Hiroshima, a city known for its Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Dome, and Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, is a must-visit destination in western Japan. Located 330 km (205 miles) west of Osaka, Hiroshima is easily accessible by train, bus, flight, or car. This guide covers all transportation options, including travel times, costs, and tips for convenience. Don’t forget, you can easily book your tickets through our online search form at the top of the page.
Overview of Travel Options
Here are the main ways to get from Osaka to Hiroshima:
- By Shinkansen (Bullet Train): The fastest and most convenient option.
- By Highway Bus: The most budget-friendly choice.
- By Domestic Flight: A possible but less practical option.
- By Car or Rental Vehicle: A scenic road trip alternative.
Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Osaka to Hiroshima.
Timetable
By Shinkansen (Bullet Train): The Fastest and Most Convenient Option
The Sanyo Shinkansen is the fastest and most efficient way to travel from Osaka to Hiroshima. Departing from Shin-Osaka Station, the bullet train reaches Hiroshima Station in as little as 1 hour 30 minutes.
Key Details:
- Departure Point: Shin-Osaka Station
- Arrival Point: Hiroshima Station
- Duration: 1 hour 25 minutes (Nozomi) / 1 hour 35 minutes (Sakura) / 2 hours (Hikari and Kodama)
- Price: 10,770–15,500 JPY (~$75–$110 USD), depending on train type and seat class
- Shinkansen Services:
- Nozomi (Fastest, 1h 25m; not covered by the JR Pass).
- Sakura (1h 35m, fully covered by the JR Pass).
- Hikari/Kodama (2h, slower with more stops, covered by the JR Pass).
- JR Pass Coverage: The Sakura, Hikari, and Kodama trains are fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass), but Nozomi requires an additional fee.
Pros:
- Fastest and most comfortable option.
- Frequent departures every 10–15 minutes.
- Spacious seating, free Wi-Fi, and luggage storage available.
Cons:
- More expensive than buses.
- Nozomi trains are not covered by the JR Pass.
Booking Tip:
Shinkansen tickets can be purchased at Shin-Osaka Station, online, or via vending machines. Use our online search form to check schedules and book your tickets in advance.
By Highway Bus: The Most Budget-Friendly Choice
For budget-conscious travelers, taking a long-distance highway bus from Osaka to Hiroshima is the cheapest option. Buses depart from Osaka Station, Namba, and Umeda, arriving at Hiroshima Bus Center or Hiroshima Station.
Key Details:
- Departure Points: Osaka Station, Namba OCAT, or Umeda.
- Arrival Points: Hiroshima Station or Hiroshima Bus Center.
- Duration: 5 to 6.5 hours, depending on traffic.
- Price: 3,500–6,500 JPY (~$25–$45 USD), depending on the bus class.
- Bus Operators:
- Willer Express (budget-friendly).
- Hiroshima Bus Lines (comfortable seating).
- JR Chugoku Bus (reliable with extra legroom options).
Pros:
- Cheapest way to travel between Osaka and Hiroshima.
- Overnight buses available, saving on accommodation costs.
- Premium sleeper buses offer reclining seats.
Cons:
- Long travel time (5+ hours).
- Traffic delays can increase the journey duration.
- Fewer departures compared to the Shinkansen.
Booking Tip:
For the best prices, book your bus ticket early. Use our online search form to compare schedules and book your seat.
By Domestic Flight: A Possible but Less Practical Option
While flying from Osaka to Hiroshima is possible, it is not a practical option since the Shinkansen is faster and more convenient. However, flights may be useful if connecting to other destinations.
Key Details:
- Departure Airports: Kansai International Airport (KIX) or Itami Airport (ITM).
- Arrival Airport: Hiroshima Airport (HIJ).
- Duration: 1 hour (flight) + airport transfers (~1.5 hours).
- Price: 8,000–18,000 JPY (~$55–$120 USD), depending on the airline.
- Airlines:
- ANA (full-service, includes baggage).
- JAL (full-service, reliable).
Pros:
- Useful if connecting to another flight from Hiroshima.
- Can be cheaper than the Shinkansen if booked early.
Cons:
- Airport transfers add extra travel time (~1.5 hours from Hiroshima Airport to city center).
- Limited flight options per day.
Booking Tip:
If flying, consider flights from Itami Airport (closer than Kansai). Use our online search form to compare prices and secure your tickets.
By Car or Rental Vehicle: A Scenic Road Trip Alternative
Driving from Osaka to Hiroshima can be an interesting road trip experience, especially if stopping at Himeji Castle and other attractions along the way.
Key Details:
- Distance: 330 km (205 miles).
- Toll Costs:
10,000 JPY ($70 USD). - Rental Car Price: 7,000–15,000 JPY per day (~$50–$100 USD).
- Drive Time: 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic.
Pros:
- Flexibility to stop at scenic spots along the way.
- Suitable for groups or families traveling together.
Cons:
- Expensive toll fees and fuel costs.
- Traffic congestion in urban areas.
Booking Tip:
Use our online search form to book a rental car in advance.
Final Tips for Traveling from Osaka to Hiroshima
- Best Option for Speed: Shinkansen (1h 25m–2h).
- Best Option for Budget: Bus (3,500–6,500 JPY, 5+ hours).
- Best Option for Scenic Travel: Car rental with stops at Himeji Castle.
- Book Early: Prices fluctuate based on demand—secure your tickets early!
