Hiroshima is a historic city on Japan's western coast, and is known for its Peace Memorial Park and Museum, dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing.

Takamatsu is a city located on the island of Shikoku, and is known for its beautiful gardens, udon noodles, and art museums.

During the Edo period, which lasted from the 17th to the mid-19th century, Japan was ruled by the Tokugawa shogunate and experienced a period of peace and stability.