Hiroshima Shore Excursions

Hiroshima offers a powerful blend of reflection, culture, and natural beauty. Begin with a ferry ride to Miyajima Island, home to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, with its famous floating torii gate and free-roaming deer — a deeply spiritual place that’s also one of Japan’s most photographed scenes.

Then return to Hiroshima city to visit the Peace Memorial Park and the A-Bomb Dome, symbols of tragedy, resilience, and hope. These spaces give deep insight into Japan’s 20th-century history, reminding us of the capacity for recovery, peace, and memorialization.

Finish with a visit to Shukkeien Garden, a compact and historically rich Japanese garden that’s been lovingly restored. Wander ponds, teahouses, bridges, and meticulously landscaped valleys — a calming counterpoint to the emotion and history of the previous sites.

This excursion gives travelers a day that balances peace, culture, reflection, and natural beauty. Perfect if you want more than just sightseeing — you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Hiroshima’s past and present.

• Platinum Package (recommended):
  Private car + English-speaking tour guide, ferry to/from Miyajima, entrance fees, guided commentary at major sites
   
• Gold Package (driver-only option):
  Private car & English-speaking driver, more flexibility, lighter guidance, entrance fees not included.
   

• Private Excursion: Dedicated vehicle and guide, more flexibility, personalized stops, faster transitions.
   
• Group Excursion: Smaller cost, fixed route/timing, shared vehicle and guide, set schedule.
   

9:00 am – Meet at Hiroshima Cruise Terminal

Your private driver and guide will greet you at the port. After a short introduction to Hiroshima, transfer to the ferry pier for a scenic ride to Miyajima Island.

9:30 – 10:00 am – Ferry to Miyajima Island

Enjoy the fresh sea air and views of the Seto Inland Sea as you cross to one of Japan’s most iconic destinations. The sight of the vermilion torii gate rising from the water comes into view as you approach.

10:00 – 11:30 am – Explore Miyajima & Itsukushima Shrine

Disembark to discover the island’s treasures:

• Walk through the atmospheric shopping street with traditional snack stalls. 
• Visit Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where elegant corridors and pavilions float above the tide. 
• Admire the famous floating torii gate, one of Japan’s most celebrated images. 
• Meet the island’s friendly free-roaming deer, considered sacred messengers.
   

11:30 am – 12:00 pm – Ferry back to Hiroshima

Return to the mainland, reflecting on the spiritual charm of Miyajima.

12:15 – 1:15 pm – Lunch

Enjoy a local specialty meal such as fresh oysters, Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki (savory pancake), or seasonal seafood. Lunch can be arranged on Miyajima or back in Hiroshima city depending on your preference.

1:30 – 2:30 pm – Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & A-Bomb Dome

Pay your respects at this internationally renowned memorial:

• View the A-Bomb Dome, preserved as it stood after the 1945 bombing. 
• Walk through the Peace Memorial Park, with monuments dedicated to peace and remembrance. 
• Option to visit the Peace Memorial Museum (time permitting), offering moving exhibits about the city’s past and message of hope.
   

2:45 – 4:15 pm – Shukkeien Garden

Step into a serene, meticulously designed Japanese garden dating back to the 17th century:

• Stroll around a central pond with miniature landscapes representing valleys, mountains, and forests. 
• Cross arched bridges and pause in quiet teahouses. 
• Admire seasonal beauty — cherry blossoms in spring, maple leaves in autumn, or snow-dusted pines in winter.
   

4:15 – 4:30 pm – Leisure & Short Break

Enjoy free time for a quick refreshment, photos, or browsing local shops.

4:30 – 5:00 pm – Return to Cruise Terminal

Arrive back at port with plenty of time to re-board your ship, carrying memories of a day that balanced culture, history, and natural beauty.