Higashi-Hiroshima, Japan
Region: Hiroshima
Geographic Coordinates: 34.416700, 132.733000
Temperature Range: 10.0°C to 25.0°C (50°F to 77°F)
Population: 197347
Language: Japanese
Higashi-Hiroshima, Situated in the eastern part of Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan, Is a city that covers an area of 635.16 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 190, 000 people. The city is renowned for its picturesque natural scenery, Vibrant economy and rich cultural heritage. Saijo town in Higashi-Hiroshima is one of the most popular attractions due to its reputation as one of Japan’s top sake brewing regions. Over ten sake breweries produce some of the country’s finest sake varieties here. Visitors can tour these breweries to learn about traditional brewing processes and sample delicious sake.
Miyajima Island off the coast from Hiroshima Bay is another must-visit destination in Higashi-Hiroshima. It has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its stunning natural beauty and cultural significance. The island features several iconic landmarks such as Itsukushima Shrine with its famous floating torii gate, Mount Misen with breathtaking views over Hiroshima Bay and Daishoin Temple – one of Japan’s oldest Buddhist temples. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking or cycling on many scenic trails throughout this region or skiing/snowboarding at nearby ski resorts during winter months.
For those interested in history and culture, Higashi-Hiroshima houses several museums dedicated to preserving local traditions such as pottery-making or paper-making techniques that have been passed down through generations since ancient times. yet importantly, Higashi-Hiroshima has thriving commercial industries including agriculture (especially rice cultivation), Fishing (due to being located near Seto Inland Sea), Manufacturing (producing electronic components, Automobiles and machinery) and tourism. The city has a well-developed transportation system connecting it to other major cities in Japan making it an excellent place for both business trips and leisure travel.
Higashi-Hiroshima offers visitors an excellent blend of natural beauty, Rich culture & history, And modern amenities. Whether you’re interested in exploring traditional Japanese culture or enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking or skiing/snowboarding during winter months, Higashi-Hiroshima has something for everyone!
- Saijo Sake Brewery District is a popular destination for those interested in traditional sake breweries. Visitors can take tours and enjoy tastings of the local brews.
- The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park serves as a solemn reminder of the devastating effects of war and promotes peace. It’s a must-visit for anyone traveling to Hiroshima.
- Miyajima Island is famous for its Itsukushima Shrine, which appears to float on water during high tide. The island is also home to many other attractions, including hiking trails and scenic views.
- Shukkei-en Garden is a stunning Japanese garden that features a pond, tea house, and walking paths. It’s an ideal spot for relaxing or taking in some beautiful scenery.
- Hiroshima Castle has been reconstructed but still offers panoramic views of the city from its top floor. It’s an excellent place to learn about local history and culture while enjoying breathtaking views.
- The Mazda Museum showcases the history of Mazda cars and their engineering innovations through interactive exhibits that are both informative and entertaining.
- Asa Zoological Park houses over 150 species of animals from around the world, including pandas and elephants, making it an exciting destination for animal lovers young or old alike!
- The Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art features contemporary works by both Japanese and international artists, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience modern art at its finest.
- Senkoji Temple & Onomichi City Museum of Art are located on a hill overlooking Onomichi Bay; it features modern art exhibitions alongside historic temples making it perfect for those who appreciate both traditional architecture as well as contemporary art forms!
- Tomonoura Port Town & Fukuyama Castle Area offer visitors preserved traditional buildings, temples/shrines/museums/shops/restaurants serving local specialties such as oysters or ramen noodles etc., making them popular tourist destinations in Higashi-Hiroshima region as well as nearby cities like Fukuyama or Okayama.
- Manufacturing: Higashi-Hiroshima has a strong manufacturing industry with companies producing electronic components, automotive parts, and machinery.
- Agriculture: The city is known for its rice production and fruit cultivation, including peaches and grapes.
- Tourism: Higashi-Hiroshima is home to several popular tourist attractions such as the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima Island.
- Education: The city houses Hiroshima University’s Higashi-Hiroshima campus which attracts students from across Japan.
- Healthcare: There are several hospitals and medical facilities in the city including Hiroshima University Hospital’s Higashi-Hiroshima Medical Center.
- Retail: There are several shopping centers, supermarkets, and convenience stores throughout the city catering to local residents’ needs.
- The bombing of Hiroshima in 1945 was a devastating event that resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of people and is considered a significant moment in world history.
- Takeo Miki, a notable Japanese politician, was born in Higashi-Hiroshima and served as Prime Minister from 1974 to 1976.
- Miyajima Island, located off the coast of Higashi-Hiroshima, is home to several historical sites including Itsukushima Shrine which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Kure Naval Base played an important role during World War II and was established in Higashi-Hiroshima.
- Hiroshi Teshigahara, one of Higashi-Hiroshima’s most famous sons, was a renowned filmmaker who directed several acclaimed films during his career including Woman in the Dunes (1964).
- Kagamiyama Observatory near Higashi-Hiroshima offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and Seto Inland Sea.
- The Saijo Sake Festival is held annually in October and celebrates sake culture with various events such as sake-tasting parties and parades featuring portable shrines called mikoshi carrying local deities around town while being cheered on by festival-goers dressed up like samurai or geisha girls etc., making it one of Japan’s largest sake festivals attracting thousands every year!
- Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum
- Miyajima Island – home to the famous Itsukushima Shrine
- Hiroshima Castle
- Shukkeien Garden
- Mazda Museum
- Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art
- Asa Zoological Park
- Higashi-Hiroshima City Art Museum
- Saijo Sake Brewery District
- Okuda Genso Sayume Art Museum
- Higashi-Hiroshima Cherry Blossom Festival: This festival is held every April to celebrate the blooming of cherry blossoms in the city. Visitors can enjoy food stalls, music performances, and traditional Japanese activities like tea ceremonies.
- Saijo Sake Festival: Celebrating local sake production in Higashi-Hiroshima’s Saijo district, this festival is held every October. Visitors can taste a variety of sake from different breweries, participate in tours of sake factories, and enjoy live music performances.
- Hiroshima Flower Festival: This festival takes place across Hiroshima prefecture every May, including Higashi-Hiroshima. It features parades with colorful floats decorated with flowers, food stalls selling local cuisine, and traditional dance performances.
- Kurose Yosakoi Dance Festival: Held annually on August 15th-16th at Kurose Shrine in Higashi-Hiroshima City’s Kurose area this festival features dozens of teams performing yosakoi dance routines to energetic music while wearing colorful costumes.
- Miyajima Water Fireworks Festival: While not technically located within Higashi-Hiroshima city limits this annual event is located just outside it on Miyajima Island which is easily accessible by train or ferry from the city center. The fireworks display takes place over the waters surrounding Itsukushima Shrine which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996 making for an unforgettable experience for visitors to Japan during summer months (July-August).
- Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki: This savory pancake is a specialty of the Hiroshima region and can be found at many local restaurants, including Okonomiyaki Kura.
- Oysters: Higashi-Hiroshima is known for its fresh oysters, which can be enjoyed at local seafood restaurants like Maruya.
- Soba noodles: Soba noodles are a traditional Japanese dish made from buckwheat flour and can be found at places like Soba no Ichi.
- Izakaya (Japanese pub): These casual bars serve small plates of food to accompany drinks and are popular among locals. Check out places like Izakaya Yamauchi for a taste of the local scene.
- Ramen: A bowl of piping hot ramen is always a comforting meal, especially during the colder months in Higashi-Hiroshima. Try Ichiran for some delicious ramen options.
- Yakiniku (Japanese BBQ): Grilled meat dishes are also popular in Higashi-Hiroshima, with places like Gyu-kaku offering tasty options for yakiniku lovers.
- Sushi: Of course, sushi is always a must-try when visiting Japan! Check out places like Sushikouji for some fresh and delicious sushi rolls.
- Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a public park that serves as a symbol of peace and remembrance for the victims of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima.
- Saijo Inari Shrine is a well-known shrine located in Higashi-Hiroshima, featuring stunning architecture and natural surroundings.
- Miyajima Island is a picturesque island famous for Itsukushima Shrine, hiking trails, and wild deer roaming around freely.
- Omoto Kogen Resort Ski Area is situated on the outskirts of Higashi-Hiroshima and offers multiple slopes for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
- Onomichi City Cycling Road is an awe-inspiring cycling route that winds through Higashi-Hiroshima, providing breathtaking views of Seto Inland Sea and surrounding mountains.
- Shimanami Kaido Cycling Route connects Honshu to Shikoku Island through a series of bridges over Seto Inland Sea, making it another popular cycling route among tourists.
- Mitaki-dera Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple nestled in lush forested area near Higashi-Hiroshima; it offers scenic beauty along with hiking trails to explore nature’s bounty.
- Asa Zoological Park attracts visitors with its diverse range of animals from around the world such as lions, tigers, bears, monkeys, elephants among others!
