Hiroshima from Tokyo

The Japan Rail Pass has historically been one of the best options for long-distance rail trips, as even a simple round trip between Tokyo and Hiroshima could pay for itself. However, following a significant price hike in 2023, the Japan Rail Pass is no longer cost-effective if you’re only making a round trip between Tokyo and Hiroshima. Fortunately, there are other affordable travel options available between these two cities.

Taking the Shinkansen

The most convenient method is the Shinkansen, though it is pricey compared to other transportation methods. A one-way ride between these two cities costs 19,560 yen and takes about 3 hours and 50 minutes. However, with the discount applied through the Shinkansen SmartEX app, the price reduces to 15,000 yen, which is still relatively more expensive than other modes of transportation. Let’s explore some cheaper and more interesting alternatives.

Flying to Hiroshima

The most economical way to travel to Hiroshima is by air. A low-cost carrier (LCC) like Spring Airlines Japan offers some of the lowest fares, starting at 4,500 yen one-way from Narita Airport, which is farther from central Tokyo. As an LCC, additional charges apply for seat selection and carry-on luggage, but this can still be the most cost-effective route, especially if you travel light.

Flights from Haneda Airport, which is closer to Tokyo, are operated by full-service carriers like Japan Airlines and ANA. These airlines include carry-on and checked baggage in the ticket price, potentially making this option more economical than flying from Narita with Spring Airlines Japan.

From Haneda, you can also fly into Iwakuni Airport, which has fewer flights but cheaper airport bus fares to Hiroshima compared to those from Hiroshima Airport. Both airports are quite far from Hiroshima city center, but unlike the Shinkansen, the airport bus drops you off at the Hiroshima Bus Center, located centrally and within walking distance from the Atomic Bomb Museum.

Another option is using Japan Airlines’ Japan Explorer Pass, which offers a fixed one-way fare from Tokyo’s Haneda to Hiroshima for 11,000 yen, with checked luggage and seat reservation included.

Rail Options: The Sunrise Sleeper Train

The Sunrise sleeper train can save you lodging costs. The Sunrise Express runs from Tokyo to Izumo and Takamatsu. Sunrise Izumo goes to Izumo and Sunrise Seto goes to Takamatsu. The two trains are coupled together until Okayama so you can ride on either trains. Although the train doesn’t travel directly to Hiroshima, you can reach the city with a layover in Okayama. This option allows you to leave Tokyo or Hiroshima after the last direct Shinkansen or flight departs, arriving at your destination in the morning. You can maximize your time and spend at least 15 hours in Hiroshima if you travel both ways on the Sunrise Express.

As of 2024, the train departs Tokyo daily at 21:50, Yokohama at 2215 and Atami at 2323, and arrives in Okayama at 06:30 the following morning. The connecting Shinkansen, Mizuho 601, departs Okayama at 06:51 and arrives in Hiroshima at 07:25.

On the way back, the train leaves Okayama at 22:30 and Himeji at 23:33, with corresponding Shinkansen leaving Hiroshima at 21:25 and 22:12 respectively.

For those in Osaka, the Tokyo-bound Sunrise Express also stops there, allowing you to board from this city. Prices for the Sunrise Express and Shinkansen combination from Tokyo to Hiroshima range from 19,000 to 33,000 yen, depending on the time and choice of room. The cheapest option is the open carpet sleeping car, followed by private rooms named Solo, Single, Single Twin, and Single Deluxe. For those traveling together, Single Twin and Sunrise Twin options are available. Be sure to purchase food and drink before boarding, as there is no onboard cafe or dining car. Additionally, shower cars are located in cars #3 and #10. However, you must purchase a shower card from the cash-only vending machines located within these cars, which cost 330 yen in 2024, except for Single Deluxe passengers. Getting a shower card can be challenging since the quantity is limited; unless you board the train at the terminus, such as Tokyo Station, chances are that the shower cards will be sold out. Also, the shower vending machines are closer to cars #4 and #11, so it is recommended to line up near these cars to purchase a shower card.

Unique Routes to Hiroshima

A unique way to reach Hiroshima is by flying into Matsuyama on the island of Shikoku, then taking a ferry or high-speed boat to Hiroshima. Matsuyama is known for its castle and historic onsen town, offering a picturesque side trip. The ferry crossing the Seto Inland Sea is incredibly scenic, passing several small islands. It’s advisable to travel lightly or ship your luggage ahead, as this route involves multiple modes of transportation. Although this route is covered by the Setouchi Area Pass, the pass might be excessive if you’re simply flying in and out of the cities.

Alternatively, consider the Shimanami Kaido route for a cycling adventure across the Seto Inland Sea en route to or from Hiroshima. This 70km bike path crosses numerous bridges and islands, perfect for island-hopping.

Another interesting option is to fly into Fukuoka, spend a day or two there, and then take a Shinkansen to Hiroshima. Ironically, the Shinkansen journey takes about the same time as a bus ride from Hiroshima Airport. JR West offers the Hiroshima-Yamaguchi area pass that covers both Fukuoka and Hiroshima, along with a discounted one-way ticket.

The long distance bus

Lastly, the long-distance bus is a budget-friendly option. These overnight buses take between 10 to 12 hours, with prices ranging from 5,000 to 12,000 yen. One of the buses arrives in Hiroshima at 05:30, allowing you to spend a full day in the city before continuing to other destinations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are other methods for traveling from Tokyo to Hiroshima such as flying or taking a bus outside of the typical Shinkansen trip. While the Japan Rail Pass may no longer be the most cost-effective choice for this route due to recent price hikes, other methods such as flying, and even the Sunrise sleeper train provide alternatives.

For those looking for a more unique and scenic route, flying into Matsuyama and taking a high speet boat/ ferry or cycling Shimanami Kaido to cross the Seto Inland are excellent choices. These methods offer a deeper glimpse into the less-traveled paths of Japan.

Lastly, the long-distance bus remains a viable and economical option, especially for those prioritizing budget over time as long as your body can handle. Whatever your choice, planning ahead and considering various travel options will ensure a memorable and efficient journey from Tokyo to Hiroshima, allowing you to fully enjoy the rich history and beauty of one of Japan’s most iconic cities.