How to Get from Tokyo to Hiroshima: 3 Ways Compared

Fastest Option

Shinkansen Nozomi

Fastest Time

4h 00min

Arrives at

Hiroshima Station

Tokyo to Hiroshima (894km) is a full day-trip-worthy journey by shinkansen. The Nozomi takes 4 hours, making it perfect for an overnight stop in Hiroshima before continuing west. Miyajima Island with its floating torii gate is just 30 minutes from Hiroshima Station and makes the trip essential for any Japan itinerary.

All Transport Options Compared

TransportTimeCostFrequency

Shinkansen Nozomi

NOT covered by JR Pass — fastest option

4h 00min

¥18,380

Every 30 min

Shinkansen Hikari/Sakura

JR Pass accepted — Sakura is covered on western segments

4h 45min

¥18,380

Every 60 min

Highway Bus

Long journey — overnight bus best to save time and accommodation

11–13h

¥6,000–9,000

Overnight departures

JR Pass Tips for Tokyo → Hiroshima

The 7-day JR Pass (¥50,000) is excellent value for a Tokyo–Kyoto–Hiroshima route. Hiroshima to Miyajima ferry is also JR Pass eligible.

Book a Japan Rail Pass or IC Card on Klook:

JR Pass 7-Day — Klook JR Pass 14-Day — Klook Welcome Suica IC Card — Klook

Hotels in Hiroshima

Find hotels near Hiroshima Station. Free cancellation on most bookings.

Expedia Agoda

See our Hiroshima hotel roundup →

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take from Tokyo to Hiroshima by shinkansen?+

The Nozomi shinkansen takes 4 hours directly from Tokyo Station to Hiroshima Station. The JR Pass-eligible route (Hikari to Osaka, then Sakura to Hiroshima) takes about 4h 45min.

Is Hiroshima worth visiting on a Japan itinerary?+

Absolutely — Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is one of the most moving experiences in Japan. Combine it with a day on Miyajima Island (floating torii gate, deer, Itsukushima Shrine) for a perfect 2-day stop.

Can I day trip to Hiroshima from Tokyo?+

Technically possible (4h each way), but it makes for a very exhausting day with limited time in Hiroshima. Spending one or two nights in Hiroshima is strongly recommended.

Is the JR Pass worth it for Tokyo to Hiroshima?+

Yes — a round trip from Tokyo to Hiroshima by Hikari costs ¥36,760. The 7-day JR Pass costs ¥50,000, so you only need one more city stop (Kyoto, Osaka, or Nara) to make it worthwhile.

How do I get from Hiroshima to Miyajima?+

Take the JR Sanyo Line from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi (25 min, ¥410), then take the JR Ferry to Miyajima Island (10 min, ¥200). Both are covered by the JR Pass.

Itineraries for This Route

Hiroshima 3days →Japan 10days →Japan 14days →

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