Hiroshima to Miyajima Travel Guide: JR, Ferry & Ropeway Tips for Foreign Tourists

Today, I watched a very informative video by jacobjonesMONEY about exploring Miyajima in Hiroshima.

Here are some tips for foreign visitors:

How to Get to Miyajima from Hiroshima

If you are visiting Miyajima Island from Hiroshima, there are several options:

  • From Hiroshima Station, the JR train to Miyajima-guchi Station takes about 30 minutes.

  • The Hiroshima Electric Railway (Hiroden) takes around 75 minutes.

For travelers who want to save time, the JR train is the faster option, as demonstrated in jacobjonesMONEY’s video.


Exploring Miyajima

Walking around Miyajima can take a whole day if you plan to visit attractions such as Itsukushima Shrine, Daisho-in Temple, and the scenic viewpoints. Proper planning is essential to enjoy the island efficiently.


Ropeway (Cable Car) & Shuttle Bus

When Jacob visited, the ropeway was closed.
Currently, the ropeway sometimes operates without reservation, but on certain days advance reservation is required.
Operating hours are 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with the last descent at 4:30 PM.
Many tourists might not know this, so it’s important to check the schedule ahead of time.

There is also a free shuttle bus for the ropeway, but if you miss it, you will have to wait for the next bus, which runs approximately every 20 minutes.

宮島ロープウエー
宮島ロープウエーの公式サイトです。世界遺産・日本三景のひとつ宮島で、空と海が溶け合う絶景の空中散歩をお楽しみください。

Direct Ferry from Peace Park

There is a direct ferry from Hiroshima Peace Park to Miyajima, costing around 2,500 yen.
This scenic route is convenient and a good alternative to trains, offering beautiful views along the way.

ひろしま世界遺産航路 - 株式会社アクアネット広島

Summary

Miyajima is a must-see destination in Japan. Whether you take the JR train, Hiroden, ropeway, or direct ferry, planning ahead ensures a smooth and enjoyable visit. Watching jacobjonesMONEY’s video provides practical tips for foreign tourists to make the most of their day on the island.