If you are planning to stay in Hiroshima.I highly recommend that you stay at the World Friendship Centre.
"World Friendship Center was founded on August 6th, 1965 (exactly 20years after the Atomic Bombing of Hiroshima), by Barbara Reynolds, to provide a place where people from many nations can meet, share their experiences and reflect on peace." (Taken off the website)
It is highly recommended to reserve in advance to avoid disappointment! The accomodation has only 4-5 rooms! The cost 3900 JPN per guest per night (1/2 price for children 2 to 11 years old; under 2-free)Includes Western-style Breakfast and High Speed Internet.* Note: you have to pay the cost in cash in JPY
The private rooms at the WFC enhances a foreigner's experience in Japan. Picture this in your mind - tatami mat lined room, japanese decoration, and the opportunity to sleep on a futon for a reasonable cost. Simply Awesome for a traveller on a budget! One advantage of staying at the WFC is that the couple who ran the place compiled a list of good and reasonably priced eateries around the centre! The only disappointment I had was that I could not try all the lovely restaurants recommended by the directors of the centre! The breakfast table can accomodate 6 guests, thus giving the guests at the centre a chance to interact with each other.
In the days leading up to 6th August, in memory of the fateful day the A Bomb was dropped on Hiroshima. Many activities are held along the river side. We managed to participate in an event and it was memorable! The participants came from different countries, some of us never experienced the horrors of WW2. Yet as our hearts and voices united to sing Amazing Grace, it was a beautiful declaration of the desire to have Peace and Harmony on this Earth!
The moonlight and spotlight casted an eerie glow on the Bomb dome!
When you stay at the WFC, the directors of the centre can schedule a personalised Peace Park Guide Tours for you and with advance notice can arrange for first hand accounts of Hibakusha.
Day trip from Hiroshima
Miyajima - We took a ferry across from the mainland to Miyajima and many sailboats dotted the sea! If you are holding a JR Pass the ride on the ferry is free! The ferry timing is quite frequent and the ride takes around 15 mins! From the ferry you can catch sight of the Floating Tori Gate!
Opinion on Hiroshima VS Nagasaki
If you have limited time in Japan and you are contemplating whether to visit Hiroshima or Nagasaki. Having visted both places, I prefer Hiroshima. I found it easier to navigate round Hiroshima as the main attractions more conveniently located.
You might be interested in my post on Nagasaki
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