[2024 Latest] How to get from Fukuoka to Hiroshima quickly and cheaply? A thorough explanation of the Shinkansen, bus, and car transportation options!

How far is Fukuoka from Hiroshima?

Fukuoka and Hiroshima are about 290 kilometers apart , and depending on the means of transportation, the shortest travel time is about 1 hour , and the longest is about 7 hours and 15 minutes . There are several means of transportation, but the Hiroshima Tourism Association (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 cycling route 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 Fukuoka. Please visit Hiroshima, which has a different charm from Fukuoka!

• Table of Contents
• 1. If time is of the essence, take the Shinkansen
• 2. If cost is your priority, take the express bus
• 3. Regular trains: enjoy a leisurely journey
• 4. If you want to drive, use a car
• Choose the means that suits you best and visit Hiroshima!

1. If time is of the essence, take the Shinkansen

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

If you are going to Hiroshima city by Shinkansen, board at Hakata Station and get off at Hiroshima Station . If you are going to the Atomic Bomb Dome, transfer to the streetcar and it will take about 20 minutes. If you are going from Hiroshima Station to Miyajima, it will take about 30 minutes to get to the nearest station, JR Miyajimaguchi Station. From Miyajimaguchi Station, transfer to the ferry and it will take about 10 minutes to arrive.

Shinkansen types and fares

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

The fastest trains are the Nozomi , Mizuho , ​​Sakura and Hikari , which arrive at Hiroshima Station in about 1 hour to 1 hour and 20 minutes . The Kodama takes about 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours.

The one-way fare from Hakata Station to Hiroshima is 9,630 yen for reserved seats on the Nozomi and Mizuho trains, 9,100 yen for reserved seats on the Hikari, Kodama and Sakura trains, and 8,570 yen for unreserved seats on all trains (prices may increase during peak seasons).

How can I ride the Shinkansen cheaply?

The Japan Rail Pass , which allows unlimited travel on Shinkansen and other trains throughout Japan, is a great deal if you're planning on traveling to cities other than Fukuoka! For details on the Japan Rail Pass's coverage and prices, please check the official website or Klook .

However, please note that the Japan Rail Pass can only be used on the "Sakura", "Hikari" and "Kodama" Shinkansen trains . If you are using the "Nozomi" or "Mizuho" trains, you will be charged an additional fare.

Therefore, if you purchase a Japan Rail Pass, we recommend taking the Shinkansen "Sakura," "Hikari," or "Kodama" from Hakata Station to Hiroshima Station.

Hakata Station

1-1 Hakataeki Chuogai, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka 812-0012

2. If cost is your priority, take the express bus

If you don't mind the time it takes, but want to keep costs down, then the highway bus is the best option. On average, it costs around 3,000 to 5,000 yen, but depending on the season and bus company, it can be as little as 2,500 yen .

The journey time is approximately 4 hours 30 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes , but if you choose an overnight bus , you can travel while you sleep, allowing you to make good use 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, it's important to check the departure and arrival points in advance.

Click here to make a reservation for WILLER buses

3. Regular trains: enjoy a leisurely journey

If you want to take it easy, you can also choose to take the local train, which costs 5,170 yen from Fukuoka to Hiroshima Station and takes about 6 hours 30 minutes to 7 hours.

If you want to visit Miyajima first, get off at Miyajimaguchi Station, which arrives before Hiroshima Station. Miyajima is known as one of the Three Most Scenic Spots of Japan, and is a tourist destination that is attractive for its beautiful nature and historical sites. The large red torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine floating on the sea is a must-see, and you can enjoy spectacular views by trekking to the mysterious Mount Misen. On the island, you can interact with deer and enjoy fresh oyster dishes. We recommend that you take your time to explore the island.

4. If you want to drive, use a car

If you travel from Fukuoka to Hiroshima by car using the expressway, it will take 4 to 5 hours. The estimated expressway toll is 7,000 to 8,000 yen one way . Gasoline costs will be added to this.

Considering the cost, time, and fatigue involved in driving, a car may not be the best option, but it does have the advantage of making it easier to get around the area once you arrive in Hiroshima.

Choose the means that suits you best and visit Hiroshima!

Hiroshima is full of attractions, from world-famous tourist sites such as Miyajima and the Peace Memorial Park to beautiful islands and seaside scenery. There are also many restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood, with a wide variety of dishes that make use of local ingredients, such as Hiroshima specialties okonomiyaki and oysters.

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