Hiroshima and Miyajima 1 Day Bus Tour From Osaka and Kyoto

The Hiroshima and Miyajima 1 Day Bus Tour from Osaka and Kyoto offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of western Japan. Travelers can explore the somber legacy of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, then find serenity amidst the picturesque UNESCO World Heritage site of Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island. With a Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki lunch and the chance to encounter the island’s friendly deer, this tour provides a well-rounded cultural experience. However, the true highlight may lie in the journey itself, as participants are transported by a comfortable, air-conditioned bus with an English-speaking guide. What other surprises await on this unforgettable day trip?

Key Points

• This 1-day bus tour from Osaka and Kyoto provides an immersive exploration of Hiroshima’s history and a visit to the serene Miyajima Island.
• Highlights include the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, the iconic Itsukushima Shrine’s floating torii gate, and opportunities to hike and experience Miyajima’s natural beauty.
• The tour includes a Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki lunch and accommodates various dietary requirements and restrictions.
• The tour features comfortable, air-conditioned transportation and an English-speaking guide, ensuring a hassle-free and informative experience.
• The tour has received excellent customer reviews, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, praising the knowledgeable guide and the overall value for money.

Tour Overview

This 1-day bus tour from Osaka and Kyoto provides an immersive exploration of Hiroshima’s profound history and the serene beauty of Miyajima Island.

During the excursion, travelers will ride a comfortable, air-conditioned bus accompanied by an English-speaking guide.

The itinerary includes a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, where visitors can reflect on the city’s tragic past and its resilience.

Next, the group will take the Shinkansen bullet train to Miyajima Island, home to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine.

Here, guests can stroll through the tranquil setting and experience the island’s natural splendor.

The tour also includes a delicious lunch of Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, allowing participants to savor the local cuisine.

Attractions and Activities

The tour begins with a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, where travelers can reflect on the city’s tragic past and learn about its resilience.

After this solemn experience, the group heads to the beautiful Miyajima Island. Here, they’ll be awestruck by the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, whose floating torii gate appears to rise from the sea. Visitors can also take in the island’s serene natural beauty, with opportunities to hike or simply wander the peaceful streets.

The day also includes a round-trip journey on the high-speed Shinkansen bullet train and a scenic ferry ride to Miyajima, giving travelers a chance to experience Japan’s renowned transportation systems.

Miyajima Island Experience

Upon arriving at Miyajima Island, visitors are immediately captivated by the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, whose floating torii gate appears to rise majestically from the sea. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its serene beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Visitors can explore the shrine’s ornate architecture, including the impressive wooden halls and shrines. They’ll also encounter the island’s friendly deer, which roam freely and are considered sacred.

Beyond the shrine, the island offers opportunities to hike scenic trails, visit historic temples, and savor local cuisine. The Miyajima Ferry provides a picturesque mode of transportation, offering stunning views of the island and the surrounding Seto Inland Sea.

Shinkansen (Bullet Train) Journey

After the serene exploration of Miyajima Island, travelers embark on the high-speed Shinkansen train for their journey back to Osaka or Kyoto.

The Shinkansen, renowned for its exceptional speed and punctuality, efficiently whisks passengers across the scenic Japanese landscape, offering a comfortable and efficient mode of transportation.

With its sleek design and advanced technology, the Shinkansen provides a seamless and enjoyable experience, allowing visitors to sit back, relax, and take in the passing views as they return to their starting point.

The Shinkansen journey offers several advantages:

• Unparalleled speed, reaching up to 200 mph (320 km/h)
• Punctual and reliable service, with a reputation for on-time arrivals
• Comfortable and spacious seating, providing a relaxing ride

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

Following the serene exploration of Miyajima Island, the tour group now turns its attention to the sobering yet poignant Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, a powerful reminder of the devastating impact of nuclear warfare.

The museum’s exhibits provide a comprehensive and thoughtful examination of the events surrounding the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945. Visitors are taken on an emotional journey, learning about the historical context, the immediate aftermath, and the long-term effects on the city and its inhabitants.

Through harrowing personal accounts, artifacts, and multimedia displays, the museum conveys the profound human tragedy, inspiring reflection on the importance of peace and the prevention of such catastrophic events in the future.

Dietary Accommodations and Restrictions

The tour accommodates various dietary requirements, allowing participants to inform the organizers of any allergies or restrictions in advance.

The lunch of Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, however, will exclude the sunny-side up eggs starting August 2023, a change implemented to cater to a wider range of dietary needs.

This adjustment ensures that the tour is more inclusive, catering to:

• Vegetarians
• Individuals with egg allergies
• Those following specific dietary restrictions

Logistical Information

This one-day bus tour from Osaka and Kyoto to Hiroshima and Miyajima provides convenient transportation and pickup/drop-off services. Participants can expect an air-conditioned bus and an English-speaking guide throughout the journey. Upon booking, travelers receive confirmation within 48 hours, and a minimum of 10 participants is required for the tour to proceed. Cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Logistical Information
Duration	1 day
Pickup/Drop-off	Stations in Osaka and Kyoto
Transportation	Air-conditioned bus, Shinkansen (bullet train), Miyajima Ferry
Guide	English-speaking
Accessibility	Not wheelchair accessible, not recommended for certain medical conditions
Minimum Participants	10

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Customers have provided 14 reviews for this one-day bus tour, offering valuable insights into their experiences. The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with the tour receiving an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Travelers particularly appreciate the knowledgeable English-speaking guide, the comfortable air-conditioned bus, and the seamless coordination of transportation, including the Shinkansen bullet train and Miyajima Ferry.

Excellent value for money, with the tour covering a lot of ground in a single day.

Well-paced itinerary, allowing ample time to explore the Peace Memorial Museum and Itsukushima Shrine.

Delicious Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki lunch, catering well to dietary requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour’s suitability for children depends on various factors, such as the child’s age, interests, and ability to participate in the activities. While some tours may accommodate children, others may not be appropriate for young travelers due to the content or physical demands.

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary?

While the itinerary is set, some customization may be possible. Travelers should inquire about modifications when booking the tour, as the operator may accommodate special requests within reason, such as adjusting pickup/drop-off locations or adding short stops.

Do We Need to Bring Our Own Water/Snacks?

The tour generally provides water and light snacks, but it’s recommended to bring any additional drinks or snacks you may want during the day. Staying hydrated and having personal refreshments on hand can enhance the overall experience.

Are Photography and Video Allowed at All Sites?

Photography and video are generally allowed at most tourist sites, but there may be some restrictions or prohibited areas. It’s best to check with site staff or tour guides for specific rules and guidelines.

Can We Stop for Souvenir Shopping During the Tour?

The tour’s itinerary typically doesn’t include dedicated souvenir shopping stops. However, visitors may have opportunities to purchase souvenirs at the Miyajima Ferry terminal or during free time at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island.

Recap

This day tour offers travelers an immersive experience exploring Hiroshima’s profound history and the serene beauty of Miyajima Island.

Highlights include:

• Visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
• Exploring the UNESCO-listed Itsukushima Shrine
• Enjoying a Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki lunch

With an English-speaking guide, comfortable transportation, and the opportunity to interact with the island’s friendly deer, this tour provides an enriching and well-rounded introduction to these remarkable destinations.