Miyajima, home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Itsukushima Shrine, is one of Hiroshima’s most popular tourist destinations, drawing visitors from across Japan and around the globe. The most common way to access Miyajima is via ferry from Miyajimaguchi on the mainland. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of access options, ferry features, schedules, and more.
Getting to Miyajimaguchi: The Gateway to Miyajima
There are three primary ways to reach Miyajimaguchi: by JR train, streetcar, or car.
Accessing Miyajimaguchi from Hiroshima Station
○ By JR Train
The JR train offers the fastest and most convenient route, taking approximately 30 minutes and costing ¥420 from JR Hiroshima Station to JR Miyajimaguchi Station. The journey requires no transfers, making it an easy option. From JR Miyajimaguchi Station, it’s about a 3-minute walk to the ferry terminal, crossing the national Route 2 via an underpass.
○ By Streetcar
Taking the Hiroden streetcar from Hiroshima Station to Hiroden Miyajimaguchi Station takes about 75 minutes and costs ¥270. While this option takes more than twice as long as the JR train, it’s slightly cheaper. The streetcar is recommended for those who enjoy scenic rides, have purchased a one-day pass, or are traveling with plenty of time to spare. The ferry terminal is conveniently located right in front of Hiroden Miyajimaguchi Station.
○ By Car
Driving from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi takes about 45 minutes (approximately 25 km) via National Route 2 and the Nishihiroshima Bypass. However, during peak tourist seasons or major events in Hiroshima City, traffic congestion can delay your arrival. Parking lots near Miyajimaguchi also tend to fill quickly, and queues for parking can significantly impact your schedule. Plan accordingly and allow extra time.
Accessing Miyajimaguchi from Hiroshima’s City Center (Peace Memorial Park)
○ By JR Train + Other Transportation
From the Hiroshima city center, near Peace Memorial Park or the Atomic Bomb Dome, there are two main JR-based routes to Miyajimaguchi:
- Take the Astram Line from Hondori Station to Shin-Hakushima Station, transfer to JR Shin-Hakushima Station, and then proceed to JR Miyajimaguchi Station.
- Take a streetcar from Genbaku Dome-mae to Hiroden Nishihiroshima Station, transfer to JR Nishihiroshima Station, and then travel to JR Miyajimaguchi Station.
Both options take around 40 minutes, but delays or confusion during transfers may result in longer travel times.
○ By Streetcar
The streetcar provides a direct route from the city center, costing ¥270 and taking about 55 minutes. While slower than JR, the lack of transfers makes this option simple and convenient.
○ By Car
Driving from city-center attractions or hotels to Miyajimaguchi takes about 35 minutes (approximately 20 km). As with driving from Hiroshima Station, be mindful of potential delays due to traffic and limited parking.
Miyajima Is an Island
Some visitors mistakenly believe Miyajima is connected to the mainland. However, it is an island in the Seto Inland Sea, accessible only by ferry. Upon arriving at Miyajimaguchi, visitors board a ferry to reach the island.
Boarding the Ferry to Miyajima
Last year, approximately 4.65 million visitors traveled to Miyajima, making it the second-highest annual figure since the record set in 2019. This year, the first half alone (January to June) saw about 2.33 million visitors, exceeding the previous year’s pace. Most visitors use ferries departing from Miyajimaguchi.
Overview of the Miyajimaguchi Passenger Terminal
Renovated in February 2020, the Miyajimaguchi Passenger Terminal serves as the gateway to Miyajima. The revamped terminal addresses previous issues, such as disorganized signage and separated boarding areas that often confused visitors. Now, the stylish terminal features comprehensive amenities, including tourist information, souvenir shops, and commercial facilities.
Adjacent to the terminal is “etto,” a commercial hub offering dining and shopping options. Ongoing developments have also introduced a multi-story parking lot and a plaza called Shamoji Square, enhancing the visitor experience.
Ferry Services
Two ferry operators connect Miyajimaguchi and Miyajima: JR West Miyajima Ferry and Miyajima Matsudai Kisen. Both operate ferries at 10- to 15-minute intervals, with identical fares, travel times, and arrival points. Simply board the first available ferry unless you have specific preferences, such as routes with views of the iconic Otorii Gate or travel passes.
- Duration: Approximately 10 minutes
- Frequency: 15-minute intervals during regular times; 10-minute intervals during peak periods
- Fare: ¥200 one-way; ¥400 round trip (plus a ¥100 Miyajima visitor tax added to outbound tickets)
- Accepted IC Cards: PASPY, ICOCA, Suica, and others (11 types in total)
Note: Elementary school children pay half price, and children under school age travel free (up to two children per adult).
