Hiroshima

For Hiroshima, the world’s most mournful destination, oblivion ceased to be a possibility on August 6, 1945. The first atomic bomb in the history of humanity landed on the city on that day. But long before its fate took a tragic turn, it was a military base and southern Japan’s thriving urban center. It may have regained much of its youthful mojo in the last decade. Nevertheless, all travelers have one thing in mind when they visit the city: to see the countless memorials dedicated to the bombing and its victims. Although Hiroshima keeps the memory of the bombing alive at heart, it reminds visitors of the glory in the resurrection at every corner with its cosmopolitan flair, too.

Every visit to Hiroshima’s poignant past begins at the Peace Park. Once you step into the site, the constant buzz of the city and the rushing traffic will vanish slowly. Time seems to stand still in this lyrical park, capsuled by the memorial monuments that silently give testimony to the bombing. The Cenotaph, bearing the names of the known victims, marks the atmospheric grounds, while the ever-burning Peace Flame gives way to tears with its strong message of hope. However, the story of the disaster is best conveyed in the Peace Memorial Museum dominating the park.

As for its present face, Hiroshima is as vivid and attractive as any other major city in Japan. Take a trip down in its Okonomimura Food Village. There, have a taste of its famous “okonomiyaki”, a delicious pancake filled with vegetables. What appeals to visitors the most is the entertaining show of cooking and serving at the stalls.