What is the Cost of Living in Hiroshima? A Complete Guide

Hiroshima, located in western Japan, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. It is also one of the most affordable cities to live in Japan. In this blog post, we will discuss the cost of living in Hiroshima, including housing, transportation, food, healthcare, and entertainment.

Housing

The cost of housing in Hiroshima varies depending on the location and type of accommodation. Apartment rent can range from ¥40,000 ($370) to ¥100,000 ($930) per month, depending on the size and location of the apartment. Most Japanese apartments require a deposit equivalent to two months’ rent, which is refundable at the end of the lease period.Utility costs also vary depending on the apartment size, usage, and season. Electricity, water, and gas bills can cost around ¥10,000 ($93) per month on average.

Transportation

Hiroshima has an excellent public transportation system consisting of trams, buses, and trains. The cost of public transportation is relatively cheap with a one-way trip on a tram or bus costing around ¥170 ($1.5). Monthly passes for transportation can cost around ¥10,000 ($93), and some of these passes also offer discounts on other expenses like shopping and dining.Taxis are also available in Hiroshima, but they are more expensive than public transportation. The minimum taxi fare is around ¥660 ($6), and the rates increase based on the distance traveled.

Food

Food is a significant expense in Japan, but Hiroshima is relatively affordable compared to other cities in Japan, particularly in Tokyo. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant could cost around ¥700 ($6.5), while a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant could cost around ¥4,000 ($37). Groceries are also affordable, with a liter of milk costing around ¥200 ($1.85), a loaf of bread costing around ¥150 ($1.4), and a kilogram of rice costing around ¥2,000 ($19).

Healthcare

In Japan, healthcare is mandatory, and the national government has made sure that it is affordable for everyone. The prices of healthcare services are fixed by the government, making healthcare in Hiroshima affordable. Health insurance for employees is typically covered by the employer, with monthly premiums ranging from ¥10,000 to ¥30,000 ($93 to $277). For those who are not employed, the cost of health insurance is around ¥10,000 ($93) per month.

Entertainment

Hiroshima has a wide range of entertainment options, from temples and museums to theaters and nightclubs. Admission to most museums is around ¥500 ($5), while movie tickets cost around ¥1,800 ($17) on average. A night out at a club or bar could cost around ¥3,000 ($28), including drinks.

Conclusion

Overall, the cost of living in Hiroshima is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in Japan. Housing and transportation are reasonably priced, and food is less expensive than in other cities. Healthcare is mandatory and affordable, and entertainment options are abundant. If you are planning on moving to Hiroshima or traveling there, this guide should help you budget your expenses accordingly.Use this guide to help you plan your budget ahead of time and manage your expenses while living in Hiroshima. And don’t forget to enjoy all the fantastic food, culture, and entertainment the city has to offer!

Insider’s Guide: Cost of Living in Hiroshima

Hiroshima, located in the western part of Japan, is a city famous for the tragic event during World War II when it was destroyed by an atomic bomb. But the city has since recovered and is now a popular tourist destination, thanks to its rich culture, mouth-watering cuisine, and historical landmarks. In this insider’s guide, we will explore the cost of living in Hiroshima, local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

Hiroshima has numerous attractions that provide a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture. Some of the must-visit places are the Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima Castle, the Itsukushima Shrine, and the Shukkeien Garden.

The Peace Memorial Park is built to commemorate the thousands of lives lost during the atomic bombing in 1945. It has several monuments, memorials, and exhibits that showcase the history of the bombing and its aftermath.

The Hiroshima Castle, also called the Carp Castle, was built during the feudal era and served as the residence of the daimyo. It is now a museum that displays artifacts and exhibits related to Hiroshima’s history.

The Itsukushima Shrine, located on the Miyajima Island, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is famous for its “floating” torii gate. During high tide, the gate appears to be floating on the water, which is a mesmerizing sight.

The Shukkeien Garden is a traditional Japanese garden that features a central pond and several bridges, paths, and miniaturized landscapes. It is a serene place to relax and take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Dining Spots

Hiroshima is known for its delicious cuisine, and the city has several dining spots that offer an authentic culinary experience. Two must-try dishes are the Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki and the Hiroshima-style Tsukemen.

Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake made with flour, eggs, cabbage, and various ingredients such as meat, seafood, and vegetables. The Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki has a base of noodles that are layered with the ingredients and topped off with a sweet sauce and mayonnaise.

Tsukemen is a noodle dish that is dipped into a separate bowl of soup before eating. The Hiroshima-style Tsukemen comprises thick wheat noodles that are served with a thick broth made with pork bones, dried fish, and soy sauce.

Some fantastic dining spots to try out these dishes are Okonomimura, located in the city center, and Ichiran, a famous Japanese ramen chain that has a branch in Hiroshima.

Cultural Experiences

Hiroshima has several cultural experiences that visitors can enjoy, such as the Hiroshima Prefectural Art Museum, Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Hiroshima Museum of Art. These museums have a vast collection of Japanese and international art, ranging from traditional to contemporary.

Another cultural experience worth visiting is the Miyajima Traditional Crafts Center, where visitors can see artisans at work and purchase traditional handicrafts like pottery, glassware, and textiles.

Local History

Hiroshima’s history spans several centuries, and the city has several landmarks and monuments that remind visitors of its past. Some notable places are the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, the Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims, and the Atomic Bomb Dome.

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum displays artifacts and exhibits related to the atomic bombing, including personal effects, photographs, and videos. The Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims is a place to pay tribute to the victims of the bombing.

The Atomic Bomb Dome is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a stark reminder of the destruction caused by the bombing. The building has been preserved as it was after the bombing and is a symbol of peace and resilience.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to explore some off-the-beaten-path spots, consider visiting the Mitaki-dera Temple, the Mazda Museum, and the Hiroshima City Asa Zoological Park.

The Mitaki-dera Temple is a serene temple located on a wooded mountainside. It has several walking paths that lead to shrine buildings and cascading waterfalls.

The Mazda Museum is a car museum that showcases the history and evolution of the Mazda automobile company. Visitors can see the various models, technology, and design that went into creating some of the world’s most iconic cars.

The Hiroshima City Asa Zoological Park is a zoo located in the suburbs of Hiroshima that houses over 150 species of animals, including rare species like the Giant Panda and the Western Lowland Gorilla.

Conclusion

Hiroshima is a city that has something for everyone. From its rich history and culture, excellent cuisine, and serene gardens to its bustling city centers, museums, and zoos, Hiroshima has it all. The cost of living in Hiroshima is relatively affordable, and visitors can enjoy their trip without breaking the bank. So, whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, a food lover, or an animal lover, Hiroshima is a must-visit destination that will leave a lasting impression.