Hondori Shopping Street

Hondori, originally thriving as Hirataya-cho, faced a devastating blow from the 1945 atomic bombing. The community’s remarkable effort to rebuild the arcade in the 1950s marked it as a symbol of Hiroshima’s recovery. Today, Hondori is a vibrant shopping destination intertwined with history, where people can engage with the city’s lifeblood.

Designed for pedestrians, Hondori’s atmosphere is conducive to a leisurely shopping experience. The western end is a hub for retail, while the eastern end boasts a variety of restaurants and bars suited for family outings. Visitors with a taste for the local specialty, Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, should not miss Okonomimura, just south of Hondori’s eastern end, which offers an authentic culinary experience.

The proximity of Hondori to the Peace Memorial Park provides a contrast between Hiroshima’s resilient past and its dynamic present. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s story and enjoy the local cuisine, including vegetarian options. While Hondori is rich in history, it continues to evolve, accommodating an international clientele.

In essence, Hondori Shopping Street embodies the city’s tenacity and cultural depth, inviting visitors to experience the everyday life of Hiroshima and its storied past.