Setting out on a 30-minute one-way cruise from Miyahama Onsen to Miyajima is a captivating way to experience the natural beauty of Hiroshima Bay. This intimate boat ride accommodates up to eight passengers, offering a unique perspective on the stunning landscapes. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely interlude before exploring Miyajima or simply want to learn about the region’s tranquil ambiance, this cruise presents an alluring opportunity. What awaits beyond the shores of Miyajima, however, is a true marvel that will leave you eager to disembark and uncover its secrets.

Key Points

  • The 30-minute one-way cruise departs from Okushin Pier in Miyahamaonsen and arrives at Pier 3 in Miyajima.
  • The cruise has a starting price of $116.07 per person and a maximum capacity of 8 travelers.
  • Participants must be over 7 years old, and infants 6 and under can travel for free on laps.
  • The cruise is not wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate.
  • Travelers must arrange their own transportation from Miyajima pier after the cruise.

Cruise Overview

The cruise from Miyahama Onsen to Miyajima is a 30-minute one-way experience that transports travelers across the scenic waters of Hiroshima, Japan.

Priced from $116.07 per person, the cruise accommodates a maximum of 8 travelers. Participants must be over 7 years old, with infants 6 and under traveling for free but sitting on laps.

The cruise isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate. Travelers should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and bring supplies like drinks and waterproof cases for their smartphones.

Course changes may occur due to weather, sea conditions, tides, or participant health.

Meeting and End Points

Travelers meet at the Okushin Pier, located at 1-chōme-3-3 Miyahamaonsen, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima 739-0454, Japan.

The pier is accessible via the Ohno Heart Bus from Onoura Station, a 5-minute walk, or by taxi from JR Onoura Station.

After the 30-minute cruise, the boat docks at Pier 3 in Miyajima, Miyajimacho, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima 739-0588, Japan.

This is the end point of the journey. Travelers must provide their own transportation from the Miyajima pier to their next destination.

Participation Requirements

Participants must be over 7 years old, with infants 6 years and under allowed to sit on laps free of charge.

Service animals are permitted, but those with heart problems or serious medical conditions can’t join.

While the cruise isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.

Confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

The weather policy allows for cancellations due to inclement weather, with no fees.

Proper clothing and personal items like drinks and waterproofing for smartphones are recommended to ensure a comfortable and safe cruise experience.

What to Expect and Recommendations

Confirmation of the cruise booking is typically received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

The cruise operator closely monitors weather conditions and will notify customers by 3:00 PM the day before if a cancellation is necessary due to inclement weather. No cancellation fees are charged in such cases.

To ensure a comfortable experience, the following recommendations are advised:

  1. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for the season, such as long sleeves, a hat, and sunglasses in summer, or outerwear, a knit hat, and a scarf in winter.
  2. Bring drinks, waterproofing for smartphones, and personal injury prevention measures.
  3. Be aware that there are no restroom facilities along the route, so plan accordingly.

Environmental Considerations and Policies

Along the cruise route, there are no restroom facilities available. Passengers are advised to use the restrooms before boarding. During the journey, guests are expected to respect the natural environment and avoid approaching or disturbing any marine animals. The cruise operator reserves the right to alter the course due to weather, sea conditions, tides, or participant health concerns. Cancellations due to customer delays will incur a 100% fee, so it is crucial to contact the operator promptly if running late.

Environmental Considerations Policies
Restroom Facilities No facilities along the route
Marine Animal Interaction Avoid approaching animals
Course Changes Possible due to weather, conditions, or health
Cancellation Policy Non-refundable, 100% fee for customer delays

Preparing for the Cruise

Travelers are encouraged to dress in comfortable clothing suitable for the season.

In the summer, long sleeves, a hat, and sunglasses are recommended to protect against the sun.

During the winter, outerwear, a knit hat, and a scarf can help keep you warm.

To enhance your experience, be sure to:

  1. Bring drinks to stay hydrated.
  2. Waterproof your smartphone to protect it from the elements.
  3. Pack personal injury prevention measures, such as seasickness medication, if needed.

Onboard Experience

Once aboard the boat, passengers can settle in and enjoy the scenic 30-minute journey across the Seto Inland Sea to Miyajima.

The boat’s open-air design allows for unobstructed views of the surrounding islands and mountains. Passengers can snap photos, breathe in the salty air, and relax as the boat gently glides across the water.

Onboard amenities are limited, but travelers are encouraged to bring their own drinks and snacks to enhance the experience.

Throughout the cruise, the captain provides commentary on the passing landmarks and natural wonders.

Before arriving at Miyajima, the boat slows to allow passengers to take in the iconic floating torii gate.

Exploring Miyajima After the Cruise

After disembarking from the cruise at Pier 3 on Miyajima, visitors can begin exploring the island’s many attractions.

Top sights include:

  1. The iconic Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its floating torii gate.
  2. Daisho-in Temple, a Buddhist temple with stunning gardens and panoramic views.
  3. Mount Misen, the island’s sacred peak, accessible by hiking trails or a ropeway for breathtaking vistas.

With over 2,000 free-roaming deer, Miyajima offers a serene, nature-filled experience just a short cruise from Miyahama Onsen.

Travelers can discover the island’s rich history and spiritual significance at their own pace.

Since You Asked

Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?

The cruise doesn’t offer any discounts or package deals. The price is a fixed rate that varies based on group size, starting from $116.07 per person. Travelers should book early to secure their spot on this popular cruise.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Onboard?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks onboard the cruise. However, it’s recommended to avoid messy or odorous items that could disturb other travelers. Proper disposal of any waste is also expected to maintain the vessel’s cleanliness.

Is There a Luggage Storage Facility at the Departure Point?

There is no dedicated luggage storage facility at the Okushin Pier departure point. Passengers can bring small personal items onboard, but larger luggage must be left behind or transported separately.

How Much Time Is Allotted for Exploring Miyajima After the Cruise?

The cruise does not provide specific time allotted for exploring Miyajima after arrival. Travelers are free to explore Miyajima at their own pace once the 30-minute one-way cruise reaches the Pier 3 drop-off point on the island.

Are There Any Safety Briefings or Instructions Provided Before the Cruise?

The cruise operator provides a brief safety briefing before departure, covering key information like boarding procedures, emergency instructions, and responsible environmental practices. Travelers are advised to listen closely and follow all crew directives throughout the journey.

The Sum Up

The Miyahama Onsen to Miyajima cruise offers a delightful 30-minute journey across Hiroshima Bay. Priced from $116.07, this intimate cruise accommodates up to eight travelers aged seven and above, providing a unique opportunity to marvel at the stunning landscapes before exploring the renowned Itsukushima Shrine and natural wonders of Miyajima. With consideration for the environment, the cruise is an ideal way to begin the Miyajima experience.