Wondering what to do as you descend into Kure? Join us in this guide highlighting the best things to do in Kure, Hiroshima for a vacation like no other.
Kure is a mesmerizing city on Japan’s Seto Inland Sea, near other popular destinations such as Onomichi and Fukuyama. Kure is best known for its naval history. It was here where Yamato, one of the world's largest battleships, was built. The best sakes are also in this city!
If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Kure, be sure to read this story until the end.
1. Honor Kure’s History at the Yamato Museum
Should you want to really appreciate the history of Kure, the best place to start your tour is at the Yamato Museum. After all, Kure is synonymous with shipbuilding.
This museum houses a replica of the famed battleship. It also exhibits actual vehicles and weapons during the Second World War. To give you context, Kure, being part of Hiroshima, suffered from extensive aerial bombing and was occupied by the British Commonwealth Occupation Force between 1946 and 1952.
ALSO READ: FREE THINGS TO DO IN HIROSHIMA
2. Toast to the Best Sake
Sake is Japanese rice wine. Though historical accounts say its birthplace is in the Shimane prefecture, which is around two hours away from Hiroshima, sake’s popularity is huge in Kure.
In fact, sakes crafted at the city’s Sempuku Brewery are export-quality. They have been making delicious sake since 1902.
Be sure to head to their tasting corner to experience their famous brews. Did you know that they also sold sakes to naval bases throughout Japan? Thanks to Kure’s vast naval connections.
3. Journey Back in Time to the Edo Period
From 1603 to 1868, the time of the reign of the illustrious King Louis XIV in France and when some nations were under European colonies, Japan was enjoying somewhat a golden age in what was known as the Edo Period.
Just when you thought all those memories were gone, there’s an island in Kure where you can travel back in time and experience this epoch once again. Head Mitarai on Osaki Shimojima island.
4. Marvel at a View Only Seen in Kure
That view is at Alley Karasukojima, one of the various parks in the city. But this park is unique because of the sight of ships and submarines owned by the Maritime Self-Defense Force Kure Base, creating a special landscape only seen here in Kure. Before you head to your next tour, drop by the souvenir shop to buy goodies you can take home.
5. Visit a Heritage Museum Housed in the Former Residence of the Navy Commander
Most of the time, you’ll visit a museum because of what’s inside. But, here at the Irifuneyama Memorial Museum, you’re more likely to linger looking at the building where it is.
This heritage museum is housed in the former residence of Kure Naval Station’s commander-in-chief. It combines Japanese and Western design and architecture.
6. Try Niku-Jaga
Much of Kure’s history is associated with shipbuilding – thus, manual labor – so its culture is the epitome of humility. You can see it in the diet of the city’s sailors and engineers. One of their staple dishes is niku-jaga, which is a simple stew consisting only of potato, carrots, and some beef. If you’re visiting Kure, trying this dish is highly recommended.
7. Shop Gourmet Food at Renga-Dori
Forget about South Korea’s Myeong-dong and Hong Kong’s Mong Kok for a while because shopping here at Kure is quite unforgettable. There’s a shopping street that will treat you to the world’s best gourmet food.
At Renga-dori, you can find famous treats like okonomiyaki and old-fashioned sweets such as fry cake and surprised manju that the locals will tell you must try. Don’t forget to visit the coffee shop here offering coffee once served inside the Yamato battleship.
8. Hop Aboard the Kure Kansen Meguri Cruise and Be Surprised
If you want a rather unique way to learn about Kure’s maritime heritage, ride the Kure Kansen Meguri Cruise. As you move across the water, you’ll be treated to views of huge shipyards and the remains of the dock where Yamato was built. Reservations are required.
9. Relax in a Hot Spring
Japanese hot springs are generally not called “hot springs” per se, but onsens. The benefits of dipping in an onsen include keeping the body clean, promoting relaxation and better sleep, and burning calories, among others.
The best onsen in Kure is at Kurahashi Katsuragahama Onsenkan. The interiors are very modern, making your experience very rejuvenating.
10. Participate in Food Festivals
Almost every month in Kure has festivals and events you can enjoy. For instance, in November, there’s a food festival that features stalls selling local specialties.
In April, you can partake in yacht races. Every August, fireworks light up the bay and you can indulge in sumptuous oysters every February at the central park.
With several fun things to do in Kure, it isn’t easy to just fly out of this wonderful city. It’s a destination that should be on your bucket list.
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