THE JAPAN BEYOND
Hiroshima: Explore Shimane, Okayama and Hyogo
Hiroshima reminds us of the horror of war, but also of the hope of peace, rebirth and rebuilding. Moreover, Hiroshima and the surrounding areas like Okayama, Hyogo and Shimane prefecture have to offer so much more than that. History and culture have their roots in ancient times, with sacred shrines being places of worship for more than a millennium and some medieval castles still standing strong.
HIROSHIMA – OF PEACE AND HOPE Hiroshima City today feels like the embodiment of calm. A central spot in the city is the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, an architectural masterpiece by Kenzo Tange, and the stark and haunting Genbaku Dome, the only structure left standing after the atomic bomb. Both are there to symbolize war and destruction, as well as peace and rebuilding. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park's solemn silence is often broken by the sounds of the Peace Bell that anyone can ring. In summer, the lotus flowers in the park bloom. In fact, the whole city of Hiroshima has been steeped in hope of peace, as expressed through the many symbols of harmony in the area. However, you may not realize their significance if you don’t know the history. One such example is the Mitaki temple and its
Stairways to heavenly views : Hiroshima
O n e M o re
Just a step from Hiroshima, the scenic and serene town of Onomichi overlooks the Seto Inland Sea, with great views from its many slopes and stairways. Onomichi can be a pilgrimage for both temple-lovers and film buffs, since it has many wellpreserved temples and it has been the backdrop for over 43 Japanese movies. Furthermore, many writers have stayed and written here. 60min by train from Hiroshima 8
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16-century pagoda which is actually a donation from Wakayama Prefecture. Today, this temple is one of the most scenic spiritual spots in Hiroshima. The rest of Japan and the world helped Hiroshima with various donations, even with trees for replanting, so you might be passing an old tree that is actually a 60-yearold gesture of the world’s solidarity. In 19 4 6 , from the scorched ear th in Hiroshima , oleanders bloomed and camphor trees sprouted branches. This resilient city itself blossomed as a symbol of peace.
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