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How to get from Hiroshima to Osaka
The Sanyo Shinkansen takes about 1 h 20–1 h 30 from Hiroshima to Shin-Osaka on Nozomi or Mizuho trains, slightly longer on Sakura and Hikari. Highway buses take about 5 h and are much cheaper. Driving takes about 4 h on the Sanyo Expressway.
Best option: Train. The Shinkansen is fast, frequent and runs centre to centre.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| train Sanyo Shinkansen (Nozomi, Mizuho, Sakura, Hikari) from Hiroshima to Shin-Osaka | about 1 h 20–1 h 45 | several trains an hour | about ¥10,000–11,000 with reserved seat | Nozomi and Mizuho need a supplement with the Japan Rail Pass. |
| bus Highway buses (day and overnight) from Hiroshima to Osaka | about 5 h | several a day | about ¥4,000–6,000 | Overnight buses save a hotel night. |
| car Sanyo Expressway from Hiroshima to Osaka | about 4 h | fuel plus expressway tolls of about ¥7,000–9,000 | Parking in central Osaka is expensive. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Shin-Osaka is a short subway or JR ride from central Osaka.
- The Japan Rail Pass covers Sakura and Hikari without supplement.
- Reserve seats in peak periods such as Golden Week and Obon.
- Buy station bento boxes in Hiroshima for the ride.
Common questions
How long does the Shinkansen take?
About 1 h 20–1 h 30 on Nozomi and Mizuho trains, and up to about 1 h 45 on Sakura or Hikari, which stop more often. Trains leave several times an hour. They arrive at Shin-Osaka, from which local JR trains and the subway reach central Osaka in about 5–15 minutes.
Is the Japan Rail Pass valid?
Yes, on Sakura and Hikari trains without extra charge. Since 2023, pass holders can also ride Nozomi and Mizuho by paying a supplement. Make seat reservations at JR ticket offices or machines to secure a seat. The Hiroshima–Osaka trip on a Hikari or Sakura takes only slightly longer than a Nozomi.
What is the cheapest way?
Highway buses are the cheapest, often about half the price of the Shinkansen or less, but they take about 5 hours. Overnight buses also save on accommodation. Driving is costly because of expressway tolls. Day buses arrive in central Osaka, which can save the short transfer from Shin-Osaka station.
Can I do it as a day trip?
Yes. With the Shinkansen taking about 1 h 30 each way, it is easy to visit Osaka from Hiroshima, or Hiroshima and even Miyajima from Osaka, in a single day. Start early to make the most of it.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.