From Kyoto: Hiroshima and Miyajima Day Trip by bullet train

Must Do Experiences

• Stand before the hauntingly preserved Atomic Bomb Dome and explore the deeply moving exhibits at the Peace Memorial Museum.

• Take a relaxing ferry ride across the Seto Inland Sea to spot the vibrant red floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine.

• Wander the charming Omotesando shopping street on Miyajima Island and grill your own momiji manju, the local maple leaf-shaped cakes.

• Observe the friendly wild deer roaming freely around the shrine grounds and island pathways.

Hidden Gems

• Visit the Daisho-in Temple located at the base of Mount Misen, a serene and less-crowded Buddhist temple featuring hundreds of unique stone statues and spinning prayer wheels.

• Seek out the Miyajima History and Folklore Museum to see beautifully preserved traditional merchant houses and learn about the island's samurai past.

• Try the local specialty of grilled oysters from a small street-side stall near the ferry terminal, offering a fresh and authentic taste of the Seto Inland Sea.

What Makes it Special

• The incredible convenience of round-trip Shinkansen bullet train tickets included, maximizing your time on the ground rather than worrying about transit logistics.

• A deeply contrasting itinerary that pairs the solemn, educational history of Hiroshima with the vibrant, spiritual, and natural beauty of Miyajima Island.

• Seamless integration of the scenic Seto Inland Sea ferry ride, offering stunning coastal views that are a highlight of the journey itself.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Early morning departures from Kyoto are highly recommended to beat the crowds at the Peace Memorial Park and arrive at Miyajima before the midday tour groups. Autumn offers spectacular foliage on Miyajima Island, particularly around the Daisho-in Temple, while spring provides pleasant weather for strolling the island's coastal paths. Keep in mind that the Shinkansen and popular shrine areas can get very busy during Japanese national holidays and the Obon festival in August.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the iconic floating torii gate from the Otorii-wan viewing area during high tide, or walk right up to its massive pillars for a dramatic low-angle shot during low tide.

• Photography inside the main hall of the Itsukushima Shrine and the Peace Memorial Museum is strictly prohibited, so please respect these rules and keep your cameras put away in these sacred and solemn spaces.

• For the best lighting on Miyajima's Omotesando street and the roaming deer, shoot during the late afternoon golden hour just before the sun dips behind Mount Misen.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When visiting the Itsukushima Shrine, it is customary to bow slightly before passing through the torii gates and to cleanse your hands and mouth at the temizuya water pavilion before approaching the main hall. Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor throughout the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, especially near the Cenotaph and the Children's Peace Monument, as these are active sites of mourning and reflection. Tipping is not practiced in Japan, and attempting to tip guides, restaurant staff, or ferry operators may cause confusion or embarrassment.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• The Miyajima Water Fireworks Festival in August is a breathtaking spectacle where hundreds of fireworks are launched from boats on the water, perfectly framing the illuminated torii gate.

• During the autumn season, the Momiji Festival celebrates the island's stunning fall foliage with traditional performances, parades, and special food stalls along the Omotesando street.

• On August 6th each year, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony takes place at the park, featuring a solemn minute of silence and the release of thousands of paper lanterns down the Motoyasu River in the evening.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Stay hydrated and use sun protection during the summer months, as the open plazas of the Peace Memorial Park and the ferry decks offer very little shade.

• Be cautious when walking near the water's edge around the Itsukushima Shrine during high tide, as the stone pathways can become slippery from sea spray and algae.

• Keep a close eye on your personal belongings in crowded areas like Kyoto Station and the Miyajima ferry terminal, and ensure you have your bullet train tickets securely stored for the return journey.