How to get from Osaka to Hiroshima

These two major cities in the more southern portion of Honshu Island are some of the most eccentric destinations in all of Japan. Both have a rich history and a fair share of attractions to visit. In Hiroshima, be sure to visit all the sites that were constructed in commemoration of the atomic bomb attack at the end of World War II, and in Osaka, countless neighborhoods are home to backstreets jam packed with lively izakayas and restaurants. Especially with these two cities, it’s important to be aware of the rivaling iterations of Okonomiyaki; the Osaka version is dense and mixed, while the Hiroshima version is more layered in its construction, with grilled soba noodles on the bottom. Be sure to try both and pick a favorite!

Trip Duration Approx. 1-1.5 hours
First & Last Departure 7:11 AM/10:29 PM
💶 Cost From 9,710 yen
🚆 Distance 400 kilometers
🚉 Departing/Arriving Station Shin-Osaka Station/
Hiroshima Station
Hikari Shinkansen Bullet TrainKodama Shinkansen Bullet TrainNozomi Shinkansen Bullet TrainMizuho Shinkansen Bullet Train

Reserve tickets for Osaka to Hiroshima!

READ MORE ABOUT SEAT RESERVATIONS // How to Reserve Seats on the Train in Japan

Oversized baggage on the Shinkansen

A variety of requirements must be fulfilled in order for passengers with large suitcases to board the bullet train. According to Japan Railway regulations, luggage over 160 cm in length, width, and height needs to be checked into the special bulky baggage section at the back of the train car. Owners of such bags must additionally make reservations for seats near this section. Please be advised that you cannot board the Shinkansen with luggage that are larger than 250 cm overall.

Baby carriages, musical instruments in cases, and sporting goods (bikes, snowboards, etc.) in cases are exempt from the baggage restrictions.

Dimensions for luggage on the Shinkansen bullet train

READ MORE ABOUT OVERSIZED BAGGAGE RULE // New Luggage Reservation Rules for the Shinkansen

For those who are interested in even more ancient history, a must-see site is the Mozu Tombs, which is home to a collection of kofun (burial tombs) from the fifth century. These ancient burial grounds are a rare historic site among the modern buildings inside the Osaka metropolitan area. From above, the burial grounds take on different shapes and sizes, with the larger ones resembling key holes. 

The primary servicing station for passengers traveling to and from Osaka via Shinkansen will be Shin-Osaka Station, a more modern station constructed in 1964 to manage the country's first Shinkansen bullet train operation. Nearby Kiyasuso Hanpo is worth checking out. It's well known for its unusually shaped rectangular mitarashi dango—roasted, chewy mochi covered in sweet sauce. Inside Shin-Osaka Station, Chikira House is a specialized shop that sells Nissin Chicken Ramen products. Get ramen-flavored soft serve ice cream, savory appetizers, and Osaka-specific souvenirs. A unique delight that will surely remain in your memory throughout your visit to Osaka!

Osaka

Osaka, Japan

@Wikimedia

There are some hidden treasures worth exploring off the coast of Hiroshima. The view of Miyajima Shrine, which is well-known for its "floating" torii gate that rises out of the water during high tide and is particularly lovely at sunset, is one of the most iconic in all of Hiroshima. The shrine itself, which has been around for centuries and is regarded as a global cultural site, is the major attraction, though. Animal enthusiasts will welcome Okunoshima, an island a little distance away where about 1,000 wild rabbits graze freely. The island has a variety of amenities, including a hotel and cafe for overnight stays.

Taking the Tokaido-Shinkansen to Hiroshima Station is the necessary transportation while traveling to Hiroshima from Shin-Osaka Station. You’ll have plenty of leg room and the opportunity to buy a premium "eki-ben," a bento box designed specifically for long-distance train travel, to munch on while you take in the passing countryside.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima, Japan

@Wikimedia

Hiroshima

@flickr/ Geoff Whalan

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