Hiroshima Unveiled: Torii Gates, Manju Delights, and a Message of Peace

Greetings, fellow adventurers! Join us, the Trekking Pawns, on a transformative journey to Hiroshima, a city steeped in history, resilience, and remarkable cuisine. From iconic torii gates to delectable manju pastries, and a poignant visit to a UNESCO World Heritage site, our Hiroshima adventure is a tale of exploration, reflection, and culinary delights.

Miyajima's Magnificent Torii Gate

Our adventure began as we disembarked from the bullet train and set foot on Miyajima Island via ferry. This enchanting island, formally known as Itsukushima, is more popularly referred to as "Miyajima," which translates to "shrine island" in Japanese. Its claim to fame? The world-renowned "floating" torii gate.

The Itsukushima Shrine, with its iconic vermilion torii gate seemingly floating on the water during high tide, is a sight to behold. We marveled at the architectural wonder and took in the serene beauty of the shrine's surroundings. It's a spiritual experience that leaves a lasting impression.

Manju Magic on Miyajima

As we explored the island further, our taste buds were in for a treat. We indulged in manju, delightful Japanese pastries crafted from mochi. These tasty treats are filled with sweet red bean paste, a classic ingredient in Japanese cuisine. Manju has a rich history dating back to the 14th century, and its flavors have evolved over time.

One regional variety that stole our hearts was the momiji 🍁 manju, named after the shape of maple leaves ("momiji") and infused with their unique flavor. These were a culinary revelation, a taste unknown outside Japan, and a must-try for food enthusiasts.

Okonomiyaki Delights

Dinner called for a delicious and hearty Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a savory Japanese pancake with layers of ingredients that include batter, cabbage, pork, and optional extras like squid, octopus, and cheese. What makes Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki unique is the addition of yakisoba or udon noodles, crowned with a fried egg and drizzled with okonomiyaki sauce. A true Hiroshima culinary experience!

A Visit to the Heart of Peace

The next day, we embarked on a humbling journey to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome), a UNESCO World Heritage site. This hauntingly beautiful structure is the sole building left standing near the epicenter of the first atomic bomb explosion on August 6, 1945. Preserved as a stark symbol of the devastating power of nuclear weapons, it also embodies a profound message of hope for world peace and disarmament.

Our visit was brief but profoundly moving, a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the urgent need for global peace.

In Hiroshima, we discovered not only the beauty of its landmarks and cuisine but also the enduring spirit of a city that has overcome adversity with grace and dignity. It's a place where the past and present converge, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts.

🕊️🍁🏯 #HiroshimaJourneyOfHope