When it comes to Hiroshima tourism, most people think of the Atomic Bomb Dome and Miyajima's Great Torii Gate, but the charm of this city extends far beyond World Heritage sites. For travelers who want to deeply experience Hiroshima, I suggest using cycling as a tool to integrate into local life, rather than just another mode of transportation. Hiroshima's terrain is flat and the urban area is compact, making it perfect for getting around by bicycle — and the cost is much more affordable than taking a taxi.
Three Unique Advantages of Cycling in Hiroshima
First is "cost efficiency". Hiroshima's streetcar (tram) starts at ¥210 for a single ride, and a taxi in the city center can easily exceed ¥1000 per trip, but renting a regular bicycle costs ¥500-¥800 per day, making the cost per person per kilometer much lower than public transportation. Based on my experience, when moving around in busy areas, a bicycle can actually reach the destination faster than waiting for buses or trams.
Second is "route flexibility". Hiroshima's tram and bus routes cover the main attractions, but places like narrow alleys, neighborhood markets, and hidden coffee shops are inaccessible by public transportation. Cycling allows you to turn in anytime to explore, so you won't miss the scenery hidden around corners.
Third is "immersive experience of peace education". Cycling from the Atomic Bomb Dome along Peace Boulevard to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, then continuing east to Hijiyama Park — this route allows riders to physically feel how the city rebuilt itself from the ruins, which cannot be fully appreciated when passing through on a tour bus.
Three Recommended Cycling Routes in Hiroshima
Route One: Peace Memorial Park Area (Including Yatsusaka Slope)
This route is suitable for first-time visitors to Hiroshima. Rental shops are concentrated in the busy area around Kamiyacho and Kamikobashi, and it's about 10 minutes cycling from there to the Peace Memorial Park. I especially recommend trying "Yatsusaka Slope" — this sloping road is on the south side of JR Hiroshima Station and was one of Hiroshima's most iconic slopes. Cycling up provides a panoramic view of the entire station area, and on clear days you can even see the Seto Inland Sea. There are several local bicycle shops nearby offering daily rentals at ¥600-800/day, including a basic lock and simple maintenance.
The issue with this route is that during peak tourist season, crowds can be dense and parking becomes troublesome. It's recommended to avoid the peak hours from 10 AM to 2 PM.
Route Two: Ujina Port and Waterfront Cycling Path
This is an area less known to tourists. Cycling south from Hiroshima Station along the JR lines to Ujina Port takes about 25 minutes. This route has dedicated bicycle paths with good road conditions and open views. If you're lucky, you can see real warships (the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force base is nearby). There are small commercial facilities around Ujina Pier where you can buy fresh fried fish cakes (¥150-200 each) to enjoy while resting.
My suggestion for this route: It's suitable to depart after 3 PM and cycle to the pier just in time for sunset. However, note that street lighting in this area is sparser at night, so it's recommended to bring a bike light or wear reflective clothing.
Route Three: Itsukaichi Street (Local Residential Area)
This route goes west from Hiroshima Station towards Itsukaichi. This area is a residential district for local residents, with large supermarkets, 100-yen shops, independent coffee shops, and no packaged tourist attractions — but it's this "authenticity" that attracts deep travelers who want to experience everyday Japan. There are several residential areas and small-scale businesses along Itsukaichi Street, with cycling distances spread out, allowing for a comfortable pace over a longer period.
Note that this route requires crossing some mixed-use roads, so it's recommended to have some cycling experience before attempting it.
Practical Information
Hiroshima's bicycle rental methods are mainly divided into three types: chain stores around JR Hiroshima Station (most open 09:00-19:00), small rental points near tourist areas (shorter hours, it's recommended to call ahead to confirm), and bike lending services offered by some hotels. For fees, regular city bikes cost ¥500-800/day, and electric-assisted bikes cost ¥1000-1500/day. Some shops offer 24-hour billing options.
As for parking, most bicycle parking areas in the city center are free, but there are designated parking areas around the Peace Memorial Park, requiring ¥100-200 payment.
Regarding railways, JR lines within Hiroshima allow passengers to bring bicycles (must be in a carrying bag or with front wheel removed), but there are time restrictions. Miyajima ferries across the Seto Inland Sea also accept folding bikes onboard.
Travel Tips
Hiroshima summers are hot and humid, so be sure to stay hydrated and avoid midday when cycling. During windy winter months, the area around Ujina Port is especially noticeable, so please bring windproof clothing. Additionally, Hiroshima's car drivers are much more bicycle-friendly than those in Tokyo, so don't worry too much about being honked at.
Final reminder: Japan's bicycle-related regulations have been updated in recent years. Please avoid using your phone while riding and never ride after drinking — the fines and demerit point systems are now stricter than before. Safety first ensures you can enjoy cycling for a long time to come.
