Osaka/Kyoto: Hiroshima Miyajima Bus Tour & Shinkansen Ticket Day Tours

Must Do Experiences

• Ride the legendary Shinkansen bullet train for a swift and scenic journey across Japan.

• Reflect on history at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome.

• Take a scenic ferry ride to Miyajima Island to see the breathtaking floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine.

• Savor a delicious, authentic Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki lunch layered with pork, cabbage, and noodles.

Hidden Gems

• Look out for the friendly wild deer roaming freely around Miyajima Island, but remember they are wild animals and should not be fed.

• Visit the Omotesando shopping street on Miyajima to find beautifully crafted wooden rice paddles which are considered lucky souvenirs.

• Notice the intricate architectural details of the Itsukushima Shrine main hall, which was built to withstand the shifting tides without the use of nails.

What Makes it Special

• Seamless logistics combining the speed of the Shinkansen with the convenience of air-conditioned bus transfers and a guided ferry ride.

• A deeply moving and educational experience guided by a knowledgeable local expert who provides context to the Peace Memorial Park.

• A perfect blend of solemn history, spiritual Shinto culture, and incredible regional cuisine all packed into one efficient day trip.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather and stunning seasonal colors, with cherry blossoms in April and vibrant maple leaves in November. The floating torii gate is most spectacular during high tide, so the exact best time of day varies daily based on the lunar cycle.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the iconic floating torii gate from the Otorii-rinjakae observatory deck for a perfectly framed, unobstructed shot.

• Photography is generally permitted in the Peace Memorial Park, but please be respectful and avoid taking selfies or posing playfully near the cenotaph and Atomic Bomb Dome.

• Use a polarizing filter or adjust your camera exposure to handle the bright glare of the sun reflecting off the Seto Inland Sea during the Miyajima ferry ride.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When visiting the Itsukushima Shrine and Peace Memorial Park, maintain a respectful and quiet demeanor as these are sites of deep spiritual and historical significance. Do not feed or chase the wild deer on Miyajima Island, and remember that eating while walking is generally frowned upon in Japanese culture.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Miyajima Water Fireworks Festival in August illuminates the night sky with hundreds of fireworks launched from boats on the water.

• The Kangensai Festival in summer features traditional Heian-period court music and dance performed on ornately decorated boats near the shrine.

• Autumn brings the Momiji Festival, where the island maple trees turn brilliant shades of red and gold, creating a magical backdrop for the shrine.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Keep a close eye on your personal belongings, especially your passport and Shinkansen tickets, as they are essential for your return journey.

• Stay hydrated and use sun protection during the summer months, as the walking portions of the tour can be physically demanding in the heat.

• Be cautious when walking near the water edge on Miyajima during high tide, as the stone pathways can become slippery.