Shinkansen or bullet train

Travel Time: About 4 hours (Nozomi) / Around 4.5 hours (Hikari + Sakura combination)
Cost: From around 18,380 yen (one-way)
The journey between Tokyo and Hiroshima is served by the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen lines, making it straightforward to travel between these two major cities. The Nozomi is the fastest service, getting you there in about 4 hours. However, if you’re using a Japan Rail Pass, you’ll need to take Hikari and Sakura trains, which add only about 30 minutes more to the journey.

While aboard, enjoy comfortable seating, power outlets (on most trains), and large windows that let you watch Japan’s landscape transition from bustling urban centers to quieter countryside. Hiroshima Station is centrally located, giving you easy access to famous attractions like the Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima Island.

With your Japan Rail Pass

Travel Time: About 4.5 hours via Hikari and Sakura trains
Cost: Covered by your Japan Rail Pass
Your JR Pass covers the journey on the Hikari and Sakura services. Although you can’t use the Nozomi trains, the time difference is minimal. Reserve your seats in advance at JR ticket counters to guarantee a comfortable spot—especially important during busy travel seasons. The pass makes this a cost-effective option for covering a substantial distance.

Shinkansen/Bullet Train Information:

Green Class:
Green Cars provide an upgraded experience with more spacious seats, extra legroom, a quieter environment, and generally fewer passengers. If you’re traveling for several hours, this can be a worthwhile investment for added comfort, particularly if you plan to relax or get some work done en route.

Ordinary Class:
Ordinary Cars are a perfectly comfortable choice, offering reliable seating, overhead storage, and power outlets on most newer trains. Non-reserved seating is also available, which can be flexible if you’re traveling outside peak periods. For a smooth journey, consider reserving seats in advance to avoid the rush, especially if traveling during popular travel seasons.

Luggage:
Oversized luggage reservations (for bags 160-250cm in total dimensions) are required and are included with your JR Pass. Smaller bags fit in overhead racks. If you have multiple or heavy suitcases, consider using a luggage forwarding service for a hassle-free trip.

Local train

Travel Time: 14+ hours
Cost: From 10,000 to 15,000 yen+
Traveling from Tokyo to Hiroshima using only local trains is possible but highly impractical. You’ll face numerous transfers, limited express segments, and a journey that can easily surpass half a day. This is an option for dedicated railway enthusiasts who value the journey over the destination, but for most travelers, the time commitment and complexity are not worthwhile.

Highway bus

Travel Time: About 12 to 14 hours (often overnight)
Cost: From around 6,000 yen
Highway buses connect Tokyo and Hiroshima, with many services departing in the evening and arriving the following morning. This can be a budget-friendly choice if you don’t mind sacrificing comfort and a bit of sleep. Overnight buses come in various seating arrangements, some offering more legroom and onboard amenities. If you want to save money and combine transportation with accommodation for the night, a highway bus could be a suitable option.

Japan Bus Pass:
If you’re considering multiple long-distance bus trips, check whether the Japan Bus Pass by Willer Express or similar offers could help you save on transportation costs. Just be aware that these journeys are lengthy.

Airplane

Travel Time: Around 3.5 to 4 hours total (1.5-hour flight + ground transfers)
Cost: Usually between 10,000 and 25,000 yen
Flying from Tokyo to Hiroshima takes about 1.5 hours, with frequent flights operated by major and budget carriers. After landing at Hiroshima Airport, it’s about a 50-minute bus ride to central Hiroshima. While the flight itself is quick, airport transfers and security checks mean you won’t save as much time as you might think compared to the Shinkansen. However, if you find a great airfare deal or prefer traveling by air, this remains a viable option.

Car

Travel Time: Approximately 10 hours
Cost: Fuel, tolls, and rental fees can be substantial
Driving from Tokyo to Hiroshima gives you the freedom to explore Japan’s countryside and smaller towns along the way. However, toll fees on highways, the cost of fuel, and rental car expenses add up quickly. With a driving time of around 10 hours, it’s a commitment best suited for road-trip enthusiasts or those looking to venture far off the beaten path.

So what is the best way to get from Tokyo to Hiroshima?

For most travelers, the Shinkansen is the standout choice—quick, comfortable, and extremely convenient. With a JR Pass, the cost is fully covered, offering excellent value. If you’re short on time and prefer a city-center-to-city-center journey without the hassles of airport transfers, the bullet train is unbeatable. Those on a tighter budget might consider an overnight bus, while travelers who value speed above all else might opt for a flight. Ultimately, the Shinkansen offers the best all-around experience for traveling from Tokyo to Hiroshima.