Hiroshima: hypocenter and Atomic Bomb Dome — Guide Emmy
October, 2026
This is a private guided tour report by Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.), a network of 1,000+ government-licensed, English-speaking local guides across all 47 prefectures of Japan.
Tour Itinerary
- 10:00 Meet at the Hotel lobby
- 10:10 Move to the hypocenter and Atomic Bomb Dome
- 10:20 Visit the hypocenter, Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Memorial Park, and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
- 12:10 Move to and visit Hiroshima Castle and Shukkeien Garden
- 14:00 Move to the Hotel
- 14:20 Disband at the Hotel
Title: What Is a Private Peace Park and Shukkeien Garden Tour in Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report
This was my first time guiding guests from Africa. The guests were very warm-hearted and intelligent, with a particularly strong interest in peace. I was impressed by how much they loved Japan and how thoroughly they had researched it beforehand. We were lucky that the Peace Memorial Park was only moderately crowded, though they were surprised by how busy it was inside the museum. They had also enjoyed Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa and Kyoto, but they seemed especially fond of Shukkeien Garden, saying it was "the best they had ever seen," which both surprised and delighted me. It was a very happy time for me as well. Thank you so much!
A notable stop on the tour was Shukkeien Garden in Hiroshima. Shukkeien is a historic Japanese garden whose name means "shrunken-scenery garden," reflecting how it recreates miniature versions of famous landscapes and natural scenes within its grounds. Originally created in the early 17th century, the garden features a central pond, winding paths, arched bridges, and carefully arranged plantings that change beautifully with the seasons. Visitors can stroll along the circular route to enjoy teahouses, koi-filled waters, and tranquil views that make it one of the most beloved traditional gardens in the region.
Click here for more details: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
Hi, nice to meet you! I am Emmy. I am so honored and happy to be your guide.
I had been teaching at a local university in Hiroshima. After I got retired in March 2023, I started guiding. I was born and raised in Hiroshima. I love communicating with people all over the world more than anything, so I have been involved in home visit, homestay, volunteer guide for people from foreign countries.
I always hope that our guests will take away lots of positive energy from Hiroshima, a city that was resilient and revived like a phoenix, in spite of its sad history.
While realizing customers’ wishes, I will introduce you the beauty of Hiroshima, Miyajima and so on, which are tranquil and peaceful places with a unique charm that cannot be found in big cities.
I am happy to answer any questions about things Japanese.
I look forward to meeting you in person soon!!
Jul 3, 2026
715rachnak
Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
Such a great experience in Hiroshima and Miyajima!
We…
Jul 3, 2026
715rachnak
Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
Such a great experience in Hiroshima and Miyajima!
We had a wonderful experience and learned soo much about Hiroshima and Miyajima! Emiko was amazing! She was so knowledgeable, sweet, and friendly! We felt like she was part of our family fir the day!
Jul 2, 2026
Janine_P
Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
Worth the money!
From the moment we booked our…
Jul 2, 2026
Janine_P
Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
Worth the money!
From the moment we booked our private tour, to being back home, the tour company and then our guide had excellent communication. We met our guide Emmy at the Shin-Hiroshima station and she immediately helped us navigate the station and be on our way to Miyajima. Having a second-generation Hiroshima survivor lead us through our day was wonderful and we were able to tailor the day to meet our interests.
Emmy provided answers to our questions, information on what we were seeing, and gave ample time for exploration and photos.
After Miyajima we headed back to Hiroshima for the tour to continue with more historical perspective and even a detour to a calligraphy store! She was patient when we wanted to buy snacks or were in the museum. We felt fortunate to have spent the day with this amazing tour guide.
It was a long day for all of us and Emmy made sure we weren’t overwhelmed with information. She stayed with us all the way back to the Shin-Hiroshima station and made sure we got through with our tickets before departing.
Following the tour, she sent photos that she took of our family throughout the day which was very much appreciated.
May 7, 2026
Diane_F
Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
Wonderful tour and guide
Our tour guide Emmy was…
May 7, 2026
Diane_F
Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
Wonderful tour and guide
Our tour guide Emmy was so gracious and knowledgeable, she was truly outstanding! Our
tour was wonderful and would highly recommend.
Apr 12, 2026
Curious613511
Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
We did a 4 hour walking tour through Hiroshima where…
Apr 12, 2026
Curious613511
Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
We did a 4 hour walking tour through Hiroshima where we saw all the main attractions that we wanted to see.
We had a wonderful experience in Hiroshima. Our tour guide Emmy was just a delight. Emmy was very knowledgeable, & caring, looking after us throughout the whole day. She went out of her way to make our experience in Japan relaxing & enjoyable. Emmy met us at the platform at Hiroshima Station when we arrived & took us back to the train at Hiroshima Station when we were leaving. Nothing was too much for her.
I have no problems recommending Emmy to anyone who wants a wonderful experience in Hiroshima.