Overview
Experience Hiroshima with a small, heartfelt tour (max 3 guests) that feels like spending the day with a local friend as a shore excursion. We will visit Hiroshimaâs two most meaningful UNESCO sites, the Peace Memorial Museum and Itsukushima Shrine, with an itinerary personally tailored to your shipâs arrival and departure. Your Guide: I am a U.S. university graduate and a Hiroshima governmentâlicensed guide who has led over 190 tours. I have also welcomed guests from around the world as a host mother. This tour is personally designed and guided by me from start to finish. Relax: Enjoy your day without worrying about logistics or how much cash you need. You wonât need to take out your wallet and pay for transportation and entrance fees in Japanese yen along the way. All necessary tour costs are included, so you only need to bring enough for your lunch, drinks, and any souvenirs. My goal is simple: I want you to enjoy Hiroshima. Letâs have fun!
Why travelers book this
What's Included
- Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. Please enter the guestâs age when booking, as it is required for ticket purchases. Only the birth year needs to be accurate; the month and day may be approximate.
- Licensed Local English-speaking Guide and a Complimentary Private Vehicle
- Miyajima island entry tax
- Admission fees for the Itsukushima Shrine
- Ferry fare
What's Not Included
- Meals
- Costs for visiting places not included in the itinerary
- Without the equipment required by law, children under 6 cannot join this tour.
Meeting & Pickup
Meeting point, pickup options and start time are confirmed on Viator before checkout.
Itinerary
Stop 1
Hiroshima has two cruise ship ports (Ujina and Itsukaichi), and I will pick you up at the correct one. The official cruise ship schedule provided by Hiroshima Prefecture will be checked in advance to ensure we meet at the right port. The order of visiting Miyajima (Hatsukaichi City) and the Hiroshima city center will be arranged flexibly based on your schedule, the weather, and any other circumstances on the day.
Stop 2
After a 40â50 minute drive, we will park near the ferry terminal and enjoy a short 10âminute ferry ride to Miyajima. Since the island has very limited parking and the road conditions are not ideal for cars, we do not cross to the island by vehicle.
Stop 3
While walking toward Itsukushima Shrine, the iconic Great Torii gate gradually comes into sight. You can enjoy the surroundings and take photos as we approach.
Stop 4
We will continue on to Itsukushima Shrine, Japanâs only shrine built over the water. As we walk through its graceful corridors, your guide will explain the history and features of the site, and you can enjoy taking photos or purchasing charms along the way.
Stop 5
We will then visit Daishoin Temple, one of the most beautiful and atmospheric places on Miyajima. The temple grounds are filled with colorful statues, peaceful pathways, and stunning views, creating a calm and spiritual atmosphere. Visiting the temple is optional, so if you prefer to spend more time on other experiencesâsuch as trying local food, shopping, or staying longer at the Peace Memorial Museumâwe can easily adjust the plan to your interests.
Stop 6
We will spend a fun time strolling along the shopping street, enjoying local food and drinks and browsing for souvenirs. Lunch I will explain Hiroshimaâs local specialty foods during the tour. If you would like to sit down at a restaurant and enjoy Hiroshimaâs famous dishes, please let me know in advance so I can secure enough time for lunch. You are also very welcome to enjoy a light âfoodâwalkingâ style and try small bites along the way.
Stop 7
We will take the ferry back to the mainland, with the ferry ride and drive taking roughly one hour in total, before arriving in Hiroshima City. After parking the car nearby, our walking tour will begin at the Hiroshima Aâbomb Hypocenter.
Stop 8
At the Atomic Bomb Dome, we will spend some quiet time reflecting on Hiroshimaâs history and the significance of this landmark.
Stop 9
Your guide will share the stories and significance of the memorials and monuments as we explore Peace Memorial Park together.
Stop 10
Our final stop will be the Peace Memorial Museum, a quiet and reflective space where conversations are kept to a minimum. Since all exhibits are displayed in both Japanese and English, you will explore the museum on your own after I scan the QR code of the ticket I have reserved for you at the entrance. If you prefer an audio guide in another language, I can assist you in renting one. (Audio guides are not included in the tour price.)
Stop 11
We will return to the port where your ship is docked. On the way back, we can spend some time talking about your visit and any thoughts youâd like to share. If you still have a lot of time before your ship departs, you may also choose to end the tour in front of the museum and return to the port on your own by taxi or other transportation. (Taxi fares are not included in the tour price.) I will plan the itinerary according to your preferences, including your preferred ending point.
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- The tour is open to guests aged 7 and above.
- If you have any mobility aids, please check their size before booking.
- To the agency, When making the reservation, please write in the notes both your companyâs phone number and the guestâs phone number.