• Mitaki-dera - After meeting with the tour guide, the journey to the first destination begins.

Upon arrival at Mitaki-dera, the guide will lead a walk around the temple grounds, offering a serene experience through the sounds of nature and the sight of beautiful structures. The vibrant two-storied Pagoda at the temple entrance sets a captivating tone for the rest of the stroll. As the stone paths are explored, hundreds of Jizō statues and magnificent trees will be encountered. With limited information available in English or Japanese on the temple grounds, the guide will provide a comprehensive explanation of Mitaki-dera’s history and the various Buddhist statues and structures, ensuring a well-rounded experience.

• Hondori Shopping Street - Upon returning to Hiroshima City, the guide will direct the group to disembark at a stop near Hondori Shopping Street, where a variety of shops and restaurants await. Here, there will be free time to enjoy lunch and explore the city’s offerings.

The group will reconvene at a designated meeting spot to proceed to the next location, Shukkei-en Garden.

• Shukkei-en Garden - Within the garden, a leisurely stroll around the main pond will be taken, admiring the tea houses, bridges, and hills, while stopping at prime photo spots. The guide will provide a thorough explanation of Japanese gardens and their main design principles. As the walk continues, information about the construction of Shukkei-en during the Edo period, its concept as a “miniaturized landscape,” and its various restorations over the past 400 years will be shared. Additionally, the guide will explain the garden’s role as an evacuation site during World War II and its current symbolism to the people of Hiroshima. A brief visit to Hiroshima Castle ruins, Castle Tower, and Hiroshima Gokoku Shrine will also be included.
• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park - The next stop is the Atomic Bomb Dome located within the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. This building, inaugurated in 1915, was intended for exhibiting and selling products from Hiroshima Prefecture and was the only structure left standing near the explosion’s hypocenter. As the group walks to this location, the guide will provide historical context about World War II and the events leading up to the bombing. Observing the ruins, participants will be encouraged to reflect on the purpose of their preservation and the message the Atomic Bomb Dome aims to convey.

The guide will then lead a brief stroll around the park to visit and explain some of its most significant monuments. During the walk, information about Kenzō Tange, the architect who designed both the park and the museum, will be shared, offering a deeper understanding of the park’s layout and the intention behind it.

• English speaking guide
• Origami paper for paper cranes
• Entry fees at all tour locations
• Transportation between activities (public transport)

• Lunch
• Accommodation
• Transportation to the meet-up point

Join this full-day tour to experience Hiroshima’s renowned Peace Tourism, while also enjoying the natural beauty and cultural richness of the area. Accompanied by one of our knowledgeable tour guides, explore Mitaki-dera, a stunning Buddhist temple nestled in the mountains, away from the bustling city center. Here, discover the teachings of Buddhism in Japan and marvel at the temple’s breathtaking natural surroundings.

Continue your journey by visiting the Shukkei-en Garden, where you can learn about the fundamental principles of Japanese garden design and further appreciate the city’s beauty.

Next, delve into Hiroshima’s history by exploring the Hiroshima Castle ruins, gaining insight into the city’s beginnings as a castle town during the Sengoku Period. Participate in Hiroshima’s “Peace Tourism” by visiting the Peace Memorial Park and Peace Memorial Museum. Reflect on the concept of peace as you observe remnants of the Atomic Bombing and the monuments dedicated to the victims.

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