Shobara

Shobara is situated 45 miles (72 kilometers) away from Hiroshima and about 120 miles (193 kilometers) from Kobe.

While it can be tempting to just kick back and relax while visiting Shobara, don't forget, Hiroshima 's numerous natural sights, cities and towns lie just beyond your doorstep. Examples of places within a relatively short distance of Shobara are Akitakata, 20 miles (32 kilometers) to the northeast, and Mihara, 30 miles (48 kilometers) to the north.

Approximately 45 miles (72 kilometers) to the southwest of Shobara is Hiroshima, a regional center where you'll find Hiroshima Green Arena, Hiroshima Children's Museum and Library and Hiroshima Big Arch Stadium. Should you have the time, check out Memorial Cathedral for World Peace, Hiroshima's Transportation Museum and Manga Library-Museum before heading back to Shobara.

A way to experience the true personality of a place is by exploring the cafés and restaurants in the area. Try something off the menu and strike up a conversation with locals. There are plenty of popular dishes locally. Check out okonomiyaki (japanese-style pancake) or donburi (grilled oysters on rice).

Be sure to impress residents in Hiroshima, by picking up some useful Japanese expressions and sentences. "Isshoni odorimasenka?" ("Would you like to dance with me?") is a handy phrase to remember. "Benjo wa doko desu ka?" ("Where's the toilet?") is also good to know.

As your vacation concludes, you'll be sure to bid Shobara a sad "Sayōnara"