Things to do in Kumano

Activities, attractions and tours

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Top places to visit

1. Itsukushima Shrine

Itsukushima Shrine is the crowning monument and namesake of Itsukushima Island (or, as it is popularly known, Miyajima, “shrine island”). A UNESCO world heritage listed site and a national treasure, the Itsukushima Shrine holds great cultural significance for the Shinto religion. Explore the shrine’s sacred buildings and stroll along connecting boardwalks. Enjoy views of the magnificent shrine complex and be awed by the way it appears to float above the waters of the Onoseto Strait.
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Itsukushima Shrine which includes a lake or waterhole and heritage elements

2. Atomic Bomb Dome

One of the only buildings left standing in Hiroshima after the devastating impacts of the atomic bomb, the A-Bomb Dome quietly memorializes the tragedy and resilience experienced in the city. The ruins of the stately “Genbaku-Domu” represent the peace efforts of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in which it stands. Visit this genuine relic and UNESCO World Heritage listed site in the heart of Hiroshima to learn about what happened here in 1945 and how the city is moving forward.
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Atomic Bomb Dome

3. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a large public park in the heart of Hiroshima dedicated to the remembrance of the victims of the atomic bomb on August 6, 1945. The park is located in the hypocenter area of the bomb, which was almost completely leveled in the blast. Today, the elegantly designed park is a tranquil space dotted with memorial monuments, quiet gardens and symbols of peace.
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Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

4. Miyajima Ferry Terminal

Miyajima Ferry Terminal is the gateway to Miyajima Island, also known as Itsukushima Island, home to one of Japan’s most famous shrines. Located in the Seto Inland Sea, this sacred island is accessible only by boat. Watch for the breathtaking view of the shrine and its striking red torii gate as you approach on the water.
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Miyajima Ferry Terminal showing boating and general coastal views as well as an individual male

5. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is dedicated to documenting and displaying the tragic events of the atomic bombing the city endured in 1945, as well as promoting a message of peace. Opened in 1955, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum aims to explain the atomic bomb’s political, historical and social impact, offering insight into the horror of the event through personal stories, victim’s artifacts and scientific recordings. The museum’s overwhelming message, however, is a plea for international peace and the elimination of nuclear weapons all over the world.
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Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum featuring a fountain

What to do in Kumano

Popular places to visit

Itsukushima Shrine which includes a lake or waterhole and heritage elements

Itsukushima Shrine

Walk along wooden piers and observe the captivating sights of this Shinto shrine that appears to float on the water offshore from Miyajima Island.

Itsukushima Shrine
Atomic Bomb Dome

Atomic Bomb Dome

The only building still standing in the atomic bomb’s devastating hypocenter now crests the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, symbolizing the city’s plea for peace.

Atomic Bomb Dome
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Spend a day reflecting on the atomic bombing that devastated Hiroshima in 1945 and discover the city’s mission for peace at this beautifully designed park in the city center.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Miyajima Ferry Terminal

Miyajima Ferry Terminal

Take a relaxing and scenic ferry trip to the sacred island of Miyajima and begin your journey to serene shrines and a tranquil mountain peak.

Miyajima Ferry Terminal
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

Learn about the catastrophic impact the atomic bomb had on Hiroshima through personal stories, scientific documentation and real footage at this museum dedicated to world peace.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
Mazda Zoom-Zoom Stadium

Mazda Zoom-Zoom Stadium

Catch an event at Mazda Zoom-Zoom Stadium during your trip to Hiroshima. Visit the shops and notable monuments in this walkable area.

Mazda Zoom-Zoom Stadium
Hiroshima Castle which includes a castle and heritage elements

Hiroshima Castle

Visit this magnificently reconstructed castle to explore its towering main keep and learn about Japanese feudal history and Samurai culture at the museum within.

Hiroshima Castle
A-Bomb Dome

Hiroshima Central Shopping District

During your visit to Hiroshima, you can do some window-shopping at Hiroshima Central Shopping District. Visit the monuments in this walkable area or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Hiroshima Central Shopping District
Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims

Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims

Pay respects to the victims of the Hiroshima bombings in a new, contemplative space that brings together images, video and voices of survivors.

Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims
A-Bomb Dome

Hiroshima

Photo by Jsama

Higashihiroshima

Frequently asked questions

Is Kumano worth visiting?
From retail therapy to outdoor activities and history, there are plenty of fun things to do in Kumano. Make sure to enjoy the area's mix of cool sights, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Kumano?
Start your adventures with a visit to Hiroshima Castle and Mazda Museum. Then, check out different areas of Kumano for tasty eats and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Kumano?
Hiroshima Castle is one of the top tourist attractions in Kumano and should be high on every itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Kumano?
You can easily enjoy popular sights like Mazda Museum, Saka Bayside Beach and Haiga Peak with a three-day break in Kumano. On average, most travellers book two days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stay a little longer and head to Hiroshima.
What are some activities to do in Kumano with kids?
Planning what to do in Kumano with kids has never been simpler. Whether you're getting away with teenagers or little ones, there are loads of family-friendly tours and attractions to keep them entertained here.

What to do in Kumano for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Kumano, with experiences for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Gates of Peace or Nagasako Park.
Are there free things to do in Kumano?
One of the top ways to find free things to do in Kumano is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on cool neighbourhoods, parks and other top attractions you can enjoy without reaching into your pocket. Saka Bayside Beach is one spot that doesn't have an admission fee.