Hiroshima Travel Guide: Essentials Before You Go

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Hiroshima is a compact, easy-to-navigate city known for the Peace Memorial Park, historic sites, friendly locals, and excellent regional food (okonomiyaki and oysters). Plan for respectful time at memorial sites, take advantage of efficient public transport, and consider side trips to Miyajima.

Visa / entry requirements

- Check your country’s visa rules for Japan: many nationalities get a temporary visitor visa (usually 90 days) visa-free, but confirm with the Japanese embassy/consulate. 
- Passport must be valid for the intended stay. 
- COVID/vaccination/testing rules: verify current Japanese entry rules before travel (requirements have changed previously).

Best time to visit

- Spring (late March–early April): cherry blossoms, mild weather. Expect crowds around sakura.
- Autumn (October–November): pleasant temperatures and fall foliage.
- Summer (July–August): hot, humid, possible typhoons — festivals like Hiroshima Flower Festival but higher humidity and tourist volume. 
- Winter (December–February): cool and quiet; less crowded, occasional snow.

Safety tips

- Hiroshima is very safe: violent crime is low. Standard urban precautions apply (watch belongings, avoid poorly lit areas late at night).
- When visiting the Peace Memorial Park and Atomic Bomb Dome: maintain silence and respect; photography is allowed but be mindful of mourners.
- Natural hazards: follow local advice during typhoon season and check transport disruptions.

Local customs and etiquette

- Bowing is common—polite nods or brief bows are appreciated.
- Remove shoes when entering some ryokans, temples, or traditional restaurants if requested.
- Keep voice levels moderate on public transport; phone calls on trains are discouraged.
- Queuing: form orderly lines at bus stops, tram stops, and station platforms.
- Tipping: not customary; exceptional service may be acknowledged with a polite thank-you instead.

Currency and payments

- Currency: Japanese yen (JPY). Cas

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Hiroshima Travel Guide: Essentials Before You Go

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