Getting Around - Public Transportation: Miyajima

Comprehensive Public Transit Systems

Miyajima Island is mainly a pedestrian island. The only "public transport" is the Miyajima Ropeway to Mt. Misen. Mainland Hiroshima has an extensive public transport network.

This network includes Streetcar (Hiroden), a comprehensive bus network, and JR Local Trains connecting Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station. The Astram Line serves northern Hiroshima.

Transit Options

Streetcar (Hiroden): An extensive tram network covers Hiroshima city.
Buses: A comprehensive bus network operates, useful for areas not covered by streetcars.
JR Local Trains: Connect Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station for the Miyajima ferry.
Miyajima Ropeway: The only "public transport" on Miyajima island itself.

Route Maps and Important Hubs

Miyajima: Ferry Terminal, Itsukushima Shrine, Daisho-in Temple, Mt. Misen Ropeway Station. Hiroshima: Hiroshima Station (major hub), Hiroshima Bus Center, Genbaku Dome-mae (major streetcar stop).

Ticketing Systems and Fare Options

Cash payment (exact fare) or IC Cards (Paspy, Suica, ICOCA) are accepted. One-Day Passes like the Hiroshima Tourist Pass are available for tourists.

Accessibility Information

Newer Hiroshima streetcars are low-floor and wheelchair accessible. Miyajima's main path is mostly flat. Many temples and Mt. Misen have steps.

Operating Hours and Frequency

Service Schedule

Streetcars/Buses: Operate from around 6:00 AM until late evening (10:00 PM to midnight).
JR Sanyo Line: Frequent trains from early morning until late evening.
Miyajima Ferries: Run from around 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with high frequency (every 10-15 minutes).

Tips for Efficient Navigation

Use Google Maps or Japan Transit Planner (Navitime) for real-time routes and schedules.
Consider purchasing an IC card (Suica, Pasmo, or ICOCA) for convenience.
Familiarize yourself with the streetcar routes in Hiroshima, as they are user-friendly.

Practical Transit Advice

Cash Payments

Pay the exact fare upon exiting streetcars or buses. Drivers do not provide change for large bills.

IC Card Benefits

Major nationwide IC cards are accepted. Purchase and top up at stations or convenience stores.

One-Day Passes

Hiroshima Tourist Pass or specific 1-Day Passes are available for unlimited rides on relevant lines.

Walk Miyajima

Miyajima is small and highly walkable; most attractions are close to the ferry terminal.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis provide a direct travel option, especially on the mainland. Miyajima itself rarely needs or has taxis, being a pedestrian-focused island.

Licensed Taxi Identification & Hailing

Japanese taxis are typically clean, well-maintained, with automatic opening rear doors.
A green light in the front window shows availability; a red light means occupied.
Hail taxis on the street, find them at taxi stands, or order them via phone or app.
Taxis are readily available on the mainland in Hiroshima.

Typical Fares & Payment Methods

Starting fare in Hiroshima is around ¥700-¥800 for the first 1-2 km.
The meter calculates based on distance and time. Fares increase at night (10:00 PM to 5:00 AM).
Cash is always accepted. Many taxis now accept credit cards and IC cards.
Designated taxi stands are available at Hiroshima Airport and Hiroshima Station.

Recommended Ride-Sharing Apps and Services

Uber operates in Hiroshima, mainly connecting with local taxi companies.
DiDi is another ride-sharing app that partners with local taxi services.
GO Taxi App is a popular Japanese taxi-hailing app.

Taxis in Japan are extremely safe. Drivers are courteous and reliable.
Meters are always used, ensuring fair pricing.
Ride-sharing services typically maintain the same high safety standards as licensed taxis.

Rental Options

Car Rental

You need a valid domestic driver's license and an International Driving Permit (IDP) based on the 1949 Geneva Convention. The minimum age is typically 18.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Available in some larger cities but less common for tourists. Similar license requirements as for cars. Not practical for Miyajima.

Bicycle Sharing

Peacecle is a bicycle sharing service in Hiroshima city. Very limited or non-existent on Miyajima island due to its pedestrian nature.

Walking & Cycling

Miyajima is best experienced on foot, supporting appreciation of its serene beauty and charming streets. Hiroshima city has some cycling infrastructure.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Miyajima Island is exceptionally pedestrian-friendly.
The main pathway from the ferry terminal to Itsukushima Shrine is flat and easy to walk.
Paths to Daisho-in Temple, Momijidani Park, and the base of the Ropeway are well-suited for walking.
Many central areas in Hiroshima, like Peace Memorial Park, are pleasant for walking.

Walking Tours & Bicycle Use

Miyajima has numerous self-guided routes. Private operators offer guided walking tours.
Cycling infrastructure is improving in Hiroshima, with some dedicated lanes.
Miyajima is not suitable for cycling due to terrain and pedestrian focus.
Avoid walking or cycling on expressways. Pedestrians should use sidewalks when available.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

The Hiroshima Sightseeing Loop Bus (Hiroshima Meipuru~pu) is a hop-on-hop-off service for main tourist attractions. The Japan Rail Pass covers this service.

No such service exists on Miyajima island.

Boat Taxis & Water Transport

The World Heritage Sea Route is a direct ferry from Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park to Miyajima. The regular Miyajima Ferry operates from Miyajimaguchi to Miyajima.

No additional immigration procedures are needed for regular ferries.

Miyajima Ropeway

The Ropeway ascends Mt. Misen. It has two sections: Kayatani Station to Shishiiwa Station. A round trip costs approximately ¥1,800. Views from the top are panoramic.

The Ropeway is generally accessible for those with mobility issues.

Mobility Needs & Accessibility Services

Miyajima Challenges

Miyajima has challenges due to its natural and historic layout, including many steps.
Many temples, like Daisho-in, and paths on Mt. Misen involve numerous steps and uneven terrain.
These areas may present difficulties for those with mobility issues.

Mainland Efforts

Efforts are made on main routes and within newer public transport on the mainland.
Newer Hiroshima streetcars are low-floor and wheelchair accessible.
The main path from the Miyajima ferry terminal to Itsukushima Shrine is mostly flat.

No-Go Areas for Pedestrians and Cyclists

In Japan generally, avoid walking or cycling on expressways.
The top of Mt. Misen on Miyajima is for hiking or Ropeway access, not cycling.
Some narrow, steep paths on Miyajima are unsuitable for bicycles.

Pedestrians should use sidewalks when available, especially in urban areas.
Motorcycle/scooter rentals are not practical for Miyajima.
Tuk-tuks or jeepneys are not available in Miyajima or Hiroshima.

Expert Tip:

For those seeking an unforgettable view, the Miyajima Ropeway offers panoramic vistas during ascent and descent.

Getting Around Miyajima - Public Transportation