Hiroshima Station: Shinkansen, Map, Restaurants, Coin Lockers and More
Hiroshima Station serves as your gateway to exploring this historically significant city and destinations like Miyajima Island and Kure. Whether you're arriving by Shinkansen or planning day trips from Hiroshima Station, this guide will help you navigate the station with confidence.
As a major stop on the Sanyo Shinkansen line, the station provides easy access to attractions including Peace Memorial Park and Hiroshima Castle. With 2025 renovations complete, enhanced facilities and multilingual support make travel easier for international visitors.
Hiroshima Station Overview
New Hiroshima Station Building Opening in 2025
On March 24, 2025, Hiroshima Station’s new building—minamoa and HOTEL GRANVIA HIROSHIMA SOUTH GATE—officially opened. This 20-story Hiroshima Station complex includes shopping floors up to the 7th floor, rooftop plazas, and a tram platform on the 2nd floor directly linked to JR and Shinkansen gates.
The design reflects Hiroshima’s “City of Water” theme, with atrium panels symbolizing local rivers and the Seto Inland Sea. New dining and souvenir shops, including Hiroshima-first brands, welcome both travelers and locals.
Essential Services for International Travelers
Hiroshima Station provides comprehensive support for foreign visitors. The station features multilingual signage in English, Chinese, and Korean, making navigation easier for international travelers. Tourist information centers offer assistance in multiple languages, helping visitors plan their journeys and find local attractions.
The station complex includes numerous restaurants, shops, and convenience stores. Banking services, currency exchange, and international ATMs are readily available. Free Wi-Fi access points throughout the station help travelers stay connected during their journey.
Shinkansen at Hiroshima Station
Shinkansen Lines Operating at Hiroshima Station
Hiroshima Station serves as a key stop on the Sanyo Shinkansen line, offering connections to major cities across Japan.
- Nozomi: The fastest service connecting Hiroshima with Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and other major cities.
- Hikari: A rapid service that stops at more stations than Nozomi while still offering efficient travel between key locations.
- Kodama: Local Shinkansen service that stops at every station along the Sanyo line—ideal for accessing smaller cities.
- Mizuho: The fastest connection between Hiroshima and Kyushu, serving cities such as Fukuoka, Kumamoto, and Kagoshima.
- Sakura: A semi-fast service on the same route as Mizuho, with more frequent stops and wide coverage across western Japan.
Hiroshima Station Map for Shinkansen Travelers
The Shinkansen section of Hiroshima Station is located on the third floor. After arriving at the station, follow the clearly marked signs to reach the Shinkansen ticket gates. The layout is designed to facilitate smooth transfers between different train services.
Elevators and escalators connect all levels of the station, making it accessible for travelers with luggage. The Shinkansen platforms are clearly numbered and feature electronic displays showing departure times and destinations in multiple languages.
● See More: Hiroshima Station Map | West Japan Railway Company
Hiroshima Station Shinkansen Gates and Platforms
Shinkansen ticket gates are located on the third floor of the station.
- Platforms 11 and 12: Serve westbound trains bound for Fukuoka, Kumamoto, and other Kyushu destinations.
- Platforms 13 and 14: Serve eastbound trains heading toward Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo.
Clear signage and announcements in multiple languages guide passengers to the correct platforms. The platforms feature waiting areas with seating and vending machines.
How to Buy Shinkansen Tickets
Purchasing Shinkansen tickets at Hiroshima Station is straightforward. Ticketing machines accept cash and IC cards, with instructions available in multiple languages. The JR Ticket Office provides personalized assistance for more complex reservations.
For the most convenient experience, book your Shinkansen tickets through Japan Bullet Train before arriving at the station. This service offers online reservations with multilingual customer support, making it easy to secure your preferred departure times and seat types.
Japan Bullet Train provides QR code tickets that can be exchanged for physical tickets at the station, eliminating the need to wait in lines. The service covers all major Shinkansen routes and offers flexible booking options for travelers.
Getting to and Around Hiroshima Station
Transportation from Hiroshima Airport and Major Cities
Airport limousine buses provide regular service between Hiroshima Airport and the station, with the journey taking approximately 45 minutes. These buses are comfortable and offer luggage storage space, making them ideal for international travelers.
Local Trains, Streetcars, and Shinkansen Connections at Hiroshima Station
Hiroshima station connects to multiple conventional train lines, including the Sanyo Main Line, Kure Line, and Geibi Line. These services provide access to regional destinations throughout Hiroshima Prefecture.
Hiroshima's streetcar system offers convenient connections to downtown areas and major attractions. Lines 1, 2, 5, and 6 serve the station with affordable transportation throughout the city.
After the August 2025 renovation, transfers become simpler with Shinkansen on the third floor, conventional trains on the second floor, and streetcar platforms also on the second floor for smooth connections.
Using Suica and Other IC Cards at Hiroshima Station
Suica cards work at Hiroshima Station for both Shinkansen and local train services. The station also accepts other major IC cards including ICOCA, Pasmo, and Kitaca. These cards are widely used across Hiroshima Station, not only for train fares but also at vending machines and convenience stores within the station complex.
IC card charging stations are available throughout Hiroshima Station, making it easy to top up your balance before travel. For international visitors, these cards offer a convenient cashless option, eliminating the need to buy separate tickets for each trip and simplifying transfers between Shinkansen and local transport.
Traveling with the Japan Rail Pass
The Japan Rail Pass covers Hikari, Sakura, and Kodama trains at Hiroshima Station. However, Nozomi and Mizuho services are not included in the standard pass. For access to these faster trains, Japan Rail Pass holders can purchase the "[ONLY WITH JAPAN RAIL PASS] NOZOMI MIZUHO Ticket" for an additional fee.
How to Get to Miyajima from Hiroshima Station
Reaching Miyajima Island from Hiroshima Station requires a combination of train and ferry travel.
Route | Duration & Features | JR Pass Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
Hiroshima Station → Miyajimaguchi Station | 25-28 minutes (JR Sanyo Main Line) | ✓ | Frequent service throughout the day |
Miyajimaguchi Station → Ferry Terminal | 5-minute walk | - | Clear signage from station |
Ferry | 10 minutes (JR/Matsudai Kisen) | JR ferry only ✓ | Runs every 10-15 minutes |
Miyajima Ferry Terminal → Itsukushima Shrine | Walking distance | - | Tourist attractions concentrated in area |
Facilities and Traveler Support
Coin Lockers and Luggage Storage Options
Hiroshima Station offers extensive luggage storage facilities. Coin lockers are available in various sizes throughout the station, with locations near the Shinkansen gates, shopping areas, and main exits.
Large IC card-operated lockers suitable for suitcases are located immediately outside the Shinkansen ticket gates. Additional lockers can be found in the passage between the Shinkansen gates and the General Information Center if the main area is full. Payment options include coins and IC cards.
For staffed luggage storage services, visit the ekie facility on the second floor.
Restaurants and Bento Shops
The station complex features numerous dining options catering to various tastes and budgets. The ekie and minamoa shopping areas house over 100 restaurants, cafes, and takeaway options, offering both Japanese and international cuisine.
Hiroshima's famous okonomiyaki is available at several locations within the station. Local specialties like oysters and momiji manju (maple leaf-shaped cakes) can be found at specialty shops. Bento boxes are perfect for eating on the Shinkansen, with options ranging from traditional Japanese meals to modern fusion dishes.
Tourist Information and Multilingual Assistance
The Tourist Information Center is located near the Shinkansen entrance, providing comprehensive assistance for international visitors.
Staff members speak English and can help with train schedules, local attractions, accommodation recommendations, and general travel advice. Maps, brochures, and digital information are available in multiple languages, helping visitors plan their Hiroshima experience effectively.
Free Wi-Fi, Pocket WiFi, and eSIM Availability
Hiroshima Station provides free Wi-Fi access at multiple locations, including the tourist information center and main waiting areas.
For continuous connectivity, Japan Wireless offers Pocket WiFi rentals with unlimited data and advance reservations. Japan Wireless eSIM is also available for compatible devices, offering immediate activation without physical exchanges.
ATMs and Currency Exchange Services
International ATMs operated by major banks and convenience stores are available throughout the station. These machines accept most foreign cards and provide cash in Japanese yen.
An automated currency exchange machine near the General Information Center accepts major foreign currencies. Several convenience stores also offer cash withdrawal services.
Rest Areas and Smoking Rooms
Multiple rest areas are available throughout the station. The Shinkansen waiting room provides comfortable seating for train passengers. Station cafes offer relaxing spaces with food and drink options. The station building also features rooftop areas including the wood deck hiroba and soramoa hiroba for outdoor relaxation.
Smoking is restricted throughout most of the station. A designated smoking room is available on the Shinkansen platform for those who need it.
Sightseeing Highlights Around Hiroshima Station
Attractions Near Hiroshima Station
These spots are easily accessible from Hiroshima Station and perfect for short visits between train rides.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Atomic Bomb Dome
The Peace Memorial Park, 15 minutes by streetcar, contains the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage site symbolizing peace. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum provides information about the atomic bombing, while the park features monuments and the Peace Flame.
Hiroshima Castle
Hiroshima Castle, also known as Carp Castle, is about 25 minutes by streetcar. This reconstructed fortress showcases traditional Japanese architecture and offers city views from the top floor. The grounds include a museum with samurai artifacts and historical exhibits.
Shukkeien Garden
This traditional Japanese garden from 1620 is a 15-minute walk from the station. The garden features a central pond with carefully designed landscapes.
MAZDA Zoom-Zoom Stadium Hiroshima
The Hiroshima Toyo Carp's home stadium is 10 minutes on foot from the station. The stadium shop offers team merchandise, and attending games during baseball season provides an authentic cultural experience.
Popular Day Trips from Hiroshima Station
Conveniently located from Hiroshima Station, these spots are ideal for exploring beyond the city.
Miyajima (Itsukushima Shrine)
Miyajima Island features Japan's famous floating torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine. The island offers hiking trails up Mount Misen with panoramic sea views, local specialties like grilled oysters, and free-roaming deer.
Kure
Kure, 30 minutes from Hiroshima by train, is known for its naval museums.
The Yamato Museum is closed for renovations until March 2026, but a temporary satellite exhibit remains open. The nearby Maritime Self-Defense Force Kure Museum stays fully operational and features a real submarine on display.
Plan Your Visit
Hiroshima Station is the perfect starting point for exploring the city’s history, culture, and nearby destinations like Miyajima and Kure. With the 2025 renovations, the station now offers smoother transfers, multilingual signage, and upgraded access to streetcars and JR lines.
Whether you're visiting Peace Memorial Park or grabbing okonomiyaki before a Shinkansen ride, the station supports your journey with modern facilities and helpful services.
For a smoother experience, we recommend booking your Shinkansen tickets through Japan Bullet Train. It offers multilingual support, flexible scheduling, and QR code pickup—no need to wait in line.