Originally opened in 2005 and then updated and new facilities were added in 2012, Marina Hop is much more than just a shopping mall. It is one of Hiroshima's only outdoor malls offering open-air terrace areas for dining and walking in between the shops. There is also a mini-amusement park at the far end of the shopping complex that is outside. You can enjoy a ride on the ferris wheel while taking in views of the Seto Inland Sea beyond the neighboring yacht harbor and out to the surrounding islands.
Since 2012, the area behind the ferris wheel has been made into a small port offering a ferry service (Ja) to the island of Miyajima several times each day. It only takes 25 minutes to get to the island and there is free parking available at Marina Hop for 1600 cars, so you don't have to worry about parking fees or traffic you will incur if you drive to the main Miyajima ferry port. It costs 2000 yen for adults and half price for elementary age kids for a round trip ticket.
If you are looking for active fun - there is soccer, cruises, an amusement park and even paddling options available. For paddling options check out the outrigger canoe and kayak rental shop next to the J-cafe Hawaiian foods restaurant near the main car park. If you are looking for a cruise in Hiroshima. You can book a Hiroshima sunset, full day cruise or even longer for individuals or small groups with Captain Paddy. His charter service, Sail Hiroshima, leaves from this harbor.
There is also a futsal court called the Mizuno Futsal Plaza for soccer enthusiasts. You can rent the court as a member or visitor for around 8000 yen per hour of use. They also have various tournaments throughout the year that teams are free to enter into (costs are around 15,000 yen per team). They also offer a variety of kids soccer, basketball, badminton and futsal classes during the week.
There is a large event hall that can be rented as well for a reasonable fee to hold conferences, parties or large group gettogethers for up to 500 people. Bookings can be through the operation center (082-503-5500).
There are regular performances of kagura dance held in this event space on the last Saturday night each month for a 500 yen entry fee (no reservations necessary).
In the shopping and dining areas you will find a variety of clothing shops, outdoor goods, dining and cafes (including ones you can take your pets into), a game center and a small amusement park. The game center and amusement park are mostly for younger children or teens, but adults and people dates can also be found having fun here too.
The whole area has a nice, relaxing feel to it. It is quite a nice way to spend a good weather day in Hiroshima. It's very pleasant taking in some views while enjoying some food, shopping and a fun activity or two. You will find many young families and couples regularly enjoying the day or evening here. It can get crowded on the weekends, however, it never seems too congested as there are many outdoor areas to spread out to.
