Is the Ujina waterfront walk worth it?

Yes, it is highly recommended for travelers who want to see a non-touristy side of Hiroshima. It offers a unique combination of Meiji-era industrial architecture, modern port life, and the natural beauty of the Seto Inland Sea.

Can I see the sunset on this walk?

Absolutely. The western-facing views from Ujina Pier Park and the coastal path near the lighthouse are among the best spots in the city to watch the sunset over the water and islands.

Is the route accessible for wheelchairs?

Most of the route follows paved sidewalks and flat park paths. However, the very last section leading specifically to the lighthouse structure may have some tree roots and uneven terrain that could be challenging.

How do I get to the start of the walk?

You can take the Hiroden Tram (Line 1, 3, or 5) from Hiroshima Station or the city center and get off at Ujina-nichome Station. The museum is a short 5-minute walk from the stop.

Are there places to eat along the Ujina waterfront?

Yes, there are several cafes and restaurants near the Hiroshima Port Cruise Terminal and inside the Grand Prince Hotel. Ujina is also known for its 'oyster huts' which are open during the winter months.

What is the best time of day for this self-guided walk?

Mid-afternoon is ideal. This allows you to visit the museum before it closes, enjoy the activity at the port, and finish at the lighthouse just as the sun begins to set.

Is there an entrance fee for the stops?

The Hiroshima City Museum of History and Traditional Crafts has a small entrance fee (usually around 100-200 yen). The parks, cruise terminal, and lighthouse area are free to explore.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Discover a different side of the city with this self-guided maritime walking route through Ujina, Hiroshima's historic gateway to the Seto Inland Sea. While many visitors focus on the city center, this neighborhood stroll offers a peaceful escape into industrial heritage and coastal beauty. This area was once a bustling military port that played a pivotal role in Japan's modern history, and today it has transformed into a scenic waterfront destination where history meets the horizon. Your journey begins at a striking red-brick building that survived the atomic bombing, now serving as a museum of local crafts and history. From there, the route takes you along the refreshing coastline, passing through Ujina Pier Park where you can watch ferries glide across the water toward distant islands. You will explore the modern Hiroshima Port Cruise Terminal, a hub of contemporary maritime travel, before heading toward the lush greenery of Motoujina Park. The walk concludes at a historic lighthouse tucked away in a coastal forest, offering a moment of tranquility and a glimpse into the region's seafaring soul. This walking tour Hiroshima experience is perfect for those who enjoy off-the-beaten-path exploration, maritime history, and the calming influence of the sea. Whether you are interested in the industrial architecture of the Meiji era or simply want to enjoy a sunset over the Seto Inland Sea, this self-guided adventure provides a comprehensive look at the maritime memories that shaped this resilient city. Explore at your own pace and immerse yourself in the stories of the people who lived and worked on these docks for over a century.

Highlights

Hiroshima City Museum of History and Traditional Crafts in a preserved 1911 building

Panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea from Ujina Pier Park

Modern architecture and island ferry watching at the Cruise Terminal

The lush coastal forest paths of Motoujina Park

The historic Ujina Lighthouse, a symbol of maritime safety

Tour Stops (5)

Hiroshima City Museum of History and Traditional Crafts

Begin your exploration at this iconic red-brick building, which was originally constructed in 1911 as a military provisions depot for canning meat. It is one of the few surviving western-style industrial buildings in the city, having withstood the atomic blast due to its sturdy construction and distance from the hypocenter. Today, it serves as a museum dedicated to the industrial heritage of Hiroshima, focusing on traditional crafts like oyster farming and seaweed production. Take a moment to admire the rhythmic arches and detailed masonry that reflect the Meiji-era industrial ambition before you head south toward the water.

Ujina Pier Park

As you reach the waterfront, you enter Ujina Pier Park. This area was once a massive embarkation point for soldiers during various conflicts in the early 20th century. Today, the atmosphere is entirely different—it's a place for leisure and relaxation. You’ll see locals fishing, families strolling, and enthusiasts photographing the ships. The park offers wide-open spaces and a direct view of the many islands dotting the Seto Inland Sea. It’s a perfect spot to observe the 'Sato-umi' culture, where the sea and human life are deeply interconnected.

Hiroshima Port Cruise Terminal

Next, you arrive at the Hiroshima Port Cruise Terminal. This modern facility is the heartbeat of the modern harbor, connecting Hiroshima to Shikoku and the surrounding islands. The sleek, glass-heavy architecture contrasts beautifully with the industrial history you've seen so far. If you look at the schedules, you'll see ferries departing for Matsuyama and Miyajima. This stop highlights Hiroshima's ongoing status as a vital maritime hub. Even if you aren't boarding a ship, the terminal area offers great vantage points for watching the large car ferries and high-speed hydrofoils maneuver through the harbor.

Grand Prince Hotel Hiroshima

Continue your walk toward the southern tip of the Ujina peninsula to see the Grand Prince Hotel Hiroshima. This striking triangular building was designed by the renowned architect Yoshiro Ikehara and is famous for its unique shape, ensuring almost every room has a sea view. More recently, it gained international fame as the primary venue for the 2023 G7 Summit. The hotel marks the transition from the industrial port area to the natural forest of Motoujina. The grounds are beautifully landscaped and offer a sense of luxury and seclusion at the edge of the city.

Ujina Lighthouse

Your final stop is the Ujina Lighthouse, located within the forested Motoujina Park. To reach it, you'll walk along a coastal path shaded by ancient trees that have grown undisturbed for decades. The lighthouse itself was first established in 1894 to guide ships through the narrow channels of the Inland Sea. While the current structure is a modern replacement, the site remains a vital navigational aid. Standing here, surrounded by the sound of waves and rustling leaves, you can appreciate the rugged beauty of the coastline. It’s a peaceful conclusion to your journey through Hiroshima's maritime past and present.

Frequently Asked Questions

The full route is approximately 4 to 5 kilometers (about 2.5 to 3 miles). Depending on your pace and how long you spend at the museum, it typically takes between 2 and 3 hours to complete.