coast of the Seto Inland Sea. In the past, Takehara flourished as a port town known for its sake and salt production. Today, many buildings dating as far back as the Edo period can still be found in the city, preserved in such a way that one can feel as though they are walking through streets in the past. With its tranquil atmosphere and old-fashioned structures, it is no wonder Takehara is also known to many as the “Little Kyoto” of Aki.

Available options

Takehara Historical Townscape & Rabbit Island

What's included

Ferry included

Rabbit food

English speaking guide

Entry fees at all tour locations

Transportation between activities (public transport)

Detailed itinerary

This tour will begin at Hiroshima Station at 8:00 AM. Your guide will meet you by the Shinkansen Gates under the Tourist Information sign. From here, you will head to your first destination, the Takehara Townscape Conservation Area. Within the historical townscape, your guide will take you for a short stroll through its main street. Along the way, you will make several stops, where your guide will provide context and information about the different locations and their history. You will be able to observe historical family residences, tour Edo period temples, and enjoy the old-fashioned atmosphere of the townscape. You will even stop by the Okakae Jizō Statue, which is said to grant the wishes of those who pick it up. From here, your guide will take you to your next destination, Tadanoumi Port. This is where you will board the ferry to head to Rabbit Island.

At the port, you will have the chance to purchase souvenirs or food for the rabbits on the island. The cost of one bag of rabbit food is included in this tour but you can buy more or bring your own as well. Japanese guests often bring fresh produce from home to the island to feed the rabbits, so please feel free to do so as well.
Once you arrive on the island, your guide will take you on a brief stroll along the coast, stopping at different ruins and explaining the dark past of the island. Some of the places you will visit include the Power Station Ruins and the Nagaura Poison Gas Storehouse Ruins. You will learn about the role of this island during Japan’s different armed conflicts and the impact that chemical weapons manufacturing had on the island’s residents.

The tour ends with one final ferry ride back to the mainland and one last bus ride to Hiroshima Station, where your guide will say their goodbyes in front of the Shinkansen gates.

What's not included

Lunch

Transportation prior and after the tour

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Tour Availability Disclaimer: All listed events, activities, and experiences are subject to availability. Please note that while certain tour options may appear bookable through our platforms, this does not guarantee that every experience can be carried out as scheduled in the tour itinerary. Many activities require direct confirmation with our partner venues, and availability may vary based on the date and other factors. Should any part of your ordered itinerary require adjustment or deviation from the original schedule, or if a specific experience is unavailable, we will contact you promptly to discuss suitable alternatives or amendments.

Meeting point

The meetup point is under the Tourist Information sign outside of the Shinkansen gates.
When you arrive, be sure to look for the guide holding a SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tour sign.

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.