Hiroshima

๐ŸšŒ

Buses

Sections

1. Categories of Buses in Hiroshima

Hiroshimaโ€™s bus system is divided into several categories, each serving different purposes:

A. Local Buses

  • Operated by companies like Hiroden Bus and Geiyo Bus, these buses serve Hiroshima City and its surrounding areas.
  • They are ideal for commuting within the city and reaching residential areas, shopping districts, and local attractions.

B. Sightseeing Buses

  • Hiroshima Sightseeing Loop Bus (Meipuru~pu): A dedicated sightseeing bus that connects major tourist attractions in Hiroshima, such as the Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima Castle, and Shukkeien Garden.
  • These buses are designed for tourists, with multilingual announcements and easy access to key sites.

C. Long-Distance and Highway Buses

  • These buses connect Hiroshima to other cities in Japan, such as Osaka, Kyoto, and Fukuoka. They are operated by companies like Chugoku JR Bus and Hiroshima Bus Center.

D. Airport Limousine Buses

  • These buses provide direct connections between Hiroshima City and Hiroshima Airport. They are convenient for travelers with luggage.

2. Costs and Ticketing Options

The cost of bus travel in Hiroshima depends on the type of bus and the distance traveled. Below is a breakdown of costs and ticketing options:

A. Local Bus Fares

  • Fares are distance-based, typically ranging from ยฅ180 to ยฅ300 for short trips within the city.
  • Children (ages 6โ€“12) pay half the adult fare, and children under 6 travel for free (up to two children per adult).

B. Sightseeing Bus Fares

  • The Meipuru~pu Sightseeing Bus costs:
    • ยฅ200 per ride for adults and ยฅ100 per ride for children.
    • Alternatively, you can purchase a 1-day pass for ยฅ400 (adults) or ยฅ200 (children), which allows unlimited rides on the sightseeing bus.

C. Passes and IC Cards

  1. Hiroshima Electric Railway 1-Day Pass:

    • Costs ยฅ700 for adults and ยฅ350 for children.
    • Covers unlimited rides on Hiroshimaโ€™s streetcars and the Meipuru~pu sightseeing bus.

  2. Hiroshima Tourist Pass:

    • Available in 1-day and 2-day options, starting at ยฅ1,000.
    • Includes unlimited rides on buses, streetcars, and ferries to Miyajima Island.

  3. IC Cards:

    • Hiroshima uses the PASPY IC card, which can be used on buses, streetcars, and trains in the region.
    • Nationwide IC cards like Suica and ICOCA are also accepted.
    • Simply tap your card on the reader when boarding and alighting. The fare is automatically deducted.

D. Airport Limousine Bus Fares

  • A one-way trip between Hiroshima Airport and Hiroshima City costs ยฅ1,500 for adults and ยฅ750 for children.

3. How to Use Hiroshima Buses

Using buses in Hiroshima is straightforward, but there are a few steps and tips to keep in mind:

A. Boarding and Alighting

  1. Boarding:

    • Enter the bus through the rear door (except for some sightseeing buses where you board at the front).
    • If you donโ€™t have an IC card, take a numbered ticket from the machine near the door. This ticket corresponds to your boarding stop.

  2. Alighting:

    • Press the stop button located near your seat when your stop is announced or displayed on the screen.
    • Exit through the front door and pay your fare.

B. Paying the Fare

  • If using an IC card, tap it on the reader near the driver when exiting.
  • If paying in cash, check the fare chart at the front of the bus (it matches your ticket number to the fare). Insert the exact amount into the fare box. Change machines are available but only accept coins and ยฅ1,000 bills.

C. Using Passes

  • Show your pass to the driver when boarding or exiting.

4. Prominent Locations Served by Buses

Hiroshimaโ€™s buses connect to key tourist sites, transportation hubs, and city areas. Here are some of the most notable locations:

A. Tourist Attractions

  • Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: Accessible via the Meipuru~pu sightseeing bus and local buses.
  • Hiroshima Castle: Served by the Meipuru~pu bus and local routes.
  • Shukkeien Garden: A stop on the Meipuru~pu route.
  • Miyajima Island: Take a bus to the ferry terminal at Miyajimaguchi.

B. Transportation Hubs

  • Hiroshima Station: A major hub for local and long-distance buses.
  • Hiroshima Bus Center: Located in the city center, this is the departure point for many highway and sightseeing buses.

C. Shopping and Entertainment Areas

  • Hondori Shopping Arcade: Accessible via local buses and the Meipuru~pu bus.
  • Kamiyacho: A central area with many bus connections.

5. Tips for Navigating Hiroshimaโ€™s Bus System

  • Plan Ahead: Use apps like Google Maps or Japan Transit Planner to check bus routes and schedules.
  • Carry Small Change: If youโ€™re paying in cash, ensure you have coins or small bills (ยฅ1,000 or less).
  • Look for Multilingual Signs: Many buses, especially sightseeing buses, have English signage and announcements.
  • Avoid Rush Hours: Buses can get crowded during morning and evening rush hours (7:30โ€“9:00 AM and 5:00โ€“7:00 PM).
  • Be Punctual: Buses in Hiroshima are known for their punctuality, so arrive at the stop a few minutes early.
  • Respect Local Etiquette: Keep your voice low, and avoid eating or drinking on the bus.

6. Conclusion

Hiroshimaโ€™s bus system is an excellent way to explore the city and its surroundings. Whether youโ€™re visiting iconic landmarks like the Peace Memorial Park or commuting to Miyajima Island, the buses are reliable, affordable, and easy to use. By familiarizing yourself with the categories of buses, ticketing options, and local tips, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to navigate Hiroshima with confidence.