Top Day Trips from Hiroshima
Hiroshima's location on the Seto Inland Sea makes it an ideal base for exploring western Japan. The efficient rail network and ferry connections mean you can experience diverse destinations – ancient shrines, cycling paradises, and islands full of friendly wildlife – all within a few hours.
1. Miyajima Island (Itsukushima)
Travel time: 45 minutes (train + ferry) | Cost: ~¥600 round trip (free with JR Pass)
Miyajima consistently ranks as one of Japan's top three scenic views, and it's easy to understand why. The island's floating torii gate, part of the UNESCO-listed Itsukushima Shrine, appears to hover over the water during high tide – creating one of Japan's most photographed scenes.
Beyond the torii, Miyajima offers hiking trails to Mt. Misen (accessible by ropeway), friendly deer roaming the streets, and a charming shopping arcade selling local specialties like momiji manju (maple leaf-shaped cakes) and grilled oysters.
How to Get There
- Take JR Sanyo Line from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi (25 min)
- Walk to JR ferry terminal (3 min)
- Take ferry to Miyajima (10 min, free with JR Pass)
💡 Miyajima Pro Tips
- High tide timing: Check tide tables – the torii gate is most photogenic 2 hours before and after high tide
- Stay until sunset: Day-trippers leave by 5 PM; the evening atmosphere is magical
- Oyster season: October through March is peak oyster season
2. Onomichi & Shimanami Kaido
Travel time: 90 minutes by train | Cost: ~¥1,500 one-way
Onomichi is a nostalgic hillside town known for its temple walks and as the starting point for the famous Shimanami Kaido – a 70km cycling route connecting Honshu to Shikoku across six islands via spectacular bridges.
Even if you're not cycling the full route, Onomichi itself rewards exploration. The Temple Walk (Tera-meguri) leads you through 25 temples on the hillside, offering panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea. The town has a quiet, artistic atmosphere with cat-themed attractions and excellent ramen.
For Cyclists
- Rental bikes: Available at Onomichi Station from ¥1,100/day
- Full crossing: Allow 6-8 hours for the complete 70km route
- One-way option: Drop bike on Shikoku side, return by bus (recommended)
3. Okunoshima (Rabbit Island)
Travel time: 2 hours (train + ferry) | Cost: ~¥3,000 round trip
Known as "Rabbit Island," Okunoshima is home to hundreds of friendly wild rabbits that hop right up to visitors hoping for treats. The island also has a darker history – it was the site of a secret poison gas factory during WWII, now preserved as a museum.
The contrast between the cute rabbits and sobering history creates a unique experience. Plan 3-4 hours on the island to feed rabbits (bring rabbit-safe vegetables or buy pellets at the ferry terminal) and explore the ruins.
How to Get There
- JR Sanyo Line to Mihara, then JR Kure Line to Tadanoumi Station
- Ferry from Tadanoumi to Okunoshima (15 min, ~¥310)
Rabbit Island Advice
Hiroshima Tours Editor
Visit on weekdays if possible – the rabbits get overwhelmed with attention on weekends and may not approach you. Bring your own vegetables (cabbage, carrots work well) as the island's rabbit food sells out quickly. Don't chase or pick up the rabbits – let them come to you.
4. Iwakuni
Travel time: 50 minutes by JR | Cost: ~¥760 one-way
Iwakuni is famous for the Kintai Bridge (錦帯橋), a stunning wooden arch bridge originally built in 1673. The five arches spanning the Nishiki River create one of Japan's most distinctive bridge structures. Beyond the bridge, a ropeway leads to Iwakuni Castle on the hilltop.
This makes an excellent half-day trip, easily combined with other activities. The area around the bridge features samurai residences, gardens, and local specialty foods including "Iwakuni sushi" – pressed sushi in a distinctive style.
Admission Fees
- Kintai Bridge crossing: ¥310
- Bridge + Ropeway + Castle combo: ¥970
5. Kurashiki
Travel time: 45 minutes by Shinkansen | Cost: ~¥3,600 one-way
The Bikan Historical Area of Kurashiki features beautifully preserved Edo-period warehouses along a picturesque canal. White-walled storehouses, weeping willows, and romantic boat rides create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the region.
The Ohara Museum of Art, housing an impressive Western art collection, is a highlight. Kurashiki is also famous for denim – the nearby Kojima area is Japan's denim capital.
6. Takehara (Little Kyoto)
Travel time: 90 minutes by train | Cost: ~¥1,300 one-way
Nicknamed "Little Kyoto of Aki," Takehara preserves an atmospheric historic district with wooden merchant houses and sake breweries dating to the Edo period. It's less touristy than Kurashiki, offering a more authentic glimpse of old Japan.
The town is also a gateway to Okunoshima (Rabbit Island) – combining both in one day trip is possible.
Day Trip Comparison
| Destination | Travel Time | Best For | JR Pass |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miyajima | 45 min | Everyone (essential!) | ✓ |
| Onomichi | 90 min | Cyclists, temple lovers | ✓ |
| Rabbit Island | 2 hrs | Animal lovers, unique experiences | Partial |
| Iwakuni | 50 min | History, photography | ✓ |
| Kurashiki | 45 min | Art, architecture | ✓ |
| Takehara | 90 min | Off-beaten-path, sake | ✓ |