Public Transportation: Hiroshima

Transit Systems Overview

Trams (Hiroden - Hiroshima Electric Railway) are the main mode of public transportation within Hiroshima city. The extensive network covers major areas: Hiroshima Station, the bustling Hondori shopping district, the Peace Memorial Park, and extends all the way to Miyajimaguchi, the gateway port for Miyajima Island. Trams are very reliable, run frequently, and have scenic views.

Buses complement the tram lines, reaching areas not served by trams. Local buses operate frequently for specific routes or attractions. The Astram Line, an automated guideway transit system, operates like a metro or monorail, connecting the city center (Hondori) with northern Hiroshima, including Shin-Hakushima (JR connections) and Koiki-koen (near the Big Arch Stadium). The Astram Line is a fast way to reach its service areas.

Hubs

Hiroshima Station: Major hub for Shinkansen, local JR lines, tram, bus routes.
Hiroshima Bus Center: Central hub for city buses and long-distance highway buses.
Hondori: Central shopping/entertainment, accessible by tram and Astram Line.
Peace Memorial Park: Accessible by tram (lines 2 and 6, Genbaku Dome-mae or Heiwa Kinen Koen stops).

Trams Hiroden

Extensive network, frequent, scenic routes.

Buses

Complement trams, reach unserved areas.

Astram Line

Fast connection, city center to north.

Ticketing & Fares

Payment Methods

Cash: Exact fare upon exiting trams/buses (flat ¥190 for most city routes).
IC Cards (ICOCA, Suica, Pasmo): Tap on reader when entering/exiting. Purchased/recharged at stations/convenience stores.
One-Day Passes: Hiroshima Sightseeing Loop Bus (Meipuru~pu) day pass (¥400).

Pass Options

Hiroshima Electric Railway (Hiroden) One-Day Pass: ¥700 (trams only), ¥900 (includes Miyajima ferry).
Visit Hiroshima Tourist Pass: Multi-day (1, 2, or 3-day) covering trams, local buses, Astram Line, JR Miyajima Ferry.
Hours of Operation: Early morning (~5:30 AM) to late evening (~11:30 PM). High frequency during peak hours.

Accessibility & Tips

Accessibility

Newer trams and Astram Line trains are increasingly accessible. Major stations have elevators/ramps.

Google Maps

Accurate for real-time public transport directions.

Use IC Card

Quick and easy payment, no need for exact change.

Avoid Peak Hours

Trams and buses are crowded during rush hour (morning/evening weekdays).

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel, especially for shorter distances or when carrying luggage.

Taxi Hailing

Licensed taxis are identifiable by traditional colors and a roof light.
Hail on the street (red light for vacant) or at designated taxi stands.
Passenger-side door often opens automatically.
Call a taxi by phone through a dispatch service.

Fares & Payments

Metred fares: Initial fare ~¥690 for first 1.052 km.
Night surcharge: Applies between 10:00 PM and 5:00 AM.
Payment: Cash, most major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, JCB), and IC cards.
Ride-sharing: Uber and GO Taxi app connect you with licensed taxis, cashless payment option.

Safety & Reliability

Taxis in Japan are extremely safe.
Drivers are professional, polite, and adhere to traffic laws.
Vehicles are clean and well-maintained.

Public transport (trams, buses, Astram Line) is very safe and reliable.
Violent crime is rare in Japan.
Use common sense in busy areas.

Car Rental Options

Requirements

International Driving Permit (IDP) (1949 Geneva Convention) from your home country, valid domestic driving license, passport. Without IDP, no driving. Some countries need Japanese translation instead.

Companies

International (Hertz, Budget, Avis) and Japanese (Toyota Rent-a-Car, Nippon Rent-A-Car, Times Car Rental) companies at Hiroshima Airport and city center. DiscoverCars.com for bookings.

Considerations

Driving is on the left. Toll roads are common and expensive. Parking is difficult and costly in city centers. Public transport is efficient for city sightseeing. Car rental is for rural areas or remote attractions.

Rental Options

For those who desire more independence or wish to explore areas outside the main city center, rental options are available.

Car Rental

To rent a car, an International Driving Permit (IDP) (1949 Geneva Convention) is necessary.
Present your valid domestic driving license and passport.
Roads are well-maintained, signs often in English. Driving is on the left.
Parking can be challenging and costly in city centers.

Bike Rentals

Bicycle rental services are available, especially for the Shimanami Kaido cycling route.
Some hotels in Hiroshima may also have bicycle rentals.
Cycling is a pleasant way to explore pedestrian-friendly areas or riverside paths.
Helmet use is recommended. Traffic is dense in central areas.

Specialty Vehicle Options

Motorcycle/Scooter

Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common for tourists. A specific motorcycle endorsement on your IDP is necessary.

Specific IDP needed

Driving Laws

Japan has strict enforcement of speed limits, seatbelt use (mandatory for all occupants), and absolutely no drunk driving.

Strict rules

Parking

Paid parking lots are common in city centers and near popular attractions. Look for 'P' signs.

Can be expensive

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Hiroshima city center is very walkable: Peace Memorial Park, Hondori shopping arcade, Shukkei-en Garden.
Walking along the Ota River and its channels scenic routes.
Miyajima Island is mainly a pedestrian island; exploring on foot is the best way to experience it.

Walking Tour Options

Self-guided walking routes are available in guidebooks or on tourist maps.
Volunteer guides offer free walking tours of the Peace Memorial Park. Check with the tourist information center.
No specific 'no-go' areas for pedestrians. Exercise common sense.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses & Water Taxis

Hiroshima Sightseeing Loop Bus (Meipuru~pu): Hop-on hop-off route, audio guides, ¥400 day pass.
World Heritage Sea Route: Direct boat service from Peace Memorial Park to Miyajima Island. Scenic and direct.
River boats on the Ota River for scenic views from the water.

Mountain Access

Miyajima Ropeway: Essential for ascending Mount Misen on Miyajima Island.
Panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea. Round trip ¥1,850.
From the upper station, hiking to the summit is possible.

Choose Your Path

Hiroshima's transport options cater to various preferences, from efficient public transit to scenic boat rides and car rentals for wider exploration.

Plan your movements to align with your interests and pace, ensuring a seamless journey.

Public Transportation