hiroshima regional tourism guidebook

Hiroshima Regional

TOURISM GUIDEBOOK

Hiroshima Port Cruise Vessels Promotion Committee

1 Main Tourist Attractions in Hiroshima…1

(1) Peace Memorial Park…1

● Peace Memorial Park…1

● A-bomb Dome…1

● Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum…1

● Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb

Victims…2

(2) Miyajima (Itsukushima Shrine)…2

● Itsukushima Shrine (UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site)…2

● Itsukushima Shrine Treasure Museum OP…2

● Senjo-kaku (Pavillion of 1,000 tatami mats) OP…2

● Daisho-in Temple OP…3

● Daiganji Temple OP…3

● Miyajima Municipal History and Folklore Museum OP…3

● Momijidani Park OP…3

● Miyajima Ropeway OP…3

● Miyajima Public Aquarium OP…4

2 Hiroshima City…4

(1) Tourist Attractions…4

● Shukkeien Garden…4

● Hiroshima Castle…4

● Rai Sanyo Shiseki Museum OP…4

● Onaga Tenmangu Shrine…4

● Kokuzenji Temple…5

● World Peace Memorial Cathedral OP…5

● Hiroshima Toshogu Shrine…5

● Nigitsu Shrine…5

● Fudo-in Temple OP…5

● Mitaki-ji Temple OP…6

● Myojo-in Temple…6

● Hiroshima Prefectural Art Museum OP…6

● Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art…6

● Hiroshima Museum of Art…7

● Toho Co., Ltd. Garasu no Sato (Glass village) OP…7

● Mazda Motor Corp. Mazda Museum…7

● Okonomi Mura (Okonomi Village) …7

● Okonomi Kyowakoku Hiroshima (Hiroshima okonomiyaki

republic) OP…8

● Kanko Hiroshima-ryu Okonomiyaki Gakkou Misasa (Misasa,

Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki school for tourists) OP…8

● Sunfoods Inc. (Hands-on) OP…8

● Yahatagawa Brewery Co., Ltd. OP…8

Hiroshima Regional Tourism Guidebook

Contents

● Kyokuho Brewery Co.,Ltd OP…8

● Harahonten Co.,Ltd OP…9

● Hiroshima City Marine Product Promotion Center OP…9

● Nisikido Co., Ltd. OP…9

● Hiroshima Stationside Market and Interactive Kitchen OP…9

● Yuki Hot Springs…9

● Hiroshima City Comics Library…10

● Dambara Kotto-kan (Dambara antique hall) …10

● Hondori Shopping Arcade OP…10

● Hiroshima Yume Plaza OP…10

● Kamiya-cho Underground Shopping Center “Shareo” OP…10

(2) Hiroshima’s Nighttime Scenery…11

(3) Main Events in Urban Hiroshima…12

(4) Tourist Information Centers…13

(5) Tour Guides…13

3 Suburbs…14

(1) Hatsukaichi City…14

①Tourist Attractions…14

● Chichiyasu High Park…14

● Wood One Museum of Art…14

②Main Events…15

③Tourist Information Center…15

④Tour Guides…15

(2)Tourist Attractions in Kumano-cho, Aki-gun…16

● Fude no Sato Studio…16

(3) Higashi-hiroshima City…17


● Sakagura Dori…17

②Tourism Information Center…17

③Tour Guides…17

(4) Kure City…18


● Yamato Museum…18

● Irifuneyama Memorial Museum…18

● Alley Karasukojima Island…19

● Former Headquarters of the Kure Institution of Marine

Affairs…19

● Ruins of the dock at which the battleship Yamato was constructed

(Rekishi no Mieru Oka) …19

● Seseragi Sake Brewery…19

● Museum of Korean Missions to Japan (Shotoen) …19

● Rantokaku Museum…20

● Hakusetsurou…20

● Hime Hijiki Salt-making Workshop (Hands-on) OP…20

● Moshio Workshop (Ancient salt-making method) OP…20

● Tourist Squid/Octopus Basket Fishing…20

● Ondo no Seto Koen (Ondo Seto Park) OP…21

● Ondo Crossing OP…21

● Ondo Residents’ Cultural Museum Uzushio…21

● Kabuto-iwa Observatory OP…21

● Mitarai-cho Cityscape Preservation Area OP…21

②Tourist Information Center…22

③Tour Guides…22

(5) Etajima City…23


● Maritime Self-Defense Force, First Service School…23


(6) Takehara City…24


● Taketsuru Sake Brewery (Ozasaya Sake Museum) …24

● Fujii Sake Brewery, Hojo Sake Brewery Museum OP…24

● Matsuzaka Residence…24

● Saihoji Temple Fumeikaku…24


③Tour Guides…25

(7) Iwakuni City…25


● Kintaikyo Bridge…25

● Iwakuni Castle…25

● Yokoyama White Snake Viewing…25

● Tenjin White Snake Viewing…26

● Kagawa Family Row House Gate…26

● Kikko Park…26

● Former Mekata Family Residence…26

● Iwakuni Art Museum…26

● Kikkawa Historical Museum…27

②Events…27

● Cormorant Fishing…27

③Tourist Information Centers…27-28

④Tour Guides…28

4 Unique Transportation…28

● River Pleasure Cruises…28

● Miyajima Cruise OP…28

● Streetcars OP…29

● Seto Inland Sea Cruise Barges…29

● Gangi Taxi…29

● Velotaxi OP…29

● Aki-Jinriki-gumi (Rickshaw service) …30

● Yumeguruma Mageichidai (Rickshaw service) …30

Hiroshima Regional Tourism Guidebook

This guidebook (tentative) adds optional points of interest (OP) to the tourist attractions introduced in the Hiroshima Regional Tourism Model Courses (tentative) so that course destinations can be rearranged. 1 Main Tourist Attractions in Hiroshima

(1) Peace Memorial Park ● Peace Memorial Park（1 Nakajima-cho, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-504-2390）

Peace Memorial Park is a complex occupying approximately 12.2 ha. It houses the A-bomb Dome, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, and Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims, in addition to many other monuments and memorials including the Cenotaph for A-bomb Victims, Children’s Peace Monument, and Monument in Memory of the Korean Victims of the A-bomb.

【Time required】20 min. Parking for 56 sightseeing buses (Free)

● A-bomb Dome（1-10 Ote-machi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-504-2390）

The atomic bomb detonated 150m southeast of this building, destroying it and killing all the people within. The ruin remaining metal structure became known as the “A-bomb Dome” and stands as both a stark reminder of the horrors of atomic warfare and a symbol of a peaceful world free from nuclear weapons. The A-bomb Dome was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.

【Time required】10 min.

● Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum (1-2 Nakajima-cho, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-241-4004)

Opened in 1955, this museum was constructed to ensure that future generations never forget the disaster which occurred in Hiroshima, unprecedented in human history. The east wing houses exhibits detailing the history of Hiroshima prior to the atomic bombing and the current state of nuclear weapons. Materials showing the horrors suffered by the victims are located in the west wing, which also features video testimonies by individuals who survived the bombing.

【Time required】1 hour 【Closed】Dec. 29-Jan. 1 【Hours】 8:30-18:00 (Mar.-July, Sep.-Nov.), 8:30-19:00 (Aug.), 8:30-17:00 (Dec.-Feb.) 【Admission fees】Adults ¥50 (¥40 for groups of 30 or more) Brochures available in English and other languages / English language signs Audio guides available / Wheelchair accessible

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● Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims (1-6 Nakajima-cho, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-543-6271)

The Hall was established by the Government of Japan to express condolences for the lives lost in the atomic bombing, serve as a symbol of hope for eternal peace, deepen understanding of the horrors of atomic warfare among the peoples of the world, and pass down the experiences of those involved in the bombing to future generations.

Exhibits at the Hall include written and audiovisual records in which survivors of the bombing describe their experiences and portraits of those who lost their lives.

【Time required】20 min. 【Closed】Dec. 29-Jan. 2 【Hours】

9:00-18:00 (Apr.-Jul.), 8:30-19:00 (Aug.1-Aug.15), 8:30-18:00 (Aug.16-Nov.), 9:00-17:00 (Dec.-Mar.)

【Admission fees】Free English language brochures available / English language signs Wheelchair accessible

(2) Miyajima（Itsukushima Shrine） ● Itsukushima Shrine (UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site) (Miyajima-cho, Hatsukaichi City TEL: 0829-44-2020)

The main building of this shrine was constructed in 1168. After suffering damage in multiple natural disasters, the inner shrine that exists today was restored in 1571. Itsukushima Shrine consists of several structures. The main building is at its center and is surrounded by Marodo Shrine, Kadomarodo Shrine, and other places of worship. Itsukushima Shrine also features the Asazaya and a Noh Drama Stage.

Appearing to float during high tide, Itsukushima Shrine is one of the world’s only wooden structures built in a marine environment, a distinction that earned it a designation in 1996 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The red lacquer arch, erected in 1875, is the eighth of its kind since the Heian Period.

【Time required】1 hour 【Hours】6:30-18:00, (Winter 6:30-17:00) 【Admission fees】Adults ¥300 (¥250 for groups of 50 or more) English language brochures available / English language signs Wheelchair accessible

● Itsukushima Shrine Treasure Museum OP (Miyajima-cho, Hatsukaichi City TEL: 0829-44-2020)

The Museum is the part of Itsukushima Shrine in which the Heike Clan stored its treasures. The Heike Sutras, an offering for the prosperity of the Clan, are part of the collection of objets d’art housed within the treasure hall.

【Time required】15 min. 【Hours】8:00-17:00 【Admission fees】Adults ¥300 (¥250 for groups)

● Senjo-kaku (Pavillion of 1,000 tatami mats) OP (Miyajima-cho, Hatsukaichi City TEL: 0829-44-2020)

This great library of sutras, with its gabled roof, was erected by Toyotomi Hideyoshi to honor the spirits of commanders who fell in battle. The structure was not completed when Toyotomi Hideyoshi himself died, with the result that the roof and front entrance remain uncompleted, giving a sense of the passage of time.

【Time required】10 min. 【Hours】8:30-16:30 【Admission fees】Adults ¥100

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● Daisho-in Temple OP (Miyajima-cho, Hatsukaichi City TEL: 0829-44-0111) Renowned as the finest temple on Miyajima, Daisho-in functioned in an affiliated

capacity with Itsukushima Shrine, administering its festivals. 【Time required】30 min.【Admission fees】Free

● Daiganji Temple OP (Miyajima-cho, Hatsukaichi City TEL: 0829-44-0179)

Until the Meiji Restoration, repairs and construction of Itsukushima Shrine were administered at Daiganji. During the closing days of the Tokugawa Shogunate, the armistice that ended the Choshu War was negotiated in this building, where vestiges of history still remain.

【Time required】10 min. 【Admission fees】Free

● Miyajima Municipal History and Folklore Museum OP (Miyajima-cho, Hatsukaichi City TEL: 0829-44-2019)

This museum consists of a historic house that was occupied by the wealthy merchant Egami from the Edo Period until the Meiji Restoration and an exhibition hall that was added later. Open to the public, the materials on display at this facility provide an excellent opportunity to learn about the history and culture of Miyajima.

【Time required】30 min. 【Closed】Mondays (If Monday is a national holiday, Tuesday) and

Dec. 26-Dec. 31 【Hours】8:30-17:00 (Enter by 16:30) 【Admission fees】Adults ¥300 (¥210 for groups)

● Momijidani Park OP (Miyajima-cho, Hatsukaichi City)

This park is located at the base of the Misen Primeval Forest, which is designated as a natural monument. As its name suggests, the Park boasts some of the most beautiful fall foliage in Japan.

【Time required】30 min.

● Miyajima Ropeway OP (Miyajima-cho, Hatsukaichi City TEL: 0829-44-0316)

The Miyajima Ropeway, with its 15 minute-route, winds through a valley located in a primeval forest designated as a natural monument. The breathtaking view from the highest peak on Miyajima (elevation 530m) reveals a wealth of sights below.

【Time required】 Momijidani Sta.-Kayatani Sta.-10 min., Kayatani Sta.-Shishiiwa Sta.-4 min.,

Approx. 1 hour required for round trip including sightseeing 【Hours】

Dec.-Feb. 9:20-16:20, Mar.-Oct. 9:00-17:00, May-Aug. 8:30-17:00 Golden Week 8:00-17:30, Obon 8:30-17:30

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● Miyajima Public Aquarium OP (Miyajima-cho, Hatsukaichi City TEL: 0829-44-2010)

This facility contains 50 tanks, including a large 300 meter migratory tank, and is home to 13,000 specimens of approximately kinds of 350 rare fish and marine creatures from the oceans and lakes of the world. The size of the aquarium and the quality of its exhibits make it one of the finest in western Japan.

【Time required】1 hour【Closed】Dec.26-Dec.31 【Hours】8:30-17:00 【Admission fees】Adults ¥1,050

(¥730-¥940 for groups, based on number of persons)

2 Hiroshima City

(1) Tourist Attractions ● Shukkeien Garden（2-11 Kaminobori-cho, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-221-3620）

This scenic garden, famous for its cherry blossoms and azaleas, was constructed in 1620 by the feudal lord of Hiroshima.

【Time required】30 min. 【Closed】Dec. 29-Jan. 3 【Hours】9:00-18:00 (Apr.-Sep.), 8:30-18:00 (Oct.-Mar.) 【Admission fees】Adults ¥250 (¥200 for groups of 20 or more) Brochures available in English and other languages / Wheelchair accessible

● Hiroshima Castle（21-1 Motomachi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-221-7512）

Also known as carp castle, this castle was constructed in 1589 by feudal lord Terumoto Mori, and features an exhibit on the development of the castle town and the lives of its inhabitants and an observation gallery. Guests have the opportunity to try on armor and helmets.

【Time required】30 min. 【Admission fees】Adults ¥320 (¥250 for groups of 30 or more) 【Closed】Dec. 29-Jan. 3 【Hours】9:00-17:30 (Apr.- Sep.), 8:00-16:30 (Oct.-Mar.) English language brochures available / Wheelchair accessible English language signs

● Rai Sanyo Shiseki Museum OP（5-15 Fukuro-machi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-542-7022）

Geared towards the preservation and exhibition of Hiroshima artifacts from the Edo Period, this facility is named after Rai Sanyo, a scholar of Chu Hsi School of Neo-Confucianism who worked for the feudal lord of Hiroshima during the Edo Period and lived on the premises.

【Time required】30 min. 【Admission fees】Adults ¥300 (¥240 for groups of 15 or more) 【Closed】Mondays（If Monday is a national holiday, Tuesday）and Dec. 28-Jan. 4 【Hours】9:30-17:00 English language brochures available / Wheelchair accessible

● Onaga Tenmangu Shrine (33-16 Yamane-cho, Higashi-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-262-2679)

This shrine was built to deify Sugawara no Michizane, the god of scholarly pursuits and calligraphy. It is of historical significance because Michizane docked his ship at the foot of Mt. Onaga, which he then scaled during his journey to Kyushu Dazaifu.

【Time required】15 min. 【Admission fees】Visiting the precincts is free

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● Kokuzenji Temple (32-1Yamane-cho, Higashi-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-261-4578)

This Nichiren sect Buddhist temple was constructed as the family temple of the Asano clan. Its name is a combination of the “Koku” from Kokutai, another of the Asano clan’s temples, and and the “Zen” Chinese character from the name Maeda, the maiden name of the Princess Man, wife of Mitsuakira Asano, who was the second feudal lord of his clan and built Kokuzenji. This temple ranks next to Fudo-in Temple as a cultural resource.


* The hondo (main temple) is undergoing repairs

● World Peace Memorial Cathedral OP（4-42 Nobori-cho, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-221-0621）

Completed in 1954 thanks to donations from people the world over, the World Peace Memorial Cathedral was proposed by atomic bomb survivor and Catholic priest Father Hugo Lassalle both as a tribute to the souls of those who perished and a symbol of worldwide peace and friendship. The four bells in the Cathedral’s tower are a gift from the former West Germany.

【Time required】20 min. 【Hours】

Weekend Mass: Sat. 18:00, Sun. 8:00, 9:30, 14:30 (in English) Weekday Mass: Monday-Saturday 7:00

Visits are welcome / Guided tours available with reservations English language brochures available

● Hiroshima Toshogu Shrine TEL: 082-261-2954 / Kinkoinari Shrine TEL: 082-261-2954 (2-1-18 Futabanosato, Higashi-ku, Hiroshima City)

Hiroshima Toshogu is a shrine built in 1648 by Mitsuakira, the second lord of the Asano clan to deify the spirit of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Although the front shrine and main shrine are reproductions built to replace the originals destroyed in the atomic bombing, the architectural style of the early Edo period is still evident in the Chinese-style gate and the transepts.


● Nigitsu Shrine (2-6-34 Futabanosato, Higashi-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-261-4616)

Naritaka, the ninth feudal lord of the Asano clan, constructed Nigitsu Shrine in 1835 to honor his forebear Nagamasa. The Chinese-style gate across from the front shrine was incinerated in the atomic bombing. This gate, the second largest of its type in Japan, was reconstructed in August 2000.


● Fudo-in Temple (contains the Golden Pavilion, a national treasure) OP（3-4-9 Ushita-Shinmachi, Higashi-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-221-6923）

Formerly one of the Ankokuji temples built by Takauji Ashikaga in various provinces, Fudo-in Temple was restored during the latter half of the 16th century by Ekei, a monk who participated in governmental affairs. Supposedly moved from Yamaguchi Prefecture, the Kondo (Golden pavilion) is one of the largest extant Zen Buddhist temples. This site contains a wealth of cultural artifacts.

【Time required】30 min. 【Admission fees】Visiting the precincts is free (except the kondo)

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● Mitaki-ji Temple OP（411 Mitakiyama, Nishi-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-237-0811）

Distinctive sounds ring out from the three currents that flow through the premises of Mitaki-dera Temple. Each current has its own waterfall, which provided the inspiration for the temple’s name. Seasonal tours of the site are conducted, giving tourists the opportunity to view cherry blossoms in the summer, the raging white waterfalls in the summer, and beautiful foliage in the autumn.

【Time required】30 min. 【Admission fees】Free 【Hours】8:00-17:30 (Mar.-Nov.), 8:00-17:00(Dec.-Feb.)

● Myojo-in Temple (2-6-25 Futabanosato, Higashi-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-261-0551)

This structure was a family temple belonging to the mother of Lord Terumoto Mori, Myoju-in. Following Mori’s move to the Choshu region (the former name for Yamaguchi prefecture) Fukushima Masanori renamed this temple Myojo-in. A wooden statue of the loyal retainer Ako, which withstood even the atomic bombing, is enshrined in the main hall.

【Time required】20 min. 【Admission fees】Visiting the precincts is free (except the kondo)

● Hiroshima Prefectural Art Museum OP（2-22 Kaminobori-cho, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-221-6246） Collection:

Historic Hiroshima art, pieces from Japan and Asia, and fine art from the 1920s and 1930s. Famous works on display:

Salvadore Dali’s “Dream of Venus”, Hans Arp’s “Awakening”, “Imari Kakiemon Youshiki Iroeuma” (Imari ware painted horse figurines), and Matsuda Gonroku’s “Sagi Makie Dana” (lacquer shelving sprinkled with metallic powder)

【Time required】1 hour 【Admission fees】Adults ¥320 (¥250 for groups of 30 or more) 【Closed】Mondays（If Monday is a national holiday, Tuesday）and Dec. 28- Jan. 4 【Hours】9:00-17:00 English language brochures available / English language signs Wheelchair accessible

● Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art (1-1 Hijiyama-koen, Minami-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-264-1121) Collection: Modern art from the post-war period Famous works on display: Henry Moore’s “Arch,” Andy Warhol’s “Marilyn,” and Iri Maruki’s “Hiroshima Panels”

【Time required】1 hour 【Admission fees】Adults ¥320, (¥250 for groups of 30 or more)

(Except special exhibitions) 【Closed】Mondays (if Monday is public holiday, Tuesday), Dec.29-Jan.3 【Hours】10:00-17:00 English language brochures available / English language signs Wheelchair accessible

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● Hiroshima Museum of Art (3-2 Motomachi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-223-2530) Collection: Pieces on exhibit range from mid-19th century French romantic art with a focus

on impressionists, to Ecole de Paris pieces, and a collection of Japanese modern art

Famous works on display: Edouard Manet’s “Femme au chapeau a plume grise,” Jean-Francois Millet’s “Le

moissonneur,” and Claude Monet’s “Matinee sur la Seine”

【Time required】1 hour 【Admission fees】Adults ¥1,000（¥800 for groups of 20 or more）【Closed】Dec. 29-Jan. 2 【Hours】9:30-17:00 English language brochures available / English language signs Wheelchair accessible

● Toho Co., Ltd. Garasu no Sato (Glass village) OP（2-12-55 Obayashi, Asakita-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-818-0414）

At this glass-themed leisure facility, guests can take a factory tour, or participate in an experience course and make a drink-stirrer or try sandblasting.

【Time required】Experience course: 40-60 min. / Factory tour: approx. 30 min. 【Group size limits】

Experience course: 140 persons or less Factory tour: 20 persons or less

【Closed】 Experience courses: Dec.28-Dec.31 / Factory tours: Sat., Sun., and national

holidays 【Hours】9:00-16:00

● Mazda Motor Corp. Mazda Museum (3-1 Shinchi, Fuchu-cho, Aki-gun TEL: 082-252-5050)

・ Exhibits showing the entire process of automobile manufacture from design and development to production

・ Additional exhibits showing the history of Mazda automobiles. Production line tours also available.

【Time required】90 min. 【Group size limits】Between 20 and 45 persons 【Closed】Sat., Sun., national holidays, and company holidays 【Hours】Group tours: 8:30-11:00, 12:30-15:30 (30 min. intervals) Individuals: beginning at 9:30 and 13:00 ・Tours with an English language guide: 13:00

● Okonomi Mura (Okonomi village) (Shintenchi Plaza 2F-4F , 5-13 Shintenchi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City)

Long home to some 20 okonomiyaki (Japanese-style savory pancakes) restaurants, Okonomi-mura has become a popular tourist destination, attracting students on field trips and tourists from throughout Japan.

・Reservations are required for groups. ・Business hours and holidays are determined by each restaurant.

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● Okonomi Kyowakoku Hiroshima (Hiroshima okonomiyaki republic) OP (5-23 Shintenchi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-243-1661) ・ Guests can experience cooking okonomiyaki hands-on and tour the okonomiyaki

museum. 【Time required】90 min. 【Group size limits】30 persons or less for cooking experience 【Closed】Museum is closed on Mondays 【Hours】Shops : 11:00-23:00（Ask in advance for hours of okonomiyaki cooking）

● Kanko Hiroshima-ryu Okonomiyaki Gakko Misasa (Misasa, Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki school for tourists) (Hands-on) OP （2-3-14 Misasa-cho, Nishi-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-237-0333）・Guests can experience cooking okonomiyaki hands-on. 【Time required】1 hour

【Group size limit】106 persons or less (adults) 【Closed】Obon and new year holiday 【Hours】10:00-20:00

● Sunfoods Inc. (Hands-on) OP（1-26-1 Dejima, Minami-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-541-6861）

Guests can experience cooking okonomiyaki hands-on. 【Time required】60-90 min. 【Group size limit】Between 10 and 100 【Closed】Sundays, national holidays, and company holidays 【Hours】10:00-16:00

● Yahatagawa Brewery Co., Ltd. OP (3-13-20 Yahata, Saeki-ku, Hiroshima City, TEL: 082-928-0511)

Guests can observe the sake manufacturing process, view videotapes, and participate in sake tastings.

【Time required】1 hour 【Group size limit】20 persons or less 【Open】Weekdays from Mid-November through March 【Hours】9:00-16:00

● Kyokuho Brewery Co., Ltd. OP (3-8-16 Kabe, Asakita-ku, Hiroshima City, TEL: 082-812-3344)

Guests can observe the sake manufacturing process, equipment, and brewing tanks, and participate in sake tastings.

【Time required】1 hour 【Group size limit】10 persons or less ・Winter brewery tours 【Open】Everyday Dec.-Mar except Sundays and national holidays 【Hours】10:30-15:00 ・Equipment and brewing tank tours 【Open】Everyday Apr.-Nov. except Sundays and national holidays 【Hours】10:00-15:00

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● Harahonten Co., Ltd. OP (9-19 Hakushima-kuken-cho, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-221-1641)

Guests can observe the sake manufacturing process and participate in sake tastings.

【Time required】20 min. 【Group size limit】20 persons or less 【Closed】Sundays, national holidays, Obon and new year holidays 【Hours】13:00-19:00

● Hiroshima City Marine Product Promotion Center OP (8-5-1 Shoko-center, Nishi-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-277-6609)

Hiroshima City has the largest oyster catch in all of Japan. At the Center, guests can learn about oyster cultivation, tour the exhibition room containing materials on fish and the fishing industry. From November to March, guests may also practice shucking oysters.

【Time required】1-2 hrs. 【Group size limit】30 persons or less for oyster shucking ・Oyster shucking

【Open】 Tue., Wed., and Fri. (except new year holiday)

【Hours】8:30-17:00 ・Exhibitions

【Closed】Sat., Sun., national holidays, and new year holiday 【Hours】8:30-17:00

● Nishikido Co., Ltd. OP (1-13-23 Hikari-machi, Higashi-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-262-3131)

Tours are available during which guests can observe the manufacturing process of Japanese and Western confectionaries at this company, which specializes in momiji manju, a Hiroshima delicacy.

【Time required】30-60 min. 【Group size limit】50 persons or less 【Closed】New year holiday, Golden Week, Obon 【Hours】Mornings until 12 noon

● Hiroshima Stationside Market and Interactive Kitchen OP (Enko-bashi-cho, Minai-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-263-8033)

This kitchen, which opened in February 2005, takes advantage of vacant store space in the market to provide market workers with a space where they can instruct guests in how to make sushi, kimchi, and other foods.

【Closed】Sundays and national holidays ・If possible please plan to come in the afternoon instead of in the morning 【Group size limit】From three to 30 persons

● Yuki Hot Springs (Oaza-Tada, Yuki-cho, Saeki-ku, Hiroshima City)）

Accomodation: Kajikaso (TEL: 0829-85-0311), Midori Lodge (TEL: 0829-85-0321), Fujinoya (TEL: 0829-85-0411), Yuki Lodge (TEL: 0829-85-0111), and Kua House Yu no Yama (TEL: 0829-83-1198)

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● Hiroshima City Comics Library (1-4 Hijiyama-koen, Minai-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-261-0330)

Opened as Japan’s first public library devoted exclusively to comics. This facility systematically collects, preserves, and offers comics and related materials. The library houses a copy of Choujyu Jinbutsu Giga (Scrolls of frolicking animal caricatures), which were drawn during the Heian period and are regarded as the origins of comic art in Japan. Other prominent items in the collection include a complete set of Hokusai Katsushika’s Hokusai Manga (Comics by Hokusai) Norakuro, which dates back to the early Showa period, and post-war comics including Tetsuwan Atom (Astro boy) and Chibi Maruko Chan. The library is home to works representing each era in Japan’s history during which comics were available.

【Closed】 Mondays, days following national holidays, the last day of the month (If the

last day of the month is a Sat., Sun., or Mon., the previous Fri.), Aug.6, new year holiday, special holidays

【Hours】10:00-17:00（Enter by 16:30）・English language brochures available ・Wheelchair accessible toilets ・Elevator-equipped

● Dambara Kotto-kan (Dambara antique hall) (2-4-1 Dambara, Minami-ku, Hiroshima City)

Contains multiple shops offering used goods, curios, and antique works of art. 【Closed】Mondays or Wednesdays (as determined by each store) 【Hours】9:00-18:00 (as determined by each store)

● Hondori Shopping Arcade OP (Hondori, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City) The arcade, which is Hiroshima’s de-facto “main street”, houses approx. 200 shops selling everything from A to Z.

【Hours】Determined by each each store

● Hiroshima Yume Plaza (8-28 Hondori, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-544-1122)

Information on the happenings in Hiroshima Prefecture and its constituent townships is available at the Plaza, where specialty items made throughout the prefecture are exhibited and sold.

【Closed】Wed. (If Wednesday is a national holiday, Thursday) 【Hours】10:00-19:00

● Kamiya-cho Underground Shopping Center “Shareo” OP (100 Motomachi-chikagai, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City)

A base for Hiroshima’s urban culture in the 21st century, Shareo is an underground complex where people, things, and topics cross paths to redefine fun in the information age.

【Closed】Jan.1, and other days as determined by each store 【Hours】Retail area: 11:00-21:00

Restaurant area: 11:00-22:30（Some stores open at 7:30）

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(2) Hiroshima’s Nighttime Scenery ① View the city through the window of a streetcar OP. Contact the Hiroshima Electric Railway Co., Ltd. to rent “Dortmund”, a streetcar that can hold up to 50 people

and on which food and beverages may be consumed. ② View the skyline from the top of a hotel OP ⅰ Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima, 33rd floor restaurant (Moto-machi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City) ⅱ Hiroshima Prince Hotel, 23rd floor restaurant (Moto-ujina-machi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima City) Take in the breathtaking 360-degree view of the Seto Inland Sea, Miyajima, and downtown Hiroshima from the top floor of one of these luxurious hotels.

③ Nightime scenery viewed from the ferris wheel, Marina Hop (Marina Circus) OP 4-14 Kannon Shin-machi, Nishi-ku, Hiroshima City / ¥400 per person / Ferris wheel hours: 10:00-20:00

④ Nighttime scenery viewed from Mt. Ogon (221.1 meters) OP Ogonzan (Mt. Ogon), Minami-ku, Hiroshima City / Hours: 5:00-23:00 / Free of charge / Inaccessible by large vehicle

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(3) Main Events in Urban Hiroshima Events Day / Period / etc. Place

Motoyasugawa Open Café April-November Green areas on the banks of the Motoyasu-gawa River (Motayasubashi bridge east side, Kamiya-cho, Naka-ku)

Spring Green Fair Mid-April Chuo Park open space (Moto-machi, Naka-ku)

Hiroshima Flower Festival May 3-5 Peace Memorial Park, Heiwa Odori (Peace Boulevard) (Naka-ku, Nakajima-cho, and nearby areas)

Tokasan 1st Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in June

Enryuji Temple and part of Chuo Dori (Chuo St.) (Naka-ku, Mikawa-cho, and nearby areas)

Yukata de Kinsai (Yukata-wearing festival) 1st Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in June

Alice Garden and part of Chuo Dori (Chuo St.) (Naka-ku, Shintenchi and nearby area)

Hiroshima Minato Yume Hanabi Taikai (Hiroshima harbor dream fireworks festival)

4th Saturday in July Ujina Foreign Trade Wharf (Ujina-kaigan, Minai-ku)

Peace Memorial Ceremony August 6 Peace Memorial Park , (Nakajima-cho, Naka-ku)

Hiroshima International Animation Festival Held every other year (next festival in August, 2006)

Aster Plaza (Kako-machi, Naka-ku)

Hiroshima Castle Chrysanthemum Exhibition October-November Hiroshima Castle Ninomaru (Moto-machi, Naka-ku)

Ebisu Grand Festival November 18-20 Ebisu Shrine and the surrounding shopping arcade (Naka-ku, Ebisu-cho and nearby areas)

Hiroshima Illumination Displays: “Hiroshima Dreamination”

Mid-November to Late-December Heiwa Odori (Peace Boulevard), (Ko-machi and nearby area, Naka-ku)

Food Festa Mid-October Green Arena and surrounding areas (Moto-machi, Naka-ku)

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(4) Tourist Information Centers ■ Hiroshima City Tourist Information Center (Hiroshima Convention & Visitors Bureau, 1-1 Nakajima-cho, Naka-ku, Hiroshima TEL:082-247-6738)

● Peace Memorial Park Rest House TEL: 082-247-6738

Hours: Apr.-Sep. 9:30-18:00 (Aug. 1-15 9:30-19:00)

Oct.-Mar. 8:30-17:00

● JR Hiroshima Station, South Exit, 1F TEL: 082-261-1877 Hours: 9:00-17:30

● JR Hiroshima Station Shinkansen (North) Exit, 2F TEL: 082-261-1877 Hours: 9:00-17:30

(5) Tour Guides

● Hiroshima Tourism Volunteer Guide Association (TEL: 082-247-6739) Service area: Peace Memorial Park - Hiroshima Castle - Shukkeien

To request service: Fax an application form in advance of your visit. (Fax: 082-247-6739)

Time: 9:30-17:00 (Hours strictly observed) Foreign languages: Several English speakers available (advance reservation

required) Fees: ¥1,000 per guide (one guide can assist up to 15 people) Closed: Obon and new year holidays

● Hiroshima Peace Volunteers (TEL: 082-541-5544) Service area: Peace Memorial Park – Peace Memorial Museum To request service: Reservations accepted up to one year in advance of the

day on which service is required (Call 082-541-5544) Reservation desk hours: 10:30-14:30 (except Dec. 29-Jan. 3) Hours for requests for same-day service: 10:30-14:30 Registration desk location: Peace Memorial Museum (East Wing, 1st Floor)

Service hours: 10:30-15:30 / Fees: free Foreign languages: Approx. 10 English speakers (*Advance reservations

required), several Mandarin Chinese speakers (only available on Sundays) Peace Memorial Museum audio guides: ¥300 per unit.

Available in English, Japanese, and other languages. Audio track explains exhibits in the Peace Memorial Museum in the same order as the tour route.

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3 Suburbs (1) Hatsukaichi City (includes Ono-cho and Miyajima-cho)

① Tourist Attractions ● Chichiyasu High Park OP (3207-3 Ono-cho, Hatsukaichi City TEL: 0829-56-0666) The first yogurt producer in Japan. Tours of yogurt container manufacture, packing process, and farm are available.

【Time required】1 hour 【Group size limit】100 persons or less 【Open】

All days except Sat., Sun., national holidays, and new year holiday 【Hours】9:30-12:00, 13:30-15:00

● Wood One Museum of Art (4278 Yoshiwa, Hatsukaichi City TEL: 0829-40-3001)

Opened its doors in September 1996 as a place to exhibit and display the approximately 800 works of art in the Wood One Co., Ltd. collection. The pieces are organized into the following five main categories: modern Japanese paintings, Meissen porcelain, Art Nouveau glass sculptures, china and porcelain from the Qing dynasty, and Satsuma ware. In July 2001, the Meissen Hall was added next to the Main Hall to improve permanent displays. Famous works on display:

Seiki Kuroda’s “Kokage,” Aimitsu’s “Seibutsu,” “Bara,” and “Hana,” Ryusei Kishida’s “Mofu Kata Kakeseru Reiko Shozo,” Vincent van Gogh’s “Peasant Woman,” and Emile Galle’s “Dragonfly Footed Cup,” among others

【Closed】 Mondays (except national holidays and substitute holidays), special holidays, and Dec. 29-Jan. 3

【Hours】Apr.-Nov. 10:00-18:00, Dec.-Mar. 10:00-17:00 【Time required】1 hour 【Admission fees】Main building: ¥ 900, New Building: ¥ 900, Both: ¥1,500

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② Main Events Events Date(s) Location Outline

Itsukushima Shrine Kangensai Festival

Late July-early August (June 17 according to the historic calendar )

Itsukushima Shrine and vicinity

One of the most famous festivals that takes place in and around the Seto Inland Sea. During this festival, participants play orchestral music while Gozabune barges cross from one side of the bank to Jigozen Shrine on the opposite shore.

Miyajima Floating Fireworks Festival

August 14 Waters just beyond the Itsukushima Shrine Grand Torii gate

During this, Japan’s only floating fireworks festival, the night sky is illuminated by enchanting floral patterns as the sound of the fireworks pierces the summer air.

Chinkasai (Fire prevention festival)

December 31, begins at 18:00

Itsukushima Shrine During this festival, large pine wood bundles are set alight and young men carry torches as part of a ceremony to ward off disasters.

Miyajima Oyster Festival 2nd Saturday and Sunday in February

Pavilion across from Miyajima Pier

During this event, guests eat oyster cuisine, which is also available for purchase and shipping to other regions. Other attractions are also presented.

Miyajima Hina Doll Presentation

March 25-April 3 Various locations in Miyajima-cho

Miyajima’s traditional ohinasama dolls are exhibited.

③ Tourist Information Center (Miyajima Tourist Association TEL: 0829-44-2011)

● Miyajima Tourist Information Center Place: Miyajima Pier (1162-18 Miyajima-cho, Hatsukaichi City)

TEL: 0829-44-2011 Services provided: Comprehensive tourist guidance, lodging information

Hours: Mar. 21-Nov. 30 9:00-19:00, Dec. 1-Mar. 20 9:00-18:00

● Miyajima-guchi Information Center Place: Miyajima-guchi Resthouse (1-11-5 Miyajima-guchi, Hatsukaichi City) TEL: 0829-56-0600

Services provided: Comprehensive tourist guidance, lodging information Hours: 12:00-18:00 / Closed: Dec. 29-31

④ Tour Guides (Miyajima Tourist Association TEL: 0829-44-2011 / 1162-18 Miyajima-cho, Hatsukaichi City) Service area: Miyajima To request service: Make request in advance by telephone (0829-44-2011) Fees: Service fee collected per guide (two hours or less): ¥3,000/20 persons, ¥4,000/31-50 persons FM radio tour guide service: Introduces the major tourist attractions in Miyajima-cho

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(2) Tourist Attractions in Kumano-cho, Aki-gun ● Brush Museum(Fude-no-Sato-Kobo)（3115-1 Kumano-cho, Aki-gun TEL: 082-855-3010）

Kumano-cho is a “Town of brush-making” which takes pride for producing the greatest amount of brushes in Japan, such as calligraphy, artists work and cosmetic brushes. At this museum, participants can try brushmaking and creating illustrated letters.

【Closed】 Mondays（if Monday is a national holiday, Tuesday) and new year holiday

【Hours】9:30-17:00 (Hands-on classes offered from 10:00 to 15:30) 【Time required】1-1.5 hours 【Admission and other fees】

Brushmaking: ¥2,100 (includes admission) Illustrated letters: ¥1,500 (admission not included)

*Classes require reservations for groups of five or more

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(3) Higashi-hiroshima City ① Tourist Attractions

● Sakagura Dori（JR Saijo station circumference area / Ask at Saijo Station Information Center TEL: 082-421-2511） Sakagura Dori, sake cellar tours ・ Eight brewing companies open their cellars in order each Saturday, Sunday,

and during holidays. ・ Reservations required on weekdays

【Time required】Approx. 1 hour *On the 10th of each month, the Tourist Volunteer Guide Association shows

guests around the aforementioned facilities for free. (Reservations required for other dates.)

② Tourism Information Center

● Saijo Station Information Center (11-22 Saijo-honmachi, Higashi-hiroshima City TEL: 082-421-2511) Services provided: comprehensive tourist guidance / Hours: 10:00-16:00 / Closed: Mondays Operating organization: Higashi-hiroshima City Tourist Association (outsourced to Higashi-hiroshima Volunteer Association) 7-23-35 Saijo-chuo, Higashi-hiroshima City TEL: 082-420-0310

③ Tour Guides

Service provider: Higashi-hiroshima Volunteer Association Contact information: Higashi-hiroshima City Tourist Association, Saijo Station Information Center (11-22 Saijo-honmachi, Higashi-hiroshima City TEL: 082-421-2511) Service area: Higashi-hiroshima City, including Sakagura Dori / Approx. 50 guides available To request service: Fill out and submit specified application form at least one week prior to date on which you request service.

Higashi-hiroshima City Tourist Association FAX: 082-420-0329 Higashi-hiroshima City Tourist Association, Saijo Station Information Center FAX: 082-421-2511

Fees: ¥2,000/guide (one guide can assist up to 20 people.) / Closed: new year holiday

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(4) Kure City ① Tourist Attractions

● Yamato Museum (Kure Maritime Museum) (5-20 Takara-machi, Kure City TEL: 0823-25-3017) This is a museum to introduce the history of Kure, which is nothing short of the

history of modernization of Japan, and to introduce various scientific technologies, including shipbuildings and steelmaking, which were the foundation of the modern nation.

The Yamato Museum, which its centerpiece is a one-tenth scale model of the battle ship Yamato (length: 26.3m), conveys the importance of peace and the splendor of scientific technology. Along with some authentic items such as a human torpedo Kaiten and a Zero fighter, Type 62, the museum exhibits wills/testaments left by Yamato crew members and letters addressed to their families. There is also a testimonial video featuring bereaved families and homecoming survivors.

Other exhibits include devices to encourage hands-on, fun learning about the principle of ship-based scientific technology. This museum also features a display of the world created by Reiji Matsumoto, author of Star Blazer/Space Bsttle Ship Yamato, which can stimulate visitors to think deeply about the future.

【Time required】1-1.5 hrs. *Free audio commentary devices available 【Admission fees】

University students and older: ¥500 (¥400), senior high school students: ¥300 (¥200), junior high school and elementary school students: ¥200 (¥100)

* Discounted per-person rates for groups of 20 or more in parentheses 【Closed】Tuesdays(Wednesday if Tuesday falls on a national holiday.)

*Open everyday from July 21-August 31 【Hours】9:00-17:00(Hours subject to extension.)

● Irifuneyama Memorial Museum (4-6 Saiwai-cho, Kure City TEL: 0823-21-1037) The residence of the Commander-in-Chief of the former Kure Naval Statiors.

Admiral of the Kure Institution of Marine Affairs. The modern architecture of this building, with its unique blending of Western and

Eastern styles, has been restored to the way it looked upon its construction in 1905. Boasting some of the only walls in any Japanese structure decorated with gold embossed paper, this building has been designated as a national asset of cultural importance.

【Time required】1 hour * Volunteer guides available 【Admission fees】¥200 (¥160)

*Discounted per-person rate for groups of 20 or more in parentheses. Children high school-aged or younger admitted free.

【Closed】Tuesdays 【Hours】9:00-17:00

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● Alley Karasukojima Island(Showa-machi, Kure City) This park allows guests to get a closer look at submarines than anywhere else in

the country. The brick factories used by the former Naval Arsenal are still present, giving the region a classic feel.

*Volunteer guides available.

● Former Headquarters of the Kure Institution of Marine Affairs (8-1 Saiwai-cho, Kure City) (Public Information Bureau, Maritime Self-Defense Force Kure District TEL: 0823-22-5511)

Constructed in 1907 by the former Japanese Navy, this building is noted for the beautiful texture created by its granite and brick construction. Today, this structure serves as Kure District Headquarters of the Maritime Self-Defense Force.

【Time required】20 min. 【Admission fees】Free *Volunteer guides available. 【Open】Sundays 【Hours】 10:30-11:30, 14:00-15:00

● Ruins of the dock at which the battleship Yamato was constructed (Rekishi no Mieru Oka) (5 Miyahara, Kure City) To keep her construction a secret, Yamato was built indoors. Galvanized sheet

iron sheds are still visible inside the shipyard. *Volunteer guides available.

● Seseragi Sake Brewery (7-9-10 Hondori, Kure City TEL: 0823-22-1029) The Miyake Honten Co., Ltd., whose sake was awarded the gold medal for three

years in a row at the National New Sake Competition, opens its factory to the public. Patrons can taste ginjoshu (quality sake brewed from the finest rice), junmaishu (sake without added alcohol or sugar) and buy sake and related souvenirs.

【Time required】30 min.-1.5 hrs. 【Closed】New year holiday 【Hours】10:00-15:00 【Admission fees】Free *Reservations required

● Museum of Korean Missions to Japan (Shotoen) (2277-3 Sannose, Shimo-kamagari-cho, Kure City TEL: 0823-65-2900) There were 12 Korean missions to Japan during the Edo Period. They visited

Aki-Kamagari 11 times. When they visited there, they wewe satisfied with their hospitality.The museum exhibits authentic reproductions of the sumptuous food prepare for the Korean envoys long ago and also displays early Imari, old Kutani, and Kakiemon porcelain objects d’art..

【Time required】45 min. 【Open】 Every day *Volunteer guides available. 【Hours】9:00-17:00 【Admission fees】

¥800 (¥640) *Discounted per-person rate for groups of 20 or more in parentheses. Children high school-aged or younger admitted free.

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● Rantokaku Museum (200-1 Sannose, Shimo-kamagari-cho, Kure City TEL: 0823-65-3066) The Rantokaku Museum collects and displays a lot of works by famous

Japanese artists such as Taikan Yokoyama. In addition, it exhibits paintings which are described beautiful scenary of the Seto Inland Sea.

【Time required】40 min. *Volunteer guides available. 【Open】 Every day 【Hours】9:00-17:00 【Admission fees】¥500 (¥400) *Discounted per-person rate for groups of 20 or more in parentheses.

Children high school-aged or younger admitted free.

● Hakusetsuro (197 Sannose, Shimo-kamagari-cho, Kure City TEL: 0823-65-3066) The Hakusetsuro was built in the later of the Edo Period. Visitors can enjoy Tea

in its unique Japanese-style room which has rotating walls. 【Time required】20 min. 【Open】 Every day 【Hours】9:00-17:00

*Volunteer guides available. 【Admission fees】¥300 (¥240) *Discounted per-person rate for groups of 20 or more in parentheses. Children high school-aged or younger admitted free.

● Hime Hijiki Salt-making Workshop (Hands-on) OP (Kansho-en, Shimo-kamagari-cho, Kure City TEL: 0823-65-2029) During this workshop, participants soak new hime hijiki seaweed shoots in sea

water for 24 hours, ladle off the liquid that forms on the top, place the liquid in an earthenware pot, and boil the solution over a charcoal fire until salt coagulates.

【Time required】1 hour 【Fees】¥3,000 for groups of 5 or fewer, ¥500 for each additional person *Reservation required

● Moshio Workshop (Ancient salt-making method) (Hands-on) OP (Public beach, Oura, Kamagari-cho, Kure City TEL: 0823-66-0109) Moshio is an ancient form of salt making recorded in the Manyoshu, Japan’s

oldest poetry anthology. Salt produced through this process is rich in minerals and has a mild flavor. During this workshop, participants learn how to use a type of seaweed called hondawara (sea grape) that has been soaked in seawater and an earthen container to coagulate the salt in seawater.

【Time required】2 hours 【Fees】¥5,000 for groups of 5 or fewer, ¥1000 for each additional person *Reservation required

● Tourist Squid/Octopus Basket Fishing (2032-1 Miyamori, Kamagari-cho, Kure City TEL: 0823-66-0114)

Tourists board a fishing boat, sail offshore, and remove squid and fish from nets. At lunch, mouth-watering course meals featuring squid, octopus, and other seafood are served.

Squid fishing (late April - late June), Octopus basket fishing (July-September), Gill net fishing (year round)

【Time required】 2 hours 【Admission fees】 Adults: ¥5,250, Children elementary school aged and younger: ¥3,675

*Reservations required

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● Ondo no Seto Koen (Ondo Seto Park) OP (8 Kegoya, Kure City) This park contains 8,300 azaleas that reach full bloom in early May. It is also well-known for its 2,300 cherry blossom trees.

Located within the park is the Taira no Kiyomori Himaneki-Zo, a statue of Taira no Kiyomori beckoning the sun, and a gorgeous view of the nearby islands may be had.

● Ondo Crossing OP

This tour takes guests across the Seto Strait. According to legend, Taira no Kiyomori carved the strait in a single day. The rapid tides in the 70 m wide strait, traversed by 550 vessels daily, are sure to make this crossing one to remember!

【Time required】2 min. Available Everyday 【Hours】5:30-21:00 【Fees】Adults: ¥70, Children: ¥40

● Ondo Residents’ Cultural Museum Uzushio (1-2-3 Iwashihama, Ondo-cho, Kure City)

The exhibits at the Museum use moving puppets and other materials to describe the Festival of Kiyomori. Also featured are restaurants overlooking Ondo no Seto that serve ikesu cuisine and shops offering local specialties such as ondo chirimen, a nationally known brand of boiled and dried baby sardines, and handmade sardine tempura.

【Closed】Mondays 【Hours】9:30-21:30 【Admission fees】Free

● Kabuto-iwa Observatory OP (Crest of Mt. Noro, Kawajiri-cho, Kure City)

From this observatory, which overlooks Shimo-kamagari Island, Kami-kamagari Island, and the two bridges that connect them (Akinada Bridge and Kamagari Bridge), it is possible to see the mountains of Shikoku on a clear day. In the springtime, rhododendron hirado azalea hybrids bloom on the observatory grounds.

● Mitarai-cho Cityscape Preservation Area OP (Mitarai Region, Yutaka-machi, Kure City TEL: 08466-7-2278)

The buildings and breakwaters in this area, which date from the middle of the Edo Period, retain vestiges of the bakufu influence. This architecture, in addition to the lighthouse and other numerous historical ruins, led to the 1994 designation of this location as an Area for Preserving Important Traditional Buildings. During the Edo Period, Mitarai flourished as a trading hub. It is said that when Siebold visited, he examined a sick young woman here.

【Open】Every day 【Admission fees】 Only required for certain exhibits

Opera Hall Otomeza (Virgo) General Admission: ¥100 (¥80) Elementary-High School Aged Children ¥50 (¥40)

*Volunteer guides available.

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② Tourist Information Center ● Kure Tourist Information Plaza (TEL: 0823-23-7845)

Place: Residential Building 3rd Floor, “Recre” at Kure Station (JR Kure Station, south side)

Services provided: comprehensive tourist guidance Pesonel: two Foreign languages: Not specified Closed: new year holiday Hours: 9:00-17:00

Personnel: two persons Operating organization: Tourism Facility Section, Kure City Hall (6-2-9 Chuo, Kure City TEL: 0823-25-3181)

● Neighborhood Tourism Information Center (Located at a total of 35 gas stations and other businesses throughout the city)

TEL: differs for each business Services provided: comprehensive tourist guidance Personnel: one or more Foreign languages: Not specified (English accommodated in hotels) Service hours: Operating hours differ for each facility Closed: times and days differ for each business Operating organization: differs for each business

③ Tour Guides

● Kure Volunteer Tour Guide Association (Kure City Tourism Promotion Section / 6-29 Chuo, Kure City TEL: 0823-25-3181)

Service area: Urban Kure, centering on the Irifuneyama Museum To request service: fill out and submit specified application form via fax (Fax: 0823-25-7592) *A guide who can speak English is available. Reservation is required in

advance. Closed: new year holiday Hours: 8:30-17:00 Personnel: 52 persons (two English speakers, reservations required)

● Yutaka-machi Volunteer Tour Guides (187-1 Mitarai, Kure City TEL: 08466-7-2278) Service area: Mitarai-cho Cityscape Preservation Area To request service: call at least one week in advance

(TEL: 08466-7-2278) Closed: Jan.1-Jan.3 Hours: 8:30-17:00 *A guide who can speak English is available. Reservation is required in advance.

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(5) Etajima City ① Tourist Attractions

● Maritime Self-Defense Force, First Service School (Etajima-cho, Etajima City TEL: 0823-42-1211) Although the Maritime Self-Defense Force currently uses this building as an

educational facility, it was a school for sailors in the former Japanese Navy until the end of World War II. During that era, the building contributed to the development of naval officers.

【Time required】Approx. 1.5 hours 【Closed】New year holiday 【Tour hours】

Weekdays: Beginning at 10:30, 13:00, and 15:00 Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays: Beginning at 10:00, 11:00, and 13:00

【Admission fees】Free

② Tourist Information Center ● Furusato Koryukan (Hometown interaction hall) (1-3-10 Chuo, Etajima-cho, Etajima City TEL: 0823-42-4871) Hours: 9:00-17:00 Closed: Mondays (If Monday is a national holiday, Tuesday) Operating organization: Etajima City Tourist Association (1-3-10 Chuo, Etajima-cho, Etajima City TEL: 0823-42-4871) Personnel: two persons

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(6) Takehara City

① Tourist Attractions ● Taketsuru Sake Brewery (Ozasaya Sake Museum) (3-10-29 Honmachi, Takehara City TEL: 0846-22-0022)

Taketsuru Sake Brewery is famous as the family home of Masataka Taketsuru, the founder of Nikka Whiskey. The shop on the site is called Ozasaya. The museum exhibits a collection consisting of approx. 50 sake vessels and pieces of sake making equipment. Guests also have the opportunity to sample the fine, traditional sake produced at the brewery.

【Time required】10 min. 【Hours】10:00-12:00, 13:00-16:00 【Closed】Tuesdays 【Admission fees】Free

● Fujii Sake Brewery, Hoju Sake Cellar Museum OP (3-4-14 Honmachi, Takehara City TEL: 0846-22-2029)

This relaxing space, which served as a sake cellar during the Edo Period, was renovated and is now owned by the manufacturer of the Hoju and Ryusei brands.

【Time required】10 min. 【Open】Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00-16:00 (closed for lunch time) 【Closed】 Mondays（if Monday is a national holiday, Tuesday）【Admission fees】Free 【Capacity】30 people, reservations only needed if detailed guidance is desired. Wheelchair accessible

● Matsuzaka Residence (3-9-22 Honmachi, Takehara City TEL: 0846-22-5474)

This structure, located in the Historic Structure Preservation Zone, exemplifies the merchant homes of the late Edo Period. Restored in 1867, it boasts rounded Chinese-style gables and elaborate, decorative projecting latticework..

【Time required】10 min. 【Hours】9:00-17:00（Enter by 16:30）【Closed】Mondays and Dec. 29-Jan. 3 【Admission fees】¥200

● Saihoji Temple Fumeikaku (3-10-44 Honmachi, Takehara City / TEL: 0846-22-2236)

Saihoji Temple is a Jodo sect Buddhist temple that was supposedly founded on a hilltop by Hoyo in 1560. This precious structure exemplifies typical Buddhist temple design of the mid-Edo Period. The Fumeikaku’s architecture, with its pyramidal two-story roof and superbly detailed craftsmanship, was constructed in a manner similar to a stage.

【Time required】10 min. 【Open】Every day 【Admission fees】Free

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② Tourist Information Center

● Stationfront Tourist Information Center (1-1-10 Chuo, Takehara City TEL: 0846-22-4331) Hours: 8:30-17:00 Open: every day Operating organization: Takehara City Tourist Association (1-1-10 Chuo, Takehara City TEL: 0846-22-4331) Personnel: two persons

③ Tour Guides

● Takehara Tour Guide Association (Cityscape Sightseeing Center Kominitei) (1-11-6 Tanoura, Takehara City TEL: 0846-22-1524) Service area: Historic Structure Preservation Zone To request service: call Cityscape Tourist Center Kominitei to apply (TEL: 0846-22-1524) Hours: 9:00-18:00 / 13 guides available Closed: Obon and new year holidays Fees: ¥2,000/guide (one guide can assist up to 20 people)

(7) Iwakuni City

① Tourist Attractions ● Kintaikyo Bridge (Yokoyama, Iwakuni City TEL: 0827-41-1477)

This wooden structure is noted as one of the three finest bridges in all of Japan. 【Time required】30 min. Open all day, bus parking available (approx. 30 vehicle capacity, fee-based)

● Iwakuni Castle (Yokoyama, Iwakuni City TEL: 0827-41-1477)

The city and the Seto Inland Sea beyond are truly breathtaking when viewed from the castle.

【Time required】30 min. 【Closed】December 16-31【Hours】9:00-16:45 【Admission Fees】Adults: ¥260 (¥200 for groups)

● Yokoyama White Snake Viewing (2-6 Yokoyama, Iwakuni City TEL: 0827-43-4888)

White snake viewing location 【Time required】15 min. 【 Open】Every day 【Hours】9:00-17:00 【Admission fee】Free

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● Tenjin White Snake Viewing (6-4-2 Imazu, Iwakuni City TEL: 0827-41-0506)

White snake viewing location 【Time required】15 min. 【Open】Every day 【Hours】9:00-17:00 【Admission fee】Free

● Kagawa Family Row House Gate (Yokoyama, Iwakuni City)

Long ago, five families ruled what was then known as the Iwakuni clan. One of these families, the Kagawa, lived in the house before which this gate stands. It is said that Masatsune Kagawa built the gate in 1693. The gate is a prime specimen of the type of architecture that surrounded the homes in which samurai families of the day resided and was designated as a cultural treasure by Yamaguchi Prefecture. The Kagawa family owned other gates in addition to this, including those used for passage and those that stood between the front of the house and the yard. It is known that people determined which gate to use based upon their station in life and the task they had to accomplish. Although the exterior of the gate can be observed all day from the road outside, the grounds can only be observed with the consent of the descendents of the Kagawa family, who still live within.

【Time required】5 min. 【Admission fee】Free

● Kikko Park (Yokoyama, Iwakuni City) Kikko Park lies along the path from Kintaikyo Bridge to Iwakuni Castle. It features a multitude of historical buildings, a fountain, and numerous trees, making it a popular rest area among local residents.

● Former Mekata Family Residence (Yokoyama, Iwakuni City TEL: 0827-41-0457)

These ruins, which appear to be those of a middle-ranking military family dating back to the mid 18th century, were designated as a National Asset of Cultural Importance.

【Time required】5 min. 【Hours】9:30-17:00 【Closed】Mondays (if Monday is a national holiday, Tuesday) 【Admission fee】Free

● Iwakuni Art Museum (2-10-27 Yokoyama, Iwakuni City TEL: 0827-41-0506)

Famous for one of the finest displays of martial raiment in Japan, this facility features approx. 200 pieces of armor, swords, and other equipment once owned by feudal lords. Dating from the Kamakura to the Edo Periods, these permanent exhibitions are rotated four times per year and are displayed alongside special exhibitions and projects.

【Time required】15min. 【Hours】9:00-17:00 【Closed】Thursdays（if Thursday is a national holiday, Friday）【Admission fee】Adults: ¥500

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● Kikkawa Historical Museum (2-7-3 Yokoyama, Iwakuni City TEL: 0827-41-1010)

The Museum displays precious ancient texts, significant objects d’art and war implements attributed to the Kikkawa clan, the rulers of what were once known as the Iwakuni domain. Open to the public, these displays are rotated in order four times per year. Items of note on exhibit include Kitsunegasaki no Tachi (Kitsunegasaki Longsword), which is a national treasure in addition to Kikkawa-ke Bunsho (Chronicles of the Kikkawa clan), Taiheiki (Record of Great Peace), and the Azumakagami (Mirror of Azuma), all of which were designated as important cultural assets.

【Time required】30 min. 【Hours】9:00-17:00 (Enter by 16:30) 【Closed】Wednesdays（if Wednesday is a national holiday, Thursday）【Admission fee】Adults: ¥500（¥400 for groups）

② Events

● Cormorant Fishing (Reservations required) Season: June 1-August 31 / Hours: 18:30-21:00 Location: riverside at Kintaikyo Bridge Fees: *shared boat: Adults: ¥3,500 *private boat: 10 people: ¥35,000, 15 people: ¥52,500, 25 people: ¥87,500, 30 people: ¥105,000

Lunch set tickets also available Inquiries: Nishikigawa River Cormorant Fishing Promotion Association (TEL: 0827-41-0470)

③ Tourist Information Centers

● Iwakuni City Comprehensive Tourist Information Center（Located in JR Iwakuni Station）(1-1-1 Maribu-cho, Iwakuni City TEL: 0827-21-6050) Services provided: comprehensive tourist guidance (packages of facility use tickets available for purchase) Hours: 9:30-17:00 / Open: every day Operating organization: Iwakuni Tourist Association (1-5-10 Iwakuni, Iwakuni City TEL: 0827-41-2037)

● Japan Tourist Association Shin-Iwakuni Station Lodging Information Center（Located in JR Shin-Iwakuni Station）

(1055-1 Oaza Onsho, Iwakuni City TEL: 0827-46-0656) Services provided: comprehensive tourist guidance (packages of facility use tickets available for purchase) Hours: 10:30-16:00 / Closed: Wednesdays Operating organization: Japan Tourist Association, Hiroshima Branch, Iwakuni District Office (1-1-1 Maribu-cho, Iwakuni City)

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● Iwakuni City Tourist Association（located next to Kintaikyo Bridge, 1-5-10 Iwakuni, Iwakuni City） Services provided: comprehensive tourist guidance (packages of facility use tickets available for purchase) Hours: 9:00-17:00 / Open: every day Operating organization: Iwakuni City Tourist Association (1-5-10 Iwakuni, Iwakuni City TEL: 0827-41-2037)

④ Tour Guides

● Iwakuni Volunteer Tour Guide Association（Tourism Section, Iwakuni City）(2-6-51 Yokoyama, Iwakuni City TEL: 0827-41-1477) Service areas: Kintaikyo Bridge and Kikko Park To request service: Apply by telephone at least three days prior to visit (TEL: 0827-41-1477) *Guides wait at the entrance to the Kintaikyo Bridge on Sundays and national holidays in spring and autumn. Same-day requests for service are possible. Hours: As requested by client Foreign languages: several English and Korean-speaking guides available (Advance reservations required) Fees: free / Personnel: 60 persons

4 Unique Transportation

● River Pleasure Cruises (Aqua Net Hiroshima Co., Ltd.) (1-9 Ote-machi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-261-1255) Passengers can learn about Hiroshima’s industry, history, and natural environment from inside the vessel

Time required: 1 hr. / Capacity: Up to 45 people Open: year round / Hours: Cruises beginning at 10:30, 11:30, and once per hour from 13:00 to 16:00 Night cruises available (may be canceled due to tidal conditions or other reasons) Ships: Runrun II, Suisui

World Heritage Sites Cruise (A-bomb Dome, Miyajima) Time required: 50 min. each way, 2 hrs. round-trip / Capacity: river: 75 people; ocean:45 people / Ships: Runrun II, Kirara

● Miyajima Cruise OP (TEL: 0829-44-0888)

Itsukushima Shrine Maritime Visit (*During high tide, the boat may pass through the Miyajima Torii Gate before visiting the shrine) Time required: 30 min. round-trip (Departing from Miyajima) Nighttime cruises: beginning at 19:55, 20:35, 21:15 Capacity: 48 seats (60 people) Ship: Ogasa-maru

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● Streetcars OP (Hiroshima Electric Railway Co., Ltd.) (2-9-29 Higashi-senda-machi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-242-0022)

All-you-can-ride single-day passes available; Streetcars available for rental (reservations necessary) Green Mover: 150 passengers, Dortmund (eating and drinking permitted): 50 passengers

● Seto Inland Sea Cruise Barges（Seto Inland Sea Steamship Co., Ltd.）(1-12-23 Ujina-kaigan, Minami-ku, Hiroshima City TEL: 082-253-1212)

Passengers cruise the Seto Inland Sea on the “Ginga” and other ships *Dates, times subject to arrangement Time required: adjusted to accommodate customer request Capacity: 200 people if meals are served, 350 people if not

● Gangi Taxi (NPO Gangi-gumi, Inc.) (TEL: 082-230-5537)

Gangi Taxi use the approx. 300 gangi (stepped piers) located in the city as docks, providing travelling to any destination along the six rivers that run through Hiroshima, the “City of Water”

Open: daily (in principle), service available at 25 piers throughout the city Hours: 10:00-17:00 (in principle) Fees: adults: ¥500 for 10 min. (charter fees available) Minimum of two passengers required; can dock at stepped pier located in front of A-bomb Dome; call to request a pickup at the nearest stepped pier

● Velotaxi (Primalconcept, Ltd., Velotaxi Dept., Princess Namiki, 6th Fl.) OP (4-10 Mikawa-cho, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City TEL:082-249-6257)

The Velotaxi route is a 1.5 km-radius trek through the city center that gives passengers the opportunity to see World Heritage Sites such as the A-bomb Dome and its environs (including Peace Memorial Park and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum), Hiroshima Castle, and Shukkeien Garden

Hours: 11:00-17:00 *Standby location for taxis in Hiroshima City is Motoyasu-bashi Bridge (east side) To request a ride, passengers may either proceed to the standby location or request a pickup via wireless service Fees: adults: ¥300 for set initial distance, ¥50 for each additional 100 m. Number of taxis: eight in Hiroshima City, two on Miyajima

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● Aki-Jinriki-gumi (Rickshaw service) OP (Supervisor: Kondo, TEL: 090-5263-4135, Email: [email protected])

Operated by four students who study at nearby Hiroshima Shudo University. They explain their philosophy as follows: “We don’t need reasons why we can’t do something. We search for ways that we can, and make things happen. That’s the way we do things at Aki Jinriki.”

Service area: Miyajima Open: Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays / Hours: 10:00-approx. 16:30 (subject to change based on weather conditions) Rickshaw may be hailed at Miyajima Pier or telephone to request pickup from the pier if necessary. One rickshaw in service Fees: ¥1,000/10 min. *Example Courses: Pier to Itsukushima Shrine: ¥2,000, Pier to Aquarium: ¥3,000 (other courses available upon customer request)

● Yumeguruma Mageichidai (Rickshaw service) TEL: 090-3457-6533

A professional with more than 10 years of business experience. “Give yourself the best. I will make the trip to your destination a sightseeing experience.”

Service area: Miyajima *Rickshaw waits at Miyajima pier Hours: 8:30-17:00 Closed: during inclement weather One rickshaw in service Fees: Regular Course (approx. 20 min.): ¥3,000/couple, ¥2,000/single

Deluxe Course (approx. 30 min.): ¥5,000/couple, ¥6,000/single VIP Course (approx. 1 hour): ¥10,000/couple, ¥6,000 single

hiroshima regional tourism guidebook

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