Is it Safe to Visit Hiroshima Today? A Comprehensive Guide

Hiroshima is a city located on Japan’s Honshu Island, and is well-known for its tragic history due to the atomic bombing that occurred in 1945. Despite its past, Hiroshima is a thriving city with a rich culture and is popular among tourists who visit Japan.However, many people still wonder if it is safe to visit Hiroshima due to the radiation exposure caused by the bombing. In this article, we will take a look at why Hiroshima is safe to visit today, various places to visit and things to do while in the city, and tips for your trip.

Why is Hiroshima Safe to Visit Today?

There are many technical explanations that prove that Hiroshima is safe to visit today, mostly because of the measures that were taken after the bombing. The scientific concept of half-life or the amount of time it takes for radioactive particles to become half as harmful as their original levels is 30 years. This means that most of the harmful radiation from the atomic bomb has already decayed, and the city is now considered safe for human habitation.But, the Japanese government was not only concerned with habitation, but were determined to remove any risks to visitors to the area too. For over 70 years, the Japanese government has spent billions of yen in decontamination efforts, including removing soil deposits and cleaning up the areas around the detonation site.It is also important to consider that the bombing’s effects were confined to an area of about 2.2km radius, while the majority of the city was left untouched. Today, Hiroshima is a vibrant city, and it is clear to see that it is safe for tourists.

Things to do and Places to Visit in Hiroshima

Hiroshima offers an array of things to do for those who visit. It is known for its historical sites, beautiful gardens, and delectable cuisine. Here are some of the things you can do and places to visit while in Hiroshima: Miyajima Island – Miyajima Island is a short ferry ride away from Hiroshima City and is home to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine. The shrine is famous for its floating torii gate in the water, which is an incredible sight to behold. The island is also home to tame deer and is great for hiking.Hiroshima Peace Memorial – The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a vast green space that is a tribute to the victims of the atomic bomb. The park is home to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which provides detailed accounts of life before, during, and after the bombing, including exhibits detailing the development of atomic weapons.Hiroshima Castle – The Hiroshima Castle is not the original castle, but it has been rebuilt to look like its original state. It is an impressive structure that offers a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past.Okonomiyaki – Okonomiyaki is a pancake of sorts that is a must-try when in Hiroshima. It is filled with different ingredients, including vegetables, meat, and seafood. You can find it all over the city, but Okonomi-mura in the downtown area is a great option for first-time visitors.

Tips for Your Trip to Hiroshima

It is essential to consider some tips for your trip to Hiroshima to make it a memorable and safe one.Book Accommodation in Advance – It is essential to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons, to get the best options available.Try to Visit During Off-Seasons – The best times to visit are from March to May and September to November when the weather is mild, and fewer tourists are around.Get a Pocket Wi-Fi – It is important to stay connected during your trip, and a pocket Wi-Fi could come in handy to stay in touch with family, friends, and other travelers.Carry a Translation App or Phrasebook – While some locals may speak English, it is still important to carry a translation app or phrasebook to communicate with the locals.

Conclusion

Hiroshima is an excellent destination for travelers who are interested in Japanese history, food, and culture. The city has gone through much transformation since the atomic bombing. Despite the sad history, Hiroshima is now a vibrant city that is safe to visit. Visitors will find a variety of things to do and places to see while in Hiroshima. With these tips in mind, visitors can have a safe and memorable trip to Hiroshima.

An Insider’s Guide to the Alluring City of Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a city abundant with a rich history, strong culture, and a curious zest for life. Despite its tragic past, the city has bounced back and become a beacon of peace and hope in Japan. This guide presents five remarkable experiences that will make your visit to Hiroshima unforgettable.

Local Attractions

When in Hiroshima, visitors are usually drawn to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, which offers insights into the atomic bombing of the city in 1945. But Hiroshima has much more to offer. For example, Miyajima Island – just a short ferry ride away – boasts gorgeous Torii gates, quaint alleys strewn with cute shops selling traditional sweets, and awe-inspiring views of the serene Seto Inland Sea. Another hidden gem in Hiroshima is Kintaikyo Bridge, a five-arched bridge that spans the Nishiki River, which is particularly stunning in autumn.

Dining Spots

A trip to Hiroshima is incomplete without trying its local cuisine. One unique specialty is Okonomiyaki, a savory pancake-like dish that is heaven on a plate. The city is known for two types of Okonomiyaki – Hiroshima-style and Kansai-style. Try both at Okonomimura, a multi-story building in the city filled with tiny Okonomiyaki restaurants. The city also has many charming izakayas (Japanese-style pubs) serving delicious local seafood paired with sake. For an added dose of history, visit a Hiroshima-style tea house where you can enjoy wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets) as you sip matcha tea.

Cultural Experiences

One cultural experience that visitors should not miss is the traditional Japanese tea ceremony. The ceremony includes a slow, deliberate process of preparing and serving tea that has roots in Zen Buddhism. Koto, a type of Japanese harp, is another traditional art form that is unique to Hiroshima. Attend a performance at Hiroshima Prefectural Art Museum where you can admire this elegant instrument’s sound and beauty. Also, every autumn, Hiroshima hosts one of Japan’s most prominent festivals, known as the Hiroshima Okonomimura Nagasaki Lantern Festival.

Local History

Hiroshima has a rich history that extends far beyond the atomic bomb’s tragedy. For example, the city was once known for its powerful samurai clans, one of which was led by Mori Terumoto, who built Hiroshima Castle. The castle was destroyed during the bombing, but the exhibition, now housed in the restored main keep, tells the tale of its 400-year history. Another interesting fact is that Hiroshima was once infamous for being Japan’s largest red-light district. Okonomimura, the multi-story dining spot mentioned earlier, was once part of this district and still retains some of the historic alleys.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For an off-the-beaten-path experience, head to Shukkeien Garden, a tranquil oasis in the bustling city center. The garden is full of surprises, including a favorite tea stall, a miniature hill that overlooks the garden, and a secluded tea house. Another fantastic destination is Ikari Shrine, where you can hike an excellent forest trail to the top of a mountain and visit the oldest Shinto shrine in Hiroshima. Lastly, rent a bike and head to Numaji Botanical Garden, hidden in the suburbs, and bask in the tranquility and beauty of flowers and greenery.

In conclusion, Hiroshima has so much to offer visitors beyond its past. The city encapsulates Japan’s quintessential qualities: deep history, fine traditions, and mouth-watering cuisine. With this insider’s guide, venture to Hiroshima and experience a journey that transcends time and touches the soul.