Winter Sports

For many, wintertime in Hiroshima means oysters and nihonshu. These are great seasonal indulgences but there are many other experiences worth having during the colder months. While the rest of Japan either goes into hibernation or ski season, Hiroshima has its own winter fun schedule. Despite minimal snowfall in the city, there are still ample opportunities to get involved in winter activities. From solo adventures to family trips, here is a selection of great places to visit during Hiroshima’s winter months. Big Wave Ice Rink No winter in Hiroshima would be complete without at least a few visits to the Higashi-ku Sports Center in Ushita for some fun on the ice. While renting skates and riding around the center’s frozen swimming pool is exciting enough on its own, you could also give curling, figure skating, or ice hockey a try. There are twice-monthly skating lessons to sign up for and hockey teams to join. Fees are 1,580 yen for adults and 940 yen for children and over-65s. Skates are available to rent. Web site (Japanese): https://www.sports-or.city.hiroshima.jp/facilities/sogo-p Snow Play at Mominoki Forest Park Throughout the year, this enchanting forest park makes for a beautiful retreat into nature. Winter is no exception,…