How to Travel to Hiroshima From Osaka: The Fastest and Cheapest Ways

The Distance Between Osaka and Hiroshima 

Osaka and Hiroshima are about 330 kilometers apart , and depending on the means of transportation, the shortest travel time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, and the longest is about 8 hours . There are several means of transportation, but the Hiroshima Tourism Federation (HIT) recommends the Shinkansen for those who value comfort and speed , and the express bus for those who want to keep costs down .

Hiroshima has many attractions that can only be seen and experienced in Hiroshima, such as the World Heritage sites of Miyajima and the Atomic Bomb Dome, as well as the Shimanami Kaido, where you can cycle, and Okunoshima, famous for its rabbits. Although it may be too busy for a day trip due to the distance, it is a good distance for a trip from Osaka. Please visit Hiroshima, which has a different charm from Osaka!

• Table of Contents
• 1. The Fastest Method: Using the Bullet Train (Shinkansen)
• 2. The Cheapest Method: Using the Bus 
• 3. Enjoying the Travel: Taking the Local Train
• 4. For Road Trip Lovers: Using the Car 
• Choose Your Style and Visit Hiroshima!

1. The Fastest Method: Using the Bullet Train (Shinkansen)

The fastest and most convenient way to travel from Osaka to Hiroshima is by Shinkansen .

If you are going to Hiroshima city by Shinkansen, board at Shin-Osaka Station and get off at Hiroshima Station . Transfer to the tram to the Atomic Bomb Dome, it takes about 20 minutes. From Hiroshima Station to Miyajima, it takes about 30 minutes to get to the nearest station, JR Miyajimaguchi Station. From Miyajimaguchi Station, transfer to the ferry and arrive in about 10 minutes.

Shinkansen Types and Fares

There are five types of Sanyo Shinkansen trains that run between Osaka and Hiroshima: Nozomi, Mizuho, ​​Sakura, Hikari, and Kodama. Each train has different stops and travel times.

The fastest trains are the Nozomi , Mizuho , ​​and Sakura , which arrive at Hiroshima Station in about 1 hour 30 minutes. The Hikari takes about 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes, and the Kodama takes about 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours.

The one-way fare from Shin-Osaka to Hiroshima is 10,950 yen for reserved seats on the Nozomi and Mizuho trains, 10,420 yen for reserved seats on the Hikari, Kodama and Sakura trains, and 9,890 yen for unreserved seats on all trains (prices may increase during peak seasons).

Ways to Ride the Shinkansen Cheaply 

If you are planning to travel to cities other than Tokyo and Osaka, you can use the Free Pass " We recommend the Japan Rail Pass , which gives you unlimited travel on Shinkansen and other trains throughout Japan and is a great deal!

For details about the Japan Rail Pass's coverage and fees, please check the official website or Klook . Please note that the Japan Rail Pass can only be used on the Sakura, Hikari, and Kodama Shinkansen trains .

2. The Cheapest Method: Using the Bus 

If you don't mind the time it takes, but want to keep costs down, the highway bus is the best option. On average, it costs around 3,500 to 7,000 yen, but depending on the season and bus company, it can cost as little as 3,000 yen .

The journey takes about 5 to 8 hours , but if you choose an overnight bus , you can travel while you sleep, making the most of your travel time.

Expressway buses have multiple departure and arrival points, so if you want to get to your destination as quickly as possible, be sure to check the departure and arrival points carefully.

Click here to make a reservation for JR West Bus

Click here to make a reservation for WILLER buses

3. Enjoying the Travel: Taking the Local Train

If you'd prefer a slower journey, you can also opt for the local train, which costs 5,720 yen from Osaka to Hiroshima and takes around 6 hours and 40 minutes .

We also recommend getting off the train along the way to visit Onomichi City or Kure City in Hiroshima Prefecture. In Onomichi, you can enjoy the nostalgic townscape and magnificent views, and in Kure, you can enjoy the history and charm of the navy. Even a short detour will surely enrich your travel memories.

4. For Road Trip Lovers: Using the Car 

If you travel from Osaka to Hiroshima by car using the expressway, it will take 4 to 5 hours . The estimated expressway toll is 7,500 to 10,000 yen one way . Gasoline costs will be added to this.

Considering the cost, time and fatigue involved in driving, a car is not the best option, but it does have the advantage that you can easily get around the area once you arrive in Hiroshima.

Choose Your Style and Visit Hiroshima!

Hiroshima is full of attractions, from world-famous tourist spots such as Miyajima and the Peace Memorial Park to beautiful islands and seaside scenery. Hiroshima is also home to a wide variety of local specialties, such as okonomiyaki and oyster cuisine, and there are many restaurants where you can enjoy dishes made with local ingredients and fresh seafood.

Find a mode of transportation that suits your schedule, budget, and travel preferences, and enjoy your trip to Osaka and Hiroshima to the fullest!