Hondori: The Heartbeat of Hiroshima

• Helloこんにちは
  [kon-ni-chi-wa]
• Goodbyeさようなら
  [sa-yo-u-na-ra]
• Yesはい
  [ha-i]
• Noいいえ
  [i-i-e]
• Please/You're welcomeどうぞ
  [do-u-zo]
• Thank youありがとうございます
  [a-ri-ga-to-u-go-za-i-ma-su]
• Excuse me/Sorryすみません
  [su-mi-ma-se-n]
• How are you?お元気ですか？
  [o-ge-n-ki-de-su-ka]
• Fine. And you?元気です、あなたは？
  [ge-n-ki-de-su, a-na-ta-wa]
• Do you speak English?英語を話せますか？
  [e-i-go-o-ha-na-se-ma-su-ka]
• I don't understandわかりません
  [wa-ka-ri-ma-se-n]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseメニューを見せてください
  [me-n-yu-u-o-mi-se-te-ku-da-sa-i]
• I don't eat meat肉は食べません
  [ni-ku-wa-ta-be-ma-se-n]
• Cheers!乾杯!
  [ka-n-pa-i]
• I would like to pay, pleaseお会計をお願いします
  [o-kai-kei-o-o-ne-ga-i-shi-ma-su]

• Help!助けて!
  [ta-su-ke-te]
• Go away!去って!
  [sa-t-te]
• Call the Police!警察を呼んで!
  [ke-i-sa-t-o-yon-de]
• Call a doctor!医者を呼んで!
  [i-sha-o-yon-de]
• I'm lost道に迷っています
  [mi-chi-ni-ma-ya-t-te-i-ma-su]
• I'm ill具合が悪いです
  [gu-a-i-ga-wa-ku-i-de-su]

• I'd like to buy...買いたいです...
  [ka-i-ta-i-de-su]
• I'm just looking見ているだけです
  [mi-te-i-ru-da-ke-de-su]
• How much is it?いくらですか？
  [i-ku-ra-de-su-ka]
• That's too expensiveそれは高すぎます
  [so-re-wa-ta-ka-su-gi-ma-su]
• Can you lower the price?値段を下げてもらえますか？
  [ne-da-n-o-sa-ge-te-mo-ra-e-ma-su-ka]

• What time is it?今何時ですか？
  [i-ma-na-n-ji-de-su-ka]
• It's one o'clock一時です
  [i-chi-ji-de-su]
• Half past (10)十時半です
  [ju-u-ji-ha-n-de-su]
• Morning朝
  [a-sa]
• Afternoon午後
  [go-go]
• Evening夜
  [yo-ro]
• Yesterday昨日
  [ki-no-u]
• Today今日
  [kyo-u]
• Tomorrow明日
  [a-shi-ta]
• 1一
  [i-chi]
• 2二
  [ni]
• 3三
  [sa-n]
• 4四
  [shi]
• 5五
  [go]
• 6六
  [ro-ku]
• 7七
  [shi-chi]
• 8八
  [ha-chi]
• 9九
  [ku]
• 10十
  [ju-u]

• Where's a/the...?...はどこですか？
  [...wa-do-ko-de-su-ka]
• What's the address?住所は何ですか？
  [ju-u-sho-wa-na-n-de-su-ka]
• Can you show me (on the map)?地図で見せてもらえますか？
  [chi-zu-de-mi-se-te-mo-ra-e-ma-su-ka]
• When's the next (bus)?次の(バス)はいつですか？
  [tsu-gi-no(ba-su)-wa-i-tsu-de-su-ka]
• A ticket (to ....)(...)までのチケット
  [(...)ma-de-no-chi-ke-tto]

Hondori, a commercial district in Hiroshima, began to take shape during the Edo period (1603-1868) when it became a hub for merchants and traders. The area was strategically located, making it an essential part of Hiroshima's trade routes. The streets were lined with shops and stalls selling various goods, reflecting the vibrant economy of the time.

On August 6, 1945, Hiroshima was devastated by an atomic bomb, resulting in significant destruction. Hondori, being a central commercial area, was almost completely obliterated. The impact of the bombing led to a dramatic loss of life and the destruction of many historic buildings that once characterized the district.

After the war, the Japanese government and local citizens undertook extensive reconstruction efforts. Hondori was rebuilt and transformed into a modern shopping arcade, symbolizing resilience and recovery. The new Hondori became a focal point for commerce and social interaction in Hiroshima, showcasing a blend of traditional and contemporary Japanese culture.

Today, Hondori is not just a shopping area but a cultural landmark in Hiroshima. It hosts various festivals and events that celebrate local traditions and contemporary art. The district is home to numerous restaurants, shops, and galleries, reflecting the dynamic culture of the city and its commitment to preserving its history while embracing modernity.

Hondori's proximity to Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park enhances its cultural significance. Visitors often explore Hondori before or after visiting the park, making it a vital part of the Hiroshima experience. The area embodies the spirit of recovery and peace, serving as a reminder of the city's tragic past while promoting forward-looking ideals.

Hondori is centrally located in Hiroshima and is easily accessible from other neighborhoods. From Hiroshima Station, take the Hiroshima Electric Railway (Hiroden) to Hondori Station, which takes about 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the Number 24 or Number 26 bus directly to Hondori; the bus ride typically lasts around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.

Hondori is a pedestrian-friendly area, making it easy to explore on foot. The main shopping street is closed to traffic, allowing for a relaxed stroll. For longer distances, the Hiroden tram system is convenient, with multiple lines connecting to other parts of the city. Bicycles can be rented at several locations for those who wish to explore at their own pace.

Hondori is generally a safe neighborhood for tourists. However, like any urban area, it is advisable to remain vigilant, especially in crowded places. Avoid poorly lit areas at night, particularly alleyways surrounding the shopping district. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, can occur, so keep your belongings secure and be cautious of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 110 for police assistance or 119 for fire and medical emergencies. The Hiroshima City Hospital and several clinics are located within a short distance from Hondori. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, and pharmacies are also available for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and shrines. Don't wear excessively casual or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions; take off your shoes when entering someone's home. Public Transport: Do be quiet and courteous on public transport. Don't eat or drink while on the tram or bus. Greetings: Do bow slightly when greeting someone as a sign of respect. Don't engage in loud or disruptive behavior. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties, such as okonomiyaki. Don't waste food or refuse offerings as it can be seen as disrespectful.

To experience Hondori like a local, visit the various shops and eateries in the area, especially the small izakayas and street food stalls. Engage with shop owners and try to learn a few basic Japanese phrases; locals appreciate the effort. Don’t miss the nearby Peace Memorial Park and Museum, which are only a short walk away and provide a deeper understanding of Hiroshima's history. For a unique experience, explore the underground shopping arcade that connects to Hondori, offering a different shopping atmosphere.