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Hiroshima and Miyajima One-Day Bus Tour from Osaka or Kyoto

From historical sites to deer delights, Hiroshima is a prefecture brimming with natural beauty and interesting history. A perfect accompaniment to any jam-packed Japan itinerary, this 1-day Hiroshima trip is great for anyone looking to sample all of Hiroshima's delights in a tight package.

Day Trip to Hiroshima from Osaka or Kyoto

Photo by Pixta

Overlooking the beautiful Seto Inland Sea, Hiroshima is an idyllic coastal destination brimming with history and world heritage beauty.

This Hiroshima one-day tour package offered by Klook is a great day trip for visitors looking to see the most important sights of Hiroshima, from the solemnity of the Hiroshima Memorial Park and Atomic Bomb Dome to the stunning natural and historical beauty of Miyajima Island just off the coast.

With departure from Shin-Osaka Station or Kyoto Station, you'll be traveling by bullet train to Hiroshima. A chartered air-conditioned bus will take you to the major destinations in Hiroshima, which would be otherwise difficult to tour in one day. The tour includes lunch and admission fees !

We introduce the tour highlights below.

Book the Hiroshima Bus Trip from Osaka/Kyoto

First Stop: Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park

Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park is a solemn marker of the horrors of atomic warfare and the continued work toward peace. A visit here is a historical pilgrimage that allows visitors to follow in the footsteps of world leaders and others who hope for a more peaceful world.

The Atomic Bomb Dome, which used to be the Hiroshima Product Exhibition Hall, is the only structure to have survived the explosion and serves as a haunting reminder of just how powerful even one of these weapons is.

Tour participants will then visit the quiet somber memorials around the park, including the Children's Peace Monument dedicated to the children who died affected by the atomic bombing.

Second Stop: Hiroshima Okonomiyaki for Lunch

Delicious crispy egg noodles mixed with pork, cabbage, and bean sprouts, and topped with a sunny-side-up egg! Okonomiyaki is Hiroshima's signature dish, a must-try when visiting the city! You'll be tasting some of the best okonomiyaki in Hiroshima.

The lunch fee is included in the tour package!

Third Stop: Miyajima Island and Itsukushima Shrine

A short ferry ride from the coast of Hiroshima sees visitors reach the blissful shores of Miyajima Island. Packed to the brim with natural beauty and a number of amazing world heritage sites, it is a must-see for any visitor to Hiroshima.

One of the most stunning attractions of the island is Itsukushima Shrine , which greets visitors with its floating torii gate upon arriving at the island's shores. This picturesque shrine is one of the Three Great Scenic Views of Japan - a top three list including the islands of Matsushima in Miyagi and the pine-covered sandbar of Amanohashidate in Kyoto.

As part of this tour, you'll be able to take photos of the Great Torii Gate from the nearest point on the ferry.

Be sure to also pay a friendly visit to the many deer that also roam around the island; they are considered messengers of the gods.

Enjoy Your Day Trip to Hiroshima: Exquisite Beauty and Historical Touchstones

Hiroshima offers great sights of historical and natural beauty. From the haunting shell of the Atomic Bomb Dome to the picturesque beauty of Miyajima, the prefecture is full of amazing things to see and do.

As a day trip from Kyoto or Osaka, this bus tour is an excellent way of including Hiroshima in your itinerary when visiting Japan's Kansai area.

Main image by Pixta

Travel writer and assistant editor at MATCHA with extensive travel around the Osaka, Kyoto, and Wakayama areas. A Kansai insider who knows their Akashiyaki from their Takoyaki, Iain enjoys getting authentic stories from traditional craftspeople and interesting creators. Particularly fond of temples and shrines, Iain delves deep into the crossroads of tradition and modernity in his eight-plus years living and writing about Japan.

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Osaka Departure – 1 Day Hiroshima & Miyajima Tour

Set out on a transformative journey from Osaka to Hiroshima through the ‘Osaka Departure – 1 Day Hiroshima & Miyajima Tour.’ Experience firsthand the profound history and cultural richness of Japan as you explore iconic sites like Miyajima Island and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

With a blend of tradition and modernity, this tour promises a day filled with poignant moments and captivating discoveries.

Stay tuned to unravel how this tour offers a unique perspective on resilience and remembrance in the heart of Japan.

Just The Basics

• Transformative journey from Osaka to Hiroshima and Miyajima
• Limited language information at key sites
• High praise for Hiroshima memorial and guide’s professionalism
• Suggestions to improve language proficiency , historical insights , and communication with guide

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• Osaka: Sushi Class in Dotonbori
• Osaka: Five Must-See Highlights Walking Tour & Ramen Lunch
• Osaka: Main Sights and Hidden Spots Guided Walking Tour
• Pickleball in Osaka With Locals Players!

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable full-day journey from Osaka to Hiroshima and Miyajima, enjoying Japanese culture and history along the way. The tour offers a unique opportunity for culture , with visits to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and the solemn Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

Transportation convenience is ensured with a smooth transfer to Shin-Osaka station and a ride on the futuristic bullet train to Hiroshima. While historical insights are provided at key sites, language proficiency may be a concern for some travelers due to limited information offered.

Nevertheless, the tour promises a day filled with exploration and discovery, covering essential attractions like the Atomic Bomb Dome and offering a glimpse into Japan’s past and present.

Itinerary Details

With a maximum group size of 25 people, the full-day tour from Osaka to Hiroshima and Miyajima offers a comprehensive exploration of key historical and cultural sites. Travelers can look forward to the following itinerary details:

• Transfer to Shin-Osaka station
• Board futuristic bullet train to Hiroshima
• Explore Miyajimaguchi and board a boat to Miyajima Island
• Visit Itsukushima Shrine and enjoy lunch
• Reflect at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Atomic Bomb Dome

This itinerary provides ample exploration opportunities and culture , allowing participants to explore the rich history and traditions of Japan while visiting significant landmarks in Hiroshima and the sacred island of Miyajima.

Traveler Reviews

Traveler reviews of the full-day tour from Osaka to Hiroshima and Miyajima offer valuable insights into the overall experience. Positive feedback includes high praise for the Hiroshima memorial, the professionalism and kindness of the tour guide, and the eye-opening experience regarding war. Travelers found the tour well-organized and felt it offered good value for money.

On the downside, there were complaints about the lack of sufficient time at Miyajima, the guide always being in a hurry, language barriers with the guide, limited historical insights provided, and a perceived lack of effort from the guide to assist. Suggestions for improvement include clearer pick-up instructions, more time at the Peace Park, better communication with the guide, enhanced historical insights , and efforts to improve language proficiency.

Tour Highlights

During the full-day tour from Osaka to Hiroshima and Miyajima, travelers are captivated by the poignant Peace Park and memorial area, savor a delightful lunch at Miyajima, and explore the profound historical significance of their traumatic war experience. The tour highlights include:

Peace Park and memorial area : Offering a somber reflection on the impact of war history .

Lunch at Miyajima : Enjoying a delicious meal while taking in the serene beauty of the island.

Tramatic war experience : Gaining insights into the harrowing events of the past.

Knowledgeable guides : Providing valuable information for a deeper culture.

Covering all key attractions : Despite any weather conditions, ensuring a comprehensive experience for travelers.

Improvement Suggestions

To enhance the overall tour experience, clearer pick-up instructions are necessary for participants joining the Osaka Departure – Hiroshima & Miyajima Tour. This improvement will ensure that travelers can easily locate the meeting point, reducing any confusion or delays. Plus, better communication with the guide is essential to address the language barrier some participants encountered. Efforts to improve the guide’s language proficiency would greatly enhance the tour experience and allow for more meaningful interactions. Below is a table summarizing the improvement suggestions for the tour:

Departure Information

Clear instructions for the departure point and time are crucial for ensuring a smooth start to the Osaka Departure – Hiroshima & Miyajima Tour experience. Travelers embarking on this full-day journey should pay close attention to the departure logistics and travel timeframes :

• Departure at 7 :50 AM from Hotel Granvia Osaka 1F Tea Lounge.
• Travel timeframes include a return around 9 :00 PM to Osaka Station.
• Ensure punctuality to allow for seamless boarding and departure.
• Familiarize yourself with the meeting point layout beforehand.
• Plan for any unexpected delays by arriving a few minutes early.

Having a good grasp of these details will set the tone for a well-organized and enjoyable exploration of Hiroshima and Miyajima.

Final Thoughts

A poignant visit to Hiroshima and Miyajima leaves travelers with a profound understanding of Japan’s history and culture. Reflecting on the experiences at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, visitors gain insight into the devastating effects of war and the resilience of the Japanese people.

The culture opportunities on Miyajima Island, particularly at the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, offer a glimpse into the spiritual and traditional aspects of Japan. From the solemnity of the Atomic Bomb Dome to the tranquility of Miyajima’s scenic beauty, this tour encapsulates the contrasting facets of Japan’s past and present.

Travelers are left with a mix of emotions – a deep respect for the historical significance of the sites visited and a newfound appreciation for the cultural richness of Japan.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• Kansai Airport (Kix): Private One-Way Transfer To/From Osaka
• Osaka: Deep Backstreets Exploration
• Osaka: Shinsekai Food Tour With 13 Dishes at 5 Eateries
• Osaka: Tea Ceremony Experience
• Osaka: Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai
• Osaka: Kansai International Airport Wi-Fi Rental

Common questions

Are meals included in the tour package.

Food options vary depending on the tour package. Dietary restrictions can usually be accommodated with prior notice. It’s recommended to check with the tour operator for specific details regarding meals included in the itinerary.

Is There Any Free Time for Shopping or Exploring on Our Own During the Tour?

During the tour, travelers have limited free time for shopping or exploring on their own. The itinerary is tightly packed with sightseeing and activities, allowing minimal opportunities for personal exploration or shopping excursions.

What Is the Transportation Like Between Attractions on the Tour?

Public transportation is utilized between attractions on the tour, ensuring a convenient and efficient travel experience. Travelers may also find convenience stores in the vicinity for any needs during the journey.

Are There Any Additional Entrance Fees or Costs That Travelers Should Be Aware Of?

Hidden expenses can catch travelers off guard, affecting budgeting and financial planning . Additional entrance fees for attractions, meals, or optional activities may arise. It’s vital to be prepared and factor in these unexpected costs.

Is There a Restroom on the Transportation Provided During the Tour?

Restroom availability on the transportation provided during the tour is crucial for travelers’ comfort. Ensuring convenient access to restrooms can enhance the overall experience. It’s essential to prioritize transportation comfort by offering facilities that meet travelers’ needs.

Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Osaka Airport Transfers : Osaka City to Kansai Airport KIX in Business Van
• Japan Railway Station Shared Departure Transfer : Osaka to Shin Osaka Station
• Japan Railway Station Shared Arrival Transfer : Shin Osaka Station to Osaka City
• Self Guided Tour in Miyajima With Bullet Train and Ferry Ticket
• Shared Departure Transfer : Osaka City to Kansai International Airport
• Private Hire Transfer Service From Kansai International Airport to Osaka City
• Kyoto & Nara Day Tour From Osaka/Kyoto: Fushimi Inari, Arashiyama
• Osaka Airport Transfers : Kansai Airport KIX to Osaka City in Business Van
• Private Airport Transfer Kansai Intl. Airport(Kix) to OSAKA CITY
• Pink Pass Weekday – All You Can Drink and Unlimited Access
• KINOSAKI ONSEN Custom Tour Private Car and Driver (Max 9 Pax)

Experience the beauty and significance of Hiroshima and Miyajima on the ‘Osaka Departure – 1 Day Hiroshima & Miyajima Tour.’

From iconic landmarks to a traditional Japanese lunch, this full-day expedition offers a captivating journey into Japanese history and culture.

With knowledgeable tour guides and convenient transportation, travelers can enjoy the profound impact of war and witness the resilience of the human spirit.

Don’t miss out on this enriching experience!

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Perfect Osaka to Hiroshima Day Trip (+ Fun Things to Do!)

Home » Blog » Japan » Perfect Osaka to Hiroshima Day Trip (+ Fun Things to Do!)

Plan the ultimate day trip from Osaka to Hiroshima to check out some of the city’s most important historic sites. Plus, we’ll share unique things to do in Hiroshima, how to get to nearby Miyajima Island  for free , as well as some of the special foods you should try in this region.

Visiting Hiroshima is a popular day tip on many  Japan itineraries , and not for the same reason most other cities make the cut…

While there is certainly food to try and fun things to do here, these are not the reasons most visitors come here. Hiroshima is most well-known for its dark past — as ground zero for the first atomic bomb .

While the city’s stark history is incredibly important to take in and learn about while you’re there, we’d also recommend enjoying some of the ways the city has flourished in recent times by appreciating the modern infrastructure, exploring the thriving downtown district, and experiencing the city’s burgeoning food scene.

Whether you’re a true history buff or you recently watched Oppenheimer and got your curiosity piqued, taking a day trip to Hiroshima is an important part of experiencing the history of not just Japan, but our world.

In this article, we’re going to share how to get from  Osaka  to Hiroshima for a perfect day trip, including exactly how to spend your time once you’re there.

We’ll go over the important historic sites you can easily see on a day trip, and some of the more unique things to do in Hiroshima , should you choose to stay the night.

We’re even including how to get to nearby Miyajima Island  for free , as well as some of the special foods you should try in this region.

Hiroshima day trip guide

Hiroshima day trip itinerary.

• Things to do
• What to eat
• Where to stay

Psst! If you’d rather experience nature on a day trip from Osaka, we think you’ll love Minoo Park !

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, we have the ultimate resource for you!

This  FREE   PDF download  includes  everything  you’re going to want to pack for your Japan trip, including what NOT to bring, plus tons of insider tips!

Sign up for our  ultimate Japan packing list  now and get a copy sent straight to your inbox.

With just a day, this is the itinerary we’d personally suggest. Click each link to see the activity in further detail.

• Arrive by train in the morning (book these tickets in advance)
• Grab a quick breakfast at Wildman Bagel , which specializes in bagels stuffed with cream cheese and other fillings
• Experience Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
• Explore Hiroshima Peace Park
• Check out Children’s Peace Monument
• See the Atomic Bomb Dome
• Okonomiyaki Teppan-yaki Momiji-Tei : small eatery with manga theme
• Nagataya : famous okonomiyaki spot with vegan options
• Okonomimura : food hall with lots of okonomiyaki stands to choose from
• When you’re at the train station, pick up some momiji manju

Have more time in Hiroshima? Read through our entire list of things to do for more ideas of how to spend your time in Hiroshima.

How to get from Osaka to Hiroshima

Situated on Japan’s Honshu island, it is possible to visit Hiroshima as a day trip from Osaka .

But there’s also enough to do to in this city that it might be worthwhile to extend your stay and spend the night.

Here are directions from Osaka to Hiroshima:

a) Osaka to Hiroshima by Shinkansen Train

Yes, you can travel from Osaka to Hiroshima with a JR Pass on a Shinkansen train.

Hiroshima is just 1 hour and 40 minutes west from Osaka on the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen train (which is covered in your  JRail pass ), making it a great place to visit on a day trip.

You’ll board the bullet train in Osaka at  Shin-Osaka Station and ride west towards Hiroshima Station.

Insider Tip:  This route is very popular, so be sure you book your JR tickets in advance (we recommend at least one day in advance). We didn’t book ours soon enough, and had to stand for the majority of the nearly 2-hour journey. Don’t make the same mistake we did!

b) Osaka to Hiroshima by Bus

You can also find regular daytime and overnight buses from Osaka to Hiroshima. The buses will depart from Osaka Station JR Express Bus Terminal and take about 5 hours to reach Hiroshima. You can book your tickets directly at JR Expressway Bus Ticket Center on the 1st floor of Osaka Station. Fares will vary based on the service, but should be around ¥4,000 – ¥6,000.

Tip:  We’d recommend  looking into purchasing a JRail pass  and taking the train to cut down on travel time. Especially if you plan to make Hiroshima a day trip from Osaka, you’ll want to maximize your time there.

c) Self drive

If you have a rental car in Japan , you’ll have a straightforward journey.

Wondering how to get to Hiroshima from Tokyo or Kyoto? Jump here for directions !

Brief History of Hiroshima 

Hiroshima history at a glance:

• pre WWII: major industrial hub
• during WWII: supply and logistics base for the Japanese Imperial Army
• December 7, 1941: Japanese military launched a surprise attach at Pearl Harbor (United States Naval Base in Hawaii), killing 2,403 people (mostly military personnel).
• August 6, 1945 : the world’s first atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima, immediately killing 80,000 people
• September 2, 1945: Japan surrendered from the war
• 1949: Japanese parliament declared Hiroshima a City of Peace and chose a design for a Peace Memorial
• 1955: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum was opened
• Today: Hiroshima is an iconic location for holding international conferences on promoting peace

More detailed history:

Strategically situated on the Ōta River delta, Hiroshima was once a major industrial hub and center of military activities during the Imperial Era in Japan.

During World War II, the city acted as a supply and logistics base for the Japanese Imperial Army and headquarters for the branch in commanding the defense of all of southern Japan. It is this reputation that lead to the city’s destruction and ultimately solidified its place in history as the site of the first ever atomic bomb during World War II.

Atomic bombing of Hiroshima

The war in Europe had ended when Germany signed it’s official surrender on May 8, and the allied countries turned all of their focus on the Pacific. The United States detonated the first nuclear weapon over the city of Hiroshima at 8:15 a.m. on August 6, 1945 , the final year of World War II.

The attacked wiped out nearly 90% of the city and immediately killed 80,000 people — mostly civilians. Tens of thousands of people would later die due to radiation exposure.

The Japanese Emperor Hirohito later announced his country’s unconditional surrender as a result of the devastation caused by the unprecedented attack.

The Japanese parliament later declared Hiroshima a City of Peace , and in 1949, a design was selected to build the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

The Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall was the closest surviving building to the center of the bomb’s destruction and was left erect as part of the memorial, designated the “Atomic Dome”. Then, in 1955 the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum was opened.

Today, Hiroshima receives international attention not only for it’s devastating history, but as a iconic location for holding international conferences on promoting peace and social issues . The city government continues to fight to abolish nuclear weapons and the Mayor of Hiroshima is acting president of the Mayors of Peace, an international organization of Mayors promoting peace.

Fun things to do in Hiroshima

Whether you have a few hours in Hiroshima or a few days, we’ve laid out the best things to do in this city.

With limited time, we’d suggest sticking to #1-4 on this list , as they are the most important WWII sites in the city and will make up a perfect “DIY walking tour of Hiroshima”.

Touring the museum and walking around the park can take about half a day and it’s totally doable on your own as there there are many signs in English.

If you have more time, continue down the list. Oh, and don’t forget to try some of the regional cuisine in Hiroshima (more on that later!).

1. Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

Newly renovated, this museum displays the horrors and devastation the atomic bomb had on Hiroshima and it’s people.

Through artifacts, belongings and personal stories of victims of the catastrophic attack, the museum demonstrates the inhuman nature of an atomic bomb and seeks to spread the message of “No More Hiroshimas”.

Good to know:

• Cost: Entry is just ¥200 (~$2 USD) for adults
• (Dec-Feb they close at 6 p.m., during August, it’s open until 8 p.m.)

2. Hiroshima Peace Park

This open park in the center of Hiroshima is dedicated the victims of the atomic bomb.

Within the park, you’ll see many different monuments, art installations and memorials:

• Fountain of Prayer:  Situated at the museum entrance, this fountain is dedicated to all those who were lost. It is said that after the bombing, many victims lay crying out for water in their final moments, so this fountain is meant to be a somber tribute.
• Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims:  This quiet hall is meant to be a place where visitors can read memoirs and poems and watch testimonial videos from survivors.
• The Cenotaph:  This arched concrete structure is hard to miss. Inside it are registries of all known victims of the atomic bomb, and there is an etched inscription that reads:  “Let all the souls here rest in peace, for we shall not repeat the evil.”
• Peace Flame:  Near the center of the park, you’ll see a flame that is said to stay lit until all nuclear weapons on earth are gone.
• Atomic Bomb Memorial Mound:  This grassy mound holds the bodies of 70,000 people who were mass cremated.
• Peace Bell:  You can ring this bell, which sits over a lily pad-covered pond.

3. Children’s Peace Monument

Filled with paper cranes, this monument is dedicated all the children who lost their lives due to the bomb .

The paper cranes pay homage to the true story of Sadako Sasaki — a Japanese girl who was just two years old when the atomic bomb was dropped on her home. She was exposed to the radiation of the blast and diagnosed with leukemia caused by her exposure.

Japanese legend has it that one who folds one thousand origami paper cranes will be granted a wish. Believing this legend, Sadako started folding the cranes as she fought for her life with one simple wish in mind: to overcome her illness so she could fulfill her dream of joining the running team.

She died at age 12 having only completed 644 of the cranes before the leukemia took her. Her friends and family completed folding the remaining 356 paper cranes to be buried with her.

Sadako can be seen at the top of the monument holding a “paper crane” above her head. Onlookers add their own paper cranes to the monument symbolizing the continued pursuit of peace.

4. Atomic Bomb Dome

Once a convention center, the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall was one of the only structures still standing after the bomb’s blast.

The hypocenter of the bomb was only a few blocks away, so it is one of the most iconic sights in Hiroshima today.

5. Get a view above the city

If you’re a fan of getting a bird’s eye view, Hiroshima Orizuru Tower is where you’ll find the best panorama in the city.

The view over Hiroshima is pretty impressive, and this place isn’t very crowed. It’s also nice that they let you bring food and drinks to the top to have your own little “picnic with a view”.

However, at ¥1,700 per adult , the entrance fee to get to the top isn’t cheap, so if you’re traveling to Japan on a budget, you might want to skip this stop.

Our personal experience:  This was included in our guided tour with Magical Trip (more on that below), but if we were to do it again on our own, we would probably skip this part as expensive viewpoints aren’t totally our thing. 

6. Make your own paper crane

If you go to the Hiroshima Orizuru Tower (see above), included in the entrance fee is paper to make your own crane.

There are stations around with instructions to fold your own paper crane .

Once completed, you can drop it through a hole on the side of the building and watch it “fly” down several stories into a glass case full of other paper cranes.

7. Explore the Hiroshima Castle

Originally constructed in the 1590’s, the Hiroshima castle was rebuilt in 1958 as a replica to the original after it was destroyed by the atomic bomb in WWII.

Just a 15-minute walk from the Peace Park, you can stroll the castle grounds and take photos for free or pay the ¥370 fee to enter the main keep which is 5 stories tall.

8. Gokoku Shrine

A large shrine next to Hiroshima Castle that is the center of many religious and cultural ceremonies in the city.

The original shrine was established in 1869 to mourn the victims of the Boshin War. As with most things in the city, the Gokoku Shine as it came to be known was destroyed by the bomb. In 1965 the shine was rebuilt within the confines of the castle, with the help and donations of the citizens of Hiroshima.

9. Wander around Shukkeien Garden

When translated into English, “Shukkeien Garden” becomes “shrunken scenery garden” . As you walk through the gardens, you’ll notice the landscapes mimic natural formations such as mountains, valleys and forests in miniature versions.

For an entrance fee of ¥260 , you can meander through the traditional Japanese gardens on a path that winds around the central pond. There are also a number of tea houses that offer visitors a relaxing space to enjoy the scenery.

10. Visit Miyajima Island

A small island in Hiroshima Bay, officially named Itsukushima, is more commonly known as Miyajima Island, which is Japanese for “shrine island”.

Miyajima is known for its picturesque floating tori gate, wild deer, and beautiful views from Mount Misen which can be reached on foot or by cable car. It is the perfect place to spend the afternoon or an overnight while visiting Hiroshima.

How to get there:  You will board a train at Hiroshima Station for the 26-minute ride on the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi. Trains depart every 15 minutes or so, so you won’t have to wait long. From Miyajimaguchi you’ll have to walk for about 2 minutes to the ferry terminal and board the JR Ferry bound for Miyajima Island (free with your  JRail pass !), which takes about 10 minutes each way.

Things to do in Miyajima Island:

• plan for it to take 1.5 – 2 hours to reach the summit on foot
• It was under construction when we were visiting, so be sure to  look up its current condition .
• Also, make sure you visit during high tide, otherwise the gate won’t appear to be floating in the water.
• Spot the wild deer  that can been seen on the island’s walking paths.

11. Experience Hiroshima Nightlife

Spending the night? Head out on the town to experience the young and vibrant nightlife scene this city is becoming more and more known for.

Unfortunately for us, we only had time for a day trip in Hiroshima, so we were unable to experience the nightlife. However, if you have the time, head to the Nagarekawa neighborhood where you can wander around and pop into any izakaya or pub that strikes your fancy.

Or, get out Google Maps and try a couple of the places below and let us know your favorites!

• If you’re looking for sake,  Flat Sake Bar  looks top-notch.
• For creative cocktails and a speakeasy atmosphere, we’d pop into  Bar Alegre .
• Craving craft beer? Sample some Japanese brews at  Raku Beer  or  Hangout .

Guided tour of Hiroshima

Typically we like exploring places independently so we can go at our own pace.

When we heard  Magical Trip offered a Hiroshima tour with a local guide , we booked it thinking we’d be able to ask lots of questions and get all sorts of insider info.

It could be a good option if you don’t want to wander on your own.

Our personal experience: I’m going to be totally honest and say that we felt the guided tour was unnecessary in this case. Our guides were very sweet, but other than a few facts, we didn’t learn all that much more than we would have on our own. And we didn’t really get the insider stories that we were hoping for. 

There are many signs around the city that are in English, and the major WWII sites are all very walkable . So unless you really want someone to lead you around, you’ll be totally fine exploring Hiroshima on your own.

What to eat in Hiroshima

While  traveling in Japan , you’ll soon find out that each region has its own specialties that locals take pride in and travelers — both domestic and foreign — are compelled to taste.

When it comes to the regional cuisine in Hiroshima, there are a few dishes they are especially proud of…

Psst!  If you haven’t already checked out our  guide to Japanese cuisine , bookmark it for later because it’s packed with info!

Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki

This version is quite a bit different than the traditional Osaka-style okonomiyaki, as it includes yakisoba noodles. Plus, instead of being mixed together as it is in Osaka, the Hiroshima version is cooked in layers. Hiroshima locals are very proud of this dish and are often quick to tell you about its superiority to the version served by their northern neighbors.

Where to try it:

This region is responsible for two-thirds of all the oysters in Japan! So if you’re a seafood lover, belly up to an oyster bar for some freshly shucked goodness.

Momiji Manju

Manju  is a type of Japanese cake filled with red bean paste . This style from Miyajima Island is in the shape of a maple leaf ( momiji ), and is a local specialty that you can find both in Hiroshima and Miyajima.

Hiroshima Tsukemen

Tsukemen  means ‘dipping noodles’, and is a type of ramen where the noodles and the broth are served separately, so you can dip each bite, as the name suggests. While you can find this dish all over the country, Hiroshima has a regional spin on  tsukemen.

Not only are the noodles served separately from the broth, but in the “Hiroshima-style” of  tsukemen  ramen, the broth is cold and spicy. While it may sound strange to ramen traditionalists, this cold noodle soup is particularly nice in  Japan’s hot and humid summer months .

• Tsukemen Karabu Tokaichimachi
• Alternative: Okkundou Mazemen – similar to tsukemen, mazemen ramen noodles are served brothless (with a sauce instead), and the noodles are thicker

Getting around Hiroshima

Getting to and from Hiroshima is covered in your JR Pass, and getting around within the city can be paid for with an ICOCA transport card.

The best way to get downtown (to the historic sites) from Hiroshima Station is to exit the train station and take the streetcar tram. It costs 180 yen per ride and you can use an ICOCA card.

If you’re headed to the WWII sites, get out at Genbaku Dome-Mae and exit from front or back door (not the middle) and tap your ICOCA card.

Insider Tip:  Keep an eye on your GPS location on Google Maps so you know when to get off, as it is a little tricky to see the stop names.

This stop is right by the Atomic Bomb Dome, and is a good place to start your DIY Walking Tour!

How to get to Hiroshima from Kyoto or Tokyo

We’ll share how to get to Hiroshima from other nearby cities in Japan, in case you want to change up your route.

Kyoto to Hiroshima

You can travel from Kyoto to Hiroshima on the shinkansen train lines as well. A direct journey between the two stations (Kyoto Station and Hiroshima Station) will take about 1 hour and 40 minutes.

However, if you are using your  JRail Pass , you will have to book Hikari or Sakura services (Nozomi services are not included in the pass) and you may have to transfer at Osaka Station or Kobe Station. The good news is, this will only add 10-15 minutes to your total journey. Without the pass, you can expect to pay over ¥10,500 (about $100 USD) for a ticket to Hiroshima from Kyoto.

Tokyo to Hiroshima

You can use your JRail Pass to take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen train from  Tokyo  to Hiroshima.

You’ll book a ticket from Tokyo Station and stop in either Osaka Station, Kobe Station or Himeji Station. The entire trip, including transfer, takes about 5 hours in total from Tokyo and will cost you upwards of ¥18,000 if you don’t have the JR pass.

Another option is to take a 90-minute flight on one of several domestic airlines connecting Tokyo to Hiroshima. The flight will cost you around ¥25,000 so a  JRail Pass  is easily your most cost-effective option. Especially if you plan to visit other destinations while in Japan.

Where to Stay in Hiroshima

Have extra time to spend in Hiroshima? Consider spending a night (or two!), and you’ll see that this city is much more than the site of the infamous WWII bombing.

If you choose to spend the night, there are a few central neighborhoods we’d recommend finding accommodation in.

• Central Hiroshima:  This is where you’ll find all of the WWII sites on our list. It is also very walkable and can easily be explored by foot. It’s also very connected to other parts of the city via public transportation.
• Hiroshima Station:  Situated northeast of the city center, this will be your entry point into the city if you are coming by train. A good place to stay if you have an early morning departure planned.
• Yokogawa:  One of the few places in Hiroshima that has retained its township status, Yokogawa has a much more laid back feel with plenty of dining options. During the pre WWII era, this used to be the city center. Today you’ll find a nice mix of residential, restaurants and alternative shops.
• Miyajima Island:  Being such a popular tourist destination, there is something special about staying overnight once all of the day tourists have left. With ferries operating regularly, you should have no problem getting back into the city to explore.

Budget stays in Hiroshima

Hostel Mallika  – Situated in the the Hiroshima City Center, this hostel is in walking distance from Peace Park and all the WWII sites. They have pod-style beds available in mixed dorms as well as triple and quadruple rooms — perfect for travelers coming in a group.

Santiago Guest House  – This centrally located guesthouse offers a range of accommodation from hostel-style dorms to private rooms and even family rooms. A shared kitchen, lounge and free WiFi throughout the property round out the amenities.

Miyajima Guesthouse Mikuniya  – This traditional Japanese guesthouse is located on Miyajima Island. The property comes highly rated by reviewers and the service is top notch. They offer single and shared rooms in the traditional Japanese style (floor beds) and a shared bunk dormitory.

Mid-range/couples stays in Hiroshima

Airbnb: 1 min to Dome & Peace Park & Center Hiroshima  – This private 1 bedroom apartment is located in the city center, just a 1 minute walk to Peace Park and the other WWII sites. Other amenities include a full kitchen, wifi and air conditioning.  Check Availability .

Airbnb: 30sec walk to PeacePark, Beautiful Condo – B  – This private apartment is centrally located near the shopping streets in Hondori. It is also just a few minutes walk from Peace Park. The 1 bedroom apartment sleeps up to 5 guests and includes a kitchen, laundry, wifi and AC.  Check Availability .

Hiroshima Washington Hotel  – This centrally located hotel is just a 5 minute walk from Hatchobori Tram Station and 15 minutes to the Peace Park. As well as easy access to shop and restaurants. The property comes highly rated and features air conditioned rooms in an elegantly decorated space.

Splurge/Luxury stays in Hiroshima

ANA Crowne Plaza Hiroshima  – Situated just 5 minutes from Peace Park, the elegant ANA Crown Plaza hotel features an in house restaurant, salon spa and fitness center with swimming pool.

Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima  – Just a 5 minute walk to Peace Park, this luxurious hotel features 5 different dining options and a fitness center with swimming pool. Guest rooms are complete with Serta mattresses, and the ensuite includes a bathtub.

Miyajima Grand Hotel Arimoto  – Situated on Miyajima Island, just a 3-minute walk from the Itsukushima Shrine, this hotel offers luxurious Japanese and Western-style rooms. The property features an outdoor hot spring bath, 3 restaurants and karaoke rooms.

Are you planning a trip to Japan?

We have TONS of resources on travel in Japan and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Japan Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Everything You Need to Know About the JRail Pass Train Ticket
• Crazy & Fun Things to Do in Japan
• Best Japan Travel Apps to Download Before Your Next Trip
• Exciting Things to Do in Osaka, Japan

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Japan !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Japan trip. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

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We want to hear from you!

Have you ever been to Hiroshima? What was your experience like? Do you have any suggestions you think we left off this list?

Are you planning a trip to Hiroshima and still have questions? Comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!

Comments (1) on “ Perfect Osaka to Hiroshima Day Trip (+ Fun Things to Do!) ”

We are going to do a one-day visit Hiroshima on Feb 3, 2024. Can we go to the Miyajima Island first then to do rest in your list? We will be coming from Osaka. Thank you.

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Hiroshima and Miyajima 1 Day Tour from Kyoto or Osaka

• Round trip bullet train ticket (Kyoto/Shin-Osaka ⇔Hiroshima)
• Public transport at Hiroshima city
• Round trip ferry fee from Hiroshima to Miyajima
• Private English guide from Kyoto / Osaka
• Entry/Admission - Itsukushima Shrine
• Entry/Admission - Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
• Hotel pick-up time, we will contact you later.
• Wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Near public transportation
• Infants must sit on laps
• Transportation is wheelchair accessible
• Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Most travelers can participate
• You can customize it as you like. If you have any requests please let us know in advance.
• If you want to change your schedule even on the tour day, your guide is always happy to help you.
• You can skip the spot where you don't go (※in this case we do not refund any fees) or change it with another place.
• If you add some new spots by your request, please pay the ticket fee on the spot. (Note that you may need to pay extra transportation fee)
• Please arrive at the meeting spot in time.
• Please refrain from bringing your own food and drinks into the restaurant.
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.
• Itsukushima Shrine
• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
• Atomic Bomb Dome
• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Similar experiences

• You'll get picked up See departure details
• Pass by Miyajima
• 1 Itsukushima Shrine Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included See details Pass by Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Atomic Bomb Dome
• 2 Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• Jose F 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Japan 2024 We had a great time. Kako was an awesome tour guide. She was very knowledgeable and friendly. She was able to guide us through the day and even fit in sometime for us to shop as well Read more Written April 5, 2024
• andykristiekappes 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best Day Yet: Miyajima Bottom Line: Get to Miyajima! We book a private tour for flexibility with kids (5, 8, 8, 16). That’s exactly what we needed on this trip. Our Princess ship didn’t dock at the common Sea Port, but at a large ship international terminal west of the port. Our guide, Joe (Masahiko), was outstanding in communicating via WhatsApp before arrival. We figured out where we were and adjusted the plan to meet as close as possible, which was at Itsukaichi Station. It was just a 5 min taxi from the ship. Joe found us, got us our train tickets for the short ride, then got our ferry tickets to Miyajima. Wow! You have to get to Miyajima. It has everything: the gate in the water, the shrine, pagoda, beach, shopping, food, deer, and cherry blossoms (early April). Joe taught us about the history, culture, and customs as we walked. We bowed before the gate, didn’t walk down the middle as that’s where the deities walk, and washed our mouth with water at the shrine. He booked us a lunch reservation and sat with us to ensure my niece with Celiac got gluten free food. The chef/owner was so kind and grateful and went out of his way to speak English to us. We did all we could with trying to reply in Japanese to show our appreciation. We quickly realized we didn’t want to leave and Joe was so accommodating. We decided not to go to the Peace Park and just spent the day at Miyajima. Joe showed us the kids shop and a place for engraved chopsticks. We quickly ran out of time as we had to get back on the ship and will need to return. Joe then helped us back on the ferry, got us train tickets and rode with us back, then talked to the taxi drivers to ensure we made it back. Joe, thank you for a great day in Miyajima! Read more Written April 2, 2024
• anmariel2024 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Hiroshima tour The peace museum was such a moving place to visit. The tour overall was good. We had to wait for latecomers that advised they would be late but still didn’t arrive. This then put us back time. Tour leader okay but didn’t point out places of interest along the way. Read more Written March 22, 2024
• Navigate567085 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great tour Well organised and interesting tour. Guide was well informed and fun! Could maybe have done with more time in Museum but there was a lot to fit in. Miyajima was amazing and the weather was beautiful and views stunning. Read more Written March 17, 2024
• glee55 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent day tour This was an excellent tour of the Hiroshima pease memorial and Miyajima island. Okonomi lunch has something different. Our tour guided Azusa was knowledgable and also very funny - and very diligent in making sure the group was kept together and in getting the bus back in time for some of the groups return trips. Read more Written January 20, 2024
• rayd436 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Give us Tom or give us death!! Well there really are no words that could do justice to such a great experience. All because of the tour guide-Tom. To say he knocked it out of the park would be such an underwhelming way of describing our experience it's almost an insult. Tom was so knowledgeable about all aspects of the trip, bus routes, local culture, food, traditions...I could go on. At the end when parting ways both my wife and I had tears in our eyes. If you can request a specific guide Tom's the one for you and this trip was made a significant positive lifetime memory because of him. Read more Written January 9, 2024
• 218ellah 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Happy little tourist This was an excellent walking tour, everything was so close together when walking, so don’t stress if you think it is ages to walk. The tour guide had so much knowledge and stories about all the sites, was so nice for someone that isn’t massive into history in the tour group. Loved it and so glad I did this tour. Read more Written January 5, 2024
• Tavis L 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent one day tour The trip was well organized, and the experience of visiting the Hiroshima atomic bomb site was deeply moving. The tour guide, a female Japanese, was awesome. She not only provided insightful information about the history and impact of the atomic bomb, but also spoke English fluently. Her ability to communicate effectively in English made the tour even more meaningful and accessible to international visitors. The driver was polite too. Additionally, the tour guide had a great sense of humor, adding a touch of lightheartedness to an otherwise emotionally heavy experience. Her funny anecdotes and light-hearted moments made the tour both informative and enjoyable. Overall, my experience in Hiroshima and Miyajima was excellent. I highly recommend visiting these places, particularly with a knowledgeable and entertaining tour guide like the one I had. The trip provided a valuable educational and cultural experience, and I left with a deeper understanding of the impact of the atomic bomb and the resilience of the people of Hiroshima. Read more Written December 5, 2023
• vickicork 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Nice convenient tour Very nice way to see Hiroshima . We took the train to Hiroshima from Kyoto which was 2 hours , tour starts at 10 am from Hiroshima station itself . They said to wait at the exit so I walked out of station and waited there but no one showed for 5-10 minute and then everyone came with guide from inside station so I think if there was one negative it is there should be better instructions exactly on where to meet guide. The tour itself was very nice , beats trying to navigate Hiroshima on your own . The tour guide Kumiko was excellent , really enjoyed seeing the Peace museum , Hiroshima dome and then going over to Miyajima island , we left early back from Miyajima as we wanted to take the train we had already reserved back to Kyoto at 5.40 pm but really the tour reaches back at about 6 pm to the station again . Miyajima island too is very nice and if there was another thing I would suggest is some instructions on what to see there like we were given tickets to go inside shrine but not really what to do in Miyajima . Read more Written December 2, 2023
• V7977GXandrewl 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Easy and quick way to Miyajima Island from Hiroshima Easy way to get to Miyajima Island but somehow the option has dropped off google maps. We went one way as we wanted to return after the last boat so came home the public ferry and JR train route. Thought price was reasonble considering the time saving and convenience. Also great to get views from the river of the dome and commentary on the way to the island. Read more Written November 29, 2023
• 599lanan 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent! We took the afternoon tour on 11/16/2023. The tour was very good and very well organized. Our guide was very knowledgeadle about Japan culture and history and provided many interesting facts and information on various aspects of life in Japan, as well as religion, making this tour very informative, which was amazing. We had 2 stops to see 2 temples, one with the biggest bronze statue of Budda, and the deers in the park were adorable, all around and very friendly. We got to feed them and they bowed as we did. It was an amazing experience. We also had enough time at each stop to take photos. This was one of the best tours we took. I would highly recommend it. Read more Written November 25, 2023
• Maps15060702891 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Hiroshima and Miyajima, Japan Well organized. A fantastic guide including lunch, a visit to the Memorial museum in Hiroshima and to the beautiful island of Miyajima. Memories to last a lifetime Read more Written November 17, 2023
• J1171ZEcandicel 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Highly recommend. Great all round experience Excellent tour. Guide and driver were professional and friendly. Packed a lot in to one day and all other costs of the day were included which made things easy. Read more Written November 15, 2023
• 916louiseo 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Hiroshima & Miyajima Island with an expert tour guide, Azusa Outstanding day out. Our tour guide Azusa was extremely knowledgeable, spoke good English, provided entertaining commentary throughout the tour and maximised our day with different activities. Highly recommended tour.. Read more Written November 3, 2023
• annh71 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic considerate flexible information-packed day Our guide Chikako was so excellent. Professional, full of information, flexible, and considerate. A total joy to spend the day with her. One of our party has some mobility issues and she invisibly and consistently made it possible for her to participate - even calling to book a taxi at Miyajima when the walk became too long. The day included so many beautiful sights by boat to Miyajima and then return to Hiroshima, and then the absolutely important and soul-shaking walk around the Peace Park. We never would have learned so much, nor so enjoyed our day — highly highly recommend H.I.S., and especially recommend Chikako. Read more Written November 2, 2023

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Epic Day Trip From Osaka to Hiroshima (& Miyajima!)

• by Jonny Duncan
• July 2, 2023 November 10, 2023

A day trip from Osaka to Hiroshima and Miyajima Island is one of the best options out of any of the day trips from Osaka that you can choose from and this is what to do and where to go when there.

Going from Osaka to Hiroshima on a day trip is also easy with the excellent rail network that connects the two and in this article, I will show you how to do it and where to go.

I spent several weeks living in Osaka and I day-tripped all over the place from there. The day trip from Osaka to Hiroshima is one of my favourite options and that I recommend to others.

Day Trip From Osaka To Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a city in Japan that should be visited as a poignant reminder of the horrors of war and how through hell a city can come back and flourish in the modern age.

Nearby Miyajima Island is an excellent side trip from Hiroshima for shrines/temples and mountain hiking with a view.

Getting To Hiroshima From Osaka

The Osaka to Hiroshima bullet train (Shinkansen train) makes longer-distance day trips so much easier and you can get from Osaka to Hiroshima, depending on the specific Shinkansen train taken, in one and a half to two hours.

The journey by local train will take around six hours so is not practical for a Hiroshima day trip from Osaka. Buses from Osaka to Hiroshima take around five hours, so again, are not practical for a day trip.

It is an essential part of your Japan travel plans to get a Japan Rail Pass (get one with that link) if you plan to move around a lot for these kinds of trips as it will save you money.

Also, travelling by Shinkansen train in Japan is the best option for getting to places faster like this day trip from Osaka to Hiroshima.

Main Places To See In Hiroshima

Hiroshima peace memorial park.

The simple (and sad) truth is there isn’t a ‘lot’ of traditional stuff to do in Hiroshima and that’s because the whole city was wiped out in World War 2 when the first atom bomb ever used was dropped on the city at 8.15 am on 6th August 1945.

That is one of the main things to do in Hiroshima: visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial.

I started at the Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Dome. The dome was very close to where the atomic bomb exploded in Hiroshima but its structure survived and is still standing today (with renovation works).

It is a symbol of destruction and yet endurance for world peace today.

Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Dome.

After seeing the  Atomic Bomb Dome walk across through the Peace Park and to the Cenotaph for Atomic Bomb Victims.

Walking in Hiroshima Peace Park.

The Hiroshima Cenotaph for Atomic Bomb Victims lies in the park as you walk through the park towards the Peace Memorial Museum.

All the names of people killed in the atomic bomb explosion are inscribed in the stone vault. The whole area is a poignant reminder of the hours of war and the horrors of nuclear warfare.

Hiroshima Cenotaph for Atomic Bomb Victims.

Through the cenotaph, you can see the Atomic Bomb Dome.

After the dome, park, and cenotaph head to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and learn the horrifying history of the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima.

I didn’t take any photos inside the museum. It was very emotional to visit.

The Peace Memorial Park is a sombre yet hopeful place, with monuments, statues, and memorials that convey messages of peace and anti-nuclear sentiments. It serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of nuclear warfare and the importance of working towards a world without such weapons.

A must-visit.

Hiroshima Castle

To be honest, I didn’t make it to Hiroshima Castle myself (the pic is a stock photo for the post), mainly due to my time limit, but also because I had seen so many castles by then.

However, I have heard it is a beautifully reconstructed (like everything in Hiroshima it was destroyed by the atomic bomb) castle and has a wooden exterior.

If you are short on time, want to get to Miyajima Island, and plan to see or have seen other castles in Japan, then I would say to skip the castle as I did.

But if you get to Hiroshima early enough and love castles or won’t have the opportunity to see many other castles in Japan then try and get to it.

If you do want to visit you can find more information on Hiroshima Castle here .

Miyajima Island 

On your day trip from Osaka to Hiroshima I highly recommend you take the time to visit Miyajima Island (also known as Itsukushima Island) as it’s not that far away and a beautiful place to visit.

It also has one of the most famous torii gates in all of Japan. I’m sure you will recognise the image from tourist adverts etc about Japan.

Getting From Hiroshima To Miyajima

Every 15 minutes or so a train leaves Hiroshima for Miyajima mainland station which takes roughly 25 minutes. At the station, you then take a ten-minute ferry ride to Miyajima Island.

The Japan Rail Pass covers part of the journey.

What to do on Miyajima Island

The Itsukushima Floating Torii Gate is a famous photo to get on Miyajima Island and is one of the most famous places for a photo in Japan.

When the tide is high it appears to be floating on the water (hence the name). When I arrived it was low tide but at least then one could walk out close to it. On the way out at the end of the day the sea had come up and submerged the base of it.

The gate is about a ten-minute walk from where the ferry will drop you off.

Itsukushima Floating Torii Gate.

Head to the nearby Itsukushima Shrine after taking a look at the Torii gate. It’s a small complex and the view across to the Torii Gate is superb, especially when it’s high tide and the water is under them.

Itsukushima Shrine.

Praying with monks inside the shrine.

Miyajima Ropeway

The best way to get to the top of Miyajima Island is to take the ropeway (cable car). It’s a several-minute walk from Itsukushima Shrine to the ropeway station.

On the way up the cable cars go close to the forest canopy and offer stunning views.

Miyajima ropeway.

At the top of Miyajima, you can walk around some short trails which take only several minutes or so to do, and enjoy the scenery.

There are two observatories for great views of the surrounding area, the Shishiwa Observatory and the Mount Misen Observatory.

There are a few temples and shrines to see on the top as well. Spend a bit of time up there to take in the peace of the place.

View from the top of Miyajima.

If you are feeling up to it you can also hike back down the mountain on a trail that doesn’t take too long to go down. But if you’re short on time by this point then take the cable car to be safe.

But if you hike down you may be able to see a deer or two.

A deer is seen while hiking on Miyajima.

Back at the bottom check to see what the water is doing around the Floating Tori Gate as it may by now be different from when you came in, allowing for different styles of photos.

Myself at the Itsukushima Floating Torii Gate with the water up.

Depending on how late you plan to go back to Osaka, you could see some of Hiroshima at night and enjoy the city’s buzzing energy, like most Japanese cities have.

Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Dome at night.

Take a walk around the streets a bit and soak up the modern vibe that can be found in all of Japan’s big cities.

There are plenty of shopping malls to visit as well as the usual food centres and gaming areas.

Naturally, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to enjoy food and a drink to relax after all your exploring.

Hiroshima is famous for its okonomiyaki so try and grab one for dinner before going from Hiroshima to Osaka.

Hell, I would do a day trip from Osaka to Hiroshima for one of the okonomiyaki there! Yes, they’re that good.

Hiroshima okonomiyaki.

One of the main streets in Hiroshima.

Hiroshima Day Trip

That all makes for a great day trip from Osaka to Hiroshima. If you plan more day trips from Osaka then my article about the best day trips from Osaka will give you plenty of good ideas.

If you are in the stages of planning your trip to Osaka then you can find and book accommodation in Osaka here on Agoda . Agoda is my favourite hotel booking site for travel in Asia as I often find better deals there than other booking sites.

These are the best things to do in Osaka when you are there.

If you end up choosing to stay in the Hiroshima area instead of doing a day trip from Osaka then be sure to take the ferry and visit Matsuyama to see the historic Matsuyama Castle and Dogo Onsen.

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Hiroshima and Miyajima 1 Day Tour From Kyoto or Osaka

• Tour Reviews

Experience the captivating contrast of history and natural beauty with the Hiroshima and Miyajima 1 Day Tour from Kyoto or Osaka.

This immersive journey takes visitors on a seamless exploration of the historical landmarks in Hiroshima and the breathtaking landscapes of Miyajima island.

The tour offers convenience and flexibility, allowing travelers to customize their itinerary according to their preferences.

From the poignant Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine with its floating torii gate, this tour showcases the region’s rich history and enchanting scenery.

With detailed information on pricing, guarantee, tour policies, and reviews, this article serves as a valuable resource for anyone planning to embark on the Hiroshima and Miyajima 1 Day Tour.

Great News! You can reserve your spot for free with Viator. You can easliy cancel any time up to 1 day before without paying anything.

Quick Takeaways

• Transparent and reliable pricing options based on group size
• Customizable tour itinerary to suit preferences
• Non-refundable and non-amendable once booked
• Overall rating of 5.0 from positive feedback

Pricing and Guarantee

The pricing and guarantee for the Hiroshima and Miyajima 1 Day Tour from Kyoto or Osaka ensures a transparent and reliable experience for travelers. With flexible pricing options based on group size, this tour caters to the needs and budgets of all travelers.

Plus, the tour offers a Lowest Price Guarantee, ensuring that you get the best value for your money. While the tour is non-refundable if you cancel, it does provide a hassle-free booking process and peace of mind knowing that your spot is secured.

The tour duration is approximately 11 to 12 hours, allowing you to fully learn about the beauty and history of Hiroshima and Miyajima. Hotel pick-up time will be communicated to you later, ensuring a convenient and stress-free start to your day.

Selecting Date and Travelers

When selecting the date and travelers for the Hiroshima and Miyajima 1 Day Tour from Kyoto or Osaka, you can easily customize the tour to your preferences and have a guide available to assist with any schedule changes. This tour offers scheduling flexibility, allowing you to choose the date that works best for you.

Whether you’re traveling alone, with a partner, or in a group, the tour can accommodate your needs. Plus, you have the option to customize the itinerary according to your interests. If there are certain spots you’d like to skip or replace with other places, you can do so, although keep in mind that additional ticket fees may apply for new spots.

With this level of customization, you can ensure that you have a personalized and memorable experience during your visit to Hiroshima and Miyajima.

Tour Policies

Cancellation and refund policies are an important aspect of the Hiroshima and Miyajima 1 Day Tour from Kyoto or Osaka. Here are the tour policies to keep in mind:

• Cancellation policy: The tour is non-refundable and can’t be amended once booked. It’s essential to carefully consider your plans before making a reservation.
• Weather-dependent: In case of poor weather conditions, such as heavy rain or typhoons, a full refund or alternative tour date will be offered. Your safety and comfort are our top priorities.
• Minimum number of travelers: The tour requires a minimum number of participants. If this requirement isn’t met, you’ll receive a full refund or the option to join an alternative date or experience.
• Private tour: The tour is exclusive to your group, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

Please note that while we strive to provide the best experience possible, unexpected circumstances may arise. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility.

Continuing from the previous points on tour policies, it is important to consider the reviews of the Hiroshima and Miyajima 1 Day Tour from Kyoto or Osaka. With an overall rating of 5.0, this tour has received positive feedback from travelers. While there is only one review available, it is helpful to know that the tour has received high ratings from both Viator and Tripadvisor. The table below provides a summary of the reviews:

Although there may not be a large number of reviews, the high rating suggests that previous participants have had a positive experience. This is reassuring for first-time visitors considering this tour. The tour highlights include visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, as well as exploring the scenic island of Miyajima with its famous Itsukushima Shrine. The reviews indicate that the Hiroshima and Miyajima 1 Day Tour is a highly recommended option for those wanting to experience the historical and cultural significance of these destinations.

Questions and Information

For questions and information about the Hiroshima and Miyajima 1 Day Tour from Kyoto or Osaka, travelers can find helpful details and assistance from Viator Here are some important tour details and the cancellation policy:

• Pricing and Guarantee:
• Price varies based on group size
• Lowest Price Guarantee
• Non-refundable if you cancel
• Tour duration: 11 to 12 hours (approx.)
• Hotel pick-up time will be communicated later
• Selecting Date and Travelers:
• Check availability
• Customize the tour as desired
• Guide available to assist with schedule changes
• Option to skip certain spots (no refund) or replace with other places
• Additional ticket fees may apply for new spots
• Tour Policies:
• Cancellation policy: Non-refundable, no amendments
• Weather-dependent; full refund or alternative date offered for cancellations due to poor weather
• Minimum number of travelers required; full refund or alternative date/experience offered if minimum not met
• Learn more about cancellations
• Private tour/activity exclusive to your group

For more detailed information, travelers can visit Viator’s website or contact their customer service.

The tour provides travelers with an informative background on Hiroshima and Miyajima, offering a comprehensive understanding of the historical and cultural significance of these destinations. Hiroshima holds a pivotal place in history as the first city to be targeted by an atomic bomb during World War II. The devastating event took place on August 6, 1945, and resulted in the loss of countless lives and the destruction of the city. Today, Hiroshima stands as a testament to the resilience and strength of the Japanese people. Miyajima, on the other hand, is known for its iconic floating torii gate and its sacred Itsukushima Shrine. The island is considered a spiritual place and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Together, Hiroshima and Miyajima offer a profound and meaningful experience for visitors seeking to learn about the history and significance of these destinations.

Navigating the Hiroshima and Miyajima 1 Day Tour from Kyoto or Osaka is made easy with clear and concise directions provided to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all travelers. Here are some key details to help you get started:

• Suggested Itinerary:
• Depart from Kyoto or Osaka in the morning
• Take a bullet train to Hiroshima
• Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum
• Enjoy a ferry ride to Miyajima Island
• Explore Itsukushima Shrine and the famous floating torii gate
• Return to Hiroshima and catch the bullet train back to Kyoto or Osaka
• Transportation Options:
• Bullet train: Fast and convenient way to travel between cities
• Ferry: Scenic way to reach Miyajima Island from Hiroshima
• English signage and announcements are available at train stations and ferry terminals for easy navigation.
• Detailed instructions and maps will be provided prior to the tour, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Embark on this unforgettable journey, guided by clear directions and convenient transportation options, to discover the historical significance and natural beauty of Hiroshima and Miyajima.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour price.

Yes, lunch is included in the tour price. There are various lunch options available to cater to different dietary restrictions. Travelers can enjoy a delicious meal as part of their Hiroshima and Miyajima 1 Day Tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, participants are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. This provides flexibility and accessibility options for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. The tour is designed to be accessible for all ages. However, it’s important to note that some parts of the tour may involve walking or climbing stairs.

Is Transportation Between Hiroshima and Miyajima Included?

Yes, transportation between Hiroshima and Miyajima is included in the tour. There are various transportation options available, such as ferry rides or train transfers, allowing travelers to easily visit the sightseeing attractions in both locations.

Can I Join the Tour if I Have Limited Mobility or Use a Wheelchair?

Yes, the tour is accessible to individuals with limited mobility or who use a wheelchair. The tour includes accessibility options and visits wheelchair-friendly attractions to ensure everyone can enjoy the experience.

To sum it up, the Hiroshima and Miyajima 1 Day Tour from Kyoto or Osaka offers an immersive and flexible travel experience.

With a focus on historical and cultural landmarks, as well as stunning natural beauty, this tour allows visitors to customize their itinerary and tailor the experience to their preferences.

With detailed information on pricing, guarantee, tour policies, and reviews, this article serves as a valuable resource for anyone planning to embark on this captivating tour.

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Hiroshima Day Trip and Hiroshima Walking Tour

Hiroshima was tragically the site of the world’s first atomic bomb in 1945. When visiting Japan, it’s easy to take a day trip to Hiroshima from Osaka or Kyoto. Hiroshima is relatively small, which makes it the perfect place to explore on foot. I’ve designed a Hiroshima walking tour to cover the main Hiroshima attractions in just one day. However, if walking’s not your jam, you can also get between the sites by bus, subway or taxi. 

Why Take a Hiroshima Day Trip?

Sometimes, I like to walk around wearing rose-tinted glasses that block out the horrors of our world. I wasn’t exactly sure how I’d feel about being confronted by Hiroshima’s nuclear history. While visiting Hiroshima was upsetting (to put it mildly), I am glad that I took a day trip to Hiroshima.

Yup, a visit to Hiroshima is emotional . It’s harrowing. It’s moving. Yet it can also be strangely uplifting, and can leave you with a cautious sense of hope. The atomic bomb has left an indelible scar on the city of Hiroshima, and the city acts as a living memorial to the horrific impact of atomic warfare. But this is also a city rebuilt. A city united. A city dedicated to eliminating nuclear war.

I can be a delicate petal, so was pleased to discover that there’s things to do in Hiroshima in addition to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. My Hiroshima itinerary balances the raw devastation of the atomic bomb with other Hiroshima city sights.

How to Get to Hiroshima

Hiroshima’s central location means that it works really well in a Japan itinerary . The best bases for a day trip to Hiroshima are Osaka and Kyoto, as the bullet train (Shinkansen) only takes around 1.5 hours each way. See the West Japan Rail site  for timetable details.

There’s also a regular train from Osaka or Kyoto to Hiroshima, but this takes 6-7 hours and involves multiple transfers. Probably only recommended for long term and penny-pinching travelers!

Hiroshima from Osaka  

You can get from Osaka to Hiroshima on the bullet train in around 1 hour 30 minutes. Take the Sanyo Shinkansen line from Shin-Osaka Station to Hiroshima Station.

If you have a Japan Rail Pass  (which is the best value if you’re doing a couple of bullet train trips), use the Sakura service which takes around 1 hour 30 minutes or the Hikari service which takes around 2 hours 15 minutes. If you don’t have a JR Pass, you can also take the slightly faster Mizuho or Nozomi train to Hiroshima from Osaka at around 1 hour 25 minutes.

Hiroshima from Kyoto

If your Kyoto itinerary is a few days or more, then it’s absolutely worth taking a day trip to Hiroshima, and surprisingly doesn’t actually take much longer than travelling from Osaka to Hiroshima.

You can get from Kyoto to Hiroshima on the bullet train in around 1 hour 40 minutes. Take either the Sanyo Shinkansen or the Tokaido Shinkansen from Kyoto Station to Hiroshima Station.

If you have a JR Pass, you can use the Hikari or Sakura services which may require a transfer in Osaka, making a total one way trip time of around 2 hours. If you don’t have a JR Pass, you can also take the Nozomi service direct to Hiroshima from Kyoto.

Hiroshima from Tokyo

If you’re visiting Hiroshima from Tokyo, it is best to stay overnight in Hiroshima as the train from Tokyo to Hiroshima takes around 5 hours. Even better, add Osaka to your Japan itinerary, as you need to transfer via Osaka (or another station in the region) to reach Hiroshima from Tokyo.

Overview of Hiroshima Itinerary 

Children’s Peace Monument at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Hiroshima Attractions Visited

For the first part of your Hiroshima day trip, you can almost forget (at least temporarily) that you’re walking across a city which was virtually flattened by the world’s first atomic bomb in 1945.

This Hiroshima 1 day itinerary eases you into things with a visit to Japanese gardens and a castle, followed by the (devastating) Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, ending with time to decompress and look around the city.

Hiroshima Walking Distance

The Hiroshima walking tour below has around 10-12km walking. This includes 7 km between stops and another few km walking around the Hiroshima attractions. You can cut out a fair amount of the walking time with buses, the subway and taxis if you prefer.

Disclaimer: My walking tally was closer to 12km, but I spent a good 1.5km of that lost.

Lesson: Plan your Hiroshima walking route in advance with Google Maps!

Time Required for Hiroshima 1 Day Itinerary

All up, a day trip to Hiroshima will take around 10-12 hours .

This does make for a rather exhausting but fulfilling day. If you have more time to spend in Japan, you can also stay overnight in Hiroshima. If you have time, add in nearby Miyajima Island, which is famous for Itsukushima Shrine, a massive orange torri gate.

Transfers to Hiroshima

The bullet train to Hiroshima from Osaka or Kyoto takes roughly 1.5 hours each way / 3 hours return , or longer if you’re taking a slower Shinkansen.

If you are not staying near the Shinkansen station, you’ll need to factor in additional time to get to and from the station. I was staying in Shinsaibashi Osaka, and it took around 30 minutes to get from Shinsaibashi to Shin Osaka where the bullet trains departs from (15 minute train, plus walking / ticket buying time / getting lost in the station time).

Time in Hiroshima

Allow 6 – 8 hours  door to door from Hiroshima Station for your Hiroshima one day itinerary, including walking, exploring and lunch time.

My Hiroshima self-guided walking tour took me 6 hours. My breakdown was roughly 2 hours for the garden, castle and shrine, 2 hours for the Memorial Peace Park, and 2 hours for lunch and the city. You may need longer than 6 hours if you walk slowly, love museums, like to take regular rests, or are traveling in a group (I was traveling to Hiroshima solo).

You can of course drop some Hiroshima activities if you prefer a shorter day, or take taxis, buses or the local subway between stops.

Hiroshima Walking Tour – Map and Directions

This Hiroshima walking route follows a round circuit of the city. The map and directions are available on Google Maps . Each stop is detailed below.

You don’t need to strictly follow the Hiroshima map route. In fact, I’d recommend having an aimless wander around the Hiroshima Memorial Peace Park (Stop 5) and Hiroshima City (Stop 6). Hiroshima is small, so if you wander off down an interesting street or get lost (as I did!), you can get back on course quickly by consulting Google Maps.

What to do in Hiroshima

The most popular things to do in Hiroshima are to visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome (Stops 4 and 5 below), which are the main memorial sites. You could easily spend an entire day in this area, particularly if you’re a history nut. However, I was keen to get a broader taste of the city, so added in additional stops when I was planning what to do in Hiroshima.

Stop 1: Shukkeien Gardens Hiroshima (Map B)

Overview of Shukkeien Gardens

Start your day in Hiroshima by taking an easy walk from Hiroshima Station to the tranquil Shukkeien Gardens (literally, ‘shrunken’ gardens). The original gardens date back to the 1600s, but were rebuilt after being destroyed by the 1945 atomic bomb.

There’s a path around the entire pond at Shukkeien Gardens, with many islets and bridges. The pond is full of (ridiculously large) colorful koi fish. Buy some koi food and create a feeding frenzy! Allow 30-45 minutes to walk around the gardens and feed the koi.

Walking Distance, Opening Hours and Cost

Distance:  Shukkeien Gardens is around 1.1km walk from Hiroshima Station.

Opening Hours: Shukkeien Gardens is open daily from 9am until 5pm or 6pm, with closing time depending on the season.

Cost:  The entry fee for Shukkeien Gardens is adults Y260 for the gardens and Y100 for koi (fish) food. If you’re into art, check out the Prefectural Art Museum at the gardens, adults Y510.

Stop 2: Hiroshima Castle (Map C)

Overview of Hiroshima Castle

Next stop on your Hiroshima day trip is a classic Japanese castle. From Shukkeien Gardens, head slightly north west and you’ll reach Hiroshima Castle in around 10 minutes.

This historic castle was originally a 16th century castle for the feudal lords, and later served as a military facility. As with most local buildings, Hiroshima Castle was destroyed by the atomic bomb blast and was reconstructed in the 1950s.

Walk around the Hiroshima Castle grounds, view the picturesque wooden castle and pay to enter the castle if you want to learn about the castle’s history. The castle includes four floors of historic exhibits and a fifth floor observation deck. I took a quick squiz through the castle but, to be honest, I coulda given it a miss.

Distance:  Hiroshima Castle is around 850 metres walk from Shukkeien Gardens.

Opening Hours: Hiroshima Castle is open daily from 9am to 5pm or 6pm, with closing time depending on the season.

Cost:  Admission to Hiroshima Castle grounds is free. The fee to enter Hiroshima Castle is Y370 for adults.

Stop 3: Hiroshima Gokoku Shrine (Map D)

Overview of HiroshimaGokoku Shrine

The Hiroshima Gokoku Shrine is in the Hiroshima Castle grounds, on the way to the Atomic Bomb Dome. This Shinto shrine is a place of worship for war casualties, and includes traditional Shinto gates and a temple.

I walked past the Gokoku Shrine and admired the pretty gates, but didn’t go in. (I was getting my temple on the next day in Nara. See my Nara Walking Tour  for deets!)

Distance:  Gokoku Shrine is around 200m walk from Hiroshima Castle.

Hours:  9:00am to 4:30pm. You can walk past the shrine at any time.

Cost:  Free to walk around the shrine grounds. There may be a small entry fee to go inside the shrine.

Stop 4: Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Dome (Map E)

Overview of the Atomic Bomb Dome

This is where sh*t starts to get real my friends. Brace yourself, because Hiroshima’s horrific history suddenly gets a whole lot more visual. The A-Bomb Dome is located near the epicenter of the 1945 atomic bomb blast, which exploded 600 meters above this area.

The atomic bomb flattened much of Hiroshima and killed around 60,000 people instantly, 140,000 people by the end of 1945, and tens of thousands more in the following decades. The A-Bomb Dome is the only structure still standing from 1945, which makes it all the more eerie and atmospheric.

You can only walk around the outside of the A-Bomb Dome, so you won’t need a lot of time here.

Distance: The Atomic Bomb Dome is 1.3km walk from Hiroshima Gokoku Shrine.

Hours:  The A-Bomb Dome is always ‘open’, as you can’t actually go inside the gates or the Dome.

Cost: Free.

Stop 5: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park (Map F)

Overview of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

The next stop on your walking tour of Hiroshima is the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. This is the main Hiroshima memorial site, and includes several different memorials and a museum, set out below. Hiroshima Peace Park is the most popular Hiroshima attraction, and is usually the focus of a day trip to Hiroshima.

Hiroshima Outdoor Memorials

Start at the north end of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Your first stop is the outdoor memorials. Walk past the Peace Bell (and give it a satisfying ring), the Children’s Peace Memorial, and the cenotaph where the eternal peace flame burns.

Hiroshima Memorial Hall of Remembrance

After the outdoor memorials, move onto two main indoor activities – the Memorial Hall and the Museum. Veer east from the cenotaph and you’ll find the Hiroshima Memorial Hall of Remembrance.

The Memorial Hall (above) is a moving 360 degree memorial depicting bombed cityscape. The city images are made up of 140,000 tiles, in memory of the number of atomic bomb victims at the end of 1945. (Bonus – entry is free!) This is one of the most visually interesting and moving memorials I’ve visited.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

After the Memorial Hall, walk south to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. The Museum depicts Hiroshima before, during and after the bombings. Watch the survivor video testimonies and check out artifacts like a watch that is permanently stopped at 8:15 am when the bomb hit.

The Hiroshima Museum also traverses the nuclear age post Hiroshima through the Cold War and to current times. This is a city scarred, but also a city on a relentless peace mission to eliminate atomic warfare.

The museum is not light viewing. The history and exhibits are intense and emotional, and many people (me included!) get a little teary and generally in a down mood at the state of our civilisation. Make sure you leave some time in your day to decompress and reflect.

Note: The Main Building at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is closed for renovations and earthquake proofing until later in 2019. During this time, the East Museum is open and houses the main exhibits.

Distance:  Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a few hundred meters walk from the Atomic Bomb Dome. You’ll probably add around 1km walking around the park, memorials and museum.

Hours: The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is open 8:30am to 5pm or 6pm daily, depending on the season.

Cost:  It is free to walk around Hiroshima Peace Park and the memorials, including the Hall of Remembrance. The entry fee to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is Y200 for adults.

Stop 6: Hiroshima City and (Late!) Okonomiyaki Lunch (Map G)

Overview of Hiroshima City

By now, you’ll be starving if you haven’t eaten already, and likely in need of some lighter activities after visiting the Hiroshima Memorial Park.

Spend the rest of the day walking through the city streets back to Hiroshima Station. If you’re into shopping, there’s shops galore to stock up on clothing or buy some crazy local Japanese souvenirs. I got distracted by gorgeous kitty-cats in a pet shop, and had some quality snuggle time. A day trip to Hiroshima also wouldn’t be complete without some tasty local treats.

Hiroshima Okonomiyaki

For lunch, try the famous Hiroshima style okonomiyaki, a pancake thingy*, washed down with some beer. (*Pancake thingy made of a flour base, layered with cabbage, sprouts, onions, tempura scraps, pork, noodles, egg and other optional extras. Yup, it’s massive!).

You’ll find okonomiyaki eateries dotted all over Hiroshima city. I had a couple in mind, but was thwarted by a long line at Okonomiyaki-Nagata-ya   and shorter opening hours at Hassei.

I ended up at Okonomimura . Awesome accidental choice me, if I do say so myself. Okonomimura is on the third floor of a pretty nondescript building and has a few small Hiroshima okonomiyaki stalls. Plonk down at one of the stalls, order away, sit around a hot grill, and watch the magic happen.

I spent a good hour or so at Okonomimura resting my tired legs, having a beer, and watching the chefs at work. (And attempting to eat the world’s biggest Okonomiura – evidence above!)

Walking Distance

It’s around 1.2km to walk from Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum to Okonomimura for lunch. You should factor in at least 2km walking total, as you’ll want to meander around the city.

Stop 7: Hiroshima Station (Map H)

Finish your Hiroshima day trip itinerary by walking back to Hiroshima Station (around 1.7km from Okonomimura) or your local accommodation. Local transport is also readily available.

If your legs have had it at any time during the day, jump in a taxi or on the local tram or subway to save a couple of kms walking. My legs were almost gone-burgers towards the end, but I trucked on, determined to finish my walking route of Hiroshima!

End of Hiroshima Day Trip: Back to Osaka or Kyoto! 

If you have a spare day in Osaka, read my Osaka one day itinerary to hit the highlights in just one day!

If you’re travelling from Kyoto, check out my favorite things to do in Kyoto .

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This is a great guide to Hiroshima! It was an interesting city to visit. It was haunting to see the A-Bomb done and the memorial museum.

Great guide & it’s on my list to visit when I finally return to Japan. I can totally relate to how you felt – I was the same when visiting the Killing Fields in Cambodia. So tough & emotional to hear about the history but also something that you need to do to even get close to understanding the horrors that wee endured. Thank you for sharing.

Its a great City with resilient and hopeful people for the end of Nuclear arms.

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8-Day Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Hiroshima and Osaka Tour

Star your trip in Tokyo, a bustling metropolis pulsating with modern energy, and explore the serene landscapes of Hakone. Dive into Kyoto's rich heritage, visit Hiroshima to pay respects and witness resilience, and experience the vibrant city life in Osaka. This thoughtfully curated itinerary offers a perfect blend of history, tradition, and urban vibrancy. Ideal for travelers seeking a concise yet comprehensive exploration of Japan, from the modernity of Tokyo to the historic significance of Hiroshima and the dynamic spirit of Osaka. Book now for an enriching and captivating adventure through Japan.

We can customize this trip by adding anything you're interested in and scheduling days to fit your pace. We would happily organize a unique theme or activities for birthdays, young children, anniversaries, etc.

• Best For: Slow Pacers and Couples
• Departure date: Up to you
• Sample Price: On request

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Tour Highlights

Here are the fantastic attractions, the most must-do activities selected by Asia Highlights (AH Hand-Picked), and exclusive cultural experiences offered by Asia Highlights (Only With AH) included in this tour:

Learn about Japanese emperors by visiting the Imperial Palace and the Meiji Shrine.

Enjoy steaming matcha on a small island in the lake at hamarikyu garden ., experience the breathtaking scenery of hakone from multiple perspectives., absorb the profound message of peace in hiroshima ., suggested itinerary for inspiration.

The itinerary serves as a mere example of a personalized tour, designed exclusively for you. Your preferences will shape the authentic journey. We are fully prepared to craft an tailor-made tour that fulfills your desires.

Your private guide will be ready to meet and greet you at the arrival hall in Tokyo. A comfortable private car with an experienced driver will transfer you directly to your hotel. Your guide will help you to check-in.

Meiji Shrine: Commence your day at the serene Meiji Shrine, an homage to Emperor Meiji, an integral figure in Japan's history. Experience the tranquility of this sacred site, often bustling with traditional wedding ceremonies, a peek into Japanese cultural heritage.

Omotesando: Stroll down Omotesando, a broad, tree-lined avenue hosting flagship stores of top global fashion brands. Experience the stylish energy of this shopping street, known for its blend of modern and traditional architecture.

Asakusa & Sensoji Temple: Journey to Asakusa, a vibrant district capturing the essence of old Tokyo. Explore Sensoji, Tokyo's oldest temple, and meander through Nakamise, a historic street offering an array of local delights and traditional souvenirs.

Hamarikyu Garden: End your day at Hamarikyu Garden, an Edo Period Japanese garden harmoniously nestled amidst Tokyo's modern skyline. Experience the juxtaposition of traditional aesthetics within a futuristic cityscape. Take a serene moment to enjoy a cup of steaming matcha and Japanese sweets in a tranquil teahouse located on a small island within the garden's lake.

Hakone and Mount Fuji National Park Adventure: Escape the urban bustle of Tokyo and embark on a scenic 90-minute journey to Hakone, the gateway to the majestic Mt. Fuji and its surrounding national park. Your local guide will join you on the iconic "Romance Car" express train departing from Tokyo's vibrant Shinjuku station.

Zigzag through the Mountains on the Hakone Tozan Train: Hop aboard the Hakone Tozan switchback train, a thrilling ride that zigzags through the mountains, offering spectacular vistas of the surrounding valleys. The meandering journey provides unforgettable panoramic views of Hakone's natural landscapes.

Exploring the National Park's Marvels: Discover the diverse forms of transport available to delve into the wonders of the national park. Aboard the world's second-longest cable car, ascend Mt. Owakudani. Traverse over sulfurous fumes, bubbling hot springs, and thermal rivers in this volcanic expanse. Don't miss the opportunity to try a sulfuric hot spring-boiled egg, rumored to extend your life by seven years – an experience unique to Hakone's history and folklore.

Sailing Aboard the Majestic Pirate Ship: Embark on a voyage across Lake Ashinoko aboard a grand replica pirate ship, an ancient lake born from a volcanic eruption 3000 years ago. Traverse these historic waters and embrace the natural splendor of this breathtaking region.

Odawara (Hakone) to Kyoto by JR Train: Embark on an exhilarating train ride from Odawara (Hakone) to the historic city of Kyoto. Glide through picturesque landscapes aboard a JR Train in the comfort of the Standard Class. Revel in the convenience of a smooth, swift journey that spans approximately 2 hours and 6 minutes.

Get ready for a captivating day as you embark on a guided tour of Kyoto's cultural treasures and historical landmarks. Your knowledgeable local guide will navigate the city's comprehensive bus system, offering seamless travel to renowned World Heritage Sites.

Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion): Begin your day at this awe-inspiring temple, initially crafted as a shogun's retreat and later transformed into a revered Buddhist temple. Admire its splendor and picturesque setting, making it one of Kyoto's most iconic attractions.

Nijo Castle: Immerse yourself in the ornate architecture of this historic castle, surrounded by breathtaking gardens. Experience the intrigue of the famous "nightingale floors" and the captivating design that echoes the rich history of the Edo Shogunate.

Nishiki Market: Traverse a vibrant food hub! Stroll through this five-block-long market street, where over a hundred shops and restaurants offer a delightful array of fresh seafood, local produce, knives, cookware, and various Kyoto specialties. Discover the flavors of Japanese cuisine in a lively, bustling atmosphere.

Kiyomizu Temple: At the Kiyomizu Temple, relish panoramic vistas of Kyoto from the elevated veranda. Delve into the intriguing fact that the Main Hall and Veranda were meticulously constructed without nails or joiners. Although under repair, the temple remains a significant and picturesque Kyoto landmark.

Sanjusangendo: Visit this extraordinary temple, featuring Japan's longest wooden structure. Marvel at the 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The center holds a magnificent wooden statue of a 1000-armed Kannon, flanked by an assembly of 500 statues on each side, creating a captivating sight.

Set off on an enlightening journey from Osaka to Hiroshima using the Shinkansen, where your accompanied journey takes you back in time to the tragic events of August 6, 1945.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: Upon arrival, you'll step into the poignant landscape of the Peace Memorial Park, marking the ground zero of the Atomic Bombing. This solemn site pays homage to the lives lost in the tragic event. Stroll through the park adorned with memorials, monuments, and statues, and visit the museum that vividly portrays the impact of that fateful day.

Miyajima Island: A short ferry ride away awaits the serene Miyajima Island, a place steeped in Shinto traditions and natural beauty. Here, you'll encounter the iconic 'Floating Torii Gate,' one of Japan's most photographed sites. This sacred gate belongs to a shrine rooted in ancient history and masterful architecture, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the harmonious shrines, temples, and picturesque surroundings, tasting local delights such as the famous maple-leaf shaped cakes.

Osaka Castle: Dive into the grandeur of Osaka Castle, an iconic symbol deeply rooted in Japan's history. Renowned for its crucial role in Japan's unification, this reconstructed masterpiece stands true to its original form, housing a modern museum that narrates Osaka's rich past.

Dotonbori: Wander through the energetic district of Dotonbori, once a theater hub now transformed into a bustling food haven. Indulge in Osaka's famed takoyaki, savory octopus dumplings that are a quintessential street food, amidst the lively streets teeming with vibrant neon signs and culinary delights.

Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum: Discover the beauty of 18th-century Japanese prints at the Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum. If available, engage in a hands-on woodblock printing experience to create your own art piece, a unique and immersive way to connect with Japan's artistic heritage.

Umeda Sky Building: Ascend the impressive Umeda Sky Building, a soaring 173-meter-high structure that offers a breathtaking panorama of Osaka's skyline. At the "Floating Garden Observatory" on the 39th floor, enjoy sweeping views of the cityscape and beyond, providing a captivating visual treat.

Our guide will help you transfer from your hotel to Osaka Airport for departure with independentcar/van and guide.

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• Private transfers and English-speaking tour guide
• All guided sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary
• Hand-picked star-rating accommodations
• Breakfasts at hotels and lunches for every guided day
• Governmental taxes

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Day Trip To Hiroshima From Osaka or Kyoto: A 1-Day Itinerary

Are you planning on doing a Hiroshima day trip from Osaka or Kyoto? Great, we are here to help.

As the Ground Zero for the first atomic bomb during World War II, Hiroshima is a city filled with memories of the terrible things humans can do. A visit to Hiroshima is humbling and eye-widening, yet one of the most unique experiences in Japan.

In our guide, we will teach you how to get to Hiroshima, what to do on your day trip, and what type of food to try in Hiroshima!

Want to have a tour guide and not worry about planning your Hiroshima trip? Check out our recommended bus tour from Osaka or Kyoto! (Bullet train ticket included!)

Is A Day Trip To Hiroshima Enough?

After lunch, you will head to Miyajima Island, otherwise known as Itsukushima. If you are not sure how to get from Hiroshima to Miyajima, don’t worry.

To head there you will need to take the JR San-yo line from Hiroshima Station (free with  JR Pass ) to Miyajimaguchi Station. Then from Miyajimaguci Station, you will take a ferry across to Miyajima (free with 1 day Hiroshima pass).

Night: Back To Kyoto or Osaka From Hiroshima

After you watch the beautiful sunset behind the iconic torii gate, it is time to head back. Though Hiroshima is a great city, there aren’t a lot of things to do at night.

If you still have energy when you get back to Osaka or Kyoto, check out  Osaka’s nightlife  or some of the cool  things to do in Kyoto at night .

This concludes the Hiroshima day trip itinerary from Kyoto or Osaka! I hope this guide helped you determine the things to do in Hiroshima in one day. Any question? Leave them in the comments!

Disclaimer: Some of the links above are affiliate links. That means if you book or make a purchase through the links, we will earn a small commission at  no extra cost to you ! The money will help run this site! Thank you !

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Sean is the founder of the travel blog, LivingOutLau. He has been to over 30 countries in over 5 years of travel. Every day, he is traveling and sharing his discoveries of the world through exceptional travel guides on his blog!

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Hiroshima: Getting there and around

Getting to hiroshima.

• ¥ 7,900 - 11,000

Osaka (Shin-Osaka Station) and Hiroshima (Hiroshima Station) are connected with each other by the JR Sanyo Shinkansen . Nozomi and Mizuho trains require about 80 minutes for the journey, while Sakura trains require a few minutes more.

The regular one way fare from Osaka to Hiroshima is 9,890 yen for a non-reserved seat on any train, around 10,500 yen for a reserved seat on Sakura trains and around 11,000 yen for a reserved seat on a Nozomi or Mizuho train, but note that international tourists can buy discounted one-way tickets for only 7,900 yen. The Japan Rail Pass is valid on Sakura, but a supplement fee has to be paid on Nozomi or Mizuho trains. Meanwhile, the JR Kansai Hiroshima Pass and the JR Sanyo Sanin Pass are valid on all trains.

• ¥ 3,000 - 9,000

Multiple companies, including Willer Express , operate daytime and overnight buses between Osaka and Hiroshima. The one way trip takes about six hours. One way fares vary greatly based on travel date and bus type between around 3,000 and 9,000 yen. Online reservations can be made through Willer .

• 2-3 transfers
• ¥ 5,720

By local trains , the one way trip from Osaka to Hiroshima takes about six hours and typically involves about two or three transfers of trains. The regular fare is a relatively expensive 5,720 yen, however, with a Seishun 18 Kippu you could theoretically do the trip for as little as 2,410 yen.

Above fees and schedules are subject to change. Be sure to check current yen exchange rates .

Getting around

Hiroshima has Japan's largest tram network with eight tram lines connecting Hiroshima Station with most of the city's attractions. Tram line number 2 goes as far as Miyajima-guchi, from where ferries depart to Miyajima . The fare for a single tram ride within central Hiroshima is a flat 220 yen. Outside the city center, the fare increases with distance traveled. The Japan Rail Pass is not valid on the trams.

The local Paspy IC card and other major IC cards, including Suica and Icoca, can be used to pay the fare on trams and buses in Hiroshima and on the ferries to Miyajima (both companies). On JR trains, the local Paspy card is not accepted, but the other major IC cards are. Note that Paspy will get replaced by the "Mobiry Days" card and app from September 2024 (Paspy will be discontinued on March 29, 2025).

Alternatively, a one-day pass for unlimited use of all trams on one calendar day is available for 700 yen. For an additional 200 yen, you get a one-day pass that also includes the ferry ride to Miyajima by Matsudai ferry (but not by JR ferry) and back. Holders of these one-day passes, furthermore, qualify for a discount on the Miyajima Ropeway (1500 yen instead of 2000 yen).

The JR-operated Hiroshima Sightseeing Loop Buses , called Meipuru-pu (combination of Maple and Loop), serve all of central Hiroshima's major sightseeing attractions (see map above). There are four routes: the orange, green, lemon and blue routes with 1-2 buses per hour each (the orange and blue lines are less frequent). The buses are covered by the Japan Rail Pass and several regional JR passes . Without a rail pass, they cost 200 yen per ride (330 yen for the blue line) or 400 yen for a 1-day pass.

Good walkers will also be able to cover the roughly three kilometers from Hiroshima Station via Shukkeien and Hiroshima Castle to the Peace Memorial Park on foot.

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Links and Resources

Hiroshima electric railway, setonaikai kisen, hiroshima kotsu, maple-oop bus, hotels around hiroshima.

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5 amazing holidays to Japan for an unforgettable adventure

Considering a once-in-a-lifetime Japan holiday? Look no further with these magnificent options

While the country's big-hitting cities such as spiritual Kyoto, cosmopolitan Osaka and vibrant Tokyo, Japan's capital and a popular springboard for Mount Fuji, are all must-sees, there are the sunny southern islands of Japan to discover too. With breath-taking beaches and a slower pace of life, they're the ideal spot for a more leisurely trip. And then there are the Japanese Alps, vast and verdant, and a hugely popular choice for a Japan skiing holiday.

While you need to consider where you'd like to visit on your epic Japan adventure, there's also the case of how . Flights go direct from London to Tokyo, but when it comes to choosing how to traverse this incredible country there are numerous options – from guided coach tours to luxury cruises.

For a helping hand with where to start, we've rounded up some of our favourite ways to discover Japan, including a group tour across the Japanese Alps , a 17-day cruise during beautiful cherry blossom season, and an indulgent inclusive break in sun-drenched Okinawa.

A tour of Japan's essential highlights

Embark on this thrilling 13-day roundtrip from Tokyo, which showcases the magical, ancient heritage of Japan as well as its futuristic, neon-lit metropolises. This guided tour, which includes coach travel and hotel accommodation, will give you plenty of time to soak up the colour and culture of Japan's capital, which boasts the bustling shopping district of Ginza, vivid Harajuku, iridescent Akihabara electric town, and world-famous Meiji Shrine in Shibuya, the commercial district.

Beyond Tokyo, you'll visit majestic Mount Fiji, Japan's tallest peak; ride the Shinkansen, the high-speed bullet train; see the resident deer in the city of Nara; spend the day in Hiroshima, which has been rebuilt into an attractive, modern city; and have the chance to stay in a ryokan , a typical Japanese inn, in Kyoto. This accessible and fully-organised tour covers all the essentials and more.

Join us on the Good Housekeeping 13-day Japan tour in August 2024.

A cruise in beautiful cherry blossom season

One of the biggest draws to Japan is undeniably its picturesque cherry blossom season and the custom of hanami , admiring the beauty of it. Every spring, millions of locals and visitors alike patiently wait for the first sakura (the Japanese term for cherry blossom) buds to bloom, showing off their delicate, baby pink-hued petals. The abundance of blossom flowering is celebrated with festivals, picnics and the eating of seasonal, sakura-themed delicacies.

If experiencing this springtime phenomenon is on your bucket list, then this 17-day cruise in Japan is for you. While giving you the opportunity to catch the cherry blossom in cities like Tokyo and Osaka, the leisurely sailing with Holland America enables you to see plenty more of Japan, too. Other port stops include Kagoshima, Nagasaki, Aomori and the lively, karaoke-loving city of Busan in South Korea. And all of this is without mentioning the incredible entertainment, food and bars onboard your ship, of course.

Embark on a 17-day cherry blossom cruise around Japan with Good Housekeeping in 2025.

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A jaunt through the Japanese Alps with plenty of tradition

While this group tour ticks off the unmissable cities of Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Nara, it takes its guests on a journey through the beautiful Japanese Alps, a series of mountain ranges on the island of Honshu. This mountainous region is home to an abundance of picturesque cities and towns, all offering a glimpse into Japan's rural life. On this 13-day tour you'll visit the pretty city of Takayama, which brims with Edo Period houses, food and craft markets and traditional restaurants.

You'll also get the chance to wander the village of Shirakawago, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its thatched roof farmhouses that are said to resemble the praying hands of Buddhist monks. Along with admiring gorgeous scenery, you'll have the chance to get on hands-on with activities such as miso-making, washi paper-making, gold leaf crafting and origami. If you're craving a taste of traditional Japan, you'll find bags of it on this brilliantly-curated trip.

Explore the Japanese Alps with Good Housekeeping in 2024 or 2025.

A city break in Tokyo, Japan's energetic capital

If you've got limited time or would prefer to dedicate your trip to just one destination in Japan, then Tokyo is the answer. Known as Edo until 1868, the Japanese capital is the world's most populous city and thus it's a melting pot of activity, culture and cuisines. As city breaks go, you'll be spoilt for choice here: see the Imperial Palace and many landscaped gardens (we like Koishikawa Korakuen and Hama Rikyu) in central Tokyo, the museums and towering Skytree viewing platform for city-wide views in northern Tokyo, and the busy shopping and entertainment districts of Shibuya, Shinjuku and Harajuku in the west.

For easy access to all of this (and so much more) it's best to base yourself centrally, and a hotel would give you the benefit of a helpful concierge to offer recommendations, book transfers and advise on transport throughout your trip. In a city with so much to offer, a bit of local knowledge goes a long way.

Plan a Tokyo city break British Airways, where you can book flights and hotels as a package.

A relaxing all-inclusive holiday in Okinawa

The idyllic island of Ishigaki is part of the Okinawa Prefecture in southern Japan, where the climate is tropical and the weather is warm and humid all year round. It's here that you'll find Club Med's Kabira Ishigaki resort , perched on the edge of the Kabira peninsula with endless views of the turquoise ocean ahead. A family-friendly resort, Kabira Ishigaki is the ideal way to see Japan with a hearty side of rest and relaxation. You can lounge around the freshwater pool and unwind with a treatment in the spa, or, on days where you can muster the energy, try your hand at windsurfing or kayaking in the crystal-clear sea.

The ocean is sacred here, as it's home to manta rays and other marine life, and guests wanting to learn more about life under the water's surface can book eco-friendly snorkelling tours or day trips to nearby islands. There's the chance to experience local culture on dry land too, as guests can take part in sanshin lessons (an Okinawan musical instrument that's similar to a banjo) and sample Okinawan flavours with a selection of traditional dishes, all served in a restaurant that offers 180-degree sea views. Sounds like paradise to us...

Soak up the sun, sand and sea of southern Japan at Club Med's Kabira Ishigaki resort.

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Daesung launches Japanese tour with electrifying performances in Kawasaki

Singer Daesung has kicked off his live tour in Japan.

On the 13th and 14th, Daesung held the first concerts of his 'D-LITE JAPAN TOUR 2024 "D’s IS ME"' in Kawasaki, Japan.

At the concerts, Daesung opened with 'WINGS,' one of the hit tracks from his Japanese solo album, and greeted the local fans in fluent Japanese, marking the official start of the performance.

True to the tour title 'D’s IS ME,' Daesung filled the venue with a setlist that showcased everything about him. From 'The Ballad of a Singer' to 'Rainy Rainy' and 'Dress,' he performed stages of songs that are beloved in Japan, thrilling the audience.

Moreover, Daesung delivered non-stop entertainment, from a cover of 'BETELGEUSE' to his recent singles 'Falling Slowly' and 'Light', and a Big Bang dance medley, showcasing his standard as a performance artist.

Having sold out every session of his original Japanese talk & live solo hall tour 'Dな SHOW Vol.2' in August last year, Daesung has filled the seats again in this tour, the first in seven years, proving his undiminished popularity and his strength as a global artist.

Currently, Daesung is actively releasing albums and also participating as a master on MBN's 'Korea-Japan Singing Contest', meeting the public in various fields.  Following his successful first fan day in Korea last month, 'D’s ROAD in SEOUL,' he is also planning to start an Asia tour in the first half of this year to meet fans around the world directly.

Having successfully completed the first concerts, Daesung will continue his tour in Kobe, Sapporo, Fukuoka, Kurashiki, Nagoya, Hiroshima, and Osaka until May 31.

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I’m so happy for Daesung, now we just need him to come to America where he has many fans who are dying to see him in concert.

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I hope he's gonna come to Europe some time in the future ❤️ I'd love to see him live but I'm so happy that he's doing well right now ❤️

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