Hiroshima International Plaza Library

The Information Center and Library at Hiroshima International Plaza (HIP) is an internationally focused public library on the second floor of a cultural exchange facility run by the Hiroshima International Center. It sits inside the Hiroshima Central Science Park in Higashi-Hiroshima, a quiet campus-like area roughly 5km outside Saijo Station. The setting is green and calm, and the library reflects that. No noise, no pressure to buy anything, and staff ready to help with research.

For working or studying, the library has six designated seats with Wi-Fi and power outlets. These are the only seats in the building where plugging in is possible, so arrive early if you plan a long session. Internet-access PCs are also available for research use. The space is explicitly laptop-friendly and described on the website as a place for working and studying, not just browsing.

The collection is stronger than most local branches for English speakers. You will find English-translated manga, bilingual books, foreign magazines and newspapers, and an extensive range of Japanese and foreign language textbooks. Books, CDs, and DVDs can be borrowed free of charge if you are a resident, worker, or student in Hiroshima Prefecture. Registration is quick and requires a standard form of ID. Visitors who do not qualify for a library card can still read, use the PCs, and sit at the Wi-Fi seats.

Next door is the NGO Exchange Room, a free meeting space open to individuals and groups. Walk-ins are welcome when it is not reserved. Groups need to book in advance. It is the most practical option in the building for calls or collaborative work, as the main library reading area keeps noise to a minimum.

There is no cafe or food service on site. No food or drinks are permitted inside the library, and mobile phone use is not allowed in the reading area. Coin-return lockers are available at the entrance for 100 yen. The library is closed every Sunday and from December 29 through January 3. On weekdays there is a midday break from 12:30 to 13:30, so plan your arrival accordingly.