Takehara

Takehara, at first glance, comes across as a parallel universe composed of mystical and impenetrable bamboo forests. However, there is so much more to this tiny coastal city with a population of around 30,000. Less than an hour away from Hiroshima, most tours around Takehara focus on local delicacies, bamboo souvenirs (as a matter of course) and sampling sake, a traditional Japanese rice wine. While several people compare this town with the Kyoto of the past, Takehara has several unique features of its own especially in the form of its many locations that have appeared in popular anime and television dramas. Moreover, if in case you happen to be a cat person, these reclusive felines dot almost every street and alleyway of the city. Interestingly, a major part of Takehara with its cobbled paths and heritage structures has been designated a ‘Historic Preservation Area’. For experienced climbers, the 266 metre tall Mount Kurotaki is only a train stop away from the city and the historically beautiful Okunoshima Island is accessible by virtue of a short ferry ride.

Takehara is a 90 minute bus ride away from Hiroshima City. If you intend to take the train, you would have to get on the Kure Line from Hiroshima Station that finally takes you to the main Takehara Station. The journey is roughly an hour long and the memories of this romantic destination will stay with you forever.