Hiroshima, known for its historical significance, Peace Memorial Park, and beautiful Miyajima Island, is a popular city on Japan’s Honshu Island. Located 280 km (174 miles) east of Fukuoka, Hiroshima is accessible by Shinkansen (bullet train), bus, private car, or ferry. This guide covers all available travel 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 Fukuoka to Hiroshima:
- By Shinkansen (Bullet Train): The fastest and most convenient option.
- By Bus: The cheapest but longer alternative.
- By Private Car or Taxi: The most flexible but expensive choice.
- By Ferry: A scenic but less direct route.
Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Fukuoka to Hiroshima.
Timetable
| Train Fukuoka - Hiroshima ¥ 6,464–13,978 1h 2m – 1h 41m | |
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| Flight Fukuoka - Hiroshima ¥ 6,357–76,688 3h 39m – 1d 4h 34m | |
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By Shinkansen (Bullet Train): The Fastest and Most Convenient Option
Taking a Shinkansen (bullet train) from Fukuoka to Hiroshima is the fastest and most convenient way to travel, with multiple departures throughout the day.
Key Details:
- Departure Station: Hakata Station (Fukuoka).
- Arrival Station: Hiroshima Station.
- Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on train type.
- Price: 9,000–11,000 JPY (~$60–$80 USD), depending on class and train type.
- Train Types:
- Nozomi (Fastest, least stops, not covered by JR Pass).
- Sakura (Slightly slower, more stops, covered by JR Pass).
- Hikari (Covered by JR Pass but less frequent).
- Seating Options:
- Reserved Seat (Guaranteed seat, more comfortable).
- Unreserved Seat (Cheaper, first-come, first-served).
- Green Car (First class, spacious seating).
- JR Pass Valid: Yes, on Sakura and Hikari, but not on Nozomi.
- Departure Frequency: Every 15–30 minutes from morning to evening.
Recommended Routes:
- Fastest Option:
- Nozomi Shinkansen: ~1 hour,
11,000 JPY ($80 USD).
- Nozomi Shinkansen: ~1 hour,
- Best Option for JR Pass Holders:
- Sakura Shinkansen:
1.5 hours, 9,000 JPY ($60 USD) or free with JR Pass.
- Sakura Shinkansen:
Pros:
- Fastest travel time (~1 hour on Nozomi).
- Comfortable seating with A/C and spacious legroom.
- Multiple departures throughout the day.
- No traffic delays.
Cons:
- No JR Pass coverage for Nozomi.
- Unreserved seats can be crowded during peak times.
- Higher price compared to buses.
Booking Tip:
For fastest travel, take the Nozomi Shinkansen. For JR Pass holders, choose the Sakura Shinkansen. Use our online search form to check train schedules and secure your ticket.
By Bus: The Cheapest but Longer Alternative
For budget-conscious travelers, taking a direct bus from Fukuoka to Hiroshima is the cheapest way to travel, though it takes longer than the Shinkansen.
Key Details:
- Departure Points:
- Hakata Bus Terminal (Next to Hakata Station).
- Arrival Points in Hiroshima:
- Hiroshima Bus Center (City Center).
- Duration: 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and rest stops.
- Price: 3,000–5,000 JPY (~$20–$35 USD).
- Bus Operators:
- Hiroden Express Bus (Comfortable and reliable).
- Willer Express (Budget option, online booking available).
- Bus Types:
- Express Bus (A/C, reclining seats, basic amenities).
- Departure Frequency: Every 1–2 hours from morning to evening.
Pros:
- Cheaper than Shinkansen (~3,000 JPY for budget buses).
- Direct travel without transfers.
- Multiple departures throughout the day.
Cons:
- Takes significantly longer than Shinkansen (~4+ hours).
- Subject to traffic delays, especially on weekends.
- Limited luggage space.
Booking Tip:
For better comfort, choose an Express Bus with reclining seats. Use our online search form to check bus schedules and book your ticket.
By Private Car or Taxi: The Most Flexible but Expensive Choice
For travelers who prefer privacy, comfort, and flexibility, hiring a private car or taxi from Fukuoka to Hiroshima is an option, especially for families and groups.
Key Details:
- Route: Fukuoka → Hiroshima via Sanyo Expressway.
- Distance: 280 km (174 miles).
- Duration: 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic.
- Toll Fees:
5,000 JPY ($35 USD). - Gasoline Cost:
4,000 JPY ($30 USD). - Car Rental Price: 15,000–30,000 JPY per day (~$100–$200 USD).
- Rental Car Companies:
- Toyota Rent-a-Car.
- Nippon Rent-a-Car.
- Times Car Rental.
Pros:
- Most flexible option—stop at attractions along the way.
- Comfortable for families and groups.
- Direct travel to your hotel in Hiroshima.
Cons:
- More expensive than trains and buses.
- Traffic delays are possible, especially near Hiroshima.
- High parking fees in Hiroshima.
Booking Tip:
For ease of navigation, rent a car with GPS or use Google Maps. Use our online search form to compare rental car prices.
By Ferry: A Scenic but Less Direct Route
For adventurous travelers, taking a ferry from Fukuoka to Hiroshima is a scenic and unique option, but it requires a transfer in Matsuyama (Shikoku Island).
Key Details:
- Route: Fukuoka → Matsuyama (Ferry) → Hiroshima (Ferry or Train).
- Duration: 5 to 6 hours, including transfers.
- Price: 7,000–10,000 JPY (~$50–$70 USD).
- Ferry Operators:
- Queen Beetle (High-speed ferry from Fukuoka to Matsuyama).
- Ishizaki Kisen (Ferry from Matsuyama to Hiroshima).
Pros:
- Scenic coastal views.
- Unique travel experience by sea.
Cons:
- Takes longer than Shinkansen (~5+ hours).
- Requires a transfer in Matsuyama.
