Hiroshima Winter Guide 2025: Beautiful Scenery, Food like Oyster & Event List for Your Perfect Winter Trip
Hiroshima is located in western Japan and is globally known as a peace city. Places that convey the history of war and peace are scattered throughout, including the Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Park, attracting many travelers.
Blessed with a mild climate facing the Seto Inland Sea and rich nature, the delicious food culture including oysters, okonomiyaki, and sake is also an attractive point.
There are many spots where you can feel historical buildings and traditional culture, such as the World Heritage Site Itsukushima Shrine and Hiroshima Castle, making it popular as a city where you can enjoy both sightseeing and gourmet food.
This time, we'll comprehensively introduce the scenery, food, and events to fully enjoy Hiroshima winter. This guide is packed with hints that will serve as a reference for travel planning and help you realize a fulfilling winter trip even with limited stay time.
Climate and Recommended Clothing for Hiroshima Winter
Hiroshima winter becomes increasingly cold from December to February, so choosing clothing appropriate for the season is important for sightseeing and participating in events. Due to its location along the Seto Inland Sea coast, snowfall is minimal, but mornings and evenings get cold, and there are days with strong winds. The characteristics and clothing guidelines for each month are as follows:
December:
- Climate characteristics: Daytime temperatures are relatively mild at around 10°C, but mornings and evenings can drop below 5°C. It's around the end of autumn foliage season, with crisp winter air spreading.
- Recommended clothing: Light knits or shirts layered with coats or jackets will be comfortable. A scarf will provide peace of mind when outdoors.
January:
- Climate characteristics: The coldest month of the year, with minimum temperatures dropping to around 0°C. Cold temperatures of 5-8°C continue during the day.
- Recommended clothing: Wear thick coats or down jackets and warm inner layers. Gloves and hats will also make you comfortable.
February:
- Climate characteristics: The cold continues, but sunlight gradually becomes softer from late in the month. Temperatures are similar to January.
- Recommended clothing: In addition to the same winter clothing as January, having clothing that can be adjusted with light stoles on sunny days is convenient.
Attractions of Hiroshima Winter
Hiroshima winter offers beautiful scenery wrapped in clear air and gentle light as its attractive point. At the World Heritage Site Itsukushima Shrine, you can experience a solemn atmosphere along with snow and winter tides.
Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome allow you to deeply feel about peace precisely because it's a quiet season.
Seasonal delicacies like oysters and monkfish hot pot are abundant in winter, warming both heart and body. In the city, you can also experience seasonal activities like illuminations and New Year events.
Spots Covered with Snow! 5 Beautiful Tourist Destinations Recommended by the Author
Hiroshima has many tourist destinations that can be enjoyed whenever you visit, but there are sceneries that can only be seen in winter.
From here, I'll introduce 5 carefully selected tourist destinations recommended by the author.
Itsukushima Shrine
Hiroshima winter at Itsukushima Shrine is especially quiet among the four seasons and a time when you can enjoy a mystical atmosphere.
Itsukushima Shrine is a shrine located on Miyajima in Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, characterized by shrine buildings and a large torii gate that appear to float on the sea. It has also been selected as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.
The scenery changes dramatically with the ebb and flow of tides. At high tide, the shrine appears to float on the sea, and at low tide, you can walk near the torii gate when the tide recedes.
In the clear winter air, the red-painted buildings appear even more vivid, and with relatively fewer tourists, you can leisurely worship and take photos.
On snowy days, the contrast between the white snow and red buildings is fantastical, and you may encounter scenery like a painting.
I went in the evening, and the way the sunset illuminated the torii and sea surface was beautiful, allowing me to enjoy winter-specific scenery.
Address: 1-1 Miyajima-cho, Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Operating Hours: 6:30-18:00 (Subject to seasonal changes)
Closed: Open year-round
Phone: 0829-44-2020
Official Website: https://www.itsukushimajinja.jp/
Peace Memorial Park
Peace Memorial Park is a green-rich park extending along the river in central Hiroshima City, with the World Heritage Atomic Bomb Dome at its center.
Monuments and memorials wishing for peace are scattered throughout the park, creating a space where visitors quietly reflect.
In winter, there are relatively fewer tourists, allowing you to stroll in a calm atmosphere.
Walking along the riverside promenade, the cold wind brushes your cheeks, but that refreshing feeling makes the beauty of the scenery stand out even more.
There's a "Peace Bell" in the park that anyone can ring. When I visited, the bell's sound echoed throughout the quiet park, naturally stopping my steps.
At dusk, the sky is dyed in soft colors, and the scene reflected on the river surface and Atomic Bomb Dome will surely become an unforgettable memory.
Address: Nakajima-cho 1 and Otemachi 1-10, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Operating Hours: All day
Closed: Open year-round
Phone: 082-504-2390
Official Website: https://www.city.hiroshima.lg.jp/living/park-green/1005983/1026353/1003127.html
Hiroshima Castle
Hiroshima Castle is a beautiful castle located in the city center, also known by the affectionate nickname "Carp Castle" due to reasons such as having many carp.
The topmost part of the castle surrounded by moats and stone walls, called "Tenshu," has an impressive black and white contrast appearance that stands out even more in the clear winter air.
The castle interior is open as a museum where you can view exhibitions of armor, swords, and Hiroshima's history. The attractive point is that you can tour in a calm atmosphere with relatively fewer tourists in winter.
When I visited, the Tenshu reflected in the moat was beautiful against the clear blue sky, and I became absorbed in photography.
From the top floor, you can see the city and distant mountains, with clear winter scenery spreading out. You can feel refreshed in a way that's unique to winter.
Note that Hiroshima Castle's Tenshu will close on March 22, 2026, due to aging and other reasons. The swords and armor inside the castle will be moved to a museum scheduled to open in 2026, but you can only see the Tenshu now. If you're interested, please visit by March next year.
Address: 21-1 Motomachi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Operating Hours:
- Tenshu Opening Hours
March-November: 9:00-18:00
December-February: 9:00-17:00
- Ninomaru Opening Hours
April-September: 9:00-17:30
October-March: 9:00-16:30
Closed: Year-end and New Year (December 29-31) Other temporary closure days may apply
Phone: 082-221-7512
Official Website: https://hiroshimacastle.jp/
Shukkei-en Garden
Shukkei-en Garden is a Japanese garden located in central Hiroshima city, reportedly built in 1620 as a villa for the person who governed this area at the time. The garden replicates the scenery of China's West Lake, condensing the atmosphere of mountains, rivers, the capital, and deep mountain valleys into a single garden.
Large and small islands float in the central pond of the garden, with bridges, valleys, and pavilions skillfully arranged to create a strolling garden where visitors can enjoy the scenery of all four seasons. Hiroshima winter at Shukkei-en Garden is charming with its clear air and subdued natural colors, making the scenery reflected on the water surface even more beautifully vivid.
During periods when there are fewer tourists, you can quietly stroll along the pond's edge while thoroughly savoring the garden's depth and structural beauty. Actually, Shukkei-en Garden was devastated by the Atomic Bomb Dome, but the buildings have been restored.
Within the garden, there are spots where you can take a break and enjoy matcha tea. I ate Japanese noodle dish "Udon" and then enjoyed a set of matcha and Japanese sweets.
Address: 2-11 Kami-nobori-cho, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Operating Hours:
March 16 - September 15: 9:00-18:00
September 16 - March 15: 9:00-17:00
Closed: No regular holidays
Phone: 082-221-3620
Official Website: https://shukkeien.jp/
National Bihoku Hillside Park
Source:Official Instagram
National Bihoku Hillside Park is a national park utilizing the vast hilly terrain spreading across northern Hiroshima prefecture, where you can enjoy nature and events throughout the four seasons.
The greatest attraction of Hiroshima winter here is the illuminations that light up the night scenery. Countless lights sparkle across the vast grounds, creating fantastical worlds with different themes in each area. The light tunnels viewed from the lawn area and the panoramic view from the hilltop are spectacular, making them perfect for photography.
When I visited, it was a day when fireworks were launched, so I was able to have the special experience of enjoying fireworks and illuminations simultaneously. In addition to illuminations, during the day you can walk through the squares and walking paths while fully enjoying the winter-bare scenery and clear air.
The park also has areas where children can play and places to enjoy seasonal flowers, making it popular with families and couples.
Address: 4-10 Mikkaichi-cho, Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Operating Hours:
Closed: Every Monday (Tuesday if Monday is a holiday), Year-end and New Year (December 31 - January 1)
March 1 - June 30: 9:30-17:00
July 1 - August 31: 9:30-18:00
September 1 - October 31: 9:30-17:00
November 1 - February 28 or 29: 9:30-16:30
Phone: 0824-72-7000
Official Website: https://www.bihokupark.jp/
To Fully Enjoy Winter Miyajima, Having a Local Guide is Best!
Hiroshima winter Miyajima is attractive for enjoying the mystical tranquility of Itsukushima Shrine and the great torii gate floating in the blue sea, all within the cold, clear air. However, Miyajima is vast with many sights to see, so first-time visitors might run out of time. Therefore, I recommend MagicalTrip's walking tour, which thoroughly covers Miyajima's representative spots in about half a day.
English-speaking local guides provide tours, so you can learn about the stories behind tourist spots, hidden scenic viewpoints, and local gourmet recommendations that locals truly recommend. After the tour ends, you can explore freely, so be sure to ask the guide about recommended spots.
Meeting Point: In front of Seven-Eleven in front of JR Miyajima-guchi Station
Tour Area: Area around Itsukushima Shrine
Start Time: 9:30
Three Activities to Enjoy in Winter Hiroshima and Recommended Spots
Hiroshima has many spots where you can enjoy various activities. From among these, I'll introduce carefully selected spots that are especially enjoyable during Hiroshima winter.
Hot Springs (Megahira Onsen Quere Yoshikazu)
Source:Google Maps
Megahira Onsen Quere Yoshikazu is a hot spring facility located in a nature-rich area about one hour by car from central Hiroshima city. In winter, the surrounding mountains are covered with snow, and you can enjoy the luxury of soaking in outdoor baths while viewing that scenery from the open-air baths.
The quality of the hot springs is mildly alkaline and gentle on the skin. After bathing, your skin feels moisturized and your chilled body warms from the core. The hot springs you enter while feeling the clear outdoor air after getting cold from sightseeing and activities are exceptional.
On the day I visited, it was snowing, and I lost track of time while soaking up to my shoulders, watching the snow dancing down onto the water's surface. The facility also has saunas, rest areas, and a restaurant using local ingredients, allowing you to spend time relaxing. You can not only enjoy day-trip hot spring bathing but also stay overnight.
Since it's adjacent to a ski resort, plans combining skiing and hot springs are also recommended.
Address: 4291 Yoshiwa, Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Operating Hours:
Day-trip bathing: 11:00-19:00 (last entry 18:00)
Overnight guests:
Evening: until 23:00
Morning: 6:00-9:00
Closed: Day-trip bathing closed on Tuesdays (regular operation if Tuesday is a holiday)
Phone: 0829-77-2277
Official Website: https://www.megahira.co.jp/pc/spa.html
Skiing (Yawata Highland 191 Resort)
Source:Google Maps
Yawata Highland 191 Resort is a ski resort located in Kitahiroshima Town, Hiroshima prefecture, in an easily accessible location by car from Hiroshima city. There are 7 courses that can be enjoyed from beginners to advanced skiers (6 courses combining beginner and intermediate levels), with areas for advanced skiers including moguls.
There's a beginner-friendly "Snow Park" with gentle slopes where both skiers and snowboarders can enjoy. Even I, with little skiing experience, was able to enjoy thoroughly in this area with peace of mind. The use of artificial snow means you can expect stable slope conditions throughout the season, which is also attractive.
The facilities are well-equipped with rental equipment (wear and ski sets), kids' park, restaurant, rest areas, and more, making it enjoyable for all age groups.
Address: Nishi-Yawata-hara, Kitahiroshima-cho, Yamagata-gun, Hiroshima Prefecture
Operating Hours:
Weekdays: 8:00-17:00
Weekends/Holidays: 7:30-17:00
Closed: No holidays during season
Phone: 0826-37-0341
Official Website: https://yawata191.com/
Sea of Fog (Mt. Takatani Sea of Fog Observatory)
Mt. Takatani Sea of Fog Observatory is a scenic viewpoint on a small mountain in Miyoshi City, Hiroshima prefecture, offering panoramic views of the Miyoshi basin from 490 meters above sea level.
Hiroshima winter mornings are particularly beautiful, with sea of clouds covering the basin in the chilled air, creating scenery that looks like floating on a white sea. This spectacular view changes expression depending on weather and time of day, and on clear days you can see clearly to distant mountains.
The fog that appears like the sea cannot be seen unless weather conditions align. Generally, it tends to be visible on clear mornings from September to March of the following year, especially from late September to November. It occurs when conditions overlap such as a temperature difference of 10 degrees or more between the previous day's afternoon and the following morning's early hours, with humidity, cold air, and weak winds.
If you're lucky enough to see it, it will become an unforgettable memory. The vividness of the scenery created by the clear air and light unique to Hiroshima winter is photogenic, and I was fortunate to see the fog when I visited, so I took many photos.
Address: Awaya-cho, Miyoshi City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Operating Hours: All day
Closed: Open year-round
Phone: 0824-63-9268
Official Website: None
3 Exquisite Seasonal Ingredients That Reach Their Peak During Hiroshima Winter
Hiroshima winter brings an abundance of ingredients that deepen in flavor as the cold intensifies. Japan, with its distinct four seasons, offers numerous ingredients that reach their peak taste and nutritional value in each season. This phenomenon where ingredients reach their peak deliciousness according to the season is called "shun" (旬) in Japan.
Here, we'll carefully select three exquisite ingredients that reach their peak during Hiroshima winter, along with recommended restaurants where you can enjoy each of them.
Oysters (Peak Season: November to February)
During this season, enjoy Hiroshima's pride - the winter delicacy of "oysters." Especially from November to February, the flesh becomes plump and fat, offering exceptional rich umami and creamy texture.
Oysters raised in the calm waters of the Seto Inland Sea are rich in minerals. Whether eaten raw, steamed, grilled, or fried, you can enjoy different flavors depending on the cooking method.
There are numerous local shops and direct sales outlets where you can taste fresh oysters, making Hiroshima winter the perfect opportunity to savor the authentic taste unique to the production area.
Here are some recommended shops we'd like to introduce - please be sure to visit them.
Yakigaki No Hayashi
Source:Official website
Yakigaki No Hayashi is a long-established shop founded in 1948, located on Miyajima, which is registered as a World Cultural Heritage site.
On Miyajima, grilled oysters in their shells are a specialty, and this Yakigaki No Hayashi is the birthplace of this dish, with lines forming on holidays.
They use the highest-grade brand oysters called "Jigozen Oysters," which have large flesh and rich flavor, allowing you to savor what is said to be Japan's finest taste.
While you can enjoy oysters prepared in various ways, I recommend eating them raw. Although oyster season is winter, since they use oysters caught in areas with stable water temperatures, you can enjoy raw oysters year-round.
Address: 505-1 Miyajima-cho, Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Business Hours: 10:30-17:00 (L.O. 16:30)
Closed: Wednesdays
Phone: 0829-44-0335
Official Website: https://www.yakigaki-no-hayashi.co.jp/howto.html
Kusatsu Oyster Hut
Source:Tabelog
Kusatsu Oyster Hut is located at Kusatsu Fishing Port in Hiroshima City.
In this open-atmosphere hut built along the coast, you can grill and eat freshly caught oysters on the spot.
The shop has grills lined up inside, and the style is to grill and eat oysters from large buckets yourself.
Soy sauce and "Ponzu" (a refreshing seasoning made with soy sauce and citrus) are available on the table for free use, but you can also order toppings like cheese and butter for an additional fee. You can enjoy oysters freely with your preferred seasoning.
There's also an all-you-can-eat menu, so you can thoroughly enjoy oysters.
I chose a menu that included fried oysters and miso soup as a set, and I recommend eating it together with grilled oysters as you can enjoy oysters prepared in various ways.
Address: 1-13 Kusatsu Port, Nishi Ward, Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Business Hours:
Open from November 1st to late April
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
11:00-14:00 (L.O. 13:30)
17:00-21:00 (L.O. 20:30)
Saturday, days before holidays
11:00-21:00 (L.O. 20:30)
Sunday, holidays
11:00-20:00 (L.O. 19:30)
Closed: December 31st to January 3rd, during bad weather
Phone: 050-5590-7225
Official Website: None
Japanese Sake (Peak Season: December to January)
Hiroshima is also famous for Japanese sake. Japanese sake is brewed during winter, and from December to January, you can enjoy the fresh, aromatic taste of new sake.
Hiroshima is known for sake brewing using soft water, creating a smooth mouthfeel with excellent compatibility with food. When enjoyed together with oysters and winter vegetables, you can feel even more umami.
Local sake breweries and izakaya offer limited fresh-pressed sake and unpasteurized, undiluted sake (nama genshu) that hasn't been pasteurized or diluted, allowing you to savor the deliciousness unique to Hiroshima winter.
Here are some recommended spots where you can enjoy Japanese sake.
Saijo Sake Brewery Street
Source:PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICE
Saijo Sake Brewery Street is an area lined with sake breweries in Saijo, Higashihiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture - an irresistible spot for Japanese sake lovers.
There are seven sake breweries within walking distance from JR Saijo Station.
The street is lined with traditional buildings featuring white walls and "namako walls" (a type of traditional Japanese wall plastering named after its resemblance to sea cucumbers). Being able to enjoy not just the sake but also the town's appearance is one of the charms of Saijo Sake Brewery Street.
Hiroshima winter is new sake season, and the attractive point is being able to taste fresh-pressed and seasonal limited sake from each brewery.
When I visited, the brewery owners directly explained the characteristics and brewing methods of Japanese sake, so I could properly appreciate the differences in aroma and mouthfeel.
New sake tasted in the cold air is exceptional, and the fragrant Japanese sake pairs perfectly with winter dishes.
Between street walks, there are also places where you can enjoy Japanese sake at cafes and shops attached to breweries.
MIYAKEHONTEN Co.,Ltd. Head Office
Source:Official website
MIYAKEHONTEN Co.,Ltd. Head Office is the directly managed store of SENPUKU, a long-established sake brewing company founded in 1856.
Their representative Japanese sake "SENPUKU" was born in 1916. It was a brand named by taking one character each from the names of mothers and wives, for women who received little social recognition at that time.
Also, when transported by ship to Africa and South America for about 220 days, the quality of the sake didn't change even after crossing the equator, so from 1920, it began being supplied to the Japanese Navy.
At this directly managed store, you can find not only SENPUKU sake but also T-shirts and goods that can only be purchased here, making it a recommended spot for souvenir shopping.
The store has a corner where you can do blind tasting of Japanese sake, and I also enjoyed three types of sake. Guessing which sake while drinking is very enjoyable.
There's also ice cream made from Japanese sake lees, which contains no alcohol and allows you to enjoy only the aroma, so children and people who don't like alcohol can eat it with peace of mind.
Address: 7-7-1 Hondori, Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Business Hours: 12:00-16:00 (weekdays only)
Closed: Closed on weekends and holidays
Phone: 0823-22-3838
Official Website: https://sempuku.co.jp/shop/gallery_miyake/
Conger Eel (Anago) (Peak Season: Around December)
Hiroshima is also known for its conger eel as a specialty. Around December, the flesh becomes plump, and its moderate sweetness and tender texture are attractive points.
The conger eel raised in the Seto Inland Sea has little fishy smell and can be enjoyed in various dishes such as simmered conger eel, plain grilled, and tempura. Especially the simmered conger eel melts tenderly in your mouth, and it's exceptional when eaten during the cold Hiroshima winter.
From here, we'll introduce restaurants where you can enjoy seasonal conger eel.
Fujitaya Anagomeshi (Conger Eel)
Source:Tabelog
Fujitaya is located on Miyajima, which is also a World Cultural Heritage site. It's a famous restaurant for "Anagomeshi" - sweetly simmered conger eel served over rice, and its taste has been recognized with a Michelin one-star rating.
They use only natural conger eel caught locally in Miyajima, and since they carefully grill it after receiving orders, you can enjoy the fresh-made taste. The surface is crispy while the inside has a tender conger eel texture, and the slightly sweet and savory sauce blends exquisitely with the rice.
Since it's a popular restaurant, there was a long line when I visited, but I wrote my name on the waiting board and waited patiently.
Address: 125-2 Miyajima-cho, Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Business Hours: 11:00-17:00 (L.O. 16:00)
Closed: Irregular holidays
Phone Number: 0829-44-0151
Official Homepage: https://www.fujitayamiyajima.com/
Anagomeshi Ueno
Source:Official website
Anagomeshi Ueno is a long-established restaurant founded in 1901, known as the originator of Miyajima's specialty "Anagomeshi." They use natural conger eel that has become difficult to catch nowadays, inheriting the unchanged taste from long ago.
For eat-in, you can enjoy freshly made and warm Anagomeshi, but takeout is also available. When you enjoy it as takeout, the sauce soaks into the rice, allowing you to enjoy a different kind of deliciousness.
The restaurant is located near Miyajimaguchi Station, close to the ferry terminal you take when going to Miyajima, so easy access is also a plus point.
There's always a line, but I went right after opening, so the waiting time was relatively short.
Address: 1-5-11 Miyajimaguchi, Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Business Hours: Restaurant 10:00-19:00 (Wednesday 18:00) Closes when sold out
Closed: Open year-round
Phone Number: 0829-56-0006
Official Homepage: https://www.anagomeshi.com/
Let's enjoy Hiroshima's exquisite cuisine and sake at shops beloved by locals!
When you visit Hiroshima, you'll want to experience authentic flavors at shops that locals frequent daily. There are many restaurants throughout Hiroshima city, and especially the "Nagarekawa" area is a bustling district with numerous izakayas and nightspots, so first-time visitors might be confused about where to go.
MagicalTrip's "Hiroshima Bar Hopping Food Tour" features local guides who speak English and will guide you to recommended shops based on local insider information.
They'll also introduce shops where you can enjoy oysters, conger eel, and Japanese sake according to your preferences and the occasion, so please consult with the guide and fully enjoy Hiroshima's cuisine during your Hiroshima winter visit.
・Meeting point: In front of Gucci shop at Hatchobori Station
・Tour area: Around Nagarekawa
・Start time: From 19:00
Special illumination events held during Hiroshima winter
Various illumination events are also held during Hiroshima winter. The sight of warm lights spreading in the cold air is romantic, isn't it? From here, we'll introduce particularly recommended events among them.
Hiroshima Dreamination
Source:Official website
Hiroshima Dreamination is a large-scale illumination event held in the center of Hiroshima city, typically from around November 17th to January 3rd of the following year. Approximately 1.4 million LEDs line up centered around Heiwa Odori, wrapping the entire city in light art. The theme is "Fairyland," with objects and arches of different designs arranged by area, making you feel happy just by walking around.
Since it's located in the city, you can see it for free and enjoy it along with city walks, which is also an attractive point.
I enjoyed Hiroshima gourmet in Nagarekawa, then enjoyed the illuminations while feeling the night breeze during the Hiroshima winter. It's also nice that you can casually go bar hopping if you find an interesting shop while walking.
<Information>
Schedule: November 15 - January 3, 2024 (dates for 2025 not yet announced, typically the same period annually)
Access: 2-minute walk from Fukuromachi streetcar stop on Hiroshima Electric Railway
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.dreamination.com/ (2024 Website)
Winter Fireflies
Source:Yahoo! News
"Winter Fireflies" is a handmade winter illumination event held at Yoshida Sports Plaza in Mihara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, full of handcrafted charm. The warm light of illuminations handmade using approximately 35,000 plastic bottles fuses with rich nature, creating a fantastical scene.
The soft lights dotting the cold night sky look as if many fireflies are flying, making you feel like you're watching fireflies, a summer tradition, even though it's winter during your Hiroshima winter experience.
There are also objects that utilize the reflection when light hits the plastic bottles, so it's fun to walk around while exploring what kind of ingenuity has been applied.
I've also visited there, and seeing the illuminations handmade one by one by a team of about 10 members somehow warmed my heart as well.
<Information>
Schedule: December 1, 2024 - January 2, 2025 (typically the same period annually)
Access: 13km via Prefectural Route 25 from Sanyo Expressway Mihara Kujii IC (about 20 minutes) (about 30 minutes by car from Hiroshima Airport)
Admission: Free
Website: None
Hiroshima German Christmas Market
Source:Official website
The Hiroshima German Christmas Market is a winter-only event held in central Hiroshima city, where you can enjoy an atmosphere like an authentic German Christmas market.
This event started in 2015 when a German resident of Hiroshima felt sad that there was no authentic Christmas market in Hiroshima, and it continues today.
The venue features wooden stalls where you can taste authentic gourmet items such as hot wine, sausages, and stollen. When night falls, illuminations light up, and the sight of trees and decorations warmly enveloping the venue is also attractive.
Not only dining and shopping, but also music live performances and workshops provide abundant highlights, which is also an enjoyable point.
I also spent time holding spiced hot wine while listening to performances in front of an illuminated tree, feeling as if I were in a German plaza during the magical Hiroshima winter.
<Information>
Schedule: December 20-22, 2024 (held annually in December)
Access: Right from Shukkeien-mae streetcar stop on Hiroshima Electric Railway Hakushima Line
Admission: Free (food and drinks at each booth are charged)
Website: https://www.kamigamojinja.jp/en/
Winter Events You Can Enjoy in Hiroshima by Month
In Hiroshima, various events are held throughout each season. There are many events unique to Hiroshima winter, so we recommend planning your visit to coincide with these special occasions.
Must-See December Events in Hiroshima
December in Hiroshima sees the entire city wrapped in winter illuminations. At sake breweries, the first pressing of new sake begins, making it the perfect time to enjoy the fresh aroma and crisp taste of freshly squeezed sake.
Stop by local sake breweries and savor a cup unique to this season - it will make your travel memories even richer.
<Main Events Held in December>
・Morokeda Gobou Festival
・Taishaku-kyo Regional Kagura Competition
・Itsukushima Shrine "Chinka-sai (Fire Prevention Festival)"
・Countdown Events (at various temples and shrines throughout the region), etc.
【My Favorite Events】
〇Itsukushima Shrine "Chinka-sai (Fire Prevention Festival)"
At the World Cultural Heritage site Itsukushima Shrine, on December 31st before welcoming the New Year, local residents of Miyajima light torches and parade around Itsukushima Shrine, walking toward the nearby beach in a traditional ceremony.
This is a festival to ward off fire disasters, and the sight of the beach becoming a sea of fire is spectacular.
Date: December 31st
Location: Mikasa Beach (from the stone torii to Itsukushima Shrine entrance)
Official Website: https://www.itsukushimajinja.jp/
〇Morokeda Gobou Festival
Fuchu City Morokeido, a vegetable-producing region, is known as a specialty area for burdock root. This event features direct sales of Morokeido's burdock root, characterized by its thin skin and tender texture.
While it might be challenging to carry home, this is especially recommended for those staying in hotels with kitchens.
Date: Third Sunday of December
Location: Hadaka Lake Forest Park
Official Website: None
〇Taishaku-kyo Regional Kagura Competition
In Japanese Shinto, dances performed as offerings to gods are called "Kagura." This annual competition brings together various groups that perform Kagura, which has been passed down in Shobara City and is designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan.
Date: Late November or early December
Location: Senior Welfare Center
Official Website: None
Must-See January Events in Hiroshima
January in Hiroshima is packed with traditional ceremonies celebrating the New Year and winter culinary events. In the crisp winter air, you can experience local culture and cuisine unique to the region.
<Main Events Held in January>
・Tamon-ji Temple "Large Prayer Bead Ceremony"
・Saikoku-ji Temple "Saito Goma"
・Otake Oyster Fisheries Festival, etc.
【My Favorite Events】
〇Otake Oyster Fisheries Festival
Otake City, located in southwestern Hiroshima Prefecture, is known as an oyster-producing region. The "Otake Oyster Fisheries Festival" is held to promote these oysters.
You can enjoy oysters prepared in various ways - grilled oysters, oyster rice, fried oysters, and more. This is a highly satisfying event where you can fully enjoy oysters, a Hiroshima winter delicacy.
Every year, visitors come from far and wide, with participation reaching several thousand people.
Date: Late January
Location: Harumi Coastal Park playground area parking lot
Official Website: None
〇Tamon-ji Temple "Large Prayer Bead Ceremony"
This is a ceremony where participants hold a giant Juzu (Buddhist prayer beads - numerous beads threaded together in a circle) approximately 25 meters long, form a circle, and rotate it while praying for happiness.
Since it's held at the beginning of the year, people pray for happiness and health for that year.
Date: January 3rd
Location: Tamon-ji Temple
Official Website: None
〇Saikoku-ji Temple "Saito Goma"
This is a ceremony where cypress branches and firewood are burned with wood placed on top, and participants walk over the fire to pray for health and business prosperity for the year.
Not only temple staff but also general tourists can participate. Walking through the fire is thrilling, but it becomes an unforgettable experience.
Date: January 8th
Location: Saikoku-ji Temple
Official Website: None
Must-See February Events in Hiroshima
February in Hiroshima is filled with events related to winter delicacies and good luck charms, packed with attractions unique to the cold season.
There are abundant opportunities to taste seasonal oysters and new sake, and to experience regional culture during the Hiroshima winter.
<Main Events Held in February>
・Miyajima Oyster Festival
・Ohno Oyster Festival
・Mihara Shinmei Market
・Daishoin Temple "Setsubun Festival"
・Kui Inari Shrine "Naked Festival", etc.
【My Favorite Events】
〇Mihara Shinmei Market
Mihara Shinmei Market is a traditional market held for three days including the second Sunday of February each year in Mihara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, continuing for about 400 years.
Also known as "Daruma Market," the venue displays various sizes of Daruma dolls. Daruma are Japanese good luck charms - red, round-shaped figurines.
The eye area is left without pupils, and there's a custom of drawing in the eyes yourself to pray for the fulfillment of wishes. They are widely used for business prosperity, family safety, academic success, and more.
Taking a Daruma home to display might boost your luck!
During the market period, food stalls and vendors line up around Mihara Station, where you can enjoy various gourmet foods.
Date: Three days including the second Sunday of February each year
Location: Mihara City Higashimachi, Tatemachi, and Honmachi areas
Official Website: https://www.mhr-cci.or.jp/shinmei/
〇Miyajima Oyster Festival
You can enjoy various oyster dishes at reasonable prices, including steamed Miyajima oysters, fried oysters, and okonomiyaki.
This season offers the most delicious oysters, so you can enjoy both Miyajima sightseeing and savoring oysters during the Hiroshima winter.
Date: Second Saturday and Sunday of February
Location: Miyajima Pier Front Plaza
Official Website: None
〇Ohno Oyster Festival
The Ohno area of Hatsukaichi City is known as an oyster-producing region. This event allows you to enjoy oysters in various preparations - fried oysters, oyster rice, udon noodles, and more.
Besides oysters, you can enjoy many dishes using seafood from the Seto Inland Sea.
Date: Sunday in February
Location: Boat Race Miyajima
Official Website: https://ohnokakifes.com/
〇Daishoin Temple "Setsubun Festival"
In Japan, February 3rd each year marks the calendar beginning of "spring." In old Japan, this day was considered the beginning of the year, so ceremonies are held to ward off evil spirits with the wish that "everyone can live healthily throughout the year" - this is called "Setsubun."
Setsubun involves scattering soybeans to drive away bad things and invite good fortune. This soybean scattering ceremony is held in various places including ordinary homes and temples.
Since it's held at Daishoin Temple, you can experience truly Japanese customs during the Hiroshima winter!
Date: February 3rd
Location: Daishoin Temple
Official Website: https://daisho-in.com/index.html
〇Kui Inari Shrine "Naked Festival"
The "Naked Festival" is a festival with over 100 years of history. About 300 men wearing only underwear called "Fundoshi" compete for a "wooden stick" that is said to bring good fortune. The sight of naked men competing in the cold February season is quite powerful during the Hiroshima winter.
Date: Third Saturday of February
Location: Kui Inari Shrine
Official Website: https://kui-inari.com/index.html
Hiroshima Becomes Twice as Enjoyable When Explored with Local Guides Who Know the Area Inside Out!
How about a tour guided by local guides to experience "Hiroshima" in ways that ordinary sightseeing cannot provide?
Magical Trip's walking tours visit World Heritage sites like the Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Park while hearing stories of "past, present, and future" from the unique perspective of locals.
With guidance from local guides who convey post-war reconstruction and citizens' feelings, you can learn about Hiroshima more deeply during your Hiroshima winter visit.
The content is fulfilling, including experiences of folding paper cranes while praying for peace and lunch while enjoying the scenery.
・Meeting point: In front of mont-bell store near Nishikamiyacho Station
・Tour area: Around Atomic Bomb Dome
・Start time: 10:00～
