When many travelers visit Hiroshima, they usually head to famous places like the Peace Memorial Park or Miyajima.
But if you want to experience a quieter and more local side of the city, Mitaki-dera Temple is one of the best hidden spots to visit.
I visited on a sunny spring day and was surprised by how peaceful the area felt, even though it is only a short train ride from central Hiroshima.
The journey itself is simple, which makes this temple a great choice for international travelers who may not want to deal with complicated bus routes.
Easy Access from Hiroshima Station
Getting to Mitaki-dera is easier than many people expect.
From Hiroshima Station, take the JR Kabe Line to Mitaki Station.
The ride is short, and after leaving the station, the temple is about a 15-minute walk.
One thing I liked was that the route is mostly straightforward.
After exiting Mitaki Station, turn right at the stop sign near the railroad crossing, and then simply follow the road uphill toward the mountains.
Even without Japanese language skills, it is difficult to get lost.
A Different Atmosphere from Central Hiroshima
As you walk toward the temple, the city noise slowly disappears.
The streets become quieter, trees begin to surround the road, and the atmosphere changes completely from downtown Hiroshima.
Mitaki-dera feels more like a hidden mountain temple than a major tourist attraction.
That is probably why I saw visitors from many different countries during my visit.
At one point, an Indian traveler asked me in English where a trail ahead would lead.
When I explained that it was a mountain hiking route and could take about an hour, she smiled, thanked me, and decided to turn back.
Moments like that reminded me how international travel in Japan has become, even in quiet local places like this.
Entering Mitaki-dera Temple
The entrance fee is very reasonable:
- Adults: ¥200
- Elementary school children and younger: Free
The temple grounds are filled with greenery, stone statues, moss, and gentle sounds of water flowing through the area.
Unlike crowded sightseeing spots, people here mostly walk quietly and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Small Details That Make the Temple Special
One detail I personally enjoyed was a small musical bell display near the entrance.
Different coins create different tones when dropped into the offering box.
It was a simple but charming detail that made the temple feel warm and welcoming rather than formal.
I also noticed beautiful stone carvings and quiet corners throughout the temple grounds.
These small details are easy to miss if you rush through the visit.
A Peaceful Side of Hiroshima
Mitaki-dera is not a flashy tourist destination.
There are no huge crowds, no giant shopping streets, and no busy tour groups.
Instead, this is the kind of place where you can slow down, listen to the wind in the trees, and experience a quieter side of Japan.
If you are already visiting Hiroshima and want somewhere peaceful and easy to reach by train, Mitaki-dera is absolutely worth adding to your trip.
And best of all, you do not need complicated transportation to get there.
One more reason to visit Mitaki-dera is the autumn season.
In November, the temple becomes especially beautiful as the maple leaves turn bright red and orange.
The quiet mountain atmosphere and colorful foliage make it one of Hiroshima’s most peaceful hidden autumn spots.
Many local photographers visit during this season, and it is easy to understand why once you see the temple surrounded by autumn colors.
