Hiroshima & Miyajima Day Trip: Floating Torii, Sacred Forests and Peace Memorial
A day trip linking Miyajima’s calm forests with Hiroshima’s powerful history. Travel by train and ferry, explore quiet temple paths, visit the Genbaku Dome, and finish with local okonomiyaki in the city.
Highlights
- Ride the ferry close to the famous floating torii gate
- Take the ropeway up Miyajima to view the Seto Inland Sea
- See the 500 stone Rakan statues at the ancient Daisho-in temple
- Reflect at the Genbaku Dome and the Peace Memorial Museum
- Enjoy okonomiyaki cooked right before you on a sizzling teppan inside the local Okonomimura
Itinerary
📌 Disclaimer: Itinerary is indicative.
This itinerary is for illustration purposes only and is non-binding. It is neither rigid nor exhaustive. On the day of the tour, your guide adapts the route live based on real-time factors: weather, public holidays, group pace, or spontaneous requests. Flexibility is our standard.
- 11 h 10 minJR Hiroshima Station
Meet your guide at the Shinkansen exit. We board the JR Sanyo Line train to Miyajimaguchi Station.
- 2
35 minMiyajima FerryWe take the JR ferry which curves close to the famous floating torii gate. Upon arrival, we walk past local deer toward Momijidani Park.
- 3
1 h 15 minShishiiwa ObservatoryRide the ropeway to Shishiiwa Station. Enjoy a panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea and eat maple-leaf cakes.
- 4
1 h 15 minMomijidani Forest and LunchWe walk down through the forest to the village for lunch. Try local oysters or grilled conger eel over seasoned rice.
- 5
1 hDaisho-in TempleExplore the oldest Buddhist temple on the island. Walk past 500 stone Rakan statues with hand-knitted hats and walk through the dark Henjokutsu Cave.
- 6
1 h 35 minTransit to HondoriWalk back to the pier, take the ferry, and ride the JR Sanyo Line to Shin-Hakushima before transferring to the Astram Line.
- 7
40 minAtomic bomb dome and peace parkSee the ruins of the industrial exhibition hall and cross the river to visit the monuments in the Peace Memorial Park.
- 8
1 h 45 minPeace Memorial MuseumSpend time inside the museum to process survivor stories and artifacts. The guide will meet you at the exit to talk.
- 9
30 minHondori Shopping ArcadeTransition back to the present day with a walk through a lively covered shopping street.
- 10
1 hOkonomimura DinnerSit at an iron griddle counter to watch chefs prepare layers of cabbage, pork, and noodles. End the day with a cold drink and local food.
Included
- ✓ Private professional English-speaking guide
- ✓ Pre-tour consultation (1h)
- ✓ Optimized and updated itinerary
- ✓ Local recommendations and expert tips
- ✓ Photos taken by your guide during the day
Not included
- ✕ Meals and drinks (unless specified otherwise)
- ✕ Entrance fees for sites (for you and the guide)
- ✕ Transportation during the tour (subway, taxi...)
- ✕ Personal expenses (souvenirs, shopping, etc.)
- ✕ Mandatory travel insurance (including cycling coverage)
About this experience
A full day of contrasts in Hiroshima and Miyajima
This full day walking tour connects two distinct sides of Japan. We start early to catch the ferry to Miyajima Island before the crowds arrive, then head back to the mainland to trace the modern history of Hiroshima. The route covers about eight kilometers of walking. We use trains, a ferry, and an underground line to move efficiently. It is a long day, but we pace ourselves like locals, stopping for quiet views and regional food along the way.
Morning paths and mountain views on the sacred island
We meet at JR Hiroshima Station at 08:30 AM. A 25-minute train ride brings us to the coast, where we board the JR ferry. This specific boat curves closer to the famous red torii gate rising out of the sea. Once on the island, we bypass the main shopping streets to walk up through Momijidani Park. This forest path is quiet and leads us to the ropeway. We ride the small gondolas up to the Shishiiwa Observatory, 433 meters above sea level. From here, you can see the oyster rafts floating in the Seto Inland Sea.
The oldest temple and a quiet forest descent
After descending the mountain, we visit Daisho-in temple. Founded in 806, it is the oldest Buddhist site on Miyajima. We walk up the stone steps past 500 small stone statues of disciples, each wearing a unique hand-knit hat. You can spin the metal sutra wheels along the path to receive their blessings. For lunch, we stop at a small shop in the village to try local grilled oysters or grilled conger eel over seasoned rice.
Moving stories at the peace memorial park
We return to the mainland by ferry and take a fast train route to the city center. Our first stop is the Atomic Bomb Dome. This former industrial hall survived the blast because the explosion happened almost directly overhead. We walk across the river into the Peace Memorial Park to see the Children's Peace Monument. Inside the Peace Memorial Museum, you have time to walk through the exhibits at your own pace. The experience is intense, and your guide is there to answer questions when you finish.
Savoury pancakes at the okonomiyaki village
We finish the day by walking through the Hondori shopping street to Okonomimura. This building contains three floors of small food stalls. We sit at a metal counter and watch the chef layer thin batter, cabbage, pork, noodles, and egg on a hot griddle. It is a noisy, warm, and satisfying meal. Dinner is a great time to sit back with a cold drink and talk about what we saw during the day.
FAQ
What should I know about this tour?
Where is the meeting point?
We meet at 08:30 AM at the Shinkansen exit of JR Hiroshima Station.
What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, an umbrella or light rain jacket, sunscreen, and an IC card with at least 2,500 JPY pre-loaded. You will also need cash for meals and temple offerings.
Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
This tour is not wheelchair accessible due to steep paths, gravel walkways, and stairs at Miyajima and the temples.
Does the tour run in bad weather?
The tour runs in light rain. In case of extreme weather or high winds that suspend ferry and ropeway services, we will contact you to adjust the itinerary or reschedule.
Is this tour suitable for young children?
Due to the long walking distance and the emotional content of the Peace Memorial Museum, this tour is best suited for teenagers and adults.
How physically demanding is this tour?
You will walk between 7.5 and 8.5 kilometers. It is an active day with some gentle uphill slopes and temple stairs.
Cycling or walking?
Why do you recommand cycling tours ?
Yes, cycling is our specialty and by far the absolute favorite of our travelers! We consider it the ideal first activity to kick off your stay. For now, we offer our cycling tours exclusively in Kyoto — and for good reason: it is the most bike-friendly city in Japan. Hopping on a bike from your very first days allows you to instantly get your bearings while covering several very different neighborhoods in a single day. It's enjoyable, fun, and saves you precious time. For example, crossing the city by bus or taxi from the Golden Pavilion to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove can quickly become a logistical nightmare during rush hour. Thanks to our various cycling tours, we cut through local backstreets, avoid the crowds and traffic jams, and access hidden temples completely off the beaten tourist track.
Do I need to be in top shape to join a bike tour?
Not at all—if you know how to ride a bike, you are ready to go! Our tours are run at a leisurely pace, mostly on flat ground with frequent stops. Electric-assist bikes smooth out any gentle slopes and long stretches effortlessly. Best of all, all our tours are 100% private, meaning we tailor the tempo entirely to you on the day. Each tour page lists the total distance and terrain details, and we are always happy to chat if you want to double-check before booking.
Standard bicycle or or E-Bike?
Electric-assist bikes are our default standard across all tours, and required on select itineraries with longer distances or elevation: Comfort & Ease: E-bikes smooth out inclines and distance, ensuring a relaxed, effortless ride compared to heavier traditional city bikes. Beating the Heat: During warmer months, electric assistance lets you enjoy the ride without straining under the heat and humidity. If you prefer a standard bike on routes where it is suitable, you are more than welcome to choose one—we always adapt the pace to you. Note for younger riders: Rental e-bikes require a minimum height of 140 cm (4'7") to guarantee safety and proper fit.
Can children participate in the bike tours?
Absolutely, our bike tours are designed for the whole family! For children up to age 6, we provide bikes fitted with comfortable child seats. Confident young riders aged 6 to 8 and up are welcome on our half-day routes. For full-day rides, our electric-assist bikes require a minimum height of 140 cm (4'7") for safety and ease. Since every young rider is unique, reach out to us so we can tailor the best setup for your family.
Approximately what distance do we cover?
It depends on the tour format: expect roughly 10 to 18 km (6–11 miles) for a half-day ride, and up to 25–30 km (15–18 miles) on a full-day itinerary. Exact distances and terrain details are clearly listed on each tour page. Because our tours are 100% private, we continuously adjust the pace, stops, and route to match your energy, preferences, and the day's weather.
Getting around Kyoto
Where can I cycle in Kyoto?
While Kyoto's grid layout makes navigation straightforward, don't be fooled: the city is definitely not flat! It features a continuous, subtle uphill slope from south to north, and reaching the famous temples on the surrounding hillsides requires some real legwork. To avoid heavy traffic and find the best riding conditions, look for these areas: - The banks of the Kamo River (Kamogawa): Perfect for crossing the city away from traffic on dedicated pathways, with beautiful open views. - The Miyagawacho district: A much quieter and more peaceful alternative to Gion, ideal for admiring traditional machiya townhouses at a leisurely pace. - The Okazaki Canal: A stunning, spacious route that becomes absolutely magical under the cherry blossoms in spring. 💡 The Kimasu Advantage: Planning the perfect cycling route in Kyoto on your own can be tricky. Between unexpected slopes, hidden one-way streets, and strictly enforced pedestrian-only zones where bikes are banned, it's easy to get stressed. On a Kimasu bike tour, you can just enjoy the ride. Your guide handles the relief, manages the pace, and takes you through secret local shortcuts you won't find on any map.
Culture & etiquette
What are the essential rules of behavior and etiquette to know?
Japanese society places immense value on the concept of "Kuuki Yomu" (literally: reading the air) — the art of sensing the atmosphere and showing consideration to maintain social harmony. It's this mutual respect that makes traveling here so peaceful! While locals are very forgiving with tourists, here are a few golden rules to follow: • On the street: Do not eat, drink, or smoke while walking (enjoy your snacks right outside the shop where you bought them). Keep your trash with you, as public trash cans are virtually non-existent. • On public transport: Silence is golden. Keep your voice down, avoid phone calls completely, and take off your backpack so you don't bump into other passengers. • At temples and shrines: These are sacred spaces. Never sit on the ground, on temple steps, or on the stone walls of private properties. • Photography in Gion (Geisha district): Strictly respect all no-photography signs. Taking photos in private alleys is illegal and subject to a heavy fine. • At the table: Never stick your chopsticks vertically into your bowl of rice (this mimics a funeral rite) and never pass food directly from chopsticks to chopsticks. Don't worry: Your guides will be right by your side throughout your tours to give you a friendly heads-up and explain the meaning and history behind these customs!
Do we really need to take our shoes off often?
Yes, it happens quite often: at the entrance of certain temples, tea rooms, traditional tatami restaurants, or some shops. Wear shoes that are easy to slip off and make sure your socks are clean and hole-free — it's one of those small details that really matters.
How does the day work?
How long does a tour last?
It depends on the format: allow approximately 4 hours for a half-day, 7 hours for a full day, and 3 to 4 hours for an evening tour. As everything is private, the timing remains flexible and can be adjusted to your pace on the day.
Group size
What is the maximum number of people per group?
Our tours are 100% private, meaning you will never be paired with other travelers. We typically accommodate groups of up to 8 guests. For larger parties, please get in touch—we organize custom tours on request and will gladly provide a tailored quote.
Weather
What happens if it rains on the day of our tour?
No worries — the charm of Kansai works its magic in any weather! For our walking tours, we'll keep the day going by adapting the route in real time: we prioritize temple interiors, historic covered arcades, or Machiya (traditional wooden houses) to keep you dry. For our cycling tours, we'll do our best to reschedule based on your availability and ours. If no alternative slot is available, the choice is yours: in case of light rain, we can certainly keep the tour going by picking up lightweight ponchos at a konbini. If the weather proves truly dangerous for cycling, we'll immediately switch to a fantastic alternative walking and transport route.
Preparing your visit
What should we pack for the day?
Opt for comfortable clothing and good walking shoes. An important point regarding local etiquette: you will sometimes need to remove your shoes to enter sacred areas of temples, tea houses, or traditional tatami restaurants. Therefore, be sure to wear clean socks without holes. Bare feet are discouraged out of respect for the purity of the places. As for the weather: if you are coming in summer, pack light clothing as the climate is very hot and humid. No need to carry too much water: Japan is a paradise of vending machines (on every corner) and convenience stores (konbini) open 24/7 where you can find everything you might need (sunscreen, umbrellas, wipes) in case you forget anything.
What should I wear to visit temples?
Opt for comfortable clothing and shoes that are easy to slip off, as you'll frequently need to remove them at temple entrances. Make sure your socks are clean and hole-free. In winter, pack a pair of thick socks in your bag — traditional temple floors can get very cold.
What's included & pricing
What is included in the price?
The price includes your private bilingual guide (French and English) and the e-Bike rental. Temple and site entrance fees, meals, and public transportation are not included — giving you complete freedom on the ground. Your guide will inform you of the estimated budget in advance.
Are meals and temple entrance fees included?
No, meals and temple entrance fees are not included in the price. This allows you to maintain control over your choices (and your budget), and your guide will direct you to the best places and sites that are truly worth visiting.
Cancellation & changes
What is your cancellation policy?
Our policy is clear and fair: 100% refund of tour prices for any cancellation made more than 7 days in advance, 50% refund for cancellations made between 7 days and 48 hours in advance, and no refund for cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance — except in cases of force majeure. Booking fees are only refunded if the cancellation is our fault. In practice, we always look for a solution that suits you (rescheduling or an alternative).
Accessibility
Are your tours suitable for families, seniors, or people with reduced mobility?
Our walking and cycling tours are suitable for a wide range of abilities, and e-bikes are a great help for those seeking a more leisurely pace. For those with reduced mobility, we tailor the experience to your needs: contact us in advance and we'll create a personalized itinerary together.







































