War and shrines

Hiroshima is a name most of us associate with war and the atomic bomb. Now it is a beautiful city that is associated with encouraging peace. The survivors of the explosion still actively cry out to the world to look at them and their families as examples of the devastation atomic weapons cause. Through its history, Hiroshima has always been a military centre. In conflicts with China and Korea it was the training and launching point for soldiers.

Within the museum are pictures, videos and remnants of a city and its people. Many are heart rendering ,especially at the loss of young innocent children. Even more difficult to accept is the number of young lives blighted by cancer or birth defects caused by radiation years later.

On the plus side the museum shows the efforts of the survivors and world leaders to ensure this  catastrophe never happens again. Japanese historians were honest about Japan’s role in starting  the war .  The gardens reflect nature’s ability to renew and mans need to remember.

Covering 120,000 square metres and visited by tourists from all countries, the park is achieving its aim to encourage peace.

Tram today…….as well as trains and ferries. Welcome to Miyajima and the Itsukushima Shrine or floating torii gate. Miyajima is famous for its fried oysters(  I hope you enjoyed your lunch of them). It has become a tourist hub because of the Shrine. Since early times the island has believed to have religious significance. Shrines have been constructed but the Itsukushima shrine ,which was first built in 593 and then added to , restored and reconstructed ,is considered unique. The O-Torii Gate is half submerged at high tide and appears to float. High tide was at 9.00 pm so you missed that one…sorry.       

Oh did I mention that there are deer on the island that will happily eat anything in your hand so don’t hold out anything important or you may lose it. Enjoy some of the amazing and quirky sights on the island….coffee too.

Check out how to choose dinner.