Snapshot: Hiroshima - Inspiring Vacations. While its reputation as a victim of war precedes it, Hiroshima is a dynamic city on the rise Hiroshima is a buzzing metropolis with a population pushing 1.2 million. If you were dropped there without any knowledge of its history, you’d be forgiven for thinking it’s been developing for years like any other modern city. Sadly, since August 1945, the name Hiroshima has been synonymous with war and devastation. An attack by American armed forces towards the end of World War II transformed the city forever. Over 100,000 people were killed and thousands more injured. The most recognisable monument in Hiroshima is Genbaku, or the Atomic Bomb Dome.
A short walk across the river is the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, an area which was once the city’s economic centre. Beyond memorials, Hiroshima Castle has been transformed into a museum showcasing Samurai artifacts and information about ancient culture. Just ten minutes walk away sits a centuries-old (often overlooked) hidden gem. Snapshot: Tokyo - Inspiring Vacations. As the most technologically advanced city in the world, Japan’s sprawling capital showcases its culture and history on every corner From towering skyscrapers to eclectic streets and an award-winning food scene, Tokyo is Japan’s most populous city and is regularly ranked among the most liveable in the world.
The city of over nine million people is broken into 23 different neighbourhoods (known as wards), each with its own special appeal. Ginza is known for its high-fashion boutiques, Asakusa boasts the city’s largest Buddhist temple, Senso-ji and Shibuya is home to the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing. Tokyo is easily explored on foot but its sophisticated public transport system weaves across the city and connects each area seamlessly. The history of Tokyo dates back around 400 years when it was a modest fishing village known as Edo. This Shogunate was the most powerful government in Japanese history with ruling power over the Emperor and all religious establishments.
Snapshot: Kyoto - Inspiring Vacations. Enchanting visitors from across the globe, this iconic city is Japan’s beating heart For travellers looking to delve into the history and traditions of Japan, Kyoto is the ultimate destination. Located in the Kansai region of Honshū, the ancient capital is bursting with lavish temples and shrines, tranquil gardens and bustling Geisha districts. Unlike its counterparts around the country, Kyoto suffered only minor damage during the air raids of World War II.
Many of its most beautiful temples were spared and thanks to extensive restoration, are open to the public. As many of Kyoto’s sights are located outside the city, an extensive public transport network of buses, trains and subway lines weaves across the city and its surrounds. A city of many names – Heian-kyō, Miyako and Saikyō – Kyoto was the capital of Japan throughout the most important parts of its history. Kyoto’s stunning landscape transforms most dramatically in spring and autumn. Kyoto is also known for its delicious cuisine.