TokyotoHiroshima(Miyajima)

From Tokyo to Hiroshima by bus

"Planning to travel from Tokyo to Hiroshima? Not sure whether to take a flight or the Shinkansen? If you're looking for the most cost-effective way to travel, then the best option is definitely the highway bus!
Choosing a highway bus from Tokyo to Hiroshima is not only budget-friendly but also offers a comfortable travel experience. On weekdays, bus tickets are available for around 6,500 yen, whereas the Shinkansen ticket prices on weekdays are around 20,000 yen, making the price difference significant. The highway bus is the best choice for saving money.
In Tokyo, highway bus boarding locations are conveniently located in major tourist areas, such as JR Tokyo Station, BUSTA Shinjuku, and Akihabara Station. You can select the most suitable boarding point based on your itinerary and accommodation, making your journey more flexible and convenient.
Opting for an overnight highway bus that departs in the evening and arrives in Hiroshima the next morning allows you to get a full night's sleep on the bus, saving on one night's accommodation costs and arriving in Hiroshima refreshed. The highway buses offer comfortable seats and spacious interiors, making your night journey more pleasant and relaxing.
The travel time from Tokyo to Hiroshima by highway bus is approximately 12 hours. During this time, you can relax, enjoy the scenery along the way, and avoid the hassle of transfers and security checks associated with Shinkansen and air travel. Choosing a highway bus not only saves money but also allows you to make better use of your travel time.
In summary, taking a highway bus from Tokyo to Hiroshima is the most economical transportation option. No matter where you're starting from in Tokyo, you'll find a convenient boarding location. The comfortable travel environment and flexible schedule offered by the highway bus ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Book your seat in advance to secure your spot, and choose the highway bus to make your Tokyo to Hiroshima trip more relaxed and stress-free."

If the bus code starts with an X or a Z then you can make a booking from one month in advance. For all other buses, bookings can be made between 1 and 4 months before the intended departure date.
We suggest that you visit our website closer to your desired departure date and make a booking then.

Major Bus Stops

Bus Companies & Fares

Several bus companies operate on the Tokyo–Hiroshima route. Most are overnight services — you depart in the evening and arrive the next morning. Here is a quick comparison to help you choose.

Operator Fare (one way) Type Key features
WILLER EXPRESS From ¥4,000 Overnight Multiple seat types · USB charging · women's seats
Chugoku JR Bus From ¥5,000 Overnight Station-front stops · Wi-Fi · onboard toilet
Hiroshima Bus / Dream Hiroshima From ¥4,500 Overnight 3-row independent seats · onboard toilet · women's seats
WILLER EXPRESS — Tokyo to Hiroshima
From ¥4,000
Overnight service Multiple seat types USB charging Women's seats

WILLER operates overnight buses on the Tokyo–Hiroshima route with a range of seat types from 4-row economy to 3-row canopy seats with privacy curtains. Early-bird fares make this one of the most affordable options. Departs from Shinjuku Busta and arrives in the Hiroshima area the next morning.

Tokyo stops: Shinjuku Busta · Ikebukuro Sunshine
Hiroshima stops: Hiroshima Station South Exit · Hiroshima Bus Center

Chugoku JR Bus (中国JRバス)
From ¥5,000
Overnight service Onboard toilet Wi-Fi Station-front stops

Operated by Chugoku JR Bus, this service connects Tokyo Station with Hiroshima Station — both station-front stops make transfers easy. Onboard toilet and Wi-Fi available. A reliable option for those who prefer the convenience of JR.

Tokyo stops: Tokyo Station (Yaesu South Gate area) · Shinjuku
Hiroshima stops: Hiroshima Station South Exit · Hiroshima Bus Center

Hiroshima Bus / Dream Hiroshima-go
From ¥4,500
Overnight service 3-row independent seats Onboard toilet Women's seats

Dream Hiroshima-go offers 3-row independent seats for added privacy on the long overnight journey. Onboard toilet and women's seating available. Multiple stops in the Hiroshima area including Miyajima-guchi for those heading to Miyajima Island.

Tokyo stops: Shinjuku · Tokyo Station area
Hiroshima stops: Hiroshima Station · Hiroshima Bus Center · Miyajima-guchi (select services)

Bus Stop Guide

Bus stops vary by operator. Always check the boarding location map in your booking confirmation email before travel.

Tokyo Departure Stops

Shinjuku Busta (4F, JR Shinjuku Station South Gate)

The most popular departure point. WILLER and several other operators depart from here. Coin lockers, convenience stores and waiting areas are available 24 hours — ideal for an evening departure.

Tokyo Bus Terminal Yaesu (in front of Tokyo Station)

Chugoku JR Bus and some other operators depart from the Tokyo Station area. Convenient for passengers arriving by Shinkansen or JR lines.

Ikebukuro / Shibuya (select services)

Some WILLER services also depart from Ikebukuro Sunshine or Shibuya, giving more flexibility for where you start your overnight journey.

Hiroshima Arrival Stops

Hiroshima Bus Center (紙屋町・そごう前)

The main highway bus terminal in Hiroshima, located in the city centre near Kamiyacho (Sogo Department Store). Directly connected to the Hiroshima tram (streetcar) network and close to Peace Memorial Park. Most services stop here.

Hiroshima Station South Exit

Many services also stop at Hiroshima Station South Exit, making it easy to continue by JR, Shinkansen or local tram. Coin lockers and convenience stores are available inside the station.

Miyajima-guchi (select services)

Some services stop at Miyajima-guchi, the ferry terminal for Miyajima Island (Itsukushima Shrine). If your main destination is Miyajima, check for services that stop here directly.

What to Do After Arrival

Overnight buses typically arrive in Hiroshima early in the morning (around 6–8 AM), often before hotels open for check-in. Here's what to do while you wait.

Arriving in Hiroshima

① Store your luggage

Coin lockers are available at Hiroshima Bus Center and throughout Hiroshima Station (South and North exits). ecbo cloak partner shops near the station and bus center also offer luggage storage if lockers are full. Storing your luggage first lets you explore the city hands-free before check-in.

② Shower & freshen up

Rasse Hiroshima (near Hiroshima Station · open from early morning)
Sauna and bath facility near Hiroshima Station with shower rooms available from early morning. Popular with overnight bus travellers arriving in the city.

Capsule hotels near Hiroshima Station
Several capsule hotels near Hiroshima Station offer shower-only plans or early check-in options at reasonable rates.

③ Kill time until check-in

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park (平和記念公園) (15 min by tram from Hiroshima Station)
The Peace Memorial Park and A-Bomb Dome are moving and important sites to visit — the park is accessible from early morning and there are no opening hours. A profound and peaceful way to start your first morning in Hiroshima.

Orizuru Tower Observation Deck (near Peace Park · open from 10 AM)
Panoramic views over Hiroshima and the Seto Inland Sea. Includes the Orizuru (paper crane) experience.

Hiroshima Station Ekie (エキエ広島) (Hiroshima Station · from 8 AM)
The shopping complex inside Hiroshima Station has cafés and restaurants opening from the morning — ideal for breakfast while waiting for check-in.

Arriving in Tokyo (Shinjuku / Tokyo Station)

① Store your luggage

Coin lockers are available on Floor 4 of Shinjuku Busta and throughout JR Shinjuku Station. For Tokyo Station arrivals, lockers inside the station are the most convenient option. If full, try ecbo cloak at nearby shops.

② Shower & freshen up

Shinjuku Natural Hot Spring Thermae-yu (~13 min walk from Shinjuku Busta · open 24 hrs)
Natural hot spring with 6 baths and sauna. Special early morning rates before 9 AM. From ¥2,364 on weekdays.

Ruby Palace Shinjuku (~9 min walk · open 24 hrs · women only)
Women-only spa. Entry from ¥1,000 between 4–10 AM.

③ Kill time until check-in

Kohikan Edinburgh (~10 min walk from Shinjuku Busta · open 24 hrs)
Classic coffee shop open around the clock. Morning set Mon–Sat 6–11:30 AM. Free Wi-Fi.

Tsukiji Outer Market (near Tokyo Station · from ~5–6 AM)
Fresh seafood breakfast and street food stalls opening early.

Highway Bus vs Shinkansen vs Flight

Not sure which transport to choose for Tokyo–Hiroshima? Here's a quick comparison.

🚌 Highway Bus 🚄 Shinkansen ✈️ Flight
Fare From ¥4,000 ~¥19,000 ~¥10,000+
(Haneda → Hiroshima Airport)
Travel time ~11–12 hrs
(overnight)
~4 hrs ~1.5 hrs
(+ airport transfers)
Departure point City centre
(Shinjuku / Tokyo Stn)
City centre
(Tokyo Stn)
Haneda /羽田
(airport transfer needed)
Reservation Up to 3 months ahead Anytime Up to ~1 year ahead
Overnight travel ✔ Saves hotel cost
(travel while you sleep)
✘ Not available ✘ No red-eye flights
Luggage Trunk storage free Overhead rack
(large bags: rules apply)
Check-in bag: fee may apply
Best for Budget & overnight saving Speed & convenience Speed (if near Haneda)

* Fares are approximate. Shinkansen (Nozomi) is ~¥19,000 one way. Flight prices vary by season. Highway bus early-bird fares may sell out quickly.

Other popular routes

Sightseeing Guide: What to See & Do in Hiroshima

Hiroshima is one of Japan's most historically significant cities, but it's also a vibrant modern city with excellent food, beautiful scenery and easy access to Miyajima Island. Here are the top sights and how to get to each.

🕊️ Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & A-Bomb Dome (原爆ドーム)
UNESCO World Heritage Free entry (park) Open 24 hrs (park)

The most important site in Hiroshima. The A-Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome) — the skeletal remains of the former Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall — was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. The adjacent Peace Memorial Park contains the Peace Memorial Museum, the Children's Peace Monument (Sadako's paper crane statue), and the Flame of Peace. A deeply moving and essential visit.

Peace Memorial Museum: Open 8:30 AM–6 PM (extended in summer). Admission ¥200.

From Hiroshima Bus Center, take tram Line 6 to Genbaku-Dome-Mae (~5 min). From Hiroshima Station, take tram Line 2 or 6 to Genbaku-Dome-Mae (~15 min, ¥180).
⛩️ Miyajima Island & Itsukushima Shrine (宮島・厳島神社)
UNESCO World Heritage Floating torii gate Day trip from Hiroshima

Miyajima Island (officially Itsukushima) is home to the iconic floating torii gate — one of Japan's most photographed landmarks. The vermilion torii appears to float on the water at high tide. Itsukushima Shrine, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was built over the sea and is equally stunning. The island also has deer roaming freely, hiking trails up Mt. Misen, and excellent seafood (especially oysters and anago eel).

Itsukushima Shrine: Open daily 6:30 AM–6 PM. Admission ¥300.

From Hiroshima Station, take the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajima-guchi Station (~26 min, ¥410), then the Miyajima Ferry (~10 min, ¥200). Total: ~40 min from Hiroshima Station. Some overnight buses drop off directly at Miyajima-guchi.
🏯 Hiroshima Castle (広島城)
Reconstructed castle History museum Cherry blossoms (April)

Originally built in 1589, Hiroshima Castle was destroyed by the atomic bomb in 1945 and rebuilt in 1958. The castle tower houses a museum covering Hiroshima's history from feudal times to the present. The surrounding grounds are particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season (late March–early April).

Opening hours: 9 AM–6 PM (5 PM in winter). Admission ¥370.

From Hiroshima Bus Center or Kamiyacho tram stop, walk ~15 min north. From Hiroshima Station, take tram Line 2 to Kamiyacho-nishi (~10 min), then walk ~10 min.
🦌 Miyajima Ropeway & Mt. Misen (弥山)
Panoramic views Hiking trails Sacred mountain

Mt. Misen (535m) is the sacred mountain of Miyajima Island. The Miyajima Ropeway takes you most of the way up in about 15 minutes, followed by a 30-minute hike to the summit. From the top, you'll have 360° views over the Seto Inland Sea, Hiroshima city, and on clear days, all the way to the Kii Peninsula. The eternal flame on the summit has been burning for over 1,200 years.

Ropeway: From ¥2,000 (round trip). Operates daily ~9 AM–5 PM.

On Miyajima Island. Take the ropeway from Momijidani Station, a 15-min walk from the ferry pier, or walk the hiking trail (~90 min). Access Miyajima by ferry from Miyajima-guchi.
🦪 Hiroshima Food: Okonomiyaki & Oysters
Local cuisine Must-eat Affordable

Hiroshima has two unmissable local foods. Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is a layered savoury pancake (not mixed like Osaka-style) with noodles, cabbage, egg and toppings — try it at Okonomimura, a multi-floor building packed with okonomiyaki restaurants near Hatchobori. Hiroshima oysters are famous across Japan — best enjoyed grilled or fried at restaurants near Miyajima or the fish market.

Okonomimura: 5-min walk from Hatchobori tram stop (tram Line 1/2 from Hiroshima Station). Miyajima oysters: at restaurants on Miyajima Island near the ferry pier.
🌿 Shukkeien Garden (縮景園)
Traditional Japanese garden 17th century Cherry blossoms & autumn leaves

One of Hiroshima's most beautiful spots, Shukkeien is a traditional Japanese garden originally built in 1620. The garden features a central pond, teahouses, stone bridges and seasonal flowers — cherry blossoms in spring and maple leaves in autumn make it particularly stunning. A peaceful contrast to the intensity of the Peace Memorial sites.

Opening hours: 9 AM–5 PM (6 PM Apr–Sep). Admission ¥260.

From Hiroshima Station North Exit, walk ~10 min east. Or take tram Line 9 to Shukkei-en-mae (~5 min, ¥180).
🌊 Onomichi & the Shimanami Kaido (尾道・しまなみ海道)
Day trip from Hiroshima Cycling route Scenic islands

About 1 hour east of Hiroshima by JR, Onomichi is a charming hillside port town famous for its temple walk, cats and retro atmosphere. From Onomichi, the Shimanami Kaido is a 70km cycling route crossing 6 islands over the Seto Inland Sea to Imabari in Shikoku — considered one of the world's best cycling routes. Even a partial ride is spectacular.

From Hiroshima Station, take the JR Sanyo Line to Onomichi (~60 min, ¥1,520). Rental bicycles available at Onomichi Station.

FAQ

How long does the Tokyo to Hiroshima highway bus take?
The journey typically takes 11 to 12 hours. Most services are overnight, departing in the evening and arriving in Hiroshima the next morning.
Is a highway bus cheaper than the Shinkansen or a flight to Hiroshima?
Yes — significantly. Highway buses start from ¥4,000 with early-bird fares, compared to around ¥19,000 for the Shinkansen (Nozomi) and ¥10,000+ for flights from Haneda. Overnight buses also save you one night of hotel costs, making the total savings even greater. See the comparison table above for a full breakdown.
How far in advance can I book a ticket?
Most buses go on sale 1 to 3 months before the departure date. WILLER EXPRESS opens bookings about 3 months in advance. JR Bus services go on sale from 1 month before departure. We recommend booking early, especially during peak seasons.
Can I book a ticket on the day of travel?
Yes, if seats are available you can book up to a short time before departure. However, popular overnight services often sell out well in advance — early booking is strongly recommended.
Where do buses depart from in Tokyo?
The main departure points are Shinjuku Busta (4F, South Gate) for WILLER and Tokyo Bus Terminal Yaesu (in front of Tokyo Station) for Chugoku JR Bus. Some services also depart from Ikebukuro or Shibuya. Check the boarding map in your confirmation email.
Where do buses arrive in Hiroshima?
Most buses arrive at Hiroshima Bus Center (city centre, near Kamiyacho) or Hiroshima Station South Exit. Some services also stop at Miyajima-guchi for direct access to Miyajima Island. Check the arrival map in your confirmation email.
Do the buses have toilets and charging facilities?
Most overnight buses on the Tokyo–Hiroshima route have onboard toilets — this is particularly important on an 11–12 hour journey. USB/AC charging ports are available on many services. Buses with these facilities are clearly marked with icons on the search results page.
Are there rest stops during the journey?
Yes. Buses generally stop at service areas (SA) approximately every 2 to 3 hours. These stops give you a chance to use the restroom, grab food and stretch your legs — important on a long overnight journey.
Is it safe for women travelling alone?
Yes. WILLER EXPRESS and several other operators offer women-only seats or women-only coaches on select departures. You can filter by seat type on the search page.
How much luggage can I bring?
Each passenger may generally store one piece of luggage in the trunk (underfloor storage) and carry one small bag on board. Trunk size limits vary by operator — check the bus details page before booking. Suitcases are not permitted in the cabin. Pets, bicycles and musical instruments may not be accepted.

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What should I do if I leave something on the bus?
Please contact Kosokubus.com customer support as soon as possible with your booking number, a description of the lost item (colour, shape, brand), and the bus name. We will check with the bus company on your behalf.

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