Hiroshima To Kyoto Travel Guide

Connecting Two Japanese Jewels: Why Travel from Hiroshima to Kyoto?

The journey from Hiroshima to Kyoto isn’t just about moving from one point to another on a map; it’s a transition through the very soul of Japan. Hiroshima, a city that rose resiliently from unimaginable tragedy, now stands as a powerful symbol of peace, its Peace Memorial Park and Museum offering a deeply moving experience. Yet, beyond its solemn history, Hiroshima thrives with delicious local cuisine like okonomiyaki and the charm of Miyajima Island with its iconic “floating” torii gate.

Kyoto, on the other hand, transports you to an Japan of old. With over a thousand temples and shrines, traditional wooden machiya houses, geisha gracefully walking through Gion, and stunning seasonal landscapes, it’s a city where ancient traditions are meticulously preserved. Experiencing both Hiroshima and Kyoto offers an unparalleled perspective on Japan’s past, present, and enduring culture.

Fortunately, connecting these two essential Japanese destinations is remarkably efficient, largely thanks to Japan’s world-renowned transportation network. Our Hiroshima to Kyoto travel guide will walk you through every option, ensuring you choose the best way to continue your incredible journey.

The King of Convenience: Traveling from Hiroshima to Kyoto by Shinkansen

When it comes to covering the distance between Hiroshima and Kyoto, the Shinkansen (bullet train) is, without a doubt, the premier choice for most travelers. It embodies Japan’s commitment to efficiency, punctuality, and comfort, transforming a potentially long journey into a swift, scenic, and remarkably stress-free experience.

Understanding the Shinkansen Lines: Nozomi, Hikari, and Kodama

There are primarily three types of Shinkansen services that operate on the Sanyo and Tokaido lines, each with different stopping patterns and implications for those using a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass):

• Nozomi (のぞみ): This is the fastest and most frequent service, making very few stops between major cities. A trip on the Nozomi from Hiroshima to Kyoto typically takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes. Important: The Nozomi Shinkansen is NOT covered by the standard Japan Rail Pass. If you’re a JR Pass holder and opt for the Nozomi, you’ll need to pay the full fare for that specific journey. However, a special Nozomi/Mizuho supplement for JR Pass holders became available in October 2023, allowing use with an additional fee.
• Hikari (ひかり): The Hikari is the second-fastest service, making a few more stops than the Nozomi. It is fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass. A journey from Hiroshima to Kyoto on a Hikari train will take approximately 2 hours and 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the specific train and its stops.
• Kodama (こだま): This is the slowest Shinkansen service, stopping at every station along the route. While also covered by the JR Pass, it’s generally not recommended for long-distance travel like Hiroshima to Kyoto due to its significantly longer journey time (often 4+ hours). It’s more suitable for shorter hops or if you specifically want to explore smaller towns along the way.

For most travelers, the choice will be between the Nozomi (for speed, if not using a JR Pass or willing to pay the supplement) or the Hikari (for JR Pass holders prioritizing coverage). The time difference is minimal enough that JR Pass holders won’t feel significantly disadvantaged by taking the Hikari.

Journey Duration and Frequency

Regardless of whether you choose a Nozomi or Hikari, Shinkansen services between Hiroshima and Kyoto are incredibly frequent, running every 10-30 minutes during peak hours. This means you have great flexibility in planning your departure time without long waits.

• Nozomi: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes
• Hikari: Approximately 2 hours 10 minutes to 2 hours 20 minutes

The journey itself is smooth and allows you to relax, enjoy the passing scenery (keep an eye out for Mount Fuji on clear days as you approach Kyoto from the west, though it’s more visible on the Tokyo side of Kyoto), or catch up on planning your Kyoto adventures.

Seating Options: Ordinary vs. Green Car

When booking your Shinkansen ticket, you’ll generally have two main seating options:

• Ordinary Car (普通車 – Futsū-sha): This is the standard class of travel. Seats are comfortable, often in a 2×3 configuration (two seats on one side of the aisle, three on the other). Even ordinary seats offer ample legroom and reclining capabilities.
• Green Car (グリーン車 – Gurīn-sha): Equivalent to first class. Green Car seats are more spacious, often in a 2×2 configuration, providing more personal space and wider seats. You’ll also typically find more amenities, such as power outlets at every seat and sometimes complimentary snacks or drinks. Green Car tickets are more expensive than Ordinary Car tickets, but for those seeking extra comfort, it can be a worthwhile upgrade.

Both Ordinary and Green Cars offer the option of reserved (指定席 – Shitei-seki) or non-reserved (自由席 – Jiyū-seki) seats. For popular routes like Hiroshima to Kyoto, especially during peak travel times or holidays, reserving a seat is highly recommended to guarantee your spot and sit together if you’re traveling as a group. Non-reserved cars can fill up quickly, sometimes requiring passengers to stand or wait for the next train.

Your Ticket to Ride: Booking Shinkansen Tickets from Hiroshima to Kyoto

Understanding how to purchase your Shinkansen ticket is crucial for a stress-free journey. Your options primarily depend on whether you plan to use a Japan Rail Pass or purchase individual tickets.

The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass): Is it Worth It for Your Trip?

The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is a special ticket available only to foreign tourists, offering unlimited travel on most JR trains, including many Shinkansen lines, for a set period (7, 14, or 21 consecutive days). For a Hiroshima to Kyoto travel guide, the JR Pass is a significant consideration.

Pros:

• Cost Savings: If your itinerary includes multiple long-distance train journeys (e.g., Tokyo to Kyoto, Kyoto to Hiroshima, Hiroshima to Osaka, etc.) within the validity period, the JR Pass can offer substantial savings compared to buying individual tickets.
• Convenience: Once activated, you can simply show your pass at the ticket gates (or reserve seats at the ticket office) without needing to purchase individual tickets for each trip.

Cons:

• No Nozomi/Mizuho: The standard JR Pass does not cover the fastest Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen services. While a supplement is now available, it adds to the cost.
• Fixed Period: You must complete all your JR Pass eligible travel within the consecutive days of the pass’s validity.
• Initial Cost: The upfront cost of the JR Pass is significant, so you need to ensure your itinerary justifies it.

Calculation Example: A round trip from Tokyo to Kyoto and then to Hiroshima (and back to Tokyo) would almost certainly justify a 7-day JR Pass. However, if your only long-distance journey is Hiroshima to Kyoto, buying individual tickets might be cheaper, especially if you plan to take the Nozomi. Always use an online JR Pass calculator or map out your full itinerary to determine if it’s economical for you.

If you decide to use a JR Pass, you’ll first exchange your voucher for the actual pass upon arrival in Japan (at major airports or JR stations). Then, you can use your pass to reserve seats at any JR ticket office (Midori no Madoguchi) or sometimes at designated JR Pass ticket machines.

Purchasing Individual Tickets (Non-JR Pass Holders)

If the JR Pass doesn’t make financial sense for your itinerary, purchasing individual Shinkansen tickets is straightforward:

1. Online: You can purchase tickets in advance through official JR websites (e.g., Smart-EX or JR-WEST Online Ticket) or reputable third-party booking sites. This allows you to choose your seats and receive an e-ticket or a QR code to pick up physical tickets at the station. Booking online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons or if you want specific seats.
2. At the Station (Midori no Madoguchi – Ticket Office): Look for the “Midori no Madoguchi” (みどりの窓口), the green ticket office at any major JR station, including Hiroshima Station. English-speaking staff are often available, especially in larger stations. Simply tell them your destination (Kyoto), desired departure time, class of travel (Ordinary or Green), and whether you prefer reserved or non-reserved seats. They can also help you find the next available Hikari or Nozomi train.
3. At Ticket Machines: Many JR stations have user-friendly ticket machines with English language options. You can select your destination, train type, seat preference, and pay with cash or credit card. If you’re comfortable with technology, this can be a quick way to purchase tickets.

Key Information Needed for Purchase:

• Destination: Kyoto Station (or just “Kyoto”)
• Date of travel
• Desired departure time (or “next available train”)
• Number of passengers (adults/children)
• Seat preference: Reserved (Shitei-seki) or Non-reserved (Jiyū-seki), Ordinary or Green Car.

E-tickets and IC Cards

While IC cards (like Suica or ICOCA) are incredibly useful for local train and subway travel, they generally cannot be used for Shinkansen tickets themselves, though they can be used to pay for tickets at machines. However, new systems like Smart-EX allow you to link your IC card for easier Shinkansen boarding without a physical ticket, but you still need to purchase the Shinkansen fare via the app or website. For simplicity, most international travelers will deal with physical tickets or QR codes for their Shinkansen journeys.

Seamless Travel Day: From Hiroshima Station to Kyoto Station

With your tickets in hand, your travel day from Hiroshima to Kyoto will be a breeze, thanks to Japan’s efficient rail system and the excellent infrastructure at both stations.

Before You Board: At Hiroshima Station (Hiroshima-eki)

Hiroshima Station (広島駅) is a major hub and your starting point. It’s well-equipped with everything you might need:

• Arrive Early: Aim to arrive at the station at least 20-30 minutes before your train’s departure, especially if you need to pick up tickets, locate your platform, or grab some food.
• Locate Your Platform: Check the electronic display boards for your train number and platform (ホーム – hōmu). Shinkansen platforms are typically clearly marked.
• Luggage Lockers: If you have time before your train or want to explore a bit more of Hiroshima without your bags, coin lockers (コインロッカー – koin rokkā) are available in various sizes.
• Bento Boxes and Snacks: One of the quintessential Japanese travel experiences is enjoying an ekiben (駅弁), a delicious train station lunch box. Hiroshima Station offers a fantastic selection, including local specialties. Grab a drink, some snacks, and your ekiben before boarding for an authentic journey experience.

Once you pass through the Shinkansen ticket gates (inserting your ticket into the machine or tapping your linked IC card), head directly to your designated platform. Lines for boarding usually form neatly at marked positions corresponding to your car number.

The Shinkansen Experience: Onboard Comforts

The Shinkansen journey itself is a delight:

• Punctuality: Trains depart and arrive with incredible precision, often to the second.
• Comfort: Seats are spacious and comfortable, often with a tray table, cup holder, and reclining function.
• Quietness: Japanese trains are remarkably quiet, making it easy to relax, read, or work. Keep phone conversations to a minimum and in a hushed tone as a sign of cultural respect (omotenashi).
• Views: Enjoy the passing landscapes, from urban sprawl to rural fields, mountains, and sometimes glimpses of the coast.
• Amenities: Restrooms are clean and modern. Some trains have vending machines or a trolley service selling snacks and drinks. Most newer Shinkansen also offer power outlets (usually near the window seats) and Wi-Fi.

Arriving in Kyoto: Navigating Kyoto Station (Kyoto-eki)

Kyoto Station (京都駅) is an architectural marvel and a massive transportation hub, serving as the gateway to this ancient capital. It’s designed to handle a huge volume of travelers, so while it might seem daunting at first, it’s very efficient:

• Shinkansen Exit: Follow the signs for the Shinkansen exits. You’ll need your ticket to exit the gates.
• Connecting to Your Accommodation: Kyoto Station is the central point for onward travel within the city.
  • Subway: The Karasuma Subway Line runs directly through Kyoto Station.
  • Buses: Kyoto has an extensive and reliable bus network. The main bus terminal is located directly in front of Kyoto Station. Look for signs pointing to the “Bus Terminal” (バスターミナル).
  • Taxis: Taxi stands are readily available outside the station.
• Information: English-speaking staff are available at the Tourist Information Center within the station to assist with directions or accommodation inquiries.

Take a moment to admire Kyoto Station’s impressive modern design before heading out to explore the city’s ancient wonders!

Beyond Direct: Stopovers and Scenic Detours

One of the great advantages of traveling by Shinkansen is the opportunity to break up your journey with enriching stopovers. If you have a JR Pass, this is particularly economical as you can hop on and off trains relatively freely. Even with individual tickets, adding a stopover can be a delightful addition to your Hiroshima to Kyoto travel guide.

Himeji Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage Gem

Located roughly halfway between Hiroshima and Kyoto, Himeji Castle (姫路城 – Himeji-jō) is arguably Japan’s most magnificent and best-preserved feudal castle. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and a true architectural masterpiece, often referred to as the “White Heron Castle” due to its brilliant white exterior.

• How to Stop Over: Take an early Shinkansen from Hiroshima to Himeji Station (姫路駅). The castle is a pleasant 15-20 minute walk from the station. There are coin lockers at Himeji Station where you can store your luggage while you explore.
• Time Needed: Allow at least 3-4 hours to properly explore the castle grounds and interior. You can then catch another Shinkansen to Kyoto.
• JR Pass: Fully covered.

“Himeji Castle is an absolute must-see if you have the time for a stopover. Its grandeur and history are simply breathtaking, and it offers a wonderful contrast to the historical sites of both Hiroshima and Kyoto.”

Okayama and Korakuen Garden: Serenity in the City

Another excellent stopover option is Okayama (岡山), also accessible by Shinkansen. Okayama is home to Korakuen Garden (後楽園 – Kōrakuen), considered one of Japan’s “Three Great Gardens.” This expansive Edo-period strolling garden is meticulously maintained and offers stunning views, especially with Okayama Castle (岡山城 – Okayama-jō) as a backdrop.

• How to Stop Over: Take a Shinkansen from Hiroshima to Okayama Station (岡山駅). From the station, the garden and castle are about a 15-20 minute walk or a short tram/bus ride. Lockers are available at Okayama Station.
• Time Needed: Allow 2-3 hours for the garden and a quick view of the castle exterior.
• JR Pass: Fully covered.

Incorporating a stopover not only breaks up your journey but also allows you to discover more of Japan’s diverse cultural and historical landscapes, adding another layer of richness to your travel experience.

Alternative Travel Options: For the Adventurous (or Budget-Conscious)

While the Shinkansen is undoubtedly the most popular and efficient choice for Hiroshima to Kyoto travel, there are alternative methods, primarily for those on a tight budget or with an abundance of time.

Highway Buses (Kōsoku Bus): Slower but Cheaper

Long-distance highway buses (高速バス – kōsoku basu) connect Hiroshima and Kyoto. This option is significantly cheaper than the Shinkansen but takes considerably longer.

• Journey Duration: Typically 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
• Cost: Fares can range from ¥3,000 to ¥6,000, varying by company, time of day, and seat type.
• Overnight Buses (Yakan Bus): Some companies offer overnight (夜行バス – yakan basu) buses, which save on a night’s accommodation. These buses often have reclining seats and basic amenities, but they are not as comfortable as a Shinkansen.
• Booking: Tickets can be booked online through sites like Willer Express or Japan Bus Online, or at major bus terminals.
• Pros: Most economical option, can save on accommodation with overnight buses.
• Cons: Much longer journey, less comfortable, susceptible to traffic delays, often less luggage space.

This option is generally only recommended if budget is your absolute top priority and you’re not in a hurry.

Flights (Indirect): Generally Not Recommended

While Hiroshima has an airport (Hiroshima Airport – HIJ) and there’s Osaka’s Kansai International Airport (KIX) or Itami Airport (ITM) near Kyoto, there are no direct flights between Hiroshima and Kyoto. Flying would involve:

1. Traveling from Hiroshima city center to Hiroshima Airport (approx. 1 hour by bus).
2. Taking a flight to an Osaka airport (approx. 1 hour flight time).
3. Traveling from the Osaka airport to Kyoto city center (approx. 1-1.5 hours by train/bus).

When you factor in transit times to and from airports, check-in, security, and potential delays, flying almost always takes longer and is usually more expensive than the Shinkansen for this route. Therefore, for your Hiroshima to Kyoto travel guide, we strongly advise against flying.

Essential Tips for Your Hiroshima to Kyoto Journey

To ensure your travel day is as smooth as possible, here are some final essential tips:

• Pack Smart & Consider Luggage Forwarding: Shinkansen trains have overhead racks and small spaces behind the last row of seats for luggage. If you have oversized luggage, consider using a luggage forwarding service (宅急便 – Takuhaibin) like Yamato Transport (Kuroneko Yamato) or Sagawa Express. You can send your bags from your Hiroshima hotel to your Kyoto hotel (or vice-versa) for a reasonable fee, and they usually arrive the next day. This allows you to travel light on the Shinkansen.
• Stay Connected: Ensure you have a pocket Wi-Fi device or a local SIM card. This is invaluable for checking train schedules, navigating in new cities, and staying in touch.
• Learn Basic Japanese Phrases: While English is widely spoken at major stations and tourist areas, knowing a few basic phrases like Konnichiwa (hello), Arigato gozaimasu (thank you very much), and Sumimasen (excuse me/sorry) will go a long way in showing respect and making interactions smoother.
• Be Punctual: Japanese public transport operates with incredible precision. Aim to be at your platform a few minutes before departure. Trains will not wait.
• Keep Your Ticket Accessible: You’ll need your Shinkansen ticket to enter and exit the gates at both Hiroshima and Kyoto stations. Don’t lose it!
• Respect Train Etiquette: Keep noise levels down, refrain from loud phone calls, and avoid eating strong-smelling foods. Dispose of your trash properly in the designated bins.

By following this Hiroshima to Kyoto travel guide, you’re well on your way to seamlessly connecting two of Japan’s most captivating cities, ready to immerse yourself in their unique stories and beauty.