How to get from Tokyo to Hiroshima

Both ends of Japan’s “Golden Route”, the capital city of Tokyo and the historic city of Hiroshima, are connected via the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen that goes all the way down to Kyushu and will pass through Kyoto and Osaka. Both destinations, Hiroshima and Tokyo are iconic cities in Japan with unique offerings for visitors to engage with on their trip, rich in preserved history that seamlessly blends with modern urban cityscapes.

Trip Duration Approx. 4-5 hours
First & Last Departure 6:00 AM/8:07 PM
💶 Cost From 19,670 yen
🚆 Distance 676 kilometers
🚉 Departing/Arriving Station Tokyo or Shinagawa Station/
Hiroshima Station
Nozomi Shinkansen Bullet TrainHikari Shinkansen Bullet TrainSakura Shinkansen Bullet Train

Reserve Shinkansen tickets from Tokyo to Hiroshima!

READ MORE ABOUT SEAT RESERVATIONS // How to Reserve Seats on the Train in Japan

Oversized baggage on the Shinkansen 

There are several standards that must be fulfilled in order for passengers with significant baggage to board the bullet train. As mandated by Japan Railway, luggage over 160 cm in total length, width, and height must be checked into the special large baggage area at the rear of the train car. Owners of such luggage are also required to book seats close to this area. Please take note that no luggage over 250 cm in total size is permitted on the Shinkansen. 

Baby carriages, musical instruments in cases, and sports equipment (bikes, snowboards, etc.) in cases are among the items that are exempt from these luggage regulations.

Dimensions for luggage on the Shinkansen bullet train

READ MORE ABOUT OVERSIZED BAGGAGE RULE // New Luggage Reservation Rules for the Shinkansen

Tokyo's vast public transit system, which makes getting around the city easy, is one of the city's main attractions. This is especially true for people who have a JR Pass, which grants them unrestricted access to all JR lines both inside and outside of Tokyo. The Shinkansen Bullet Train stops at and departs from Tokyo Station, Shinagawa Station, and Ueno Station.

To head out, Hiroshima Station, Tokyo Station, and Shinagawa Station will be the points of departure. Both of these stations are in well-populated, dense areas of central Tokyo but have fairly different atmospheres, the former being more commercial while the latter being home to a number of corporate offices, though there is stuff to enjoy in both areas.

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo, Japan

@Wikimedia

Among the other famous Hiroshima dishes are the fresh, meaty oysters and anago (sea eel) cultivated in the rich waters around the city. A trip out to Hiroshima is one to satisfy any food-passionate traveler!

Off the coast of Hiroshima, there are a few gems worth going out to visit. One of the most iconic views in all of Hiroshima is that of Miyajima Shrine, famous for its “floating” torii gate that peaks out of the water during high tide and is especially beautiful during sunset. The main event, though, is the shrine itself, which dates back centuries and is considered a world-heritage site. A bit further out, animal lovers will adore Okunoshima, an island that is home to around 1,000 wild rabbits that roam around. There are a number of facilities on the island, including a cafe and hotel for overnight visits.

Going out to Hiroshima from Tokyo Station entails taking the Tokaido-Shinkansen out to Hiroshima Station. This journey takes a little under 4 hours to about 4.5 hours, depending on the Shinkansen being ridden. For a relatively longer journey, rest assured you’ll be entertained with on-board wifi, ample leg room, and the option to purchase a high-quality “eki-ben” (specialized bento box for long-distance train travel) to indulge in as you enjoy the scenery passing by.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima, Japan

@Wikimedia

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