Your complete transport guide for Japan, with routes, fares, and practical tips.
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Hiroshima's bus system is operated by Hiroshima Electric Railway (Hiroden) and several local bus companies, covering a wide area and serving as a key mode of transportation for exploring the city and surrounding regions. Compared to other major Japanese cities, Hiroshima's bus system offers advantages including diverse ticket options, convenient transfers, and well-developed regional routes connecting nearby attractions, truly saving both time and money for travelers.
Diverse Ticket Combinations: The Key to Saving Money
The most common mistake made by first-time visitors is purchasing individual one-way tickets, not realizing that Hiroshima offers various discount tickets. The one-day pass (¥700) covers most city routes and is suitable for itineraries lasting half a day or more; for shorter stays, single rides cost approximately ¥150-220, but taking three or more rides makes it uneconomical. Using transportation cards like ICOCA or Suica provides a slight discount, and there's no need to purchase tickets each time—they can be used on buses, trams, and even at convenience stores, offering an experience closest to that of local residents.
For multi-day visitors, the three-day pass (¥2,000) offered by Hiroshima Electric Railway covers tram and bus services, equivalent to approximately ¥667 per day, representing a better value. Ticket vendors are commonly found at major stations and convenience stores throughout the city; when purchasing, don't hesitate to ask staff about the latest package deals.
Intercity Bus Network: Round Trips to Miyajima, Onomichi, and Hiroshima Airport
Hiroshima Airport is located in the north, and the airport connecting bus is the first stop for visitors arriving from the airport. The airport connecting bus departing from the airport area takes approximately 50 minutes to reach the city center, with a fare of ¥1,650. Departures are frequent in the early morning and evening hours (approximately every 30 minutes), but note that the last bus typically departs around 8 PM; if arriving on a late flight, it's best to confirm the schedule in advance.
Routes to Miyajima are frequent and convenient, with the city center to Miyajima-guchi taking approximately 30 minutes, and the ferry transfer only 10 minutes. This route is particularly suitable for day trips, as many travelers use the one-day pass for round-trip bus travel to avoid the hassle of purchasing tickets. Additional buses are operated during the Momiji maple viewing season (November) and Obon festival (August), but these periods also see the highest crowds; to avoid congestion, it's advisable to avoid these two periods.
Bus routes in the direction of Onomichi require more planning. Buses from Hiroshima city center to Onomichi take approximately 75 minutes, with departures less frequent than those to Miyajima (approximately once per hour), but the route offers scenic views along Hiroshima Bay, making it a cost-effective option for travelers with limited driving budgets. The area around Onomichi Station features many slopes and narrow alleyways; it's recommended to confirm the bus schedule in the city before departing, especially noting the time of the last bus.
Night Buses and Seasonal Schedule Adjustments
While Hiroshima's night bus network is not as extensive as Tokyo's, there are still several late-night routes in the city center, with the last buses varying by route, mostly between 10 PM and midnight. This is quite helpful for travelers participating in local festivals or wanting to stroll along the waterfront area. Bus frequencies are reduced in winter (November to March) due to fewer tourists, while additional buses are operated during the cherry blossom season in spring and the momiji maple viewing season in fall. The seasonal characteristics of tourism are evident; checking the official schedule in advance can prevent wasted trips.
Local Boarding Etiquette and Accessibility Facilities
Hiroshima residents are relatively lenient regarding bus passenger etiquette, but basic rules must still be observed: priority seats for seniors, pregnant women, and persons with disabilities should not be occupied; board through the rear door and tap your card or deposit cash, then exit through the front door and tap again; if you're unsure of the fare, you can board first and inform the driver of your destination when exiting, and they will tell you the additional fare required. Most newer buses are equipped with accessibility facilities, including wheelchair spaces and audio stop announcements, providing basic assurance for travelers requiring accessible environments.
Practical Information
Fare Reference: One-way tickets ¥150-220 (distance-based), one-day pass ¥700, three-day pass ¥2,000, airport connecting bus ¥1,650.
Operating Hours: Most routes begin service around 6 AM, with the last buses departing between 10 PM and midnight, depending on the specific route. Weekend and national holiday schedules have slightly reduced frequencies.
Ticket Purchase: Tickets are available at convenience stores (Lawson, FamilyMart) or cash can be inserted directly into the bus fare machine; using transportation cards like ICOCA or Suica eliminates the need to wait in line.
Travel Tips
The key to navigating Hiroshima's bus system is advance planning—first confirm the bus routes to your target attractions and the last bus times, then decide on your ticket combination. Especially if planning to travel to Miyajima and back to the city on the same day, a one-day pass can significantly reduce costs. Buses become crowded on rainy days, particularly on routes to Miyajima; consider arriving early at the station to wait. Ticket purchase methods vary slightly among bus companies; don't hesitate to ask fellow passengers or the driver before boarding—Hiroshima residents are typically happy to help guide tourists.
