Shinkansen Fares and Ticket Booking Methods from Hiroshima to Fukuyama

Overview of transportation methods from Hiroshima to Fukuyama

You can travel from Hiroshima Station to Fukuyama Station using the Sanyo Shinkansen (bullet train).

This article explains Shinkansen (bullet train) fares, travel time, and how to book tickets. We've compiled useful information for your trip to Japan, including JR Pass usage rules and the types of trains you can use. Please use this as a reference to help plan your trip smoothly.

Basic information from Hiroshima to Fukuyama

• Fastest train: "Nozomi", travel time: approximately 19 minutes
• Fare for unreserved seats (no advance reservation required): 4,510 yen
• Fare for reserved seats (standard class), which requires advance reservation of a seat number: 5,040–5,360 yen
• Green Car fare: 7,310–7,630 yen
• Available trains: "Nozomi", "Hikari", "Kodama"
• JR Pass: Please refer to "Can the JR Pass be used between Hiroshima and Fukuyama?" below.

Fukuyama (destination) as a tourist destination

Fukuyama is a castle town located in the eastern part of Hiroshima Prefecture, and its charm lies in its mild climate facing the Seto Inland Sea. Fukuyama Castle was built in the early Edo period, and its beautiful appearance was restored in 2022 when the keep was renovated. Tomonoura, designated as a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, has flourished since ancient times as a port town on the Seto Inland Sea, and visitors can enjoy the charming scenery with its remaining stone lanterns, covered walkways, and cobblestone streets. Sensuijima is a naturally rich island, the only one in Japan designated by the Ministry of the Environment as an "island that heals mind and body." It can be accessed from Hiroshima in as little as 19 minutes.

Shinkansen Fare from Hiroshima to Fukuyama

Overall view of Shinkansen fares from Hiroshima to Fukuyama

Between Hiroshima Station and Fukuyama Station, you can use the Sanyo Shinkansen's "Nozomi", "Hikari", and "Kodama" trains. Some trains offer unreserved seats that do not require advance reservation. Fares may vary depending on the season, and reserved seats tend to sell out quickly during high season such as Golden Week, Obon, and New Year's. Early reservations are recommended to ensure a comfortable journey.

Hiroshima to Fukuyama price comparison

Features and advantages of unreserved seating

Unreserved seats do not require advance reservation and you can sit in any available seat. This is an economical option for short distances or during off-peak hours. However, during high season such as Golden Week, Obon, and New Year's, the unreserved seating area can become very crowded, and you may have to stand. If you want to be guaranteed a seat, please use reserved seats, which require advance reservation of a seat number.

Features and usage scenarios of reserved seats

For reserved seats, which require advance reservation of a seat number, you will be assigned a seat number, guaranteeing you a seat during your journey. Reserved seats tend to sell out quickly, especially during high season such as Golden Week and the New Year holidays, so we recommend booking early. Online reservations can be made through Eki-net (https://www.eki-net.com). It can also be used from smartphones, and payment can be made by credit card. You may be able to purchase tickets at a lower price than the regular fare by using the early booking discount "O-saki Toku-da-ne".

Features and comfort of Green Cars

Green Cars offer more spacious seats than standard cars, allowing for a more comfortable journey. The seat pitch (distance between seats) is generous, making long journeys less tiring. Many seats have power outlets, allowing you to charge your smartphone or laptop while traveling. Green Cars are recommended for business travelers, special trips, or anyone seeking a more luxurious travel experience. Reservations for Green Cars can be made at JR station ticket offices, designated seat ticket machines, or through compatible online reservation services.

Travel Time from Hiroshima to Fukuyama

Shortest Shinkansen travel time between Hiroshima and Fukuyama

The shortest travel time from Hiroshima Station to Fukuyama Station is approximately 19 minutes. The fastest train is the "Nozomi", which stops only at major stations, making it an efficient mode of transport. While travel time varies depending on the type of train and the number of stops, Shinkansen trains can travel several times faster than JR conventional lines, making them an ideal mode of transportation for long-distance travel.

Average travel time and difference between trains

Sanyo Shinkansen's speed and features

The Sanyo Shinkansen is part of Japan's bullet train network, boasting high safety and punctuality. It reaches a maximum speed of 300 km/h and maintains stable operation even in bad weather. The trains offer comfortable travel with spacious seats and clean facilities. Many trains have power outlets at each seat, allowing passengers to charge their smartphones and laptops while traveling. An increasing number of trains also offer Wi-Fi service, allowing passengers to access the internet on board.

Comparison of travel time with air travel

Compared to airplanes, bullet trains often have an advantage in terms of total travel time because they eliminate the need for airport access, security checks, and boarding procedures. With airplanes, you need to arrive at the airport 1–2 hours before departure for airport check-in, security checks, and getting to the boarding gate. Furthermore, travel time from the airport to the city center is also added after arrival. On the other hand, bullet trains only travel from station to station, making access to the city center significantly faster.

Time comparison with cars and JR conventional lines

Even using expressways, traveling by car takes significantly longer than by Shinkansen (bullet train), including traffic jams and rest stops. Furthermore, Japanese expressways have high tolls, and parking fees at the destination must also be considered. Using JR conventional lines can take several hours or more, including transfers. Considering travel time, cost, and comfort, the Shinkansen is the most efficient mode of transportation.

Which train is faster?

Differences between "Nozomi", "Hikari", and "Kodama"

The Sanyo Shinkansen, which runs between Hiroshima and Fukuyama, operates three types of trains: "Nozomi", "Hikari", and "Kodama". Each train has different stops and travel times, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your travel style. Some trains also have unreserved seats that do not require advance reservation, so you can board without a seat reservation. Choose the train that best suits your itinerary and budget.

Stations and characteristics of each train

The fastest train is the "Nozomi", which achieves a short travel time of approximately 19 minutes by stopping only at major stations. Because it has fewer intermediate stops, it's ideal for those who want to minimize travel time.

Hiroshima to Fukuyama: Travel time by train

The "Nozomi" is the fastest train on the Sanyo Shinkansen line, but it cannot be used with the JR Pass. While it's the fastest option, connecting Hiroshima and Fukuyama in approximately 19 minutes, a separate limited express fare is required. If you have a JR Pass, please use the "Hikari" or "Kodama" trains instead.

The "Hikari" is a high-speed train on the Sanyo Shinkansen line and can be used with the JR Pass. It is the second fastest train after the "Nozomi" and stops at major stations. Some trains also have unreserved seats that do not require advance reservation. With a wide range of travel options, it is the most recommended train for JR Pass users.

The "Kodama" is a train on the Sanyo Shinkansen line that stops at every station and can be used with the JR Pass. Because it stops at every station, the travel time is longer, but it has unreserved seats that do not require advance reservation, making it easy to board. It also has the advantage of making it easy to stop at tourist spots along the way.

Recommended trains between Hiroshima and Fukuyama

If you want to travel as quickly as possible, we recommend taking the "Nozomi" train. However, the "Nozomi" cannot be used with the JR Pass, so JR Pass users should take the "Hikari" train instead. If you want to save money or prefer unreserved seats, the "Kodama" train is also an option. Choose the train that best suits your travel purpose, departure time, and budget.

Points to consider when choosing a train

You can check timetables and seat availability on Ekitan (ekitan.com) or Smart EX. Reserved seats tend to sell out quickly, especially during high season. We recommend booking as soon as your itinerary is decided. Reserved seats generally go on sale at 10:00 AM one month prior to the date of travel. If you have a JR Pass, please plan your itinerary within the pass's validity period and allow for some flexibility in your schedule.

How to book Shinkansen tickets

Basic methods for purchasing Shinkansen tickets

There are three ways to purchase Shinkansen tickets between Hiroshima and Fukuyama: ① at the station's ticket office (Midori no Madoguchi), ② at a designated seat ticket vending machine, or ③ online (e.g., Smart EX). Foreign credit cards are accepted at many ticket offices and vending machines. Each method has its own characteristics, so please choose the one that best suits your travel style.

 

 

How to purchase tickets at the station's ticket office (Midori no Madoguchi)

Major train stations have ticket offices called "Midori no Madoguchi" (Green Window), where you can purchase tickets while consulting directly with staff. Some stations have English-speaking staff on duty, making it a convenient way for travelers to purchase tickets. Cash and credit cards are accepted. Opening hours vary by station, but are generally from 6:00 to 21:00. JR Passes can also be exchanged at Midori no Madoguchi.

How to use a ticket vending machine

You can purchase tickets at designated seat ticket vending machines inside the station using touch panel operation. An increasing number of these machines support multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Korean. Since payment by credit card is possible, you can use them even without cash. A major advantage is that you can purchase tickets smoothly even during peak hours when ticket offices are crowded. If you have a JR Pass, you may be able to make seat reservations at the vending machines.

Online booking (Smart EX)

Smart EX is an online reservation service for the Tokaido, Sanyo, and Kyushu Shinkansen lines. Reservations can be made via smartphone or computer, making it a user-friendly service for international travelers. While overseas-issued credit cards may be accepted, acceptance may depend on the card company and their authentication requirements. Since Express Reservation is a membership-based service, please focus your information on Smart EX in articles aimed at international travelers.

 

 

Points to note when making a reservation

During high season such as Golden Week (late April to early May), Obon (August), and the New Year holidays (late December to early January), reserved seats can sell out several weeks in advance. We recommend booking as early as possible once your travel dates are decided. Smart EX allows you to book tickets online for eligible sections of the Tokaido, Sanyo, and Kyushu Shinkansen lines. Conditions and fees for changing or refunding tickets vary, so please check the latest information before booking.

Can I use the JR Pass between Hiroshima and Fukuyama?

Overview of JR Pass

The JR Pass (Japan Rail Pass) is an unlimited ride pass for foreign visitors to Japan. It comes in three validity periods: 7 days, 14 days, and 21 days. During the validity period, you can ride many JR trains, including Shinkansen, limited express, and JR conventional lines, with unlimited rides. Because it allows you to travel with unlimited rides on JR lines throughout Japan, it's a very economical pass for travelers visiting multiple tourist destinations. It can be purchased from the official website or designated retailers. Purchase and exchange methods may change, so please check the latest information on the JAPAN RAIL PASS official website.

Availability between Hiroshima and Fukuyama

Regarding seat reservations for trains such as "Nozomi"

While "Nozomi", "Hikari", and "Kodama" trains operate on this section, you cannot ride the "Nozomi" with a regular JR Pass alone. You may be able to ride it by purchasing an additional "NOZOMI MIZUHO Ticket" for JR Pass users. If you have a JR Pass, please use the "Hikari" or "Kodama". The "Hikari" is the most recommended option for JR Pass users as its travel time is similar to the "Nozomi" and it also has unreserved seats that do not require advance reservation. Seat reservations can be made at JR station ticket offices, designated seat ticket machines, or through the corresponding online reservation service.

Important points to note when using JR Pass (not valid on "Nozomi" trains)

When using the Shinkansen on this section with a JR Pass, you cannot ride the "Nozomi" train with just a regular JR Pass. Please use the "Hikari" or "Kodama" trains. Seat reservations can be made at JR station ticket offices, designated seat ticket machines, or through the corresponding online reservation service.

Points to note when using JR Pass

JR Passes have an expiration date, so please choose the appropriate number of days (7, 14, or 21 days) according to your itinerary. Using a JR Pass is often more economical when traveling across multiple sections of the line. Purchase and redemption methods for JR Passes may change. Please check the latest information on the JAPAN RAIL PASS official website. Since you can specify the start date of your pass, please plan and use it strategically to match your travel start date.

Shinkansen timetable between Hiroshima and Fukuyama

Hiroshima to Fukuyama Shinkansen service frequency

The Sanyo Shinkansen line between Hiroshima and Fukuyama operates approximately every 15 to 30 minutes. The available trains are "Nozomi", "Hikari", and "Kodama", with the type of train varying depending on the time of day. With services running from early morning until late at night, you can use it flexibly to suit your travel schedule.

Guideline for the first and last trains

The first Shinkansen train departing from Hiroshima Station is around 06:02, and the last train departs around 23:15. By taking an early morning train, you can enjoy a full day of sightseeing in the Fukuyama area. The time of the last train may change depending on the season, day of the week, and schedule revisions. Please check the latest timetable.

How to read a timetable

Ekitan (ekitan.com) allows you to check Shinkansen timetables, seat availability, and fares for the Hiroshima-Fukuyama route all in one place. Simply enter your departure station, arrival station, and date, and the service will display the most suitable train and fare. It's accessible from smartphones and supports English, making it a user-friendly service for international travelers.

Hiroshima Station to Fukuyama Station (excerpt, approximate route)

*Actual times and train numbers may change due to seasonal changes or revisions to the operating schedule. Please check the latest information on Ekitan or other sources.

Peak hours and points to note

The trains tend to be more crowded during the morning commute (7:00–9:00) and in the evening (17:00–19:00). They are especially crowded during Golden Week, Obon, and the New Year holidays, and reserved seats tend to sell out quickly. During peak seasons, it's recommended to book early and allow ample time for travel. Also, if transfers are necessary, be sure to check the connecting train times in advance.

Summary: Shinkansen from Hiroshima to Fukuyama

This is a summary of Shinkansen (bullet train) travel from Hiroshima to Fukuyama.

Estimated fares: Unreserved seats (no advance reservation required) (4,510 yen), reserved seats (advance reservation required) (5,040–5,360 yen), Green Car (7,310–7,630 yen)

Shortest travel time: Approximately 19 minutes (when using "Nozomi" Shinkansen)

With a regular JR Pass, you cannot use the "Nozomi" train. You can use the "Hikari" and "Kodama" trains.

Tickets can be purchased at station ticket offices (Midori no Madoguchi), designated seat ticket machines, and online reservation services such as Smart EX.

Reserved seats can sell out quickly during high season, so please check your tickets as soon as your travel dates are finalized.

Ekitan Travel Media Editorial Department

The Ekitan Travel Media editorial team provides information on transportation in Japan, including Shinkansen (bullet trains), regular trains, intercity travel, and access to tourist destinations. We also offer easy-to-understand travel information for international visitors.
This article is published by Ekitan Co., Ltd., the provider of the train transfer information service "Ekitan," and is based on Japanese railway and transportation information. Ekitan's website and app are used by over 10 million users per month.