Many people know Hiroshima has convenient city sightseeing buses, but overlook another hidden transportation ace right before their eyes — the highway bus. Hiroshima Prefecture's highway bus network is actually quite well-developed, connecting the mountain town of Masuda in the north of the prefecture, the coastal naval port city of Kure, Fukuyama where Japan's oldest canal is located, and even Uwajima in Shikoku across the water. These routes offer affordable fares and stable schedules, making them a hidden weapon for liberating travel itineraries for those not driving.
Instead of relying on expensive Shinkansen for every journey or being limited by JR's limited station coverage, why not rediscover Hiroshima's highway bus system? They are not merely transportation that takes passengers from point A to point B — the views of the Seto Inland Sea and the rural landscapes of the San'in region from the windows along the way are本身就是一種免費的觀光體驗.
【Key Features】
Hiroshima's highway buses have three core advantages. First, fares are typically one-third or even lower than Shinkansen fares — for example, a one-way trip from Hiroshima to Onomichi costs approximately ¥1,500-¥2,000, while express trains may cost more or require transfers. Second, buses go directly to the city center without the need to drag luggage up and down stairs at train stations, making them extremely friendly for travelers with large luggage. Third, many highway buses are equipped with restrooms, and the comfort of long-distance seats is no less than that of railways; some routes even offer free WiFi.
It is particularly worth noting that buses along the Seto Inland Sea coast often drive along the coastline, passing through continuous islands and sea-crossing bridges. The changing scenery along this route is rich — a visual feast that cannot be replicated by train. The morning mist over the sea in winter and the golden sunset on summer evenings are perspectives that can only be enjoyed leisurely from a bus.
【Recommended Routes and Stops】
■ Hiroshima Station Highway Bus Terminal (Hiroden Kamiyacho or Hiroshima Bus Center)
This is the most important bus hub in Hiroshima city, with almost all highway buses within and outside the prefecture departing from here. The station has clear boarding guidance screens and ticket counters. A distinctive feature is that the station itself integrates dining and souvenir shops, allowing you to purchase famous Hiroshima okonomiyaki or momiji manju while waiting for your bus. Most buses departing from here board at gates 1-12; it is recommended to arrive 15 minutes early to confirm the platform.
■ Hiroshima ↔ Onomichi Line (Kawamoto Bus / Gei-en Bus)
Travel time is approximately 70 minutes, with a fare of ¥1,680. This line is most popular among backpackers because it provides direct access to JR Onomichi Station, connecting with cycling routes. Along the way through Innoshima's coastline, it passes the famous "Road to the Sea" (うみ、やまでの道), and the comfortable feeling of sea breeze directly blowing into the cabin is the core selling point of this journey. It is recommended to choose seats on the sea side; on sunny days, the entire journey feels like moving through a painting.
■ Hiroshima ↔ Kure Line (Chugoku Bus)
Kure was once an important naval port city in Japan and now preserves a complete submarine pier and Maritime Self-Defense Force museum. It takes approximately 50 minutes from Hiroshima Station with a fare of ¥1,200, making it one of the few ways to directly reach this historic naval port. The advantage of this line is its frequent departures — nearly once every hour, with additional services on weekends. Along the way, it passes through Kure City's coastal industrial zone, where massive ships are docked at the ports — a scene typically only seen in documentaries that, for military or shipbuilding enthusiasts, has value that already exceeds the fare itself.
■ Hiroshima ↔ Masuda Line (Iwami Kotsu)
This is the mountain town line in northern Hiroshima Prefecture, with approximately 2 hours travel time and a fare of ¥2,800. Masuda serves as the gateway to the Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine area, and this World Heritage silver mine site has been gaining rapid popularity among European and American backpackers in recent years. Departing from Hiroshima without any transfers, the direct service to Masuda Station greatly simplifies travel. The buses are equipped with restrooms and air conditioning/heating; for early morning departures, the journey passes through misty mountain areas, creating quite a dreamy scenery.
■ Hiroshima ↔ Fukuyama Line (Hokuhoku Transportation)
Connecting Hiroshima with Fukuyama, the gateway city of the Bingo region, with approximately 80 minutes travel time and a fare of ¥1,800. Japan's oldest canal bridge, the "Lip Bridge" (唇橋), is located in central Fukuyama and is within walking distance from the bus stop. The advantage of this line is that it passes through the foothills of Bingo Fuji, offering open views without high-rise buildings obstructing the way. The bus stop at Fukuyama Station is directly opposite the JR station, making the transportation flow extremely smooth.
【Practical Information】
Regarding fares, highway buses within Hiroshima Prefecture range from ¥1,200 to ¥3,000 for one-way trips, calculated by distance. It is recommended to purchase tickets at the ticket machine before boarding or use IC cards (such as Suica or PASMO) for contactless payment. Some routes support advance reservations, which can be made through official websites or convenience store terminals; during peak seasons, it is recommended to reserve one day in advance.
Most services operate from around 6 AM to 9 PM; it is recommended to check the official websites of each company for detailed timetables before departure. Boarding locations are concentrated at Hiroshima Bus Center (Kamiyacho), Hiroshima Station South Exit, and the Highway Bus Station at Nanatsunoshitacho. Timetables are adjusted during New Year's; please check official announcements.
Regarding ticket types, if planning to travel between multiple towns in a single day, consider purchasing the "Hiroshima Bus Day Pass"; however, this pass is mainly applicable to city routes and generally not valid for highway buses. For inter-city or inter-prefectural travel, compare the price difference between JR and buses — sometimes student or senior tickets can save nearly 30%.
【Travel Tips】
First, sea-side seats are essential. When reserving, try to choose Seat E (sea side), especially for coastal routes like Onomichi and Kure — the scenery outside the window is itself a destination. Second, avoid traveling during Friday evening rush hour; the bus will be twice as crowded as usual. Families with children are advised to choose Saturday morning services. Third, all luggage must be placed in the luggage compartment — don't forget to retrieve it when getting off. Fourth, if planning to use the service multiple times within a year, it is recommended to register for each company's membership card; accumulated points can be exchanged for discounted tickets. Fifth, the most beautiful time to ride is from October to November in autumn, when the mountain's autumn foliage contrasts most richly with the sea and sky. Sixth, a little-known tip: at the rest stop near the "Kure" station, there are local specialty deep-fried tempura pancakes, paired with hot tea provided free by the bus company — making it the perfect midway rest stop.
