A complete guide to barrier-free sightseeing in Hiroshima! Popular spots and hotels for wheelchair users

Hiroshima is full of attractions, including World Heritage sites, abundant nature, and delicious cuisine. In recent years, the city has been making efforts to make itself barrier-free so that everyone can enjoy traveling. In this article, we will introduce popular tourist spots, accommodations, and model itineraries so that wheelchair users, elderly people, and families with small children can enjoy sightseeing in Hiroshima with peace of mind. Why not use this information in advance to plan a wonderful and memorable trip?

Introduction: The appeal of barrier-free tourism in Hiroshima that everyone can enjoy

Hiroshima is a place where you can enjoy a variety of activities, from a trip to learn about history and appreciate the value of peace, to a trip to enjoy scenic views and delicious local cuisine. In recent years, many tourist facilities and transportation facilities have been working to make themselves barrier-free, allowing wheelchair users and those with mobility concerns to enjoy sightseeing more comfortably. Use this guide as a reference and fully experience the charms of Hiroshima at your own pace.

From World Heritage Sites to Gourmet Food! The Charms of Hiroshima

Hiroshima Prefecture is home to two world-famous World Heritage sites: the Atomic Bomb Dome and Itsukushima Shrine. These are places that symbolize peace and Japanese history and culture, and continue to attract many visitors. The fresh seafood from the Seto Inland Sea, as well as local specialties like okonomiyaki and conger eel rice, are also great pleasures of travel. The mild climate and beautiful scenery of the islands are sure to soothe the hearts of all who visit.

For barrier-free travel, leave it to Flat Travel

If you're planning a barrier-free trip to Hiroshima, leave it to us. We're not just a travel agent. We'll produce your trip in its entirety, with the following three strengths:

1. [Comprehensive safety standards] 24-hour support through medical cooperation

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2. [Overwhelmingly easy] No need for troublesome phone checks. Leave it all to the professionals.

   "Even when I call the hotel, it's a struggle just to explain the size of my wheelchair..." "Online information alone makes me worried about steps at the hotel..." There's no need to tire of endless confirmation work or explaining things over the phone anymore. Our barrier-free travel professionals will handle everything from checking door widths to ensuring proper flow on-site. We'll create a plan to prevent issues like "I got there and couldn't get in" and complete the reservation all in one go.

3. [Uncompromising quality] Custom-made by experienced concierges

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We will guide you on a journey that will satisfy all your needs: safety, comfort, and excitement.

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[By area] 7 recommended barrier-free sightseeing spots in Hiroshima

Below, we'll introduce seven carefully selected barrier-free tourist spots in Hiroshima Prefecture that are wheelchair accessible. From Hiroshima city center to Miyajima, Kure, Onomichi, and Fukuyama, we've picked out unique spots in each area. We'll also explain the barrier-free facilities at each facility and tips for visiting, so please use this information to help plan your trip.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Atomic Bomb Dome (Hiroshima City)

The pathways within Peace Memorial Park are wide and flat, making it easy for wheelchair users to stroll around. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum located within the park is also barrier-free, with elevators connecting each floor. The museum is also equipped with multi-purpose restrooms. The Atomic Bomb Dome can be viewed from within the park, but you can also get a close-up look at it from the surrounding sidewalks. It is an essential place to learn about history and think about peace.

Itsukushima Shrine (Miyajima)

Itsukushima Shrine, a World Heritage Site, is famous for its large torii gate that appears to float in the sea. For wheelchair users, there are some designated routes with ramps at the entrance. However, some corridors can be flooded with seawater at high tide, and there are gaps in the floorboards and slight steps, so it is safer to visit with a caregiver. The scenery changes dramatically depending on the tide, so we recommend checking the tide table in advance and planning your visit time.

Miyajima Omotesando Shopping Street (Miyajima)

Miyajima Omotesando Shopping Street, which leads to Itsukushima Shrine, is a lively street bustling with tourists. The road surface is relatively flat, so wheelchair users can enjoy a stroll. There is also a wide variety of gourmet food to enjoy while walking around, such as grilled oysters and momiji manju. However, some stores may have steps at the entrance or be narrow inside. Some relatively new stores and restaurants are barrier-free. Avoiding busy times will make your stroll more comfortable.

Yamato Museum (Kure City)

The Yamato Museum (Kure City Maritime History and Science Museum) in Kure City is home to a large scale model of the battleship Yamato, as well as a wide range of exhibits relating to Kure's history and science and technology. The museum is fully equipped with elevators and ramps, and is designed to be wheelchair accessible. There are also multi-purpose toilets on each floor. The exhibition space is spacious, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace, making it a particularly recommended spot for those with an interest in history and ships.

Senkoji Park (Onomichi City)

Senkoji Park, a symbol of Onomichi, is a spectacular spot offering a beautiful panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea. You can take the Mount Senkoji Ropeway to the summit, but you'll need to check with the operator in advance about wheelchair access. The area around the observation deck at the summit is well maintained, but the park and the road to Senkoji Temple have many slopes and stairs, so the area you can explore may be limited. It may be best to visit primarily to enjoy the view from the observation deck.

Fukuyama Castle (Fukuyama City)

Fukuyama Castle, one of Japan's most famous castles, underwent renovations in 2022, making it significantly more accessible, including the installation of an elevator inside the castle tower. This means that wheelchair users can now go up to the observation deck on the top floor and enjoy the view of Fukuyama city. There are also multi-purpose toilets inside the castle. While there are some slopes on the way to the castle tower, the castle has been designed to allow visitors to comfortably tour the historic castle.

Orizuru Tower (Hiroshima City)

Located in the center of Hiroshima City, Orizuru Tower is a relatively new tourist facility next to the Peace Memorial Park. The entire building was designed with universal design in mind, and is fully barrier-free. If you take the elevator up to the rooftop observation deck, "Hiroshima Hill," you can see the cityscape of Hiroshima and the Atomic Bomb Dome below. The observation deck is sloped, allowing you to enjoy the view in an open space. The building is also equipped with spacious multi-purpose toilets.

4 recommended hotels in Hiroshima with accessible rooms!

Choosing the right accommodation is crucial for a comfortable trip. Here we introduce four recommended hotels in Hiroshima City that have barrier-free rooms (universal rooms) and are suitable for wheelchair users. Compare the locations, facilities, and services to find the hotel that best suits your travel style.

Hotel Granvia Hiroshima South Gate

Directly connected to JR Hiroshima Station, this hotel offers excellent transport access. The accessible rooms offer ample space for wheelchair access. The bathrooms are equipped with handrails and are designed without steps, making them safe to use. The hotel also has easy access to the restaurants and facilities within the building, making it an ideal hotel for those looking to reduce the burden of mobility.

Hotel Granvia Hiroshima South Gate is a popular, modern hotel with a great location. Therefore, barrier-free rooms fill up quickly depending on the date. Before you find yourself in a situation where the hotel is fully booked while you were undecided, it's best to first check whether the rooms are available for your desired dates .

Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima

Located in the heart of Hiroshima City, this hotel offers convenient access to the Peace Memorial Park and Hiroshima Castle. The universal rooms are spacious and designed to be comfortable for wheelchair users. The bathrooms have sliding doors and are equipped with handrails around the bathtub and toilet. There are a variety of restaurants within the hotel, making it a great choice not only as a base for sightseeing, but also for those who want to enjoy their hotel stay in itself.

Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel

Directly connected to the north exit of JR Hiroshima Station, this hotel offers excellent access by Shinkansen. The barrier-free guest rooms feature modern and sophisticated interiors. The spacious corridors and bathrooms ensure a comfortable stay. The hotel also offers a full range of facilities, including a fitness gym, pool, and restaurant, making it a great choice for those seeking a high-quality hotel experience.

Hotel prices are generally fluctuating, and tend to increase as the date approaches . Even if you get the same room, you could end up losing out if you book late. If you're worried, be sure to check the "current price" as soon as possible before the price goes up .

Hilton Hiroshima

This relatively new hotel, which opened in 2022, is equipped with the latest barrier-free facilities. It's also located close to the Peace Memorial Park, making it convenient for sightseeing. The accessible rooms are designed to be both functional and comfortable, and the spacious bathrooms are equipped with grab bars and shower chairs.

Wheelchair-friendly! A model barrier-free sightseeing itinerary for Hiroshima (3 days, 2 nights)

From here, we will suggest a model itinerary for two nights and three days that combines the spots and accommodations introduced above and can be enjoyed without difficulty even by a wheelchair user .

This comprehensive plan, based at the Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel, directly connected to Hiroshima Station, allows you to explore both the World Heritage Site of Miyajima and the Peace Memorial Park. The schedule allows you to fully enjoy Hiroshima's cuisine and history while minimizing the burden of weather and travel, so be sure to use it as reference for your trip.

Day 1: Easily arrive at a hotel directly connected to the station and enjoy a night of okonomiyaki

Day one begins at JR Hiroshima Station, the base of your trip. After arriving, head to the Sheraton Grand Hotel Hiroshima via the walkway directly connected to the station . You'll be able to check in smoothly in just one minute, without having to worry about getting wet in the rain or having to deal with steps.

After a short rest in your room, head to "ekie," a shopping mall directly connected to the station. Enjoy authentic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki for dinner without the hassle of travel. On your first day, minimize travel and relax in preparation for sightseeing the next day.

Day 2: Take a ferry to Miyajima, the Island of the Gods and a World Heritage Site

On the second day, we will depart from the hotel around 9:30am and head to Miyajima by JR Sanyo Main Line and ferry.

After arriving at Miyajima, head to Itsukushima Shrine , which appears to float on the sea . The corridors are wheelchair accessible, allowing you to experience the majestic atmosphere up close. After praying, stroll along the main approach and enjoy a lunch of the shrine's famous "conger eel rice" and "grilled oysters ." This is a leisurely itinerary that allows you to return to your hotel in the evening.

Day 3: A journey to pray for peace and learn about Hiroshima's history

On your final day, head to Peace Memorial Park by taxi or the Meipuru-pu sightseeing loop bus with a slope . The park is paved and flat, allowing you to easily see the Atomic Bomb Dome and the memorial monument.

Afterwards, take a tour of the Peace Memorial Museum , which is fully equipped with an elevator , and spend some time reflecting on peace. After enjoying lunch in the city, return to Hiroshima Station to pick up souvenirs before heading home. This will be a memorable three days that effortlessly covers history, gourmet food, and peace education.

To make this tour a reality,

"Call the hotel and make sure the accessible room is actually right for you."

"Arrange local nursing care taxis and guides"

"Telephone reservation for wheelchair-accessible seats on the Shinkansen"

Various checks and preparations are required, such as:

At Flat Travel, our nursing care travel experts, who are familiar with the types of shower chairs available at hotels and the width of bathroom doors, will not only help you arrange the best hotel and nursing care taxi that suits you, but will also provide thorough support in planning your trip to ensure you enjoy it to the fullest, and in dealing with any problems that may arise on the day.

Barrier-free restaurant information in Hiroshima

Food is one of the joys of traveling. Hiroshima has many famous dishes such as okonomiyaki and anagomeshi. Here we will introduce restaurants that are wheelchair accessible and where you can enjoy the unique flavors of Hiroshima. Check the restaurant information in advance and create delicious memories.

Okonomiyaki: Okonomimura (Barrier-free restaurant)

Okonomimura, home to over 20 famous Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki restaurants, is located inside a building. The facility is equipped with elevators, allowing access to each floor. Some floors have wide aisles and tables that are wheelchair accessible. Please contact Flat Travel staff for more information.

Conger eel rice: Conger eel rice Ueno Miyajimaguchi main store

This is a well-established, famous conger eel rice restaurant located at Miyajimaguchi. Some stores have steps at the entrance, but some stores and the new building have ramps installed, making it barrier-free. The restaurant mainly has table seating, but while the aisles can feel narrow when it's busy, you can dine safely by visiting at a relatively quiet time.

A Complete Guide to Barrier-Free Transportation in Hiroshima

When planning a trip, it is essential to check the means of transportation. Hiroshima has a wide variety of transportation options, but each has different barrier-free accessibility. Here we will provide detailed information on barrier-free access for major transportation options, including airports, railways, trams, and ferries. Use this information to plan your travels smoothly.

Barrier-free information for airports, Shinkansen, and JR

Hiroshima Airport is equipped with elevators and multi-purpose restrooms, making it safe to use. Some limousine buses connecting the airport and the city may be low-floor buses, but it is recommended to check in advance before boarding. Major JR stations (Hiroshima Station, Fukuyama Station, etc.) are equipped with elevators and escalators, and station staff will assist you with boarding and disembarking. When using the Shinkansen or conventional trains, it is best to contact the station in advance to ensure a smooth journey.

How to ride trams and buses and important points to note

The streetcar (Hiroshima Electric Railway) that runs through Hiroshima City is an important means of transportation for residents and tourists. In recent years, the introduction of "ultra-low floor vehicles (Green Movers)" has progressed, and these vehicles allow wheelchair users to board and disembark smoothly. When boarding, the driver will set up a ramp. However, older vehicles have high floors and steps, making them difficult to use. There are also an increasing number of low-floor buses on route buses, but it is a good idea to check what type of vehicle you will be getting on before boarding.

Barrier-free information for ferries to Miyajima

Ferries to Miyajima are operated by two companies: JR West Miyajima Ferry and Miyajima Matsudai Kisen. Both ferries are barrier-free and generally have wheelchair spaces and multi-purpose toilets on board. There are also considerations to ensure there are no steps between the boarding point and the ship. The angle of the ramp can change depending on the tide, so it is best to follow the staff's instructions when boarding and disembarking safely.

Find out more about barrier-free information in Hiroshima!

Would you like to know more about barrier-free access in Hiroshima?

Flat Travel is a professional team of caregiver travel providers offering barrier-free travel throughout Japan.

We gather barrier-free information from all over Japan every day and propose it to our customers, which is why we know this.

• A safe and enjoyable barrier-free tour in Hiroshima

• Detailed information on accessible hotels in Hiroshima

• List of barrier-free hotels in Hiroshima

• Businesses offering wheelchair rentals in the Hiroshima area

• Barrier-free tourist information for Hiroshima

Please check the following page for more information on this and other topics.

Go on a barrier-free trip to Hiroshima with Flat Travel!

We have extensive knowledge of "real local information" and will produce a total package for your trip to Hiroshima.

You might want to visit a spot introduced in an article, but there are probably many things you can't find out from online information alone, such as "How crowded is it actually?" or "Are there any good restaurants nearby that are wheelchair accessible?"

We are experts in barrier-free access throughout Japan. We don't just arrange hotels and transportation, we also suggest the best route, experiential activities, and delicious cuisine to make your trip 120% enjoyable , all tailored to your preferences.

Leave all the hassle of arrangements to the professionals and enjoy sightseeing to your heart's content on the day.

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Q&A about barrier-free tourism in Hiroshima

Here we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions and answers from travelers regarding barrier-free tourism in Hiroshima. We hope you will find it useful to alleviate any concerns or questions you may have before your trip.

Can I rent a wheelchair at tourist spots?

Yes, you can rent wheelchairs at some locations. For example, the tourist information center at JR Hiroshima Station and the tourist information center at Miyajima may offer wheelchair rental services. However, as the number of wheelchairs is limited, we recommend making a reservation or inquiring in advance. Some large tourist facilities also offer rental services, so please check the official websites of each facility for information.

What is the current status of multi-purpose toilets?

Multi-purpose toilets (toilets for everyone) are being installed in major tourist attractions, stations, airports, large commercial facilities, and more. Facilities such as the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, Yamato Museum, and Orizuru Tower often have them installed in multiple locations. However, older buildings and small, privately run stores may not have them installed. We recommend using them frequently when you come across them while traveling.

Are there discounts for caregivers and those with disability certificates?

Many tourist facilities and public transportation may offer discounts on admission fees and fares by presenting a disability certificate. The discount rate varies depending on the facility, but it is generally applicable to the person with a disability and up to one caregiver. Be sure to bring your disability certificate with you when traveling. We recommend checking the specific discount details on each facility's official website or at the counter.

For barrier-free travel in Hiroshima, please consult the experts at Flat Travel.

This article has introduced barrier-free tourism in Hiroshima, but actual travel planning can often bring worries and questions. If you have concerns like "Is this hotel really OK?" or "How should I arrange transportation?", please leave it to the experts. Flat Travel is a travel agency specializing in barrier-free travel. If you would like to stay at a barrier-free hotel or have any travel concerns, please feel free to contact us here. Our experienced staff will suggest a safe and comfortable trip to Hiroshima that is perfect for you.