Lesser-Known Facts About Hiroshima Prefecture That’ll Surprise You

Hiroshima Prefecture in Japan has a rich history and natural beauty, but there’s so much more to it.

Most people think of the WWII bombing when they hear Hiroshima, but the prefecture is full of hidden gems.

Hiroshima has many little-known facts that reveal its vibrant character.

Whether you’re into history, nature, or food, Hiroshima has something to surprise and delight you just as it did me.

Planning to visit Hiroshima? I have you covered:

1. Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
2. A Chauffeur Driven Tour: Hiroshima & Miyajima or Temple Gardens
3. Kimono and Calligraphy Experience in Miyajima

Want a place to stay in Hiroshima?

1. Oriental Hotel Hiroshima 
2. Hotel Granvia Hiroshima 

Here are some interesting facts about Hiroshima prefecture.

1) Shukkeien Garden’s hidden tea houses

When you visit Shukkeien Garden in Hiroshima, you might feel like you’ve entered a different world.

This garden, designed in 1620, has many quiet spots worth exploring.

One of the most exciting features of Shukkeien Garden is its hidden tea houses.

The quaint structures blend into the landscape.

2) The Kure Maritime Museum’s Yamato battleship

The Kure Maritime Museum, often called the Yamato Museum, is in Kure, Hiroshima.

The museum’s main attraction is a 1:10 scale model of the Yamato battleship.

This impressive model shows you the details of the most giant battleship ever built by the Imperial Japanese Navy during World War II.

3) Miyajima’s traditional street food

Miyajima, an island off the coast of Hiroshima, is famous for its unique and tasty street food.

One of the must-try treats is Momiji Manju.

These are sweet cakes shaped like maple leaves.

Inside the Momiji Manju, you’ll find a delicious filling of sweet red bean paste.

Today, many variations have different fillings, such as chocolate, cream cheese, and custard.

Oysters are another popular street food.

You can find them grilled, fried, or even fresh.

Toppings for grilled oysters include cheese mayo, garlic butter, and miso, adding extra bursts of flavour.

4) Mitaki Temple’s three waterfalls

Mitaki Temple is known for its three waterfalls that flow within its grounds.

These waterfalls aren’t just for show.

Their waters are used during the annual Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony to honour the victims of the atomic bomb.

As you explore the temple, the natural sound of the waterfalls adds to the peaceful atmosphere.

5) Okonomi-mura’s multi-floor savoury pancake eateries

Next time you’re in Hiroshima, don’t miss Okonomi-mura.

It’s a unique spot dedicated to okonomiyaki, a special Japanese savoury pancake.

This place is in the heart of Hiroshima.

It is packed with eateries offering different styles and flavours of okonomiyaki.

You’ll find four floors of restaurants competing to serve the best creations.

6) Rabbit Island’s fluffy residents

You’ve probably heard of cats on Aoshima Island, but another animal island is just as interesting.

Okunoshima, known as Rabbit Island, is a tiny island with a large population of rabbits.

These rabbits are super friendly and will come right up to you, especially if you have food.

It’s a great place to see these fluffy creatures up close.

You can buy rabbit food on the island or bring veggies.

More than 900 rabbits call the island home, which is way more than the human population there.

You’ll find them hopping around everywhere, from the paths to the beaches.

Getting there is easy.

You take a ferry from Tadanoumi Port, a quick walk from Tadanoumi JR Station.

The ferry ride itself is pretty short—about 15 minutes.

7) Senkoji Temple’s cable car ride

If you’re in Onomichi, try the Senkoji Temple cable car ride.

You’ll get amazing views of the city and sea from up there.

It’s an easy way to reach the temple and enjoy the scenery.

8) Hondori Street’s retro game shops

Hondori Street is a dream come true if you’re into retro games.

Several shops are packed with old-school consoles, cartridges, and memorabilia.

These stores have classic titles from the NES, SNES, and Sega eras.

Sometimes, you stumble on rare finds and discover unique merchandise.

Explore and relive childhood memories, or start a new collection today.

9) Hiroshima Castle and its samurai legacy

When you visit Hiroshima, you can’t miss Hiroshima Castle.

Built-in the late 16th century, this landmark tells the story of the samurai era in Japan.

Hiroshima Castle, also known as Carp Castle, was the home of the daimyō, or feudal lord, of the Hiroshima Domain.

These lords ruled their lands with the aid of loyal samurai warriors.

The original castle was destroyed by the atomic bomb in 1945, but it was rebuilt later.

10) The Sandankyo Gorge

You’ll fall in love with Sandankyo Gorge in Hiroshima.

It’s a hidden gem perfect for nature lovers.

Sandankyo stretches for 13 kilometres along the Shiwagigawa River.

You’ll find waterfalls, streams, deep pools, and giant boulders here.

The trails offer amazing views of forests, cliffs, and hanging bridges.

In autumn, the leaves turn stunning shades of orange and red.

Hiking here is a treat for both beginners and experienced adventurers.

11) Fukuyama Rose Park’s floral festival

When you visit Hiroshima Prefecture, check out the Fukuyama Rose Festival.

This event, which has been running since 1956, happens every May and celebrates beauty and hope.

At Bara Koen, also known as Rose Park, thousands of roses are in full bloom.

The variety and colours on display are amazing.

The festival started as a way to uplift spirits after the devastation of World War II.

Local citizens initially planted 1000 roses in the park.

12) Inland sea views from Mount Noro

Mount Noro offers some of the best views of the Seto Inland Sea.

You can see a panorama of islands and the sparkling sea when you climb.

It’s a perfect spot for taking photos or relaxing and enjoying the scenery.

13) Takehara’s old merchant houses

You’ve got to check out the old merchant houses in Takehara.

These homes are more than just buildings; they tell the story of a town that thrived during the Edo and Meiji eras.

Walking through the streets, you’ll see houses built by salt and sake merchants.

They still stand, showing off their unique architecture.

14) The Atomic Bomb Dome’s peace message

When you visit Hiroshima, you can’t miss the Atomic Bomb Dome.

It stands as a powerful reminder of the devastation caused by nuclear weapons.

The Dome is part of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

It symbolises hope and a commitment to peace.

People from around the world visit to pay their respects.

The message here is clear: Never again.

15) The red Torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine

The red torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine is one of Japan’s most iconic sights.

Located on the island of Miyajima, the gate floats on water during high tide.