Hiroshima & Miyajima: Bike Tour, Ferry & Island Shrines

Summary

Ride through Hiroshima’s history then ferry to Miyajima’s shrines and forests

You’ll cycle through Hiroshima’s neighborhoods and Peace Memorial Park with a local guide before hopping a train and ferry to Miyajima Island. Expect moments of quiet reflection at memorials, laughter with wild deer near Itsukushima Shrine, and a sit-down lunch with regional flavors. This day trip leaves you carrying more than just photos home.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the way the morning light hit the river as we pedaled out from central Hiroshima — not harsh, just soft enough that you could still smell last night’s rain on the pavement. Our guide, Junko, waved us over near Peace Memorial Park. She spoke quietly when we reached the Cenotaph; I could hear cicadas in the trees and the low hum of schoolkids passing by. There was this moment where nobody said anything for a bit — just looking at the paper cranes and thinking about what happened here. I didn’t expect that part to feel so heavy.

We wound our way past Hiroshima Castle (the moat had these lazy koi drifting around), snapped a photo at the main tower, then hopped onto a local train — bikes and all. The ride out toward Miyajimaguchi was quick but somehow peaceful; Junko pointed out her favorite bakery from the window but we didn’t stop (I kind of wish we had). The ferry to Miyajima Island felt like a reset: salt air, gulls overhead, and suddenly there’s that famous orange torii gate floating in the water. It looked almost painted on.

I’d heard about the wild deer on Miyajima but wasn’t prepared for how bold they are — one tried to eat my map while our group laughed. Lunch was at this tiny place tucked behind a shrine; I went for the vegetarian option (pretty good miso soup) while someone else braved oysters. Walking through Itsukushima Shrine with Junko explaining all these little details about Shinto rituals — honestly, half of it went over my head but it felt special anyway. The light inside was gold and everything smelled faintly of wood and seaweed.

Heading back was quiet — maybe everyone was tired or just full of thoughts. We got tips from Junko for dinner spots back in Hiroshima (she swears by okonomiyaki at this place near the station). Even now, sometimes I think about that view from the ferry: city behind us, shrine ahead, everything kind of suspended between water and sky.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Hiroshima and Miyajima Island

• Cycle through Hiroshima city
• Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
• Reflect at Cenotaph monument
• Explore Hiroshima Castle grounds
• Take Miyajima Ferry to island
• Tour Miyajima Island with guide
• Visit Itsukushima Shrine and lunch
• Return to Hiroshima by ferry and train
• Collect luggage and get recommendations

Top questions

How long does this Hiroshima & Miyajima tour last?

This is a full day tour starting in Hiroshima City and returning in the evening after visiting Miyajima Island.

Is lunch included on this day trip to Miyajima?

Yes, lunch is included with vegetarian options available; contact ahead for other dietary needs.

Are bikes provided for the Hiroshima bike tour?

Bikes are included in your tour—no need to bring your own.

Does this tour visit Itsukushima Shrine?

Yes, you’ll explore Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island with your guide.

Is transport between Hiroshima & Miyajima included?

The train ride to Miyajimaguchi and ferry tickets to Miyajima are both included.

Can I store my luggage during the tour?

You can leave your luggage at base while you’re out exploring; pick it up when you return.

Is this suitable for all fitness levels?

This day trip is suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a bicycle in Hiroshima, all fees and taxes, a guided visit through Peace Memorial Park and Hiroshima Castle, train fare to Miyajimaguchi station plus ferry tickets to Miyajima Island, entry into Itsukushima Shrine’s area, a sit-down regional lunch (with vegetarian options), time with a knowledgeable local guide throughout—and storage for any luggage you need to leave behind until pickup at day’s end.