From Hiroshima: Hiroshima and Miyajima Island 1-Day Bus Tour

Exploring the rich history and natural wonders of Hiroshima and Miyajima Island can be an unforgettable experience for international visitors. This comprehensive 1-day bus tour offers an immersive journey through the city’s poignant past, from the sobering Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park to the iconic floating torii gate of the UNESCO-listed Itsukushima Shrine. With an expertly curated itinerary, travelers can explore the local culture, savor authentic Hiroshima-style cuisine, and witness the breathtaking scenery of the island. Whether you’re a history buff or a nature enthusiast, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression as you uncover the enduring resilience and beauty of this remarkable region.

Key Points

• This 1-day bus tour from Hiroshima visits the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the scenic Miyajima Island within an 8-hour timeframe.
• The tour includes transportation, entry fees, an authentic Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki lunch, and a return ferry to Miyajima Island.
• Highlights include exploring the A-Bomb Dome, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, and the UNESCO-listed Itsukushima Shinto Shrine on Miyajima Island.
• The tour is designed for international visitors and not open to Japanese nationals, with a shared group format.
• Advance booking is recommended as the tour is likely to sell out, and punctuality is key for the 10:00 AM departure.

Tour Overview

This 1-day bus tour from Hiroshima takes visitors to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the picturesque Miyajima Island, allowing them to explore the city’s rich history and natural beauty within an 8-hour timeframe.

The tour is likely to sell out, so early booking is recommended.

Highlights include a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, a lunch of authentic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, and sightseeing at the iconic Itsukushima Shinto Shrine on Miyajima Island.

The tour includes transportation, entry fees, and a return ferry ticket to Miyajima.

While not suitable for Japanese nationals, the shared tour format makes it an accessible and efficient way for foreign visitors to experience these must-see Hiroshima attractions.

Itinerary Highlights

In an article titled ‘From Hiroshima: Hiroshima and Miyajima Island 1-Day Bus Tour’, the Itinerary Highlights are as follows:

The tour begins with a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the iconic A-Bomb Dome, allowing participants to spend 30 minutes exploring this poignant historical site.

Visitors then proceed to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, where they’ll spend an hour immersed in the museum’s exhibits and educational displays detailing the devastating impact of the atomic bombing.

The tour also includes:

• An authentic Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki lunch, a savory pancake-like dish, for 45 minutes.

• A 10-minute ferry ride to the serene Miyajima Island, where they’ll explore the iconic Itsukushima Shinto Shrine for an hour.

• An additional hour of free time to discover the island’s natural beauty and cultural offerings.

• A 10-minute return ferry ride to Hiroshima.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes an air-conditioned bus, entry fees to the Itsukushima Shrine and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, a round-trip ferry ticket to Miyajima Island, and an Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki lunch if selected.

However, it’s important to note that this tour isn’t suitable for Japanese nationals. Plus, it’s a shared tour, not a private one, so you will be part of a group.

The tour provider should be informed about any allergies or dietary restrictions. Travelers are also advised to book their return Shinkansen after 6:30 PM, as the tour may run late.

If the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is closed, visitors will go to the Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims instead.

Important Considerations

Aside from the inclusions, there are several important considerations travelers should keep in mind when booking this Hiroshima and Miyajima Island 1-Day Bus Tour.

The tour isn’t open to Japanese nationals, as it’s designed for international visitors.

It’s a shared tour, not a private experience.

Travelers should inform the provider of any allergies or dietary restrictions to ensure their needs are accommodated during the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki lunch.

It’s recommended to book a Shinkansen return ticket after 6:30 PM to allow for the full tour duration and potential delays.

Meeting Point and Time

According to the tour details, travelers will meet at the Hiroshima Station Shinkansen gate 2nd Floor (NORTH GATE) at 9:45 AM, with the bus departing promptly at 10:00 AM.

This meeting point is conveniently located within the Hiroshima Station, allowing easy access for participants.

The tour starts right on time, so it’s important for guests to arrive on schedule. This ensures the group can efficiently begin the day’s sightseeing activities without any delays.

Travelers should plan their transportation to the meeting spot accordingly, allowing enough time to find the designated area and meet up with the rest of the group before the bus departs.

Punctuality is key to making the most of this comprehensive 1-day tour.

Duration and Accessibility

This 1-day bus tour from Hiroshima to Miyajima Island lasts approximately 8 hours, making it an accessible and efficient way to explore two of the region’s top attractions in a single day.

Travelers can expect to cover a substantial amount of ground and see major sights within a manageable timeframe, without feeling rushed.

The tour’s accessibility is further enhanced by:

• No requirement for Japanese nationals
• Shared group tour, not private
• Advance notice for dietary restrictions
• Recommended Shinkansen booking after 6:30 PM

With a well-planned itinerary and transportation taken care of, this tour provides a stress-free and comprehensive experience for visitors to discover the historic and cultural significance of Hiroshima and Miyajima Island.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

The tour’s itinerary begins with a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a somber and historically significant site that serves as a powerful reminder of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima during World War II.

Guests will spend 30 minutes exploring the park, which features the iconic A-Bomb Dome, one of the few structures to have survived the blast. They’ll also have the opportunity to visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, where they’ll learn about the devastating impact of the bombing and the city’s ongoing efforts to promote peace and reconciliation.

This poignant experience sets the tone for the rest of the day’s activities, as participants gain a deeper understanding of Hiroshima’s resilience and the importance of memorializing such a tragic event.

Miyajima Island Exploration

After exploring the somber Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, the tour takes visitors on a 10-minute ferry ride to the tranquil Miyajima Island, a scenic island known for its iconic floating torii gate and serene Shinto shrines.

On the island, guests will:

• Visit the famous Itsukushima Shinto Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and witness the majestic floating torii gate at high tide.
• Stroll through the island’s peaceful streets, lined with traditional shops and eateries, and sample the local specialty, grilled Hiroshima-style oysters.
• Spot the friendly deer that roam freely on the island, considered divine messengers in Shinto beliefs.

Enjoy an hour of free time to explore the island’s natural beauty and serene atmosphere before returning to Hiroshima.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour may not be suitable for children, as it includes visits to memorials and museums related to the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, which could be heavy and emotionally challenging for young travelers. However, the itinerary may be suitable for older children with parental guidance.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, they should avoid consuming messy or smelly items that could disturb other passengers. The tour provider may have specific guidelines regarding outside food and beverages.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Senior Citizens?

The tour provider does not offer any discounts specifically for senior citizens. However, they recommend that seniors book their return Shinkansen after 6:30 PM to avoid the peak travel times and potential crowds.

Can I Request to Modify the Itinerary or Visit Additional Sites?

While the tour itinerary is pre-set, travelers can often request modifications or additions to the schedule. However, the tour provider may not be able to accommodate all requests due to logistical constraints. It’s best to inquire about customization options when booking the tour.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation and refund policy allows for free cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour. Refunds are provided in full, minus any non-refundable fees. Cancellations within 24 hours are not eligible for a refund.

Recap

This comprehensive 1-day bus tour from Hiroshima is an excellent way for international visitors to explore the city’s historic sites and the natural beauty of Miyajima Island.

Participants will visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, and enjoy an authentic Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki lunch.

They’ll also take a ferry to Miyajima Island to see the UNESCO-listed Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic floating torii gate, all within an 8-hour timeframe.