Hiroshima Trips

Explore culture, nature and living history

The Hidden Jewels of West Japan

While the neon lights of Tokyo and the temples of Kyoto capture the world’s imagination, the true connoisseur of Japanese culture knows that the country’s deepest secrets lie further west.

Welcome to the Chugoku region, a land of ancient mythology, feudal elegance, and profound history. This is a Japan that moves at a gentler pace, where white-walled merchant towns mirror the calm waters of the Inland Sea, and where the gods themselves are said to dwell.

Whether you are joining our classic Japan Explorer journeys or indulging in the refined pace of our Comfort Plus itineraries, we invite you to discover a region that offers a powerful counterpoint to the bustle of the capital.

Why explore Hiroshima and West Honshu with Japaventura?

Hiroshima: History, hope and island landscapes

Memorial sites, the magic of Miyajima and a vibrant cultural scene. A moving and uplifting journey through western Japan

Miyajima: Island of red torii and peaceful mountain trails

A sacred shrine where nature, sea and spirituality come together

Himeji: The White Castle and Matsumoto’s Black Castle in one journey

Discover the finest viewpoints across Himeji Castle and its surroundings

Izumo-Taisha Cycle Tour: Myth, nature and gentle coastal paths

Explore the sacred shrine of western Japan by bicycle, with sea views and local encounters along the way

Iwami Kagura: Mystical dance and shadow play

Experience ancient ritual performances in the Iwami region A rare opportunity to see traditional culture up close in western Japan

Why Discover Chugoku with Japaventura?

Point culminant de l’île de Miyajima : le Mont Misen

To travel this region is to step back in time. We ensure that your journey is as comfortable as it is immersive, removing the language barriers and logistical challenges so you can focus on the wonder.

Exclusive Small Groups: We limit our party to just 12 guests. This intimacy grants us access to atmospheric local restaurants and hidden shrines that larger tours simply cannot reach.
The Luxury of Time: Unlike standard tours that rush through Hiroshima as a day trip, our itineraries are designed to let you breathe. We stay overnight in key locations like Miyajima, giving you exclusive access to the island’s serenity after the day-trippers have departed.
Guaranteed Departures: Your plans are secure with us. Once you book, your journey is guaranteed to proceed, offering you complete peace of mind.

Further highlights in Chūgoku and West Honshu

Kurashiki: Historic canal district and Japan’s denim capital

Stroll through the Bikan Quarter, enjoy a gentle boat ride along the canal, and trace the story of Japanese denim in neighbouring Okayama

Matsue: “City of Water”, samurai heritage and tea culture

Canals, castle charm and moments of matcha between Lake Shinji and the nearby coast

Onomichi: Harbour town, temple paths and island adventures

Winding lanes, sea views and the chance to explore the island-hopping cycle route

Highlights of a Timeless Journey

Our itineraries are a carefully woven tapestry of Japan’s most poignant history and its most exquisite beauty.

The Floating Sanctuary of Miyajima: Witness the iconic Great Torii Gate of Itsukushima Shrine as it appears to float on the tide. On our tours, we don't just visit; we stay. Enjoy the magical atmosphere of the island at dusk, when the stone lanterns are lit and wild deer roam the quiet streets.

A Moment of Reflection in Hiroshima: A visit to the Peace Memorial Park is a deeply moving experience. Your tour leader will navigate this poignant site with the sensitivity it deserves, allowing for a quiet understanding of the city’s resilience and its message of peace.

Feudal Romance in Kurashiki: Step into the Edo period in the Bikan Historical Quarter. Stroll along willow-lined canals past black-tiled merchant warehouses that have been lovingly converted into museums, boutiques, and cafés. It is a living museum of Japanese craftsmanship.

The Art of the Inland Sea: For those on our extended or Comfort journeys, the region offers access to Naoshima, the world-renowned "Art Island." Here, contemporary sculptures and underground museums coexist in perfect harmony with the sleepy fishing villages and sandy beaches of the Seto Inland Sea.

The White Heron Castle: majestic Himeji Castle, Japan's finest surviving feudal fortress, stands as the gateway to this region. Explore its labyrinthine defences and towering keep, a pristine example of 17th-century architecture that has survived wars and earthquakes intact.

A Culinary & Cultural Immersion

The Chugoku region is famous for its bounty. From the savoury layers of authentic Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki, which you can see prepared right before your eyes—to the fresh oysters of Miyajima, we ensure your palate travels as far as you do.

Whether you choose the adventurous spirit of our Explorer tours or the elevated luxury of our Comfort range, you will experience the heart of West Japan with the people who know it best.

Discover a Japan that most travellers miss

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