Kure Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and naturally beautiful city of Kure in Hiroshima, Japan with our detailed travel guide featuring a list of places to visit, outdoor adventures, local culture, food scene, and more.


Introduction to Kure

Located in Hiroshima prefecture in Chugoku region of Japan, Kure is a city known for its rich history and natural beauty. It is one of the largest naval ports in Japan and played a crucial role during World War II. Today, it is a popular tourist destination offering a plethora of options to explore for travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Kure

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Yamato Museum

The Yamato Museum is a must-visit attraction in Kure that showcases Japan’s maritime history. It has a collection of artifacts, models, and exhibits from Japan’s naval history, including the World War II era. The museum also displays the remains of the Japanese battleship, Yamato, which was sunk during the war.

JMSDF Kure Museum

The JMSDF (Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force) Kure Museum is another must-visit attraction that features exhibits of Japanese naval history. It has a collection of photographs, paintings, models, and artifacts related to Japan’s maritime defense force.

Kure Old Naval Port

Kure Old Naval Port is a historic site that houses the remains of the former naval shipyards. It was heavily bombed during the war, but some of the buildings have been preserved and turned into museums and galleries.

Natural Attractions of Kure: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Setonaikai National Park

Setonaikai National Park is a beautiful park that offers scenic views of the Seto Inland Sea. The park has many hiking trails, beaches, and fishing spots where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the area. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic or a day trip from Kure.

Yawatahama Beach

Yawatahama Beach is a pristine beach located near Kure that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports. It has clear blue water and white sand, making it a popular spot for tourists.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kure

Mount Noro

Mount Noro is a popular hiking spot in Kure that offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The hike is about 4.5 km long and takes approximately two hours. It’s a moderately difficult hike with some steep sections, but the views from the top are worth the effort.

Kure Cyling Course

The Kure Cycling Course is a popular biking route that takes visitors through Kure’s natural beauty. It’s a 28 km course that takes about three hours to complete, and passes through some of Kure’s popular attractions, such as the Yamato Museum and Kure Old Naval Port.

Best Things to Do in Kure: Activities and Tours

Kayaking in Setonaikai National Park

Kayaking in Setonaikai National Park is a fun activity that allows visitors to explore the scenic beauty of the Seto Inland Sea. There are many tour operators in the area that offer kayak tours, and it’s a great way to see the local marine life up close.

Walking Tour of Kure Old Naval Port

A walking tour of Kure Old Naval Port is a great way to learn about the city’s maritime history. There are many guided tours available that take visitors through the historic site and explain the significance of the buildings and artifacts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kure

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit Yamato Museum and JMSDF Kure Museum
Day 2 Hike Mount Noro and take a cycling tour
Day 3 Explore Kure Old Naval Port
Day 4 Take a kayaking tour in Setonaikai National Park
Day 5 Visit Yawatahama Beach and relax
Day 6 Take a walking tour of Kure and learn about local culture
Day 7 Buy souvenirs and travel to nearby destinations

Food and Drink Scene of Kure

Must-Try Dishes

Kure Yakisoba

Kure Yakisoba is a local specialty that is a must-try for visitors. It’s a stir-fried noodle dish that is made with high-quality pork and vegetables, and it’s available in many restaurants in the city.

Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki

Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki is a popular dish in Kure that is similar to a Japanese-style pancake. It’s made with layers of cabbage, vegetables, noodles, and meat, and it’s then topped with a savory sauce and mayonnaise.

Local Beverages

Hiroshima Sake

Hiroshima is known for its high-quality sake, and visitors to Kure can sample a variety of local brands. Some of the most popular sake brands include Kamotsuru, Hakutsuru, and Saijo.

Where to Stay in Kure: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kure Hankyu Hotel

The Kure Hankyu Hotel is a luxurious hotel that offers comfortable rooms and fantastic views of the Seto Inland Sea. It’s located in the heart of the city and is close to many popular attractions.

Kure Green Hotel

The Kure Green Hotel is a budget-friendly option for visitors looking for comfortable accommodation. It’s located near Kure Station and offers easy access to the city’s top attractions.

What to Buy in Kure: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kure Navy Curry

Kure Navy Curry is a local specialty that is a great souvenir to bring home. It’s a spicy curry that was developed for the Japanese navy, and it’s available in many stores in Kure.

Momiji Manju

Momiji Manju is a popular souvenir in Kure that is a filled cake made in the shape of a maple leaf. It’s available in many flavors and is a great gift for friends and family back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Kure

Kure is known for its maritime culture, and visitors can experience this by taking part in various cultural activities. The city has a strong work ethic, and visitors should be respectful of this. Bowing is a common greeting in Japan, and visitors should learn the proper way to bow before meeting locals.

Best Time to Visit Kure

The best time to visit Kure is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and comfortable. The cherry blossoms in the city are a popular attraction during the spring.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kure

Do:

  • Take your shoes off when entering someone’s home or a temple.
  • Use both hands when passing objects to someone as a sign of respect.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Eat or drink while walking on the street.
  • Leave a tip at restaurants or hotels, as it’s not common in Japan.
  • Touch food on the display with your hands at restaurants or grocery stores.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kure

Kure is a safe city for tourists, and crime rates are low. However, visitors should exercise caution and take normal safety precautions, such as not leaving their valuables unattended, especially in crowded areas.

Health in Kure

Kure has decent health care services, and visitors can seek medical attention at one of the many hospitals in the city. It’s important to have good medical insurance as medical costs can be high.

Getting to Kure: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kure

The nearest airport to Kure is Hiroshima Airport, which is approximately 40 km away. From the airport, visitors can take a train or bus to Kure.

Bus Stations Near Kure

Kure Bus Terminal is the central bus station in Kure, and it’s located in the city center. Visitors can take a bus from the terminal to various locations in the city.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Kure by train, as the city is well-connected to other major cities in Japan by rail.

How to Get Around in Kure

Visitors can get around in Kure by train, bus, or taxi. The train is the most convenient option and is the recommended mode of transportation for visitors.

Where to Go Next from Kure: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a popular destination near Kure that is known for its historic significance and cultural attractions. It’s home to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, which is a UNESCO world heritage site and a must-visit attraction in Japan.

Miyajima

Miyajima is a small island near Hiroshima that is known for its famous floating Torii gate, one of Japan’s most popular sightseeing spots. Visitors can take a ferry from Hiroshima or Kure to Miyajima to enjoy its scenic beauty.

Conclusion

Kure is a beautiful city in Japan that offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visitors to Kure can explore the city’s naval history, experience local culture, and try delicious food. By following this comprehensive guide, travelers can make the most of their trip to Kure and create unforgettable memories.

The JMSDF Kure Museum The JMSDF Kure Museum