Day 7 - Part 1: Hiroshima Morning

Our day began early once again as we made our way from Okayama to Hiroshima, a city that carries one of the most profound stories in modern history. For Michael, this was his first visit, so he headed straight to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. The museum is powerful, detailed, and deeply emotional—documenting the events of 6 August 1945, the experiences of survivors, and the city’s rebuilding as a global symbol of peace.

Since I had visited the museum a few times before, I walked slowly through the Peace Memorial Park, which surrounds the museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome. The park was designed by architect Kenzo Tange as a space of reflection, and even on busy days it feels calm: wide lawns, quiet paths, memorials dedicated to students, families, and victims, and the gentle flow of the river beside the Dome. No matter how many times you come, the atmosphere remains moving.

By late morning, we made our way to the pier and boarded the speed boat to Miyajima—a beautiful journey across the bay and the perfect transition to the next part of our day.Read more