JR West Hiroshima-Yamaguchi Area Pass

Must Do Experiences

• Ride the exclusive Hello Kitty Shinkansen between Mihara and Hakata for a uniquely charming high-speed journey.

• Take the included JR West Miyajima Ferry to witness the breathtaking floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine.

• Explore the historic samurai streets and traditional architecture of Hagi, a hidden gem of the Yamaguchi prefecture.

• Cycle along the scenic Shimanami Kaido starting from Onomichi, using the pass to reach the coastal starting point with ease.

Hidden Gems

• Hop off at Iwakuni to see the Kintai Bridge, a magnificent wooden arch bridge that is especially magical during the evening illuminations and less crowded than Miyajima.

• Use the pass to reach the tranquil town of Yanai, famous for its Edo-period merchant houses and beautiful white-wall goldfish lanterns hanging in the streets.

• Discover the historic port town of Tomonoura in Fukuyama, which served as the real-life inspiration for the Studio Ghibli film Ponyo and is easily accessible via the JR lines.

What Makes it Special

• Enjoy unparalleled convenience with five consecutive days of unlimited rides on JR Sanyo Shinkansen, Limited Express, and local trains without buying individual tickets.

• Gain exclusive access to the vibrant Hello Kitty Shinkansen, adding a touch of kawaii culture to your high-speed transit between Mihara and Hakata.

• Seamlessly connect to the iconic Miyajima Island with the included JR West Miyajima Ferry, bridging your rail journey directly to one of Japan's most famous scenic spots.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Spring and autumn are the most spectacular seasons to use this pass, offering cherry blossoms in early April and vibrant maple foliage in November across Hiroshima and Miyajima. Early mornings are ideal for boarding the Shinkansen to secure unreserved seating and beat the crowds at popular destinations like the Itsukushima Shrine, while late afternoons provide beautiful golden hour lighting for coastal towns.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the Hello Kitty Shinkansen's adorable exterior and themed interior details before it departs, but be mindful of other passengers and avoid using flash inside the cabins.

• Head to Miyajima during low tide to walk out and photograph the iconic floating torii gate from the shoreline, or wait for high tide to capture it reflecting beautifully on the water at sunset.

• For stunning panoramic shots of the Seto Inland Sea, photograph the coastal views from the train windows as you travel along the Sanyo Main Line between Onomichi and Hiroshima.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When riding Japanese trains, it is considered polite to keep your phone on silent mode, avoid taking phone calls, and speak in hushed tones to respect fellow passengers. If you visit the sacred island of Miyajima, remember that it is a deeply spiritual site; dress modestly when entering shrine grounds and never step on the threshold of the torii gates or shrine entrances.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Miyajima Water Fireworks Festival in August transforms the sky above the Seto Inland Sea, offering a spectacular view best enjoyed right off the ferry or from the island's shores.

• The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony takes place annually on August 6th, drawing global visitors for a poignant and deeply moving experience in the Peace Memorial Park.

• Autumn foliage illuminations at Miyajima's Momijidani Park in November turn the island into a glowing wonderland of red and gold maple leaves, easily accessible with your pass.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Always stand behind the yellow tactile paving lines on station platforms and wait for the train to come to a complete stop before boarding.

• When using the JR West Miyajima Ferry, hold onto the handrails securely, especially on windy days, and keep a close eye on children near the water's edge.

• Keep your valuables and travel documents, especially your passport and the physical rail pass, secured in a zipped bag or inner pocket while navigating busy transit hubs like Hiroshima and Hakata stations.