Can't decide whether you want to hop on the high-speed Shinkansen or take the scenic route with a regular train? Or maybe you're thinking of catching a flight to get there quickly or taking your sweet time with the highway bus or car?
Whatever your preference, with Klook as your travel buddy, your Tokyo to Hiroshima adventure will be unforgettable!
So here's the lowdown of the fastest ways to travel from Tokyo to Hiroshima
- Bullet train
- Local train
- Highway Bus
- Car
- Plane
1. Bullet train
Prepare for an extraordinary adventure aboard the iconic bullet train as you journey from Tokyo to Hiroshima station with unmatched speed, convenience, and comfort!
The Shinkansen has daily departures from 6:00 to 22:00 on weekdays and 6:00 to 20:00 on the weekends. On Weekdays, the Tokyo train services have earned their reputation for impeccable punctuality, dismissing any concerns about timing clashes.
For the fastest way, hop on the Nozomi train, which covers the distance from Tokyo Station to Hiroshima in around 4 hours. Alternatively, the Hikari service, taking approximately 5 hours, still allows you to traverse a significant expanse in remarkably little time.
If it's your first time hopping on a shinkansen, don't worry. It's not like your typical train ride. It offers a tonne of comfortable seats for you to choose from, with enough legroom, a foldable table, and sometimes, a charging station as well.
If you want to travel outside the Tokyo-to-Hiroshima route, check out the Japan Rail or JR Pass—a key to unlock unlimited rides on Shinkansens.
2. Local train
If you don't want to break the bank, hopping on the regular trains is another fast option to consider.
Riding a regular train from Tokyo to Hiroshima offers a blend of affordability, scenic beauty, local exploration opportunities, and a more relaxed travel experience. This makes it a great option for travellers who are looking for a different pace and perspective during their journey across Japan.
3. Highway bus
When travelling from Tokyo to Hiroshima on a budget, the night bus is the cheapest way to guarantee your travel expenses remain in check.
While the Shinkansen's efficiency is unparalleled, the night bus offers a unique perspective on for your journey to Hiroshima.
Sure, planes may whisk you away, but the night bus guarantees you won't miss out on the breathtaking landscapes that connect Tokyo and Hiroshima. As the miles slip away, you can also unwind, relax, and let the journey unfold before you, all while soaking in the enchanting charm of the nighttime landscape.
Anticipate a travel time of approximately 10 to 12 hours on the night bus. While it might not be the fastest option, it gives you a unique advantage: the chance to catch up on much-needed rest en route. Secure your seat in advance to ensure you don't miss out on this midnight escapade!
For the adventurous souls seeking an alternate route, consider journeying via Iwakuni. This alternative path transforms your travel into an exploration, giving you scenic views, all while being a relatively cheap transport option.
4. By car
Chart your course on the open road toward Hiroshima, where adventure beckons at your pace and offbeat wonders await discovery.
Behind the wheel, you call the shots on your Tokyo-Hiroshima journey, spanning 8 to 10 hours, adapting to road conditions. Unlike night buses, driving gives you the freedom to dictate the time, pace, and stops you make.
5. By plane
Going to Hiroshima from Tokyo stands as one of the fastest ways to get to where you need to be.
You're spoiled for choice with renowned carriers like Japan Airlines, Nippon Airways, and Spring Airlines Japan. Whether you opt for the luxury of first-class or the minimalism of coach, you can sit back and relax on your flight.
The journey by air typically spans around 1.5 to 2 hours, making it the fastest mode of transportation. But, remember that the flight duration isn't the sole consideration—factor in time for check-in, security procedures, and any potential waiting periods.
So what's the best way to travel from Tokyo to Hiroshima?
Every mode of travel—the efficient Shinkansen, the local trains, the breathtaking plane ride, the contemplative night bus, and the freedom of driving—offers a unique flavour to your adventure.
When you're trying to decide, think about how long you want to travel and how comfy you want to be. Are speed, landscapes, freedom, or the journey itself your focus? Your adventure is yours to shape.
Written by: Jolina Raton