Japan
Hiroshima Airport (HIJ) is the main airport serving Hiroshima, located approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) east of the city. It handles domestic flights within Japan and a limited number of international routes to nearby East Asian cities.
Travelers from these regions typically fly into one of Japan's major international gateway airports first. These gateways include Tokyo Narita (NRT), Tokyo Haneda (HND), or Osaka Kansai (KIX). From these major international airports, you then connect to Hiroshima via a domestic flight or, more commonly and often more efficiently, by taking the Shinkansen (bullet train).
Hiroshima Airport offers duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores. Car rental counters are available. Free Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal. The airport is compact and easy to navigate.
From Hiroshima Airport (HIJ): The Limousine Bus is the most popular option to the city center (Hiroshima Bus Center or Hiroshima Station). Journey time is 45-60 minutes, fare around ¥1,450. Buses depart frequently. Taxis are available but expensive (¥16,000-¥20,000).
From Tokyo/Osaka (after international arrival): The most efficient way to Hiroshima is by Shinkansen (bullet train). Refer to Land Transportation section for details.
If you plan extensive multi-city travel across Japan, a Japan Rail Pass offers savings.
The pass covers the JR Sanyo Shinkansen to Hiroshima and the JR Miyajima Ferry.
Calculate if it is cost-effective for your full itinerary before purchase.
Hiroshima Station is a major stop on the Sanyo Shinkansen line. This high-speed rail line provides rapid and comfortable connections to other major cities across Japan.
Highway buses are an alternative to the Shinkansen, specifically for budget-conscious travelers. They connect Hiroshima to various cities across Japan, often at lower costs than the bullet train. Travel times are significantly longer. Major bus companies include Willer Express and JR Bus. Online booking is recommended.
Japan's roads are well-maintained and of good quality. Traffic can be heavy in city centers during peak hours. Japan has strict traffic laws, and adherence to rules is high, leading to low accident rates.
In addition to the Shinkansen, local JR lines connect Hiroshima with nearby cities and towns within Hiroshima Prefecture and the wider Chugoku region. These are for day trips to places like Kure or Iwakuni. Border crossing information is not applicable for travel within Japan.
Regular ferry services connect the mainland (Miyajimaguchi Port) to Miyajima Island. This short ferry ride is a standard part of visiting Itsukushima Shrine.
Several private companies direct ferry services from central Hiroshima, like from the Peace Memorial Park (Motoyasu-gawa Pier) or Hiroshima Port (Ujina Port), directly to Miyajima. These are faster but generally more expensive.
This direct boat service connects the Peace Memorial Park to Miyajima Island. It is a scenic and direct way to Miyajima, avoiding the need for a tram/train transfer.
Ferry terminals and ports in Hiroshima have good connections to local tram and bus services, allowing easy onward travel to your accommodation or other city attractions. Miyajimaguchi Port is directly next to JR Miyajimaguchi Station.
Sea transport can be subject to weather conditions. High winds or typhoons can lead to service suspensions. Check forecasts before travel.
No specific exit fees or taxes are charged directly to departing tourists from Japan at the airport or seaport. A 'Sayonara tax' (International Tourist Tax) of ¥1,000 is included in your airline ticket price. You do not need to pay it separately upon departure.
Hiroshima Airport (HIJ) provides various shops (including duty-free for international departures), restaurants, and cafes where you can relax and grab a meal or souvenirs before your flight.
Confirm your flight or train departure times. Remember to gather all your belongings and important documents. Enjoy your onward journey!
