Hatsukaichi is a city situated in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan, occupying the far southwestern part of the region. It lies between the spine of the Chūgoku Mountains to the north and the coastline of the Seto Inland Sea, specifically Hiroshima Bay, to the south. Administratively, it serves as one of the cities comprising the Hiroshima metropolitan area and contributes two members to the Hiroshima Prefectural Assembly.

The area was part of ancient Aki Province, where Itsukushima Shrine gained influence under Taira no Kiyomori during the Heian period. The name Hatsukaichi derives from markets held on the 20th day of each month in the Kamakura period, appearing in documents from 1454. The town was established in 1889 and became a city in 1988, expanding significantly through mergers with Saeki District municipalities in 2003 and 2005.

The city features urban coastal areas and rural inland regions undergoing depopulation. It is considered the birthplace of kendama, a traditional Japanese toy. Key landmarks include the UNESCO World Heritage Site Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima island, the Sea View Forest Museum with its collection of Japanese art, and the ruins of Miyao Castle, site of the 1555 Battle of Miyajima.

Visitors are drawn to the major tourist attraction of Itsukushima Shrine and the Miyajima Underwater Firework Festival held in mid-August. The city offers cultural sites such as Marine Plaza Miyajima aquarium and the Miyajima Natural Botanical Garden. Local attractions also include the Saiki International Archery Land for field archery experiences and the Sea View Forest Museum, which houses ukiyo-e prints and perfume bottles.

As of 1 May 2023, the city had an estimated population of 116,087 in 53,320 households across 489.48 square kilometres. The economy has shifted from timber and food processing to a commuter town for Hiroshima, while gaining agricultural hinterlands. Access is provided by JR West, Hiroden lines, Sanyō Expressway, and ferries connecting Miyajimaguchi to Miyajima.