Hiroshima & Miyajima Day Trip From Kyoto

Join us for an unforgettable day trip from Kyoto to the historic sites of Hiroshima and the enchanting island of Miyajima. Experience the blend of solemn history and natural beauty with the guidance of a licensed English-speaking guide. Your journey will take you to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, a World Heritage site famed for its floating torii gate, set against the backdrop of Miyajima's lush landscapes. Here, you'll also get the chance to encounter friendly wild deer roaming freely in their natural habitat, adding a touch of magic to your visit.

In Hiroshima, step into the past with a visit to the Atomic Bomb Dome, a poignant reminder of peace and resilience, standing as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Following this, explore the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which has been thoughtfully updated and reopened, offering insights into the city's history and the significance of peace.

Your travel between Kyoto and Hiroshima will be both comfortable and eco-friendly, aboard the swift Shinkansen, as part of our commitment to sustainability, with a portion of your tour fee contributing to renewable energy initiatives. Join us for a day of reflection, discovery, and connection with nature and history.

Tour Highlights

• Guided tour with a licensed English-speaking interpreter

• Visit to the World Heritage Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima

• Encounter with wild deer in Miyajima's natural setting

• Exploration of Hiroshima's Atomic Bomb Dome

• Insightful experience at the renovated Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

• Comfortable Shinkansen travel between Kyoto and Hiroshima

What’s Covered

• English guide interpreter fee

• Tour admission and transport costs

• Miyajima visitor tax

What’s Extra

• Lunch

Tour Itinerary

Departure from Kyoto

Time: 7:40 AM

Your day begins at the Sunrise Tours Desk inside Avanti, opposite Kyoto Station's Hachijo Exit. Here, an assistant will help you navigate to the Shinkansen platform at Kyoto Station, setting the stage for your journey to Hiroshima. 

Shinkansen to Hiroshima

Experience the efficiency and comfort of Japan's renowned bullet train, the Nozomi Shinkansen. Enjoy the scenic views and high-speed travel that connects the historical cities of Kyoto and Hiroshima, offering a unique perspective on Japan's landscape and engineering prowess.

Duration: 100 minutes

Arrival in Hiroshima

After arriving at Hiroshima Station, a short walk will take you to Hotel Granvia Hiroshima, where the next phase of your tour begins. This transition offers a moment to adjust from the swift Shinkansen ride to the more contemplative experiences ahead in Hiroshima.

Travel to Miyajima

Time: 10:20 AM 

Board a bus to Miyajimaguchi, followed by a ferry ride to Miyajima Island. This journey not only connects you to the sacred island but also offers a glimpse into the daily commute and travel practices within Japan.

Duration: Bus to Miyajimaguchi, then a 10-minute ferry ride

Itsukushima Shrine Visit

Explore the awe-inspiring Itsukushima Shrine, renowned for its "floating" torii gate and rich history dating back to the 6th century. This visit provides a deep dive into the spiritual and architectural significance of one of Japan's most iconic shrines, set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Misen and the Seto Inland Sea.

Duration: 120 minutes

Return Journey to Hiroshima

After your immersive experience in Miyajima, the tour takes you back to the mainland, where you'll transition from the island's serene natural beauty to the poignant historical context of Hiroshima.

Duration: 10-minute ferry, then a 30-minute bus ride

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum

Reflect on the somber history and the message of peace at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum. The park established as a beacon of peace, and the museum's exhibits provide a profound narrative of the events of 1945 and their enduring global impact. The Atomic Bomb Dome stands as a stark, powerful symbol of survival and remembrance.

Duration: 100 minutes

End of Tour at Kyoto Station

Time: 8:46 PM

The tour wraps up at Kyoto Station. As you step off the train, you're not just concluding a journey between two cities but also a day filled with deep cultural and historical insights, set against the backdrop of Japan's stunning landscapes and technological marvels.

Essentials to Know Before Booking

• Display your reservation confirmation at reception via printout or mobile device.

• Itinerary and timings may vary due to traffic and destination congestion.

• Seating is not reservable and is based on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Transportation type varies with group size and may include buses, vans, or taxis.

• Lunch is not included; please plan your meal at Miyajima.

Meeting Point 

Please gather at the Sunrise Tours Desk situated inside Avanti, directly opposite the Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit. The check-in process begins at 7:30 AM to ensure a timely departure at 7:40 AM.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the departure point for this tour?

The tour departs from the Sunrise Tours Desk inside Avanti, which is located across from Kyoto Station's Hachijo Exit. An assistant will be there to guide you to the Shinkansen platform at Kyoto Station.

What kind of transportation will be used during the tour?

The type of transportation varies depending on the number of participants. It can range from large to small buses, hired cars (vans or minivans), taxis, or trains. The exact mode of transportation will be confirmed closer to the tour date.

Is there a guide included in the tour?

Yes, the tour includes a National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter who will accompany you throughout the day, providing insights and information about the sites you visit.

What are the key attractions included in this tour?

The tour includes visits to the Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima, known for its iconic "floating" torii gate, and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, including the Atomic Bomb Dome, which are poignant reminders of the city's past and symbols of peace.

What should I do if I have special accessibility needs?

If you have special accessibility needs, it's important to communicate these with the tour operator in advance so that appropriate arrangements can be made to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

How should I prepare for the day trip?

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking, as the tour involves visiting various sites on foot. Also, consider bringing essentials like a hat, sunscreen, and a water bottle, and plan for your lunch since it's not included in the tour package.

Related Read: 20 Must-Visit Memorials in Hiroshima and Nagasaki