5 Cheapest Ways To Get From Tokyo to Hiroshima

So, you’ve had the time to explore Tokyo and want to see more of the Land of the Rising Sun, specifically Hiroshima.

This mesmerising city in Japan is known for its attractions, where you can learn more about the country's rich history, including the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome.

Beyond the historical narrative, you can also expect a true gastronomic experience in Hiroshima when you try authentic delicacies such as okonomiyaki and oysters.

But, travelling in a different country can be overwhelming and a tad pricey. But don’t worry — we’ve got you covered!

The good news is, you have a lot of transport options. From trains to buses, embark on an extraordinary voyage with our ultimate guide to the cheapest way to travel from Tokyo to Hiroshima and back!

Whether you’ve been to Japan or not, chances are you’ve probably heard about the legendary Shinkansen or the bullet train, famously known for its lightning speed of 240 to 340 kilometres per hour.

So, the Tokyo to Hiroshima bullet train is undoubtedly the most convenient and fastest way to get to your destination. From Tokyo Station, you'll arrive at Hiroshima Station within four hours. This gives you a lot of time to see destinations and various shrines and temples in the city, such as the Itsukushima Shrine and Mitaki-Dera Temple.

If you don't have a JR Pass, you can still book your Tokyo to Hiroshima bullet train tickets in advance.

If you want to learn more about the pass, you can read our JR Pass guide.

You can travel from Hiroshima to Tokyo and or vice-versa on a budget, especially if you choose to take the local trains. That being said, pack up some snacks and drinks, and ready your trusty travel pillow because you'll have a long train ride ahead.

Travelling from Tokyo to Hiroshima isn’t a quick hop; it’s a scenic ride that can take up to 15 hours. Plus, you might have to change trains five to six times, depending on your route and last stop in Hiroshima.

Sure, it’s not as fast as a bullet train, but here’s the silver lining: your wallet will thank you because train tickets are considerably cheaper than bullet train tickets! So, get ready and get comfy as you explore the breathtaking scenery between Hiroshima to Tokyo.

If you’re not familiar with the trains in Japan, read our guide here.

For budget travellers, hopping aboard a highway bus is a great alternative. Not only is it considerably cheap, but taking the bus also grants you the luxury of catching up on some much-needed rest during your trip from Tokyo to Hiroshima, as well as from Hiroshima to Tokyo.

Although, as expected, travel time between the cities is 13 hours by bus, considering the distance between them.

But, if you’re one to embrace unique experiences and don’t mind sharing the ride with fellow adventurers and passengers, then the highway bus is worth considering. Plus, this option promises picturesque and breathtaking views that will make all those hours on the road worth it!

If you don’t have the luxury of time and want to explore Hiroshima as soon as possible, the best option for you is to book a flight. Now, you might think that the plane tickets would cost a fortune. The good news is that affordable flights do exist!

Numerous airlines operate daily departures to Hiroshima Airport, including Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways or ANA. All you have to do is be diligent in checking different resources online and booking tickets in advance to get the best deals.

And here’s the clincher—you can get to Hiroshima Airport in under 2 hours when you travel by plane, whether you’re departing from Haneda Airport or Narita International Airport!

Another option is travelling from Tokyo to Hiroshima via car, a particularly appealing choice if you're with a group. Not only is this option the most convenient since you'll have control of your time and schedule, but it’s also the perfect way to explore numerous attractions en route!

Just consider that the cost to travel via car can vary depending on the type of vehicle you'll rent, as well as gasoline and toll expenses. But the experience is worth it!

And here’s a bonus, you can head back to Tokyo from Hiroshima without any hassle if you still choose to travel via car.

For this option, anticipate a drive of about 10 hours. But, despite the travel time and distance, you'll definitely have a memorable experience seeing Japan’s scenic landscapes.

Oh, and renting a car in Japan is now made easier, especially if you book yours via Klook.

Now that you know the cheapest transportation options from Tokyo to Hiroshima (and Hiroshima to Tokyo), you can embark on an exciting adventure!