How to Get from Hiroshima to Miyajima Island Fast & Easily
Visiting Miyajima Island from Hiroshima is a must for anyone traveling in Japan, especially if you want to see the famous Itsukushima Shrine with its iconic "floating" torii gate. While the island may seem like a remote place, it’s actually quite accessible. Let’s break down the easiest ways to make this trip.
Option 1: JR Train and Ferry
This is the fastest and easiest way for many travelers to reach Miyajima Island. It’s a seamless route that combines a JR train from Hiroshima with a short ferry ride.
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JR Train from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station:
The journey begins at Hiroshima Station. Here, you’ll board a train on the JR Sanyo Line heading west. Trains on this route run frequently—every 15 minutes or so—and the trip takes around 30 minutes to reach Miyajimaguchi Station. If you have a JR Pass, this entire leg of the trip is covered, which is a bonus for international travelers looking to save on transportation costs.
Train Frequency: Every 15-20 minutes
Train Travel Time: Around 30 minutes
Cost: ¥420 (free with JR Pass)
Miyajimaguchi Station to Ferry Terminal:
Once you arrive at Miyajimaguchi Station, the ferry terminal is just a five-minute walk from the station. The route is well-marked, and many tourists will be making the same journey, so it's easy to find. Along the way, you’ll pass a few shops and cafes, which are perfect for grabbing a quick snack before you board the ferry.
JR Ferry to Miyajima Island:
The ferry ride from Miyajimaguchi to Miyajima Island takes just 10 minutes. While on the ferry, you’ll get a breathtaking view of the Itsukushima Shrine and its famous torii gate. Depending on the tide, you might see the gate "floating" on the water or standing on the exposed sandbank.
The ferry operates frequently, about every 15 minutes, so there’s never much of a wait. The JR Pass includes the JR ferry, but non-pass holders can purchase a ticket for ¥180.
Ferry Frequency: Every 15 minutes
Ferry Travel Time: 10 minutes
Cost: ¥180 (free with JR Pass)
This route is the most common way for tourists to reach Miyajima and one of the quickest. The combined travel time from Hiroshima to the island is approximately 45-50 minutes.
Option 2: Hiroshima Tram and Ferry
If you’re in the mood for a slower-paced, more scenic journey, Hiroshima’s tram network offers a unique way to travel. While the tram takes longer than the train, it provides a great way to experience Hiroshima’s local atmosphere.
Uncover the mystique of Miyajima Island, home to the revered Itsukushima Shrine and Daishoin Temple.
Tram #2 from Hiroshima City Center to Miyajimaguchi:
Tram #2 runs from the heart of Hiroshima to Miyajimaguchi. It departs from key locations in the city, including Hiroshima Station, so you can hop on wherever is most convenient for you. The tram ride lasts about 70 minutes, making it a leisurely trip, perfect for soaking in the local vibe.
Tram Frequency: Every 15-20 minutes
Tram Travel Time: About 70 minutes
Cost: ¥270
Ferry to Miyajima:
Once you arrive at the Miyajimaguchi ferry terminal, the ferry options are the same as with the JR route. You can take the JR ferry (if you have a JR Pass) or opt for the Matsudai ferry, which costs the same but is not covered by the pass.
The tram is a great option for those who want to experience Hiroshima’s city life from a different perspective. It’s slower but gives you more time to appreciate the journey.
Option 3: Direct Boat from Hiroshima Peace Park
If you’re short on time or want a more scenic, direct route, a high-speed ferry departs from Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and takes you directly to Miyajima Island. This is one of the fastest and most visually impressive ways to make the trip.
Catch the High-Speed Boat from Peace Park:
The Aqua Net Hiroshima ferry offers direct service from Peace Memorial Park to Miyajima Island. This is an ideal option if you’re planning to visit the Atomic Bomb Dome or the Peace Memorial Museum before heading to the island.
The boat departs a few times a day, and the ride takes around 45 minutes. Along the way, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Hiroshima Bay, passing through several scenic spots that you can’t see from the train or tram.
Boat Frequency: A few times daily (check schedule in advance)
Boat Travel Time: 45 minutes
Cost: ¥2,200 one way
This is the most convenient option for travelers looking to maximize their sightseeing time. While it’s more expensive than the train or tram, the boat ride offers stunning views and a direct connection between two of Hiroshima’s main tourist attractions.
Option 4: By Car and Ferry
For travelers who prefer the flexibility of driving, renting a car and driving to the Miyajimaguchi ferry terminal is another good option. Although you can’t drive on Miyajima Island itself (cars are restricted), parking is available at the ferry terminal.
Experience the blend of solemn history and natural beauty of Miyajima with this tour.
Drive to Miyajimaguchi:
From Hiroshima, drive along Route 2, which follows the coast and brings you directly to Miyajimaguchi. The drive takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic, and there are several parking lots near the ferry terminal where you can leave your car. Parking fees vary depending on the lot and duration of stay.
Drive Time: 30-40 minutes
Parking: Available near the ferry terminal, costs vary (typically ¥500-¥1,000 per day)
Ferry to Miyajima:
Once parked, walk to the ferry terminal and take either the JR ferry or Matsudai ferry to the island. The ferry ride takes about 10 minutes, and you’ll have a short walk from the ferry terminal to reach the island’s key attractions.
This option is ideal for those who plan to explore beyond Hiroshima and Miyajima, as it offers flexibility in terms of travel and sightseeing. Plus, it’s great for families or groups with luggage, as you can leave your belongings in the car before hopping on the ferry.
Travel Insights
Best Time to Visit: Miyajima is beautiful year-round but can get crowded during peak seasons. Spring is popular for cherry blossoms, while autumn offers incredible views of the changing maple leaves. If you’re visiting during these times, it’s a good idea to arrive early in the day to avoid the crowds. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
Tide Schedules: The torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine is most famous for its "floating" appearance during high tide. During low tide, you can walk right up to the base of the gate. Both experiences are memorable, so check the tide schedule ahead of time to plan your visit accordingly.
Getting Around Miyajima: The island is pedestrian-friendly, and most of the key attractions, such as the Itsukushima Shrine and Daisho-in Temple, are within walking distance of the ferry terminal. Plan to spend at least half a day on the island for those looking to explore further, such as hiking up Mount Misen.
Luggage Storage: If you’re traveling with heavy luggage, storage options are available at both the Miyajimaguchi and Miyajima ferry terminals. It’s a good idea to leave any unnecessary bags behind to make exploring the island easier.
Miyajima Ropeway: The Miyajima Ropeway offers a scenic ride up Mount Misen, the highest peak on the island, providing panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea. The ropeway ride is around 20 minutes long, and once at the top, you can hike to the summit for even more spectacular views. If you’re interested in taking the ropeway, allow an extra two to three hours for the round-trip journey.
Final Thoughts on Reaching Miyajima
Traveling from Hiroshima to Miyajima Island is quick and simple, with a variety of transport options to fit different preferences. Whether you choose the efficiency of the JR train, the leisurely tram ride, or the scenic direct boat from Peace Park, each route offers its own perks.
Once you’ve arrived, the island’s famous sights and natural beauty await, making the trip well worth the effort. Enjoy exploring Miyajima!
Experience the enchanting beauty of Miyajima Island on a unique rickshaw tour.
FAQs
What is the fastest way to get from Hiroshima to Miyajima?
The fastest option is to take the JR Sanyo Line from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station (about 30 minutes), followed by a 10-minute ferry ride. This route is popular due to the frequent train schedule and short ferry ride, making it ideal for quick day trips.
Is the JR Pass valid for the trip from Hiroshima to Miyajima?
Yes, the JR Pass covers both the JR Sanyo Line and the JR-operated ferry to Miyajima. This makes the trip not only convenient but cost-effective for tourists using the pass, especially since it eliminates the need for individual tickets.
How often do the ferries run to Miyajima Island?
Ferries operate approximately every 15 minutes throughout the day, with both the JR ferry and the Matsudai ferry servicing the route. Both ferries take about 10 minutes to reach the island, offering spectacular views of the Seto Inland Sea and the famous torii gate as you approach.
What’s the best time to visit Miyajima Island?
While the island is accessible year-round, spring and autumn are the most popular times due to the cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. Early mornings and weekdays are less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience. If you want to photograph the iconic torii gate, visiting during high tide provides the best "floating" effect.
