1 Day Hiroshima and Miyajima Tour by Bullet Train From Kyoto

Exploring the historic cities of Hiroshima and Miyajima can be a profound and enriching experience. This 1-day tour by bullet train from Kyoto offers an efficient way to witness the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, and uncover the poignant history of these significant destinations. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or seeking a deeper understanding of Japan’s past, this comprehensive itinerary promises an unforgettable day. Let’s dive into the details and see what this tour has in store.

Key Points

• Full-day excursion from Kyoto to Hiroshima and Miyajima, including bullet train transportation, English-speaking guide, and admission fees.
• Visit to Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic floating torii gate, with free time to explore Miyajima.
• Exploration of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site commemorating the 1945 atomic bombing.
• Departure from Kyoto Station at 7:40 am, with return around 9:00 pm.
• Limited to 40 travelers, with no hotel drop-off service after the tour.

Tour Overview

The 1 Day Hiroshima and Miyajima Tour by Bullet Train from Kyoto is a full-day excursion that allows us to explore two of Japan’s most iconic destinations.

We’ll depart Kyoto Station at 7:40 am for a 2-hour scenic bullet train ride to Hiroshima.

Upon arrival, we’ll visit the UNESCO-listed Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum.

With 104 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, this tour is a popular choice, priced from $404.56 per person.

Limited to 40 travelers, it offers an English-speaking guide and covers all transportation and entrance fees, except lunch.

Highlights of the Itinerary

Our day begins with a departure from Kyoto Station at 7:40 am, where we’ll board the bullet train for a 2-hour scenic ride to Hiroshima.

Upon arrival, we’ll visit Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and see the iconic floating torii gate.

We’ll have free time for lunch on our own in Miyajima before heading to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum.

Here, we’ll explore the Atomic Bomb Dome and Children’s Peace Monument, learning about the city’s tragic history.

Finally, we’ll return to Kyoto Station around 9:00 pm, concluding our full-day adventure.

Miyajima: The Floating Torii Gate

Situated on the picturesque island of Miyajima, the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine is one of Japan’s most recognized landmarks.

As the tide rises, the torii gate appears to float effortlessly on the water, creating a breathtaking scene. We’ll have the opportunity to witness this natural wonder up close and explore the serene shrine complex.

Considered a sacred site, the shrine’s architecture and vermilion-colored structures blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.

With free time at Miyajima, we can stroll through the charming town, sample local cuisine, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum

After exploring the serene beauty of Miyajima, we’ll shift our focus to the somber yet poignant Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum.

This UNESCO World Heritage site commemorates the 1945 atomic bombing, educating visitors on the horrific impact.

We’ll visit the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome, a chilling reminder, and the Children’s Peace Monument, honoring the young victims.

The museum’s exhibits provide a powerful, first-hand account of that fateful day.

Though a difficult experience, it’s an essential stop to understand Hiroshima’s history and promote world peace.

We’ll depart this meaningful site with deeper reflection.

Transportation and Meeting Points

To begin your day trip, we’ll depart from the JTB Sunrise Tours Desk inside Avanti, across from the Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit, by 7:30 am.

From there, we’ll take a scenic 2-hour bullet train ride to Hiroshima Station. At the end of the day, we’ll return to Kyoto Station around 9:00 pm.

Some key transportation details to keep in mind:

1. No hotel drop-off service is provided at the end of the tour.
2. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed.
3. Children up to 5 years old can join for free but without their own bus seats.
4. Meal charges for lunch aren’t included in the tour price.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes several key items to enhance your experience.

We cover the admission fees for top attractions like Itsukushima Shrine and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum. You’ll also enjoy the Miyajima visitor tax and all transportation costs, including the bullet train to and from Hiroshima.

While lunch isn’t included, you’ll have free time to find the perfect local spot. Just keep in mind the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers are allowed.

With an English-speaking guide and all the logistics handled, you can focus on making the most of your day.

Accessibility and Age Restrictions

Although the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, we’re pleased to share that it’s stroller accessible.

Just keep in mind a few important details:

• Parental permission is required for participants under 18 years old.
• Children up to 5 years can join for free, but they must sit on laps without their own bus seats.
• The tour involves a significant amount of walking, so it may not be suitable for very young children.
• Infants are welcome, but they must be carried or held at all times.

Additional Considerations

While the tour provides a comprehensive itinerary, there are a few additional considerations to keep in mind.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s stroller friendly. Plus, parental permission is required for participants under 18.

Children up to 5 years can join for free but will need to sit on laps.

Please also note that the order of activities may vary, and lunch charges aren’t included.

We recommend planning for extra time at Miyajima and the Peace Memorial Museum, as there’s much to explore at these fascinating sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Meals Included During the Free Time in Miyajima?

No, meals are not included during the free time at Miyajima. We’ll need to arrange and pay for our own lunch there. The tour package covers admission fees and transportation, but not the cost of meals.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Visit Alternative Sites?

Unfortunately, this tour doesn’t offer the flexibility to visit alternative sites. It follows a set itinerary to provide the best experience at the main attractions in Hiroshima and Miyajima. But you can explore Miyajima during your free time there.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, you can extend the tour duration to spend more time at Miyajima and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. Just let the tour provider know, and they’ll happily customize the itinerary to fit your preferences.

Can the Group Size Be Adjusted for Private Tours?

Yes, the group size can be adjusted for private tours. We can accommodate smaller or larger groups based on your preferences. Just let us know how many travelers you’d like to include, and we’ll tailor the tour accordingly.

Are Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

While the tour doesn’t offer specific discounts for children or seniors, kids under 5 can join for free without a bus seat. Let us know if you have any other questions as you plan your tour!

The Sum Up

This day tour offers a chance to explore the historical and cultural highlights of Hiroshima and Miyajima in a single, efficient trip. You’ll get to witness the iconic floating torii gate, reflect at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, and travel comfortably by bullet train. With inclusions like entrance fees and round-trip transportation, it’s a convenient and enriching way to discover these important Japanese sites.