Hiroshima Family Travel Guide: Where to Stay, Eat & Plan Your Visit with Kids

Welcome to the Hiroshima Family Travel Guide, your complete resource for traveling to Hiroshima with kids! Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying longer, this guide covers everything from where to stay with kids to the best local eats and how to get around Hiroshima with kids smoothly. Explore scenic gardens, take ferry rides, and visit hands-on museums while enjoying Hiroshima food for families, from sizzling okonomiyaki to sweet momiji manju. With its mix of culture, history, and kid-friendly fun, traveling to Hiroshima with kids is both meaningful and memorable.

Planning Your Hiroshima Family Trip

Hiroshima is a year-round destination, offering a mix of historical landmarks, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, planning your trip around the best seasons and must-see spots will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. If you’re exploring more of Western Japan, don’t miss our Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe Family Travel Guides, each just a short Shinkansen ride away and packed with unforgettable family adventures.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March–May): Spring is one of the best times to visit Hiroshima, with cherry blossoms in full bloom at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Shukkeien Garden. The weather is mild, making it a great season for outdoor activities like ferry rides and cycling.
• Summer (June–August): Hiroshima’s summers are hot and humid, but they also bring festivals, fireworks, and lively summer events. Families can enjoy a beach day at Miyajima Island, cooling off at nearby water parks, or visiting indoor attractions like the Hiroshima Children’s Museum.
• Autumn (September–November): With cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage, autumn is a great time to explore Hiroshima’s parks, historical sites, and scenic trails. The Momijidani Park on Miyajima Island is one of the best places to see autumn leaves.
• Winter (December–February): Winters in Hiroshima are chilly but not extreme, making it a great time to enjoy seasonal illuminations, visit indoor attractions, and experience warm comfort foods like Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. Snowfall is rare in the city but possible in nearby mountainous areas.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: The best time for families is spring or autumn, when the weather is comfortable, and outdoor attractions are at their most beautiful. If visiting in summer, plan for morning or evening activities to avoid the midday heat.

Things to Consider

• Crowds: Hiroshima can be busy during cherry blossom season (late March–early April), Golden Week (early May), and Obon (mid-August). Visiting popular sites early in the morning or on weekdays can help avoid large crowds. Need help choosing the best time to visit Japan with kids? Check out our Japan Seasonal Family Guide for seasonal tips, weather insights, and family-focused travel advice.
• Stroller Accessibility: Hiroshima is mostly stroller-friendly, with wide sidewalks, elevators in major train stations, and ramps at popular attractions. However, some areas like Miyajima Island have hilly paths and stairs, so a lightweight, foldable stroller or baby carrier is recommended.
• Kid-Friendly Facilities: Many places in Hiroshima, including train stations, shopping malls, and museums, offer baby-changing rooms, nursing areas, and stroller rentals. Convenience stores sell essentials like diapers, baby food, and snacks.
• Cash vs. Cards: Credit cards and IC cards (Suica, ICOCA) are widely accepted, but some small restaurants, markets, and ferry terminals still prefer cash. It’s a good idea to carry some yen for small purchases and public transportation.

How to Travel to Hiroshima with Kids

Hiroshima is well-connected by plane, train, and bus, making it easily accessible from major cities in Japan. Whether you’re arriving from Tokyo, Osaka, or Fukuoka, there are family-friendly transportation options to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

By Shinkansen (Bullet Train)

The Shinkansen (bullet train) is the best way to reach Hiroshima from major Japanese cities. It is fast, comfortable, and family-friendly, with wide seats, restrooms, and luggage storage areas. Planning to explore Japan by train with kids? Our Japan Train Travel Guide shares tips on passes, seat reservations, and making the most of Shinkansen travel with little ones.

• From Tokyo: About 4 hours on the Nozomi Shinkansen.
• From Osaka: About 1.5 hours on the Nozomi or Sakura Shinkansen.
• From Kyoto: About 1 hour and 40 minutes on the Nozomi or Sakura Shinkansen.
• From Fukuoka (Hakata): About 1 hour on the Shinkansen.

Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) Tip: The Nozomi Shinkansen is not covered by the JR Pass, so families using the JR Pass should take the slightly slower Hikari or Sakura Shinkansen instead.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: Book window seats on the left side when traveling from Osaka or Kyoto to Hiroshima. Kids will enjoy scenic views of the Seto Inland Sea, especially around the Okayama and Fukuyama areas!!

By Plane

Hiroshima Airport (HIJ) serves domestic and international flights, making it a great option for families flying from Tokyo, Sapporo, or Okinawa.

Best Ways to Get from Hiroshima Airport to the City:

• Airport Limousine Bus: Takes about 50 minutes to Hiroshima Station.
• Taxi or Private Transfer: More comfortable for families but expensive, taking about 45 minutes to the city.

By Bus

For families traveling on a budget, long-distance highway buses connect Hiroshima with cities like Osaka, Kyoto, and Fukuoka.

• From Osaka: About 5–6 hours by highway bus.
• From Fukuoka: About 4 hours by bus.

Best for: Families who don’t mind longer travel times and want a cheaper alternative to the Shinkansen.

By Ferry

Ferries connect Hiroshima with Matsuyama on Shikoku Island, offering a scenic and relaxing travel experience.

• Matsuyama to Hiroshima Ferry: Takes about 2.5 hours by high-speed boat.
• Miyajima Ferry: A 10-minute ride from the mainland to the famous Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If traveling from Shikoku, consider taking the ferry to Hiroshima for a relaxing journey with beautiful ocean views.

Getting Around Hiroshima as a Family

Hiroshima is a compact and well-connected city, making it easy for families to explore by tram, bus, ferry, or on foot. The city’s public transportation is affordable and convenient, while taxis and rental bikes provide additional flexibility for shorter trips.

Trams (Hiroden Streetcars)

Hiroshima’s Hiroden streetcar system is one of the most iconic ways to travel around the city. The trams are affordable, frequent, and cover most major attractions, including Hiroshima Station, Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima Castle, and the ferry terminal to Miyajima Island.

• Flat fare within central Hiroshima: ¥220 for adults, ¥110 for children.
• IC Cards Accepted: Suica, ICOCA, and PASPY.
• Tram Day Pass: ¥700 for unlimited rides (includes the Miyajima ferry).
• Visit Hiroshima Tourist Pass – Unlimited rides on trams, buses, and ferries.

Best Tram Routes for Families:

• Route 2: Connects Hiroshima Station to Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima Ferry Terminal.
• Route 6: Passes by Hiroshima Castle, Shukkeien Garden, and Hiroshima Station.

Stroller Accessibility: Most trams require stepping up into the cabin, so a lightweight, foldable stroller is best.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: Kids will love riding Hiroshima’s retro-style streetcars, some of which are original models from the 1940s.

Buses

Hiroshima has local city buses and the Hiroshima Sightseeing Loop Bus (Meipuru-pu), which connects major attractions.

• Meipuru-pu Sightseeing Bus: Runs every 30 minutes from Hiroshima Station, stopping at Hiroshima Castle, Peace Memorial Park, and Shukkeien Garden.
• Fare: ¥200 per ride, or ¥400 for a day pass (free with a JR Pass).

Best for: Families who prefer a sightseeing-style bus tour instead of multiple tram rides.

Stroller Tip: Most buses allow strollers, but they may need to be folded if the bus is crowded.

Ferries

The ferry to Miyajima Island, home to Itsukushima Shrine and the famous floating torii gate, is a must-do experience for families.

• JR Miyajima Ferry: ¥200 for adults, ¥100 for children (free with the JR Pass).
• Hiroden Miyajima Ferry: ¥220 for adults, ¥110 for children (included in the Tram Day Pass).
• Ride Time: About 10 minutes from the mainland to Miyajima Island.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: Kids will love standing on the ferry deck to watch for deer and the floating torii gate as they approach Miyajima.

Walking & Biking

Hiroshima is a walkable city, especially around Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima Castle, and the riverfront promenades. Families who enjoy cycling can also rent bikes from various locations.

• Best Walking Areas: Peace Memorial Park, Hondori Shopping Arcade, Hiroshima Castle Grounds.
• Bike Rental Options: Cycle Park Hiroshima and Docomo Bike Share offer bicycles with child seats.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: The area around Hiroshima Peace Park and the riverside pathways is perfect for a relaxed walk or bike ride with kids.

Taxis

Taxis in Hiroshima are readily available and useful for short trips, especially for families with young children or heavy bags.

• Starting fare: Around ¥700.
• Best for: Getting from Hiroshima Station to hotels or attractions outside the tram lines.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If traveling with luggage or young kids, taxis are a great option for quick transfers, but for sightseeing, trams and ferries are the best choices.

Family-Friendly Places to Stay in Hiroshima

Hiroshima offers a variety of family-friendly accommodations, ranging from modern hotels near the station to scenic stays on Miyajima Island. Choosing the right area depends on whether your family prefers convenience, nature, or a cultural experience.

Best Family-Friendly Areas to Stay

• Hiroshima Station Area (Best for Convenience and Easy Transport): This area is perfect for families who want easy access to trains, trams, and buses. Many hotels near the station offer spacious rooms, kid-friendly services, and direct connections to major attractions.
  • Best for: Families who want a central base for sightseeing and day trips.
  • Nearby Attractions: Shukkeien Garden, Hiroshima Castle, Peace Memorial Park.

• Peace Memorial Park Area (Best for Walkability and Scenic Views): Staying near Peace Memorial Park allows families to be within walking distance of museums, green spaces, and the riverfront, making it a quiet yet convenient area.
  • Best for: Families who enjoy walking, cycling, and scenic views.
  • Nearby Attractions: Peace Memorial Museum, Hiroshima Castle, Hondori Shopping Arcade.

• Miyajima Island (Best for a Unique and Scenic Stay): For families looking for a cultural experience, staying on Miyajima Island is an unforgettable choice. Enjoy the floating torii gate, nature trails, and friendly wild deer, all before the day-trip crowds arrive.
  • Best for: Families who want a relaxing, nature-filled experience.
  • Nearby Attractions: Itsukushima Shrine, Mount Misen, Momijidani Park.

Top Family-Friendly Hotels in Hiroshima

• Luxury Option: Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima
  • Why Families Love It: Large rooms, indoor pool, kid-friendly dining, and city views.
  • Nearby Attractions: Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima Castle.

• Mid-Range Option: Hotel Granvia Hiroshima
  • Why Families Love It: Directly connected to Hiroshima Station, making it easy for families traveling by train.
  • Nearby Attractions: Shukkeien Garden, shopping malls, family-friendly restaurants.

• Budget Option: Daiwa Roynet Hotel Hiroshima
  • Why Families Love It: Affordable and located near the tram line, providing easy access to Peace Park and Miyajima Ferry.
  • Nearby Attractions: Peace Memorial Museum, Hondori Shopping Arcade.

• Unique Stay: Iwaso Ryokan (Miyajima Island)
  • Why Families Love It: A traditional Japanese inn with tatami mat rooms, onsen baths, and meals served in-room.
  • Nearby Attractions: Itsukushima Shrine, nature trails, and deer-friendly parks.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If visiting both Hiroshima and Miyajima, consider staying one or two nights in the city and one night on the island to experience both urban and nature-filled settings.

Best Things to Do in Hiroshima with Kids

Hiroshima offers a mix of history, nature, and hands-on experiences, making it a great destination for families. From interactive museums and scenic parks to island adventures and cultural sites, there’s plenty of attractions to keep kids engaged. And if you’re planning your Japan trip on a budget, our Japan Budget Family Travel Guide offers tips for making the most of your visit without overspending.

• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park – A Place to Learn and Reflect
  • Why It’s Awesome: This park is home to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, the Atomic Bomb Dome, and various monuments dedicated to peace. While the museum covers serious topics, it has age-appropriate exhibits that help children understand the importance of peace and resilience.
  • Age Recommendations: Best for ages 7+ (younger kids may enjoy just walking around the park)
  • Duration: 1–2 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning for fewer crowds
  • Cost: Museum entry is ¥ for adults, free for children under 18. Buy your tickets here.
  • Accessibility: Fully stroller-friendly with ramps and elevators.
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Find the Children’s Peace Monument and fold a paper crane to add to the display.

• Miyajima Island – Deer, Temples, and the Famous Floating Torii Gate
  • Why It’s Awesome: Miyajima Island (Itsukushima) is one of Japan’s most scenic spots, home to Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic red torii gate that appears to float at high tide. Families can also see wild deer, take a ropeway up Mount Misen, and explore sandy beaches.
  • Age Recommendations: All ages
  • Duration: Half-day to full-day trip
  • Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning to early afternoon for the best light on the torii gate
  • Cost: ¥
  • Accessibility: Mostly stroller-friendly, but some trails and temples have stairs.
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Try to spot a baby deer and take a photo without getting too close!

• Hiroshima Castle – A Samurai History Lesson with Great Views
  • Why It’s Awesome: This reconstructed samurai castle features interactive exhibits, a samurai and ninja display, and a panoramic view from the top floor. The castle grounds also include a moat, gardens, and a small museum about Hiroshima’s feudal history.
  • Age Recommendations: Best for ages 5+
  • Duration: 1–2 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for sunset views from the top
  • Cost: ¥ for adults, free for children under 18. Buy your tickets here.
  • Accessibility: The castle tower has stairs only, but the surrounding park is stroller-friendly.
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Count how many samurai helmets are displayed inside the castle museum.

• Hiroshima Children’s Museum – Hands-On Fun for Young Kids
  • Why It’s Awesome: This museum is packed with interactive science exhibits, a planetarium, and creative play areas, making it a perfect stop for families with younger children. The outdoor area has a large climbing structure and water play zone in the summer.
  • Age Recommendations: Best for ages 3–10
  • Duration: 1–2 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings for fewer crowds
  • Cost: Free entry, planetarium tickets ¥
  • Accessibility: Fully stroller-friendly with elevators.
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Try to launch a paper rocket in the hands-on science zone!

• Shukkeien Garden – A Beautiful Stroll Through a Miniature Landscape
  • Why It’s Awesome: This traditional Japanese garden has small bridges, koi ponds, and peaceful walking paths, making it a great place to relax and let kids explore nature. Families can feed the fish or join a tea ceremony for a cultural experience.
  • Age Recommendations: All ages
  • Duration: 1–2 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring for cherry blossoms, autumn for red maple leaves
  • Cost: ¥
  • Accessibility: Mostly stroller-friendly, though some paths have gravel or small steps.
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Try to spot the biggest koi fish in the pond!

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If visiting Hiroshima Castle and Shukkeien Garden on the same day, they are within walking distance of each other, making for a perfect half-day itinerary.

Outdoor Activities in Hiroshima for Families

Hiroshima is not just about history, there are plenty of outdoor activities for families who love nature, water sports, and scenic landscapes. Whether you want to explore an island, go cycling, or take a boat ride, Hiroshima has outdoor adventures that kids will love.

• Miyajima Ropeway – A Scenic Ride to the Top of Mount Misen
  • Why It’s Awesome: This gondola ride takes families up Mount Misen, offering breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea. At the top, families can hike short trails, visit a historic temple, and spot wild deer.
  • Age Recommendations: Best for ages 5+ (younger kids can enjoy the ride but may need a carrier for hiking)
  • Duration: 1.5–2 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Morning for cooler temperatures
  • Cost: ¥
  • Accessibility: Stroller-friendly until the observation area, but trails at the summit have steep paths and stairs.
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Try to find the ancient fire at Reikado Hall, which is said to have been burning for over 1,200 years.

• Cycling the Shimanami Kaido – A Family-Friendly Bike Adventure
  • Why It’s Awesome: The Shimanami Kaido is a scenic cycling route connecting Hiroshima to Ehime Prefecture via beautiful islands and bridges. Families can cycle part of the route, stopping at parks, beaches, and scenic viewpoints along the way.
  • Age Recommendations: Best for ages 7+ (younger kids can ride in a child seat on a rental bike)
  • Duration: Half-day to full-day trip
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for comfortable weather
  • Cost: Bike rentals ¥ per day
  • Accessibility: Mostly flat and stroller-friendly in short sections, but designed for biking, not walking.
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Count how many different islands you can see from the bridges!

• Sandankyo Gorge – A Hidden Natural Paradise
  • Why It’s Awesome: This hidden gem outside Hiroshima offers lush green forests, crystal-clear river water, and gentle boat rides through canyons. Families can hike short trails, wade in shallow waters, or take a rowboat ride through the gorge.
  • Age Recommendations: Best for ages 6+ (younger kids can enjoy the boat ride)
  • Duration: Half-day trip
  • Best Time to Visit: Summer for swimming, autumn for red maple leaves
  • Cost: Free to enter; boat ride ¥
  • Accessibility: Not stroller-friendly, as the trails have steps and uneven paths.
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Try to find the clearest blue-green water in the gorge and take a family photo!

• Hiroshima Bay Cruise – A Relaxing Boat Ride with City Views
  • Why It’s Awesome: Families can take a sightseeing cruise around Hiroshima Bay, passing by small islands, historic sites, and the modern skyline. Some cruises offer dining or sunset options.
  • Age Recommendations: All ages
  • Duration: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Sunset for the most scenic views
  • Cost: Starts at ¥ per person
  • Accessibility: Fully stroller-friendly, with onboard restrooms.
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Try to spot five different islands or bridges during the cruise, and extra points if you spot a jellyfish or a bird racing your boat!

• Asa Zoo – A Fun Wildlife Experience in the Hills
  • Why It’s Awesome: Located in the hills outside Hiroshima, Asa Zoo is home to giraffes, elephants, and Japan’s famous Tanuki (raccoon dogs). The zoo has a petting area where kids can feed small animals.
  • Age Recommendations: All ages
  • Duration: 2–3 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures
  • Cost: ¥
  • Accessibility: Fully stroller-friendly with wide walkways and resting spots.
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Try to spot the Japanese Tanuki, known for its mischievous nature in folklore!

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If your family loves nature, consider combining a morning at Asa Zoo with an afternoon visit to Sandankyo Gorge for a full day of outdoor exploration.

Hiroshima Culture & Language for Kids

Hiroshima has a rich cultural heritage, blending traditional Japanese customs, modern city life, and a deep commitment to peace. Families visiting Hiroshima can experience historic temples, traditional crafts, and local dialect phrases that make the city unique.

Cultural Highlights

• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park – A Global Symbol of Peace: Hiroshima’s Peace Park is more than just a historical site; it is a place of learning, remembrance, and hope for the future. Families can visit the Children’s Peace Monument, dedicated to the memory of Sadako Sasaki and her story of the 1,000 paper cranes.
  • Where to Experience It: Peace Memorial Park and Museum

• Miyajima’s Shinto Traditions – The Floating Torii Gate and Itsukushima Shrine: Miyajima Island is one of Japan’s most famous Shinto sites, where families can explore Itsukushima Shrine, hike Mount Misen, and learn about the spiritual importance of the floating torii gate.
  • Where to Experience It: Miyajima Island, just a short ferry ride from Hiroshima

• Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki – A Local Food Tradition: Okonomiyaki is one of Hiroshima’s most famous dishes, and the Hiroshima-style version is different from Osaka’s. It is made with thin layers of batter, cabbage, pork, and noodles, all grilled on a hot plate and topped with a sweet-savory sauce.
  • Where to Try It: Okonomimura (Okonomiyaki Village), a multi-floor food hall dedicated to okonomiyaki

• Traditional Paper Crane Folding – A Symbol of Peace: Origami paper cranes are an important symbol in Hiroshima, representing hope and remembrance. Many museums and cultural centers allow visitors to fold and donate their own cranes to the Children’s Peace Monument.
  • Where to Try It: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, local cultural centers, or souvenir shops

Speaking Like a Local: Fun Hiroshima Dialect Phrases

Hiroshima has its own dialect, Hiroshima-ben, which is different from standard Japanese. While locals understand regular Japanese, using a few Hiroshima phrases can make your interactions more fun.

• “Tanoshiin ja!” – “It’s fun!” (A casual way to express excitement.)
• “Nandee?” – “Why?” (A friendly way to ask questions.)
• “Buchi umai!” – “Super delicious!” (Use this when eating Hiroshima okonomiyaki!)

Encouraging kids to try these phrases while interacting with locals can make their trip more engaging.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If visiting Miyajima Island, try the traditional momiji manju (maple-shaped sweet cakes), they are a local specialty that comes in flavors like chocolate, custard, and red bean.

Best Food in Hiroshima for Kids

Hiroshima’s food scene is delicious, interactive, and family-friendly, offering savory pancakes, fresh seafood, and fun street snacks that kids will love. Many local specialties are mild in flavor and easy to eat, making them perfect for little travelers.

• Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki – A Layered Savory Pancake
  • What It Is: Unlike the Osaka-style version, Hiroshima’s okonomiyaki is made with thin layers of batter, cabbage, pork, and yakisoba noodles, topped with a rich, sweet-savory sauce. Many places offer kid-sized portions and customizable toppings.
  • Why Kids Will Love It:
    • Cooked on a big hot plate right in front of you.
    • Fun to watch the layers being stacked.
    • Some shops offer cheese or egg toppings for extra flavor.
  • Where to Try It:
    • Okonomimura (Okonomiyaki Village) – A multi-floor food hall with dozens of okonomiyaki stalls.
    • Hassho – A well-known spot famous for its extra crispy noodles.

• Momiji Manju – Hiroshima’s Famous Maple-Shaped Cakes
  • What It Is: A soft, maple leaf-shaped sponge cake filled with sweet red bean paste, custard, or chocolate. Originally from Miyajima Island, it is one of Hiroshima’s most famous treats.
  • Why Kids Will Love It:
    • Shaped like a maple leaf and fun to eat.
    • Available in different flavors like chocolate, matcha, and custard.
    • Some shops let kids watch or try the baking process.
  • Where to Try It:
    • Momiji-do (Miyajima Island) – Famous for freshly baked, crispy momiji manju.
    • Nishikido (Hiroshima City) – A well-known shop with modern flavors like matcha and caramel.

• Hiroshima Tsukemen – Cold Noodles with a Spicy Dipping Sauce
  • What It Is: A cold noodle dish served with a spicy soy-based dipping sauce, often topped with boiled egg, sliced pork, and cucumber. Many restaurants let you adjust the spice level, making it perfect for kids who prefer mild flavors.
  • Why Kids Will Love It:
    • Fun to dip the noodles into the sauce.
    • Can be customized for less spice or extra toppings.
    • Refreshing in warm weather.
  • Where to Try It:
    • Bakudan-ya – A popular chain where you can choose your spice level.
    • Ganso Hiroshima Tsukemen Honpo – Known for its mild and kid-friendly dipping sauce.

• Oysters – Hiroshima’s Famous Seafood
  • What It Is: Hiroshima is Japan’s top oyster-producing region, and many restaurants serve them grilled, deep-fried, or in rice bowls. For kids, the deep-fried version (kaki fry) is the most popular.
  • Why Kids Will Love It:
    • Crunchy and delicious when fried.
    • Can be served with rice, lemon, or tartar sauce.
    • Some restaurants have live oyster grilling experiences.
  • Where to Try It:
    • Kakiya (Miyajima Island) – Famous for grilled oysters with lemon.
    • Kanawa (Hiroshima City) – Serves deep-fried oysters with rice bowls.

• Anago Meshi – Grilled Eel Rice Bowl
  • What It Is: A flavorful grilled eel dish served over rice, similar to unagi but made with saltwater eel instead. It’s a specialty of Miyajima Island, where eel has been a traditional food for centuries.
  • Why Kids Will Love It:
    • The sweet, soy-based sauce makes it tasty and mild.
    • Often served with a side of soup and pickles for variety.
    • Soft and easy to eat for younger kids.
  • Where to Try It:
    • Ueno (Miyajima Island) – One of the most famous places for anago meshi rice bowls.
    • Anagomeshi Mitoya (Hiroshima City) – A family-friendly spot with small portion options.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If visiting Miyajima Island, try a momiji manju-making experience, some shops let families fill and shape their own maple leaf cakes before baking them.

Shopping in Hiroshima for Kids & Families

Hiroshima is a great place to shop for unique souvenirs, local snacks, and cultural crafts. Whether your kids love character goods, traditional crafts, or fun street food, there are plenty of great souvenir options for the whole family.

Best Places for Kid-Friendly Shopping

• Hondori Shopping Street – Hiroshima’s Main Shopping Arcade
  • Why Kids Will Love It: This covered shopping street is home to toy stores, fashion shops, and snack stalls selling local Hiroshima treats. It’s a great place to find Japanese character goods, street food, and unique souvenirs.
  • Location: Near Peace Memorial Park
  • Stroller-friendly? Yes, with wide, pedestrian-only streets.

• Hiroshima Station Souvenir Shops – A One-Stop Shop for Local Treats
  • Why Kids Will Love It: Hiroshima Station is filled with souvenir shops selling momiji manju, Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki sauce, and plush toys of Hiroshima’s mascot, Kure Kure Takora.
  • Location: Inside Hiroshima Station
  • Stroller-friendly? Yes, with elevators and wide walkways.

• Miyajima Omotesando Shopping Street – The Best Souvenirs from Miyajima Island
  • Why Kids Will Love It: This historic shopping street is lined with stores selling handmade crafts, wooden toys, and momiji manju (maple-leaf cakes). Kids will love the deer-themed souvenirs and Miyajima-shaped cookies.
  • Location: Near Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island
  • Stroller-friendly? Yes, but some streets are cobblestone.

• Hiroshima PARCO – For Character Goods and Toys
  • Why Kids Will Love It: This large shopping complex has stores selling Pokémon, Studio Ghibli, and Hello Kitty merchandise, perfect for kids who love Japanese characters.
  • Location: Hondori Shopping District
  • Stroller-friendly? Yes, with elevators and rest areas.

Best Souvenirs for Kids

• Momiji Manju – Hiroshima’s Famous Maple-Leaf Cakes: These soft sponge cakes filled with chocolate, custard, or red bean paste make a great treat to bring home.
  • Where to Buy: Hiroshima Station, Miyajima Omotesando Street.

• Hiroshima Carp Baseball Merchandise: Hiroshima’s local baseball team, the Hiroshima Toyo Carp, has plush toys, jerseys, and kid-sized baseball caps.
  • Where to Buy: Mazda Zoom-Zoom Stadium shop, Hiroshima Station.

• Miyajima Deer Plush Toys and Wooden Crafts: Miyajima Island is known for its wild deer, and many shops sell deer-shaped plushies, wooden carvings, and handmade accessories.
  • Where to Buy: Miyajima Omotesando Street.

• Hiroshima Okonomiyaki Sauce and DIY Kits: A fun way to bring the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki experience home. Some stores sell full kits with instructions in English.
  • Where to Buy: Okonomimura (Okonomiyaki Village), Hiroshima souvenir shops.

• Origami Crane Sets – A Symbol of Peace: Hiroshima is known for Sadako’s 1,000 paper cranes, and many stores sell beautiful origami sets with colorful designs.
  • Where to Buy: Peace Memorial Museum gift shop, Hiroshima Station.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If you’re flying home, buy momiji manju and Hiroshima snacks at the airport, they often have special flavors and exclusive gift sets that aren’t available elsewhere.

Sample Itinerary for Hiroshima with Kids

This 3-day itinerary is designed to help families experience the best of Hiroshima, from historic landmarks and cultural sites to outdoor adventures and kid-friendly activities. Whether you follow it exactly or mix and match, this guide ensures a fun, well-balanced trip for all ages.

Day 1: History, Peace Park, and Local Flavors

Morning: Start your Hiroshima adventure at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, home to the Atomic Bomb Dome, Children’s Peace Monument, and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. This is an important and educational visit, but younger kids may prefer exploring the wide green spaces and riverfront pathways in the park.

Afternoon: Walk to Okonomimura (Okonomiyaki Village) for lunch and let the kids watch as Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is cooked right in front of them. After lunch, visit Hiroshima Castle, where kids can dress up as samurai and explore the castle grounds.

Evening: Head to Shukkeien Garden, a peaceful spot where families can take a relaxing walk and feed the koi fish in the pond. Finish the day with dinner at a local family-friendly izakaya or a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant near Hiroshima Station.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If your kids love hands-on experiences, stop by a paper crane folding station in Peace Memorial Park and add your cranes to the display.

Day 2: Miyajima Island – A Day of Nature and Culture

Morning: Take the ferry to Miyajima Island, home to Itsukushima Shrine and the famous floating torii gate. Walk along Omotesando Shopping Street, where kids can try momiji manju (maple-leaf cakes) and grilled oysters.

Afternoon: Take the Miyajima Ropeway up Mount Misen, where families can explore easy hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and the historic Reikado Hall with its eternal flame. If your kids love animals, spend time in Momijidani Park, where wild deer roam freely.

Evening: Return to Hiroshima and have dinner near Hondori Shopping Street, where you’ll find family-friendly options like ramen, curry rice, or more Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If staying late on Miyajima Island, the torii gate is beautifully illuminated at night, a great way to end the day before taking the ferry back.

Day 3: Outdoor Fun and Local Experiences

Morning: Start the day with a Hiroshima Bay cruise, which offers a relaxing boat ride with great views of the city and nearby islands. Alternatively, for a more active adventure, rent bikes and explore the riverside paths around Hiroshima Peace Park and Hondori Street.

Afternoon: Visit the Hiroshima Children’s Museum, where kids can enjoy interactive science exhibits, space-themed activities, and a planetarium. If your family prefers nature, take a trip to Asa Zoo, home to giraffes, elephants, and Japan’s native tanuki (raccoon dogs).

Evening: End your Hiroshima adventure with a visit to Mazda Zoom-Zoom Stadium, where families can watch a Hiroshima Carp baseball game if the season is ongoing. If baseball isn’t your thing, relax at your hotel or enjoy a quiet walk through the illuminated Hondori Shopping Arcade.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If your kids love animals, combine Asa Zoo with a trip to Sandankyo Gorge for a mix of wildlife encounters and outdoor adventure.

FAQs: Traveling to Hiroshima with Children

Here are some of the most common questions parents have when planning a trip to Hiroshima with kids.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If you’re traveling with younger kids, break up historical visits with nature outings like Miyajima Island or Shukkeien Garden to keep the trip balanced.

Until Next Time…

Hiroshima is a city that blends history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an unforgettable destination for families. Whether you spent your days exploring Peace Memorial Park, meeting friendly deer on Miyajima Island, or enjoying Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, we hope your trip was filled with learning, fun, and special moments together.

With its welcoming atmosphere, easy transportation, and variety of family-friendly activities, Hiroshima is a place that invites families to return and discover more. No matter the season, there’s always something new to experience, from spring cherry blossoms to summer festivals and autumn foliage.

Official Tourism Resource for Hiroshima
Planning your next visit? Explore maps, seasonal events, and helpful local recommendations on the Official Visit Hiroshima Website.

Stay curious, stay adventurous, and keep dreaming!
~ The LuNi Travels Family ~