Train Tickets from Kyoto to Hiroshima
Getting from Kyoto to Hiroshima by Train
On the way from Kyoto to Hiroshima, two of Japan's most historically relevant cities, enjoy the effortless efficiency of high-speed Japan bullet trains as you ride along on the Sanyo Shinkansen line. The two cities famously depict Japan's history, for many different reasons. Hiroshima, a city in constant reinvention, driven by hopes and the lessons of its tragic past are a highlight in Japan's modern history. Kyoto, the country's old capital, the city of a thousand temples, is a prime destination for Japanese visitors.
With its preserved cultural heritage and its many temples, shrines and historical landmarks, Kyoto offers a different experience than Hiroshima, which is not only known for its historical sights but also for its diverse local cuisine and its growing modern allure. Compared to the more serene Kyoto, Hiroshima boasts a more dynamic vibe, an atmosphere often enjoyed by visitors.
More information about your journey to Hiroshima
As the Shinkansen zooms through the picturesque Japanese countryside, passengers are treated to a captivating journey that showcases the seamless transition from the timeless allure of rural Japan and Kyoto's historical legacy to a city that is constantly evolving. This popular route, often the final leg of the renowned "Golden Route", takes travelers on a scenic ride where Kyoto's suburbs gradually give way to charming villages and majestic mountain landscapes. After approximately an hour and a half, the train arrives in the gorgeous Hiroshima region.
Upon reaching Hiroshima, passengers are greeted by Hiroshima Station, the gateway to a world of interesting activities, captivating sights, and mouthwatering cuisine. From the poignant Peace Memorial Park and Museum, which stands as a testament to the city's resilience, to the nearby Atomic Bomb Dome, Hiroshima offers a profound blend of history and contemporary vibrancy. The bustling downtown district of Hondori, the lively shopping streets, and the abundance of eateries serving the local delicacy, okonomiyaki, all contribute to Hiroshima's unique charm.
Furthermore, Hiroshima serves as a launching pad to explore other regional treasures. A popular day trip takes visitors to Miyajima, where friendly deer roam freely amidst serene temple grounds. Alternatively, one can venture into the awe-inspiring Sandankyo Gorge or discover the allure of the islands surrounding Hiroshima Bay. Each destination offers its own distinct charm, adding to the allure of this remarkable region.
Note: Hiroshima Station may not be the last stop on this Shinkansen line, that can continue to Hakata (Fukuoka). Please be mindful of the stops in order to get off at the right station.
The Sanyo Shinkansen line is operated by Japan Railways (JR), the largest rail company in Japan. Tickets booked with Japan Experience are issued through an official partnership with JR West, meaning you are dealing directly with the train operator that will take you from Kyoto to Hiroshima.
Advantages of taking the train from Kyoto to Hiroshima
How to book your Kyoto to Hiroshima train tickets?
Shinkansen Information
The Sanyo Shinkansen, connecting Kyoto and Hiroshima, is renowned for its efficiency and speed. With stops at major cities like Kobe or Okayama, the Shinkansen covers a distance of approximately 380 kilometers (236 miles). The journey, taking on average 1 hour and 40 minutes, allows travelers to witness the changing landscapes from the Kansai region of Kyoto to the Hiroshima region. Trains from Kyoto to Hiroshima depart from the old Japanese capital at Kyoto Station and arrive at Hiroshima Station.
Here are the different Shinkansen trains available between Kyoto and Hiroshima, and where they each stop:
Why book your train tickets with Japan Experience?
How to exchange train tickets in Japan
When you purchase a train ticket with Japan Experience, you will receive a QR code via email.
To receive your usable tickets, simply scan the QR code at ticket machines located inside stations in Japan and, if asked, enter the phone number associated with your order, which Japan Experience will provide you with.
In lieu of the QR code, the five digit registration number (beginning with the number “4”) found in the order confirmation email can also be used.
Please find more information below about ticket fares and exchanging your train tickets upon arriving in Japan, whether it is at the airport or at major stations in the city. With your QR code, you will also receive a detailed user guide to help you through the easy and efficient process of getting your physical train tickets in Japan.
Read more about the exchange process, conditions and validity of train tickets here
How far in advance can I book train tickets?
You can book train tickets in Japan between 9 months prior to your train's departure date and 3 days before departure.
Is there a special train ticket fare for children?
Yes, there are special fares applicable for children. Ages 12 and up are considered adults, but kids aged from 6 to 11 benefit from a reduced child fare. Children under the age of 6 travel for free. This free fare is limited to 2 tickets, meaning any additional child under 6 will then pay the classic child fare.
Where to exchange your train tickets in Japan depending on the region?
In the JR West area (blue), you can exchange your QR code for a physical train ticket at reserved seat ticket machines in stations, or at Midori-no-Madoguchi ticket windows with station staff. In the JR Central area (orange), you can exchange your QR code at reserved seat ticket vending machines at indicated stations. In the JR East area (green), you can exchange your train tickets at Shinkansen stations, major stations in the Tokyo metropolitan area, and Narita Airport stations.
How to use your train tickets in Japan?
To use your train tickets once you have exchanged them, simply head to Kyoto Station, insert your train ticket into the automatic gates (don't forget to take it back), and head to the right platform to hop on your train. On board the train, find the seat number that is on your ticket if you have a seat reservation, and enjoy the ride! Once you've arrived in Hiroshima, insert the ticket again at the gates upon exiting, and the historic southern city is now yours to explore.
Modification and Cancelation
Order cancellation
Customers have up to 3 working days prior to their departure date to cancel their train ticket orders as long as they have not scanned the corresponding QR code and exchanged for their physical train tickets. A 15% cancellation fee will be charged, and the QR code will be instantly deactivated upon order cancellation. Cancellation of only a portion of the booking is not possible.
For train ticket orders that have already had the corresponding QR code scanned and where the tickets have been received, or orders in less than 3 working days before departure, orders may be canceled at JR Station offices in the departure city up to 10 minutes before your train departure, where a refund will be issued with a 5%-10% cancellation fee, depending on the station and office. This refund will be made in cash in Japanese yen.
Cancellation cannot be done at ticket machines. Please note JR Central offices can only cancel routes running through JR Central lines.
Past the day and time of departure, refunds cannot be issued, regardless if the corresponding QR code has been used or not, and regardless if customers have received their physical tickets or not. Note that however, if you missed the departure train of the time, you can still board the next trains within 1 hour, in non-reserved seats.
These cancellation conditions still apply after one modification, according to the modification conditions below.
Order modification
If you want to modify:
- Departure time on the same day OR seat for another seat except luggage seat:
Japan Experience can modify one time, free of charge, your booking if the corresponding QR code has not been used AND if it is NOT within 3 working days of the departure date.
You will then be sent a new QR code to use at JR stations to exchange for your new tickets.
Otherwise, you will need to go to JR station machines to exchange your QR code to receive your tickets and then change the departure time at the same machine up to 10 minutes prior to your train departure.
You cannot modify the same ticket twice. For the second modification, the order will need to be canceled (check cancellation conditions) and then re-ordered with the new travel information.
- Departure date, route, seat for luggage seat, number of seats in the booking:
Japan Experience cannot modify your booking. You will need to go to JR station machines to exchange QR code to receive your tickets and change time at the same machine up to 10 minutes prior to departure. There may be a difference in fare to be paid on the spot.
You cannot modify the same ticket twice. For the second modification, the order will need to be canceled (check cancellation conditions) and then re-ordered with the new travel information.
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If you have made a mistake in your departure date or number of seats, you have to make a new booking online. Japan Experience will allow you to cancel your previous order free of charge. Kindly note that modifications for the new issued tickets won't be possible.
Eligibility
All persons above the age of 12, with no restrictions of residence status or nationality, are eligible to purchase individual train tickets (unlike the Japan Rail Pass and some JR regional passes, for example). Japanese individuals as well as foreigners living in Japan can thus purchase train tickets online. Under the age of 12, the aforementioned child fare conditions apply.
Validity of train tickets
Train tickets issued are only valid for the date and time indicated on your booking, and are to be used only on the Kyoto to Hiroshima service.
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