Traveling from Kyoto to Hiroshima means covering about 360 km (224 miles).
The fastest and most convenient way is using the Shinkansen (bullet train), which takes about 1 hour 40 minutes.
You could also have a private road transfer for the most flexible transit.
Highway buses are cheaper, but take longer.
For those who prefer air travel, there are planes from Osaka airports to Hiroshima Airport, which take about 1 hour without including airport transfers.
Asia Highlights' Clients in Kyoto1. JR-Shinkansen (Bullet Train): Speed and Convenience
There are two options of traveling between Kyoto and Hiroshima using the JR-Shinkansen (Bullet Train).
The fastest option is the Nozomi, which takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes along the Tokaido–Sanyo Shinkansen line.
The next quickest are the Haruka Limited Express and Nishi–Akashi, which are only slightly slower, taking approximately 2 hours along the JR-Kyoto Line via Shin–Osaka Station.
Which Trains Are Best: Nozomi, Haruka Limited Express, or Nishi-Akashi?
The Shinkansen Nozomi option only has three stops (Shin–Ōsaka Station, Shin–Kōbe Station, and Okayama), making it the speediest way to travel to Hiroshima.
The Haruka 1 Limited Express and Loca–Nishi–Akashi require a transfer at Shin-Osaka Station, adding an extra 20–25 minutes to their journeys.
Train Schedules
| Train Type | Duration | Frequency | Cost (USD) | JR Pass |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nozomi | About 1 hour 40 minutes | Every 15–30 minutes | From about US$78 one–way | With US$27 fee |
| Haruka Limited Express | about 2 hours | Less frequent | From about US$70 one–way | Covered |
| Loca-Nishi-Akashi | about 2 hours | Less frequent | From about US$70 one–way | Covered |
How to Buy Train Tickets
Use the JR West Timetable & Route Finder to find the best trains for your journey.
Purchasing tickets is simple. You can find ticket machines and ticket offices beside all the shinkansen ticket gates.
When buying your tickets, you will receive two cards and a receipt. One card is your basic fare ticket (joshaken) which you can use to pass through regular JR ticket gates. The other card is your super express ticket (tokkyuken) that you will need to pass through the shinkansen gates. You need to show both your basic fare ticket and super express ticket to the conductor on the train.
When purchasing a ticket, choose the seat you want. There are two classes of carriage on shinkansen trains: Ordinary and Green Cars (first class). The seats on Ordinary Cars are comfortable enough, but the seats on Green Cars are larger and offer a little more comfort and leg-room. Green Car tickets are about 33% more expensive and must be reserved before the traveling date.
Green Car VS Ordinary Car, ShinkansenShould You Purchase Tickets in Advance / Reserve Seats?
Tickets usually cost around US$78, but can slightly change depending on the travel season (which includes the spring and the New Year's holiday) and traveling package.
Most travelers use the Japan Rail Pass, which offers unlimited travel on all Shinkansen trains. You can purchase a JR pass for 7, 14 or 21 days, according to you travel schedule.
Reservations are not always required for Shinkansen bullet trains because many of them have non–reserved cars with seats that are available on a first–come, first–served basis. But if you want to reserve a seat, you can do this at ticket offices on the station or through the Japan Rail website.
- A Limited Express Ticket for an adult on the Shinkansen Nozomi costs (43 + 35 = US$78). This is the basic fare ticket plus a reserved seat. Non-reserved seating costs (43 + 27 = US$70). A Green Car Seat costs (43 + 59 = US$102).
- A Limited Express Ticket for an adult on the Shinkansen Sakura and Hikari costs (43 + 30 = US$73). This is the basic fare ticket plus a reserved seat. Non-reserved seating costs (43 + 27 = US$70). A Green Car Seat costs (43 + 55 = US$98).
Which Station to Use in Kyoto and How to Board Your Train
We recommend using Kyoto Station for Shinkansen direct trains, which don't stop in most stations, unlike other local trains.
Once you arrive at Kyoto Station, follow the signs for the Shinkansen (bullet train) platforms. The Shinkansen entrance is well-marked and located on the second floor.
To board your train, find your specific departure platform by checking the electronic departure boards, which display train times and platform numbers in both Japanese and English.
The management requires passengers to arrive at least 15–30 minutes before departure to allow time for navigating the station and finding your platform. Once on the platform, follow the signs and markings for your car number and reserved or non-reserved seating sections.
2. Private Transfers (Most Comfortable and Convenient)
If you want the utmost comfort and convenience, a private transfer from Kyoto to Hiroshima with an English-speaking driver is the best option. Private transfers offer personalized service, flexibility, and the opportunity to explore Kyoto and Hiroshima with the insights of a knowledgeable guide.
We provide door-to-door service from your accommodation in Kyoto to your destination in Hiroshima, eliminating the need for navigating public transportation.
Tailor your journey with us according to your interests and schedule.
3. Highway Buses from Kyoto to Hiroshima: Budget Friendly Option
Willer Express, Japan Bus Line, and Japan Bus Online (Kintetsu Co.) are some of the best companies that offer bus services from Kyoto to Hiroshima.
Day buses usually take between 7 and 9 hours from Kyoto to Hiroshima, while night buses take about 8 and 10 hours. The cost of traveling from Kyoto to Hiroshima ss about USD$40–90, depending on the service and company chosen.
Day buses depart during early morning or mid–afternoon while night buses usually depart between 10pm and midnight.
To check the fares and book your ticket, visit the Willer Express, Japan Bus Line, or Japan Bus Online (Kintetsu Co.) website, select your departure and arrival cities, choose your travel date and preferred time, then book your tickets in advance.
- Willer Express buses travel from Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit to Hiroshima Station.
- Japan Bus Line buses go from Kyoto Sta Hachijo to Hiroshima city center.
4. Flights from Kyoto to Hiroshima: An Expensive Alternative
Flying via domestic flights is another alternative to travel from Kyoto to Hiroshima. It takes about 1 hour flight time from Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) to Hiroshima Airport (HIJ) using All Nippon Airways or Japan Airlines.
However, it takes around 3–4 hours total when considering travel to and from the airports and check-in time.
Cost-wise, we recommend looking for discounts or promotional fares for better deals, because the cost of flying can go up from USD$350 to US$1,700, depending on the season.
Can I Take a Day Trip from Kyoto to Hiroshima?
Yes, you can take a day trip from Kyoto to Hiroshima, thanks to the Shinkansen (bullet train). The Nozomi train can complete this journey in under 1 hour and 40 minutes, allowing you to explore Hiroshima's highlights in a single day.
For history lovers, the iconic A-Bomb Dome and the Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island offer the best experience. Hiroshima Castle, located in the city's heart offers an ideal place to learn a few things about Hiroshima's history before heading back to Kyoto in the evening.
Hiroshima Peace Building Spring CherryYou might like to read more about How to Get Around Japan
Exploring Japan with Asia Highlights
Explore Japan with Asia Highlights for a memorable and unforgettable experience. Our tailored tours guarantee an immersive journey from the serene temples of Kyoto to the historical landmarks of Hiroshima.
Recommended Tours:
- 8-Day Japan Discovery: Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka
- 11-Day Japan Tour: Tokyo, Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, and Hiroshima
- 21-Day Japan Grand Journey: From Tokyo to Fukuoka
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