Stand before the Genbaku Dome at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, then cross by ferry to Miyajima's floating torii gate — two of Japan's most profound and visually iconic sites, explored at your own pace with a private expert historian. Deeply moving, utterly unforgettable.
What to expect
Your private historian leads you through the Peace Memorial Park, pausing at the Flame of Peace and the Children's Monument before entering the museum — powerful, respectful, and deeply contextualised. A short ferry ride brings you to Miyajima, where deer roam freely around Itsukushima Shrine's brilliant vermillion torii rising from tidal shallows. At high tide the gate appears to float; the image is Japan distilled to its essence. Lunch is at a centuries-old ryokan overlooking the shrine precincts.
Good to know
Hiroshima is easily reached by Shinkansen bullet train or high-speed ferry from most Inland Sea ports — confirm routing from your port of call. Pre-book well in advance; private departures require at least 2 weeks' notice. Comfortable walking shoes essential; the shrine complex involves uneven stone paths.