Shukkeien Garden is 15mins walk from Hiroshima Station but it was closed for a private function so I continued my journey towards Hiroshima Castle. It was roughly 10mins walk from the garden. I entered the castle via the eastern entrance and walked thru the beautiful gardens. There were a couple of wedding photography held at the place and it was not as grand as the ones I encountered at Meiji Shrine few years back. They were more casual and more joyous.
As I walked towards the southern entrance, I had to pass by a shrine which had wedding procession going on. That explains the bunch of wedding photography in the park. I got myself a custard carp pancake and sat by the bench watching some wedding procession.
I continued walking to the next nearby attraction, A-Bomb Dome about 10 mins away. It was such a solemn place and I was astound by the remaining structure that survived the bomb blast. Across the river stream was the Peace Memorial park. I noticed that I've started the attraction from the back to front and missed out some vital places in the park but I was still satisfied. The museum stands atthe entrance of the park but it was too crowded for me to enter hence I decided to leave.
By the time I completed the main attraction, it was time to check out the local shopping scene. I did realized that I have yet to have a meal so I went to a local curry house and had some shrimp katsu curry don. It was alright but it sure filled my well. Once full, it's time to check out Hondori.
Hondori is a stretch of shopping arcade similar to Shinsaibashi in Osaka but it carry lesser known brands. I got tempted to shop again but subdued to mental shopping list. I retreated early to rest for my day trip Miyajima the day after.
After I completed my Miyajima trip, I told myself that I could start shopping limitedly. I returned to Hondori after a well rested nap and went to get what I had in my mental shopping list. I was quite pleased with the shopping experience in Hiroshima. The exchange rate conversion wasn't that fantastic but I managed to get some order request by people at home. At least I cleared the orders, I can concentrate fully on my needs.
Hiroshima is a peaceful and solemn city. It is not as robust or hectic as major city of Tokyo and Osaka but it paced perfectly fine. I had a relaxing time and managed to to rejuvenate after a hike at Mt Misen. Food and shopping are plenty and it was easy navigating around town. Hiroshima is my top favorite city for this trip and I would love to return if given the opportunity. I could still do day trips around Hiroshima and will definitely stay in Hana Hostel again due to the excellent service and room.