7 nightlife spots in Hiroshima

Hiroshima was the first city in the world to be attacked by an atomic bomb during World War II. After the devastating damage, it made a miraculous recovery and has now grown into one of Japan’s leading cities. In 2023, Hiroshima once again attracts attention when the G7 Summit is held here.
In this article, we will introduce 7 nightlife spots that you should definitely visit to enjoy Hiroshima at night.

Highlights and characteristics of Hiroshima at night

Hiroshima is home to two World Heritage sites: Itsukushima Shrine, built in 593, and the Atomic Bomb Dome, a building that was damaged by the atomic bomb. These are popular tourist destinations that attract many tourists from overseas. These are also must-see tourist spots for learning about Japanese history.

Hiroshima’s local cuisine is also appealing. Okonomiyaki, oyster dishes, and Anago rice (conger Eel rice) are especially popular among tourists. Nightlife spots in Hiroshima allow you to see illuminated historical buildings and enjoy Hiroshima’s unique cuisine in the downtown area.

Nightlife spots in Hiroshima

Recommended #1: Itsukushima Shrine

Itsukushima Shrine is said to have been founded in 593, and has been registered as a World Cultural Heritage Site. It is located on a small island called Miyajima, about a 10-minute ferry from the mainland. The vermilion Ōtorii Gate, which looks like it’s floating on the sea, attracts tourists from all over the world.

At night, the shrine is lit up from sunset until 11:00 p.m., creating a mystical landscape. Itsukushima Shrine can be accessed by train and ferry from Hiroshima Station, the base for sightseeing in Hiroshima. The view of Miyajima and Itsukushima Shrine from the ferry is also beautiful, so don’t miss it. This is a recommended spot for those interested in historical architectures.

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Recommended #2: Atomic Bomb Dome

The Atomic Bomb Dome is a structure that conveys the tragedy of the atomic bomb that was dropped on Hiroshima City during World War II. It has been registered as a World Heritage Site as a monument calling for the abolition of nuclear weapons and the importance of peace.

The Atomic Bomb Dome is lit up at night, creating a different atmosphere than during the day. The sight of it enveloped in the silence of the night evokes a feeling of sadness. It can be said that this is a precious night scene that makes you ponder the meaning of peace.
Also, right next to the Atomic Bomb Dome is the Peace Memorial Park. Here too, gentle lights are lit up at night, in hopes of peace. It is a good idea to visit it in addition to the Atomic Bomb Dome.

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Recommended #3: Miyajima Light-up Cruise

Miyajima Light-up Cruise is a Yakatabune cruise that takes you around Itsukushima Shrine and Ōtorii Gate at night. You can see the mysterious Itsukushima Shrine and the illuminated Ōtorii Gate up close. It is a very popular tourist spot in Miyajima at night.

There are several cruises per day, and each trip lasts about 30 minutes. If you board the cruise at dusk, you can see the Ōtorii Gate sparkling in the sunset, a beauty completely different from the illuminated Ōtorii Gate. Advance reservations via the web or phone are required to board the cruise. Please refer to the official website for more details.

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Recommended #4: Nagarekawa Street

“Nagarekawa Street” is the street that makes up the “Nagarekawa”, Hiroshima’s largest entertainment district. There are few people in the morning and afternoon, but when night falls, the quiet of the day completely disappears. It is a street where you can feel the city at night, lined with various restaurants, Izakaya (Japanese-style pubs), bars, clubs.

If you go to Nagarekawa Street, you can find all kinds of local Hiroshima specialties like Okonomiyaki, oyster dishes, and Anago rice (conger eel rice). Therefore, this is a popular place for many tourists looking for delicious food. There are also many snack bars and cabaret clubs, makes it a lively place that entertains its visitors. It will be fun to stroll along Nagarekawa street with friends.

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Recommended #5: Okonomimura

“Okonomimura” is a food theme park located in the bustling Shintenchi neighborhood of Hiroshima city. Located in an 8-story building, Okonomimura occupies the entire 2nd to 4th floors with more than 20 restaurants specializing in serving Okonomiyaki, a Hiroshima specialty. This is a famous place that attracts a large number of locals and tourists every day.

Okonomiyaki is a local dish that represents Hiroshima. Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki is characterized by its “layered” style, where ingredients are layered on top of a thin layer of batter and grilled. Noodles such as Ramen noodles or Udon noodles are also often added, and served with sweet sauce. This is called “Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki” and is a popular delicacy among tourists. It is a dish that you should definitely try when visiting Hiroshima.

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Recommended #6: Hiroshima Castle

“Hiroshima Castle” was built in 1589. Surrounded by a moat, Hiroshima Castle has a beautiful landscape filled with water and greenery. The castle was completely destroyed by the atomic bomb dropped during World War II, so the castle we see today was rebuilt after 1958.

At night, the castle tower and the area around the castle are illuminated, creating a fantastical landscape different from the daytime. Although it is not possible to enter the castle tower at night, you can still view the castle tower at any time from outside the moat, making it a recommended tourist spot.

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Recommended #7: Orizuru Tower

“Orizuru Tower” is a commercial complex that opened in 2016. During the day, it is a fun place to bring children, with an observation deck that offers a panoramic views of the city and unique experiential activities using “orizuru” (meaning paper crane). At night, the ROOF TOP BAR opens on the rooftop and 12th floor, turning the space into a romantic place.

From the ROOF TOP BAR on the rooftop observatory, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Hiroshima’s nightscape. You can see various tourist spots such as the Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Memorial Park, and Hiroshima Castle illuminated. This is a recommended spot for couples because you can sit on the wooden deck and enjoy the romantic night view together. ROOF TOP BAR is open from 18:30 to 23:00, so you can enjoy it until late.

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