Daily costs per person in US dollars. Hiroshima is one of Japan's most affordable cities for travellers. The Peace Museum costs just 200 yen and many key sites are free.
Daily cost breakdown
Currency: JPY (Yen) (Cash preferred at local restaurants and shops)
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Splurge | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $25–50 | $60–130 | $160+ | Hostels → business hotels → boutique hotels |
| Food | $10–20 | $25–50 | $60+ | Okonomiyaki counters → local restaurants → kaiseki |
| Transport | $5–10 | $10–25 | $40+ | Walking & streetcar → JR trains → Shinkansen & taxi |
| Activities | $2–10 | $15–40 | $50+ | Peace Park free → museums → guided tours |
| Entry Fees | $2–5 | $10–20 | $25–40 | Most sites are free or very cheap |
| Daily Total | $44–95 | $120–265 | $335+ | Budget backpacker → comfortable mid → luxury |
Money-saving tips
Japan Rail Pass for Shinkansen
If travelling between cities, the JR Pass covers the Shinkansen to and from Hiroshima plus the JR ferry to Miyajima. A single Hiroshima–Tokyo round trip nearly pays for a 7-day pass.
Free Peace Park & memorials
Peace Memorial Park, the A-Bomb Dome, and the Cenotaph are all free to visit. The Peace Museum charges only 200 yen (about $1.50 USD), one of Japan's best cultural experiences for almost nothing.
Okonomiyaki over restaurants
Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at local counters costs 800–1,200 yen for a filling meal. Okonomimura and local neighbourhood teppan shops are always cheaper than sit-down restaurants for the same quality.
Ferry to Miyajima with JR Pass
The JR Miyajima ferry is covered by the Japan Rail Pass, saving the 360-yen round trip. The competing Matsudai ferry is not covered, so check which pier you're departing from.
Convenience store breakfasts
Japanese convenience stores serve excellent coffee, onigiri, and pastries from 100–300 yen each. A full breakfast for under 500 yen is easy and genuinely good quality.
Walk the compact centre
Hiroshima's main attractions (Peace Park, Castle, Shukkeien, and Hondori) are all within walking distance. The streetcar (tram) costs 220 yen flat fare if your legs need a rest.
