Hiroshima is a city that lives in infamy. Reduced to rubble during the Second World War, it is no longer a damaged shell but is a city reborn with incredible cuisine, bustling nightlife and exquisite natural scenery.
But with so many different neighborhoods and districts, it can be overwhelming to know where to stay. That’s why we wrote this one-of-a-kind guide to where to stay in Hiroshima.
Written by our expert travel guides, this article breaks down the top five neighborhoods in Hiroshima. To make it easier for you, we’ve divided them based on different interests and travel needs so you can easily identify which is right for you.
By the end of this article, you’ll be able to book with confidence and ease.
Knowing where to stay in Hiroshima is super important – so let’s jump right into it!
Photo: @audyscala
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- Where to Stay in Hiroshima
- Hiroshima Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Hiroshima
- 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Hiroshima
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Hiroshima
- What To Pack For Hiroshima
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Hiroshima
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Hiroshima
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Hiroshima.
Hostel Mallika | Best Hostel in Hiroshima
Hostel Mallika is our pick for the best hostel in Hiroshima. Set in Kakomachi, it’s close to Hiroshima’s most famous attractions and landmarks, as well as bars, restaurants, clubs and shops.
Guests are provided with slippers and free toiletries, and each bed has its own light, socket, table, and ventilator.
Hiroshima Washington Hotel | Best Hotel in Hiroshima
The Hiroshima Washington is our pick for the best hotel in Hiroshima. Located in vibrant Hondori, this hotel is close to the best bars and clubs, as well as restaurants and landmarks.
It has air-conditioned rooms, free wifi, and a myriad of great features and amenities. There’s also a unique on-site restaurant.
Entire Apartment Near Peace Park | Best Airbnb in Hiroshima
This iconic Airbnb in the heart of Hiroshima is so much more than most apartments in Japan – it’s actually pretty big with a large couch to hang out and watch TV on and multiple bedrooms. It even has a washer/dryer along with a kitchen you can cook entire meals in! You can come with a total of six people and is only a 7 minute walk from Peace Park.
Motomachi
Motomachi is the heart of Hiroshima. Located in the Naka Ward, Motomachi is where you’ll find Hiroshima’s most famous tourist attractions.
Kakomachi
South of Motomachi is the small, but animated district of Kakomachi. It is part of the Naka Ward and sits nestled between the Ota and Motoyadu Rivers.
Hondori
Hondori is a small neighbourhood in Naka Ward. A short walk from downtown Hiroshima, Hondori is bursting with colour, life and fun! It’s home to restaurants, cafes, shops, and lots of after dark fun.
Nakamachi
Nakamachi is one of the coolest neighbourhoods in Hiroshima. Located in the Naka Ward, this tiny but bustling district is home to great restaurants, lively clubs, upscale shopping, and incredible attractions.
Hijiyamahonmachi
Hijiyamahonmachi is a large and sprawling neighbourhood in Hiroshima’s Minami Ward. Well connected via public transit, this tranquil and beautiful district is a short subway ride from the city centre, the Peace Memorial Park, and all of Hiroshima’s most famous attractions and landmarks.
Hiroshima is the capital and largest city in the Hiroshima Prefecture on the island of Honshu. Many backpackers to Japan include the city in their visits.
Hiroshima is most famous as the site of the world’s first atomic bomb attack in 1945, which destroyed nearly 70 per cent of the city.
Today, Hiroshima is a city reborn.
Home to more than 1.1 million people, it is a modern and cosmopolitan centre that boasts a world-class cuisine, vibrant streets, incredible landmarks, unique architecture, and lively nightlife.
There’s plenty to see and do here for travellers from sampling local delicacies and sipping sake to exploring the natural environment and experiencing Hiroshima’s incredibly rich and tragic history.
The city of Hiroshima is comprised of three wards, which are further subdivided into hundreds of small neighborhoods and districts. Each neighborhood offers something unique to visitors, so we recommend you visit at least three or four, depending on your interests and the purpose of your visit.
To help you plan your time in Hiroshima, this guide will break down the city’s “must-sees” by interest.
Starting in the west you have the Nishi Ward, or Niski-Ku. Home to neighborhoods including Koihigashi, Takasudai, and Minamikanon, this area of the city is where you’ll find a great variety of restaurants and shopping, as well as unbelievable nature.
Head east and you’ll arrive at Naka Ward, or Naka-Ku, the heart of Hiroshima. Home to some of Hiroshima’s most famous neighborhoods, including Motomachi, Kakomachi, Hodori and Nakamachi, this area of the city is where you’ll find Hiroshima’s top tourist attractions and landmarks, as well as great restaurants, hip bars and trendy clubs.
Continue travelling east to reach the Minami Ward, or Minami-Ku. Here you’ll find neighborhoods like Hijiyamahonmachi, Hijiyamacho and Danbaraminami, which are popular with families thanks to their ample green spaces, charming cafes and colourful shops.
Still not sure where to stay in Hiroshima? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
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5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Hiroshima
Now let’s take a look, in more detail, at the five best neighborhoods in Hiroshima. Each is a little different from the last, so be sure to find the one that’s right for you.
1. Motomachi – Best Place to Stay in Hiroshima for First-Timers
Motomachi is the heart of Hiroshima. Located in the Naka Ward, Motomachi is where you’ll find Hiroshima’s most famous tourist attractions.
From the Hiroshima Castle to the Peace Memorial Park, the city’s most iconic landmarks, museums and memorial sites are all within walking distance of this downtown neighborhood.
This effervescent neighborhood is also home to the Motomachi Shopping Streets. One of the city’s premier destinations for retail therapy, Motomachi Shopping Street is home to high-end designers and high-quality goods, as well as fast fashions, souvenirs, jewellery, furniture and home decor.
Whether you’re looking for a new t-shirt or a new piece of art, you’re bound to find it in Motomachi.
The Evergreen Hostel | Best Hostel in Motomachi
Set at the heart of the city, the Evergreen Hostel is close to all of Hiroshima’s top tourist attractions. Located in Motomachi, it is a short walk to restaurants, bars, shops and clubs.
Offering dorm-style accommodations, this hostel has “no shake” bunk beds, a quaint common area and a basic kitchen.
Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima | Best Hotel in Motomachi
The Rihga Royal is our pick for where to stay in Motomachi. It is an elegant and modern hotel, and it is a short walk from all the city’s main attractions, such as the Peace Park and Hiroshima Castle.
The hotel has many fine features including a swimming pool.
Mielparque Hiroshima | Best Hotel in Motomachi
At the heart of Motomachi is the Mielparque Hiroshima. This elegant and classic three-star hotel is less than a 10-minute walk from Hiroshima Peace Memorial.
It has a free wifi, a ticket service, and each room has a fridge, tea/coffee station and a large spa bathroom.
Entire Apartment Near Peace Park | Best Airbnb in Motomachi
This iconic Airbnb in the heart of Hiroshima is so much more than most apartments in Japan – it’s actually pretty big with a large couch to hang out and watch TV on and multiple bedrooms. It even has a washer/dryer along with a kitchen you can cook entire meals in! You can come with a total of six people and is only a 7 minute walk from Peace Park.
Things to See and Do in Motomachi
- Explore stunning Hiroshima Castle and its fantastic museum that traces Hiroshima’s rich and tragic history.
- See incredible works of art by French masters, including Renoir and Monet, and Japanese artists at the Hiroshima Museum of Art.
- Take a stroll through Central Park.
- Shop for clothes, jewellery, furniture and souvenirs at the various shops along Motomachi Shopping Street.
- Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a prominent green space at the heart of the city that pays tribute to the legacy of Hiroshima as the site of the first nuclear attack.
- View a collection of artefacts and exhibits dedicated to the bombing of Hiroshima at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Kakomachi – Best Place to Stay in Hiroshima on a Budget
South of Motomachi is the small, but animated district of Kakomachi. It is part of the Naka Ward and sits nestled between the Ota and Motoyadu Rivers.
One of the most central neighborhoods in Hiroshima, Kakomachi is incredibly well connected. A short walk to the city’s top bars and clubs, as well as shopping tourist attractions, you can get from Kakomachi to anywhere in the city with relative ease.
The district of Kakomachi is also where you’ll find a good variety of budget accommodations. Whether you’re looking for a social hostel, an elegant hotel, or something in between, there are properties throughout Kakomachi that will meet your style and your budget. It is also one of the best areas of Japan to stay in if you are on a budget, but want a city experience.
Spacious Apartment near the River | Best Airbnb in Kakomachi
This cute little hidden gem apartment sits about 5 minutes from Peace Memorial Park. With a full kitchen and the cutest and totally Japanese dining table next to the bed. Even in this updated modern home, you still get the authentic culture where sitting on the ground for meals is a requirement. It’s situated in the perfect location too, just 15 minutes from nightlife and less than 5 minutes from the memorials and museums to get the best out of your trip.
Hostel Mallika | Best Hostel in Kakomachi
Hostel Mallika is our pick for the best hostel in Hiroshima. Set in Kakomachi, it’s close to Hiroshima’s most famous attractions and landmarks, as well as bars, restaurants, clubs and shops.
Guests are provided with slippers and free toiletries, and each bed has its own light, socket, table and ventilator.
Hiroshima City Bunka Koryu Kaikan | Best Hotel in Kakomachi
Comfortable and convenient, the City Bunka Koryu Kaikan is a great base for your time in the city. It is well connected throughout Hiroshima and is a short walk to Peace Memorial Park as well as shops, restaurants and bars.
This three-star hotel has well-equipped, comfortable and spacious rooms.
Hiroshima International Youth House JMS Aster Plaza | Best Hotel in Kakomachi
This is our best recommendation for where to stay in Kakomachi. This hotel provides comfortable and modern three-star accommodations and it is close to the city’s top landmarks and tourist attractions.
It has an on-site restaurant, and there are many bars and eateries nearby. Contemporary amenities are also provided.
Things to See and Do in Kakomachi
- Wander throughout the Hiroshima Peace Park, which sits north of the district.
- Try okonomiyaki, a Japanese savoury pancake and local delicacy at Ichi Okonomiyaki.
- Enjoy a relaxing afternoon by the water at Seibukashi Ryokuchi Park.
- Catch a performance at Otis!.
- Visit the Tenman Shrine.
- See the Gates of Peace, a monument comprised of 10 gates that are inscribed with the word “peace” in 49 languages.
- Visit the Fountain of Prayer, located within the Hiroshima Peace Park.
- Rent a bicycle and ride along the shores of the Ota and Motoyadu Rivers.
3. Hondori – Best Place to Stay in Hiroshima for Nightlife
Hondori is a small neighborhood in Naka Ward. A short walk from downtown Hiroshima, Hondori is bursting with colour, life and fun! It’s home to restaurants, cafes, shops, and lots of after dark fun.
Hondori is Hiroshima’s number one destination for a night on the town. Here you’ll find the city’s most popular clubs, as well as hip bars, trendy cafes and loads of incredible restaurants. Hondori’s streets are especially busy on weekends when tourists and locals alike flock to this part of the city.
With it’s flashing lights, busy streets, great drinks and loud music, a night out in the Hondori district is something you won’t soon forget!
Santiago Guesthouse Hiroshima | Best Hostel in Hondori
The Santiago Guesthouse is the closest hostel to the Hondori district. Located a short walk south in Nakamachi, this hostel is close to bars, clubs, restaurant and shops. It has private and dorm-style accommodations that are spacious and stylish.
There is also a relaxing common room and a full kitchen for guests.
Hiroshima Washington Hotel | Best Hotel in Hondori
The Hiroshima Washington is our pick for the best hotel in Hiroshima. This hotel is close to the best bars and clubs, as well as restaurants and landmarks. It has air-conditioned rooms, free wifi, and a myriad of great features and amenities.
There’s also a unique on-site restaurant.
Apartment Near Hiroshima Arcade | Best Airbnb in Hondori
Only 30 seconds away from the Hiroshima Arcade is this cozy loft apartment, which has been given Superhost status! Five travelers can fit comfortably, and it even has a full kitchen if you’re looking to save some money on eating out. The hosts even provide all the extras you need for a hassle-free stay like toothpaste, towels and even FREE laundry detergent. You’ll be centrally located to the rest of Hiroshima’s top attractions too – Peace Park and plenty of fab restaurants and stores are within walking distance.
Things to See and Do in Hondori
- Enjoy urbane cocktails, great music and stylish décor at MAC Bar.
- Bask in a rock’n’roll atmosphere at Koba.
- Dine on great food and enjoy a welcoming atmosphere at The Shack.
- Sample incredible wines from around the world at Le Jyan Jyan.
- Dance, drink, laugh and sing the night away at Tropical Bar Revolucion.
- Sing your heart out at Wonderful Joke, a tiny karaoke bar with a rock’n’roll interior.
- Pick up a few new pieces for your closet at the PARCO Shopping Mall.
- Grab a pint and spend a fantastic night dancing to an amazing collection of 70s soul music at Stevie’s Wunder Bar.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Nakamachi – Coolest Neighborhoods in Hiroshima
Nakamachi is one of the coolest neighborhoods in Hiroshima. Located in the Naka Ward, this tiny but bustling district is home to great restaurants, lively clubs, upscale shopping, and incredible attractions.
Party owls will love Nakamachi. Here you’ll find a wide range of bars, clubs and cafes catering to all ages and styles. Whether you want to rock out, chill out, or dance the night away, Nakamachi has what you’re looking for.
Love to eat? this is the place to be. Nakamachi is home to incredible restaurants and cafes. From tempura and ramen to sandwiches and sushi, there’s a wealth of options and delicious opportunities in Nakamachi.
Photo: @audyscala
Crowne Plaza ANA Hiroshima | Best Hotel in Nakamachi
Enjoy an elegant and luxurious stay at the Crowne Plaza ANA. Set in the trendy Nakamachi district, this hotel is close to all of Hiroshima’s top clubs, restaurants, shops and tourist attractions.
It has a fitness centre and sauna, as well as free wifi and an indoor pool. This is our recommendation for where to stay in Nakamachi.
Hiroshima Tokyu REI Hotel | Best Hotel in Nakamachi
A great location, comfortable rooms, and a wealth of amenities are just a few of the reasons we love this hotel. Set in Nakamachi, this hotel is close to Hiroshima’s shopping and nightlife districts.
It has an on-site bike rental, laundry facilities, and each room has slippers, a refrigerator and a private bathroom.
Brick Style Apartment | Best Airbnb in Nakamachi
This cute this apartment is located in the heart of downtown perfect for couples or solo travelers. You’ll be able to access all the fun stuff there is to do in this iconic neighborhood. But you’ll also love spending time in the home too – the walls have a super cool laid brick design that I bet you haven’t seen in Japan before! This spot provides all the amenities you’d expect to find in a hotel, and has a mini kitchen too. The one bedroom apartment comes with two double beds, so it’s ideal for a smaller group. It’s super clean and there are plenty of restaurants just a short walk away to spice up your foodie experience with.
Things to See and Do in Nakamachi
- Take a relaxing stroll through Fukuromachi Park.
- Enjoy a wide range of craft beers at Raku Bar, famous for their monihoudai – an all you can drink special.
- Listen to great live bands and performances at Club Cream.
- Dance the night away at BARCOS International Club.
- Hear amazing live acts and sip great cocktails at Hiroshima Backbeat.
- Tease your taste buds at Tempura Tenko.
- Shop for unique high-end designer clothes, jewels and accessories at Maison Margiela Hiroshima Boutique.
- Sip a cappuccino at Park South Sandwich and watch the world of Nakamachi go by.
5. Hijiyamahonmachi – Best Place to Stay in Hiroshima for Families
Hijiyamahonmachi is a large and sprawling neighborhood in Hiroshima’s Minami Ward. Well connected via public transit, this tranquil and beautiful district is a short subway ride from the city centre, the Peace Memorial Park, and all of Hiroshima’s most famous attractions and landmarks.
Our recommendation for where to stay in Hiroshima for families, Hijiyamahonmachi is one of the greenest districts in the city. Nestled between the Enko River and Hijiyama Park, this neighborhood is bursting with stunning natural scenery.
But that’s not all. This central-eastern district is home to unique boutiques, interesting restaurants and a handful of incredible museums, art galleries and family-friendly attractions.
Large, Bright Home in Minami-ku | Best Airbnb in Hijiyamahonmachi
Whether you have a big family or not, this room is designed for just that. You ALL can have a meal together at the big dining table and relax watching cartoons in the morning on the L shaped couch with plenty of room for kids and adults alike. Sleeping at about 8 and 9 if someone wants to crash on the sofa, which sometimes can actually be the best place to fall asleep in a home. And lucky you, this place is only 10 minutes from Hiroshima Station, and they provide 4 bikes for you and the family to use to explore the beautiful city!
Neighbor’s Penthouse | Best Hotel in Hijiyamahonmachi
If you’re looking for a stylish and luxurious place to stay in Hiroshima, look no further than this ICONIC loft penthouse. With floor to celing windows, a super modern design, and a solid location, this spot has everything you need for a fab stay. The 5 star reviews speak to the top-notch amenities and comfort. It’s really a home away from home – if home is the apartment of your dreams! While the property may not be as central as some others on this list, it’s still not TOO far to walk to many major attractions. It can also fit up to seven guests, so it’s the perfect place to stay with friends!
OUCHI Hotel | Best Budget Hotel in Hijiyamahonmachi
The OUCHI Hotel is a great choice for travelers on a budget – it’s definitely cheaper than most places to stay in Hiroshima! What’s super unique about this place is it’s not a traditional hotel but more like an Airbnb – you get an entire apartment to yourself! You’re in for a studio with a balcony and a mini kitchen. Each unit can fit up to three guests, with one double bed and another futon or sofa bed
Things to See and Do in Hijiyamahonmachi
- Explore Hijiyama Park, a verdant green space with trails, playgrounds, and perfect picnic spots.
- Take in great views of Hiroshima from the Fujimidai Observation Deck.
- See amazing works of art and sculpture at the Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art.
- Visit the Zenkyoji Buddhist Temple.
- Browse the Hiroshima City Manga Library, where you can trace the history of manga and see their collection of more than 100,000 pieces.
- Try a variety of fresh and delicious dishes at Tosho Hiroshima.
- Rent bikes and ride through the green space along the Enko River.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Hiroshima
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Hiroshima and where to stay.
What To Pack For Hiroshima
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Hiroshima
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Hiroshima
Hiroshima has so much to offer travellers. It is a stunning city bursting with life, culture, food, fun, and – of course – history. From memorial landmarks and verdant parks to lively clubs and incredible restaurants, there’s something of interest for every traveller.
To recap; Hondori is our number one choice for the most fun and lively neighborhood in Hiroshima with its neon lights, boisterous bars and flavourful food. Our pick for the best hotel in Hondori is the Hiroshima Washington Hotel, a modern three-star hotel.
Our pick for the best hostel is the Hostel Mallika. Not only is it close to Hiroshima’s top landmarks and attractions, but guests are provided with plush slippers and free toiletries.
Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments below.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Japan.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Hiroshima.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Japan instead.
- Planning out an itinerary for Hiroshima is a great way to maximise your time.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Japan.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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