12 Best Places to Visit in Japan for First-Timers — With Costs

5. Hiroshima: A City of Peace and Remembrance

Hiroshima stands as a powerful testament to human resilience and the pursuit of peace, offering visitors profound historical insights alongside natural beauty and culinary excellence that create a deeply moving travel experience. The Peace Memorial Park and Museum provide essential historical context about the atomic bombing and its aftermath, while the iconic A-Bomb Dome serves as a haunting reminder preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beyond its historical significance, Hiroshima offers the magical experience of Miyajima Island, home to the famous floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, consistently ranked among Japan's three most scenic views. The island's friendly deer population and hiking trails to Mount Misen provide additional natural attractions. Hiroshima's culinary scene centers around okonomiyaki, a savory pancake that differs distinctly from Osaka's version, best enjoyed at specialized restaurants throughout the city. Transportation within Hiroshima utilizes an efficient tram system, with day passes costing ¥700 ($5), while the ferry to Miyajima Island costs ¥180 ($1.20) each way. The Peace Memorial Museum charges ¥200 ($1.40) admission, making it one of Japan's most accessible major attractions. Miyajima Island's shrine admission costs ¥300 ($2), with the cable car to Mount Misen adding ¥1,800 ($12). Accommodation ranges from ¥2,800 ($19) for hostel beds to ¥10,000 ($67) for quality business hotels. Local okonomiyaki meals cost ¥800-1,500 ($5.50-10), while fresh oysters, another local specialty, range from ¥1,000-2,500 ($7-17) per serving. Two days allows thorough exploration of both Hiroshima and Miyajima, with daily budgets ranging from ¥6,500-9,500 ($45-65) for budget travelers to ¥12,000-18,000 ($80-120) for enhanced comfort.