
Visa & Entry Requirements by Country in Hiroshima, Japan
1. Japanese Tourist Visa
Required for tourists staying more than 90 days. Application must be made at a Japanese embassy or consulate before arrival.
- Visa Validity: Varies based on purpose and duration of stay
- Required Documents: Includes passport, completed application form, photo, financial documents
- Processing Time: Varies by embassy or consulate but can take several weeks
2. Visa Waiver Program for Japan
Allows citizens of certain countries to enter Japan without a visa for short stays. Check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for eligible countries.
- Eligible Countries: List can change, always check current status
- Duration of Stay: Usually up to 90 days within a 180-day period
- Required Documents: Passport, completed landing confirmation form
3. Hiroshima Prefecture Visitor Registration
Required within 14 days of arrival for foreign tourists staying more than 90 days. Can be done at city hall or police station.
- Registration Location: Can be done in city hall or police station
- Required Documents: Includes passport, address verification, and registration form
- Fine for Non-Compliance: Up to 200,000 yen fine or deportation
4. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Guidance Center
Provides information about the park's history and attractions. Offers guided tours in multiple languages.
- Languages Supported: Includes English, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, French, German
- Guided Tours: Available with prior reservation
- Additional Services: Provides maps, brochures, and audio guides
5. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
Documents the atomic bombing of Hiroshima through photos, artifacts, and personal stories.
- Exhibits: Covers pre-bombing Hiroshima, immediate aftermath, and long-term effects
- Guided Tours: Available in multiple languages with prior reservation
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible and offers audio guides for visually impaired visitors
6. Hiroshima Castle
A symbol of Hiroshima, this castle was originally built in 1589 and rebuilt after WWII.
- Architecture: Features traditional Japanese castle design
- Museum: Includes exhibits on Hiroshima's history and samurai culture
- Observatory: Offers panoramic views of the city from the top
7. Shukkei-en Garden
A beautiful traditional Japanese garden dating back to the 1620s.
- History: One of the oldest surviving gardens in Japan
- Scenery: Features ponds, bridges, and a variety of trees and flowers
- Seasonal Attractions: Popular for cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage
8. Miyajima Island
Famous for its Itsukushima Shrine and deer roaming freely.
- Itsukushima Shrine: Unique torii gate floating on the sea
- Wildlife: Home to over 1200 deer, considered sacred
- Mount Miyajima: Can be reached by cable car or ropeway and offers stunning views
9. A-Bomb Dome
The only building left standing near ground zero after the atomic bombing.
- Historical Significance: Symbolizes the devastation of the atomic bomb
- Architecture: Preserved in its ruined state as a memorial
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators
10. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum Afternoon Tea Set
Enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony while learning about peace and reconciliation.
- Culture Experience: Experience the tea ceremony in a peaceful setting
- Menu: Includes traditional Japanese sweets and matcha green tea
- Educational Content: Provides information about the atomic bombing
11. Hiroshima City Tram
A classic mode of transportation in Hiroshima since 1912.
- Historical Value: One of the oldest tram systems in Japan
- Routes: Covers major attractions like Peace Memorial Park and Shukkei-en Garden
- Affordability: Inexpensive way to travel around Hiroshima
12. Hiroshima Aquarium
Home to a variety of marine life, including the world's largest tank with a moving walkway.
- Marine Life Diversity: Includes over 35,000 marine creatures
- Walk-through Tank: Provides a unique experience to view marine life up close
- Interactive Exhibits: Educational displays about marine conservation and oceanographers at work
13. Okonomiyaki Cooking Class
Learn how to make Hiroshima's famous okonomiyaki (Japanese pancake) from a local chef.
- Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in the local culture and cuisine
- Hands-on Activity: Prepare your own okonomiyaki under expert guidance
- Meal Included: Enjoy the fruits of your labor afterwards
14. Hiroshima Night View Cruise
Experience a stunning night view of Hiroshima from the Seto Inland Sea.
- Scenic Beauty: Beautiful illuminated cityscape
- Cruise Duration: Typically lasts around 1 hour
- Food and Drink: Options for snacks and drinks on board
15. Hiroshima Ferry Terminal
Departs from here to explore the surrounding islands like Miyajima.
- Island Destinations: Serves destinations like Miyajima, Iwakura, and Inoshima
- Frequency of Departures: Departs regularly throughout the day
- Ticket Purchase: Tickets can be purchased at the terminal or online