Hiroshima: Peace Memorial Walking Tour & Orizuru Tower Lunch

Summary

Walk through Hiroshima’s past and present with stories, silence, and city views

You’ll walk through Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park with a local guide who shares real stories behind each site. Explore the museum at your own pace, see the Atomic Bomb Dome up close, then enjoy lunch at Orizuru Tower overlooking today’s cityscape. It’s not just history — it’s personal, reflective, and quietly moving.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wonder what it really feels like to stand in front of the Atomic Bomb Dome? I didn’t expect my chest to tighten just seeing its skeleton against a bright sky. Our guide, Yuki, met us right outside the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park — she was born here, and you could tell. She kept pausing to wave at old friends or point out tiny things I’d have missed: paper cranes tucked into corners, kids chasing each other between memorial stones. The air smelled faintly of wet grass (it had rained that morning), and there was this hush even though we were in the middle of a city.

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is...hard to describe. Some parts are quiet, almost gentle — others hit you like a punch. Yuki didn’t rush us. She shared how her grandmother used to talk about August 6th, 1945; not just facts, but memories — lining up for water, looking for family. I found myself slowing down at certain exhibits, hands in pockets. There’s a tree outside — the Aogiri tree — that somehow survived the blast. People still tie wishes to its branches. It sounds simple but standing there felt heavy and hopeful at once.

Lunch was up at Orizuru Tower. You get this wide view over Hiroshima; it’s strange how peaceful it looks now. We sat with our guide (lunch is included) and tried okonomiyaki — sort of messy but good comfort food. I tried saying “itadakimasu” properly; Yuki laughed and corrected me (I probably butchered it). Afterward we walked back through the park toward Chishaku-in Temple. I kept thinking about how much has changed here — but also what lingers in the air if you pay attention.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hiroshima Peace Memorial and City Views

• Start Hiroshima Peace Walking Tour
• Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and Park
• Learn about atomic bomb impact
• See Cenotaph for atomic bomb victims
• Explore Children's Peace Monument
• Visit Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Dome
• Have lunch at Orizuru Tower
• Enjoy Hiroshima city view from observatory

Top questions

How long does the Hiroshima Peace Memorial walking tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 5 hours from start to finish.

Is lunch included during this Hiroshima day trip?

Yes, lunch is included at Orizuru Tower as part of the tour.

Are entrance fees for museums covered?

Yes, entry fees for both the Peace Memorial Museum and Orizuru Tower are included.

Can I join this tour if I have dietary restrictions?

Dishes are prepared in outside kitchens; vegetarian options are limited and gluten-free/allergy requests can’t be guaranteed.

Is this Hiroshima walking tour suitable for children?

The museum includes graphic exhibits that may disturb young children; please inform your guide if concerned.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is provided; you’ll meet your guide near Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

Is this walking tour accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?

No; some locations on this itinerary aren’t accessible by wheelchair or stroller.

Where does the activity end?

The tour ends near Chishaku-in Temple in Hiroshima.

What’s included

Your day includes entry to both the Peace Memorial Museum and Orizuru Tower observatory, a guided walk led by someone from Hiroshima who shares personal stories along the way, plus lunch together overlooking the city before finishing near Chishaku-in Temple. Tour photos are also included as a keepsake.