Hiroshima

No visit to Hiroshima would be complete without a trip to the beautiful Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island.
Established over 1,400 years ago, the shrine took on its current majestic form during the Heian period in the 12th century.

The entire structure stands over the water and is a masterpiece of traditional architecture designed for aristocratic residences.
At high tide, the shrine appears to be drifting on the surface of the sea. It is a breathtaking sight that embodies Japan’s ancient spirituality and refined sense of beauty. It is not just a historical monument, but living cultural heritage.

The vermillion Great Torii Gate rising from the water is perhaps the most iconic symbol of Miyajima.
Its striking silhouette, reflected in the shifting tides, has become one of Japan’s most celebrated images.

Remarkably, this enormous structure is not anchored to the seabed but stands solely on its own weight.
The gate serves a spiritual threshold, marking the entrance to a sacred realm. In Shinto belief, the Mt. Misen itself is part of the divine space, and the torii embodies Japan’s deep-rooted tradition of revering nature as sacred.

Visiting at high tide creates the illusion of a shrine floating on the water, while at low tide, you can walk right up to the gate, experiencing both its majesty and its subtle connection to the natural world.

Miyajima is so much more than just a sightseeing destination.
The entire island is considered sacred, with Mt. Misen at its spiritual heart. This 535-metre peak is where the Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi (also known as Kukai) is said to have practiced asceticism, and to this day, pilgrims continue to climb its slopes.

The island’s deer are also revered as messengers of the gods. Encountering them amidst the ancient forests provides visitors with a uniquely spiritual experience, connecting them to the island’s living traditions.

On 6 August 1945, Hiroshima became the first city in history to be subjected to a nuclear attack.
Tens of thousands of lives were lost in an instant and the city was reduced to ruins.

The Atomic Bomb Dome stands as a solemn reminder of that day.
Miraculously left standing amid the devastation, it has been preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a rare and powerful symbol, warning against the horrors of nuclear weapons and urging the pursuit of peace.

A visit to Hiroshima is not just about seeing the sights; it's also about reflecting on history and considering how to shape the future.
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum presents the harsh realities of the atomic bombing through personal survivor stories and artefacts of daily life left behind.

It is not just a collection of exhibits, but a place where everyone, no matter where they come from, can confront the tragedy of war and reaffirm the value of peace.
The lessons learned here are vital for future generations.