JR Kansai Hiroshima Pass
If you're planning to explore Japan's Kansai and Hiroshima regions, the Kansai Hiroshima Pass offers a convenient and cost-effective way to travel.
Priced at 17,000 yen for 5 days, this pass covers most of the major destinations in western Japan, including Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Nara, Himeji, Hiroshima, and Miyajima.
It even extends to some lesser-known but equally fascinating places, like Tottori Prefecture, where you can experience an unexpected desert landscape and even enjoy a camel ride—yes, you read that right!
Shinkansen Coverage: Speed Up Your Journey
One of the main highlights of the Kansai Hiroshima Pass is its coverage of the San’yō Shinkansen Line, which runs between Shin-Osaka and Hiroshima.
With this pass, you can travel on the fastest Shinkansen trains, including the Nozomi and Mizuho, saving significant time on long-distance journeys. However, the pass does not extend to the San’yō Shinkansen beyond Hiroshima or cover the Tōkaidō Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka to Kyoto.
A special note for Shinkansen passengers: if your luggage exceeds 160 cm in total dimensions but is under 250 cm, you will need to reserve a seat in the oversized baggage area. Seats in this area are limited, so make sure to book in advance.
And if you're a fan of unique experiences, don't miss out on riding the famous Hello Kitty Shinkansen, which runs between Shin-Osaka and Hiroshima, covered by the pass!
Limited Express Trains: Second Fastest in Japan
Beyond the Shinkansen, the pass also covers limited express trains, the second fastest trains in Japan. These trains require seat reservations, especially if you're heading to tourist hotspots like Kyoto or traveling from Kansai International Airport on the Haruka Express. Be sure to book your seat in advance, or you may have to stand or disembark at the next station to make a reservation.
While the Kansai Hiroshima Pass allows unlimited seat reservations in ordinary cars, note that after the 6th reservation, you’ll need to book at the ticket office instead of online.
Bus Coverage: Exploring Kyoto and Hiroshima by JR Bus
Kyoto Bus Lines
The Kansai Hiroshima Pass also includes access to West JR Bus and Chūgoku JR Bus services.
In Kyoto, the Kyoto Line and Jakko Line buses take you to popular spots like Kyoto Station, Kyoto Aquarium, and temples like Kinkakuji and Ninnaji. For history lovers, the Jakko Line offers access to heritage sites such as Kumagawa-juku Historic Post Town and Myotsuji Temple.
In Hiroshima, the Meipuru-pu Loop Bus is another convenient option, covered by the pass. This service runs three routes — Orange, Green, and Lemon — taking you through Peace Memorial Park, Shintenchi, and other key landmarks.
Ferry to Miyajima: Island Adventures Await
While in Hiroshima, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Miyajima Island, famous for its iconic torii gate and Itsukushima Shrine.
The Kansai Hiroshima Pass covers the JR-West Miyajima Ferry, but note that there’s a 100 yen visitation tax to board the ferry. Be careful not to confuse this with the Matsudai Kisen Ferry, which is not covered by the pass.
Themed Railways: Kyoto Tango and Wakayama Electric Railway
For something a bit different, the pass also covers two private railways — Kyoto Tango Railway and Wakayama Electric Railway.
The Kyoto Tango Railway offers scenic routes with themed trains, such as the Tango Akamatsu and Tango Aomatsu, which are inspired by the beautiful pine trees and sandy beaches of the Sea of Japan.
For a truly unique experience, you can reserve a meal on the Tango Kuromatsu Train, a dining train offering breakfast, lunch, and sweets courses. However, this is not covered by the pass and requires a separate reservation.
Meanwhile, the Wakayama Electric Railway provides a delightful ride to Kishi Station, where you can meet the famous stationmaster cats, Nitama and Yontama. This railway also operates five charming themed trains, including the Ichigo (Strawberry) Train and the Tama Train, making it a fun experience for both kids and adults alike.
Final Thoughts: Is the Kansai Hiroshima Pass Worth It?
At 17,000 yen, the Kansai Hiroshima Pass offers excellent value for travelers planning to visit multiple destinations across western Japan. When compared to individual ticket prices, the savings are clear, especially for longer journeys on the Shinkansen or multiple trips on limited express trains and buses.
The pass can be conveniently purchased online via the JR-West online reservation platform or at authorized travel agencies in Japan. Don’t forget to bring your passport when purchasing in person, as it is required for verification.
With this pass in hand, you’re all set to explore some of Japan’s most famous—and lesser-known—regions. Happy travels!
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JR Kansai Hiroshima Pass - https://www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/pass/kansai_hiroshima/
Kansai Airport Express Haruka -https://www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/travel/shopping/access/train.html
Hello Kitty Shinkansen - https://www.jr-hellokittyshinkansen.jp/en/
Wakayama Electric Railway Line - https://wakayama-dentetsu.co.jp/en/
Kyoto Tango Railway Line - https://travel.willer.co.jp/train/tantetsu/
West JR Bus Lines - https://www.nishinihonjrbus.co.jp/en/
Chugoku Bus Line - https://www.chugoku-jrbus.co.jp.e.aec.hp.transer.com/teikan/meipurupu/
Luggage Size Limit - https://www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/howto/baggage/