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The 11 Best Boat Tours & Cruises in Hiroshima
Hiroshima isn’t just a city of profound history and resilience; it’s also a fantastic place to experience boat tours and cruises that reveal its scenic beauty and cultural richness from a different perspective. Whether you're floating past the iconic Itsukushima Shrine’s floating torii gate, cruising along the calm Seto Inland Sea, or exploring the port city’s naval history, these boat experiences add a unique dimension to your trip. We’re particularly fond of the Dinner Cruise on HANAIKADA, which combines scenic views with a romantic dinner—an unforgettable evening in Hiroshima.
Hiroshima is a city where history, nature, and culture come together beautifully on the water. With options ranging from half-day sightseeing trips to full-day explorations, you'll find a cruise suited to your interests and schedule. Whether it’s a private boat tour or a lively group cruise, each offers a way to see Hiroshima from a fresh angle.
Quick Overview
This list features a variety of boat tours, including full-day explorations, scenic island cruises, private guides, and special themed dinners. Highlights include the bike and boat adventures in Hiroshima and Miyajima, which combine active exploration with culture (see here). The Hiroshima and Miyajima 1 Day Cruise Tour offers a seamless, scenic journey with minimal transfers, perfect for those wanting a relaxed yet comprehensive experience. For a more intimate dinner experience, the Dinner Cruise on HANAIKADA provides a romantic setting with stunning sunset views. On the historic side, the Kure Battleship Tour showcases Japan’s naval legacy with visits to battleships and submarines.
Below, we’ll explore each of these standout options in detail, helping you decide which cruise best matches your style and interests.
1. Hiroshima and Miyajima by Bike and Boat
At number 1, this full-day, small-group tour combines cycling, boat rides, and train travel to give you a thorough look at Hiroshima and Miyajima. It’s perfect if you want active sightseeing balanced with cultural insights. Starting with a bike ride through Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and Hiroshima Castle, you’ll gain a tangible understanding of the city’s history. The tour then takes you on a ferry to Miyajima, where you’ll see the famous floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine. The inclusion of a regional lunch makes this a well-rounded day for those who like to move around and see multiple sights. The guide provides detailed commentary, making this tour both educational and engaging.
The tour’s strength lies in its intimate group size (max 8) and the chance to explore at a relaxed pace. Reviewers emphasize the ease of bike riding and the personalized experience. One raved, “I filled the day with lovely meandering through tree-filled paths, visits to sights, and yummy foods.” This tour is ideal for active travelers who want to pack in as much as possible without rushing.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, energetic day that balances history, culture, and scenery. Perfect for those who enjoy cycling and want an immersive Hiroshima experience.
2. Hiroshima and Miyajima 1 Day Cruise Tour
Number 2 on our list is the Hiroshima and Miyajima 1 Day Cruise Tour, which delivers a seamless, scenic journey designed for travelers wanting a relaxed day. This tour is centered around ferry rides between Hiroshima and Miyajima, offering stunning views of the cityscape and the island’s lush nature. It includes a visit to the World Heritage-listed Itsukushima Shrine and the Atomic Bomb Dome, providing a powerful mix of natural beauty and historical reflection.
What makes this tour special is the direct ferry from Miyajima to Hiroshima—no complicated transfers—plus the chance to see deer wandering freely on Miyajima. Reviewers highlight the guide Rimona’s knowledge and friendly attitude, making the experience both informative and enjoyable. It’s great if you prefer a laid-back pace with plenty of opportunity for photos and casual exploration.
Bottom Line: For around $170, this tour offers excellent value with its focus on scenic ferry rides and iconic sites, suited for travelers who prefer a hassle-free, scenic day.
3. Dinner Cruise on HANAIKADA (Raft-Type Boat) with Scenic View of Miyajima
Number 3 is a luxurious dinner cruise on the raft-shaped boat HANAIKADA. This 2.5-hour cruise is a rare opportunity to enjoy fine dining while drifting gently on the Ono Seto Sea, with the Miyajima Otorii Gate as your backdrop. The boat’s intimate size (only a few tables) creates a private, romantic atmosphere—perfect for couples or special occasions.
The cruise includes delicious regional dishes, and reviewers mention the spacious deck and quiet waters making it feel like floating on a private pond. During sunset, the views of the red torii gate and surrounding islands are spectacular. Many guests comment on the personalized service and the special ambiance of this experience.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a romantic, scenic dining experience, this cruise offers a perfect setting. It’s a bit pricier but delivers a memorable evening with top-notch scenery and food.
4. Hiroshima: City and Miyajima Bike and Boat Tour
This tour combines guided cycling and ferry rides to explore Hiroshima’s key sites along with Miyajima. It starts with a bike tour around the Peace Park and A-bomb Dome, giving you a closer feel for the city’s somber history. Then, it takes you across the water to Miyajima, where you’ll learn about its religious significance and famous floating torii.
The experience is well-suited for travelers who want a combination of active exploration and cultural insight. The guide’s local knowledge, combined with scenic cycling routes, makes it stand out. The mix of city and island highlights provides a diverse perspective on Hiroshima’s past and present.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who like to balance active sightseeing with cultural learning, making it a comprehensive day in Hiroshima and Miyajima.
5. Hiroshima Cruise Pickup: Miyajima & Peace Park Tour with Car
Number 5 offers a personalized, private experience for up to three people, perfect if you prefer luxury and flexibility. The cruise pickup service includes visits to the Peace Memorial Museum and Itsukushima Shrine, with a knowledgeable guide handling logistics—no fuss about tickets or transport.
This tour is especially suited for cruise ship passengers or those with limited time. The guide’s personalized approach means you can customize the itinerary or spend more time at specific sites. Reviewers mention how the guide Tomoyo’s excellent English, combined with the tailored experience, made their visit memorable.
Bottom Line: A premium, hassle-free option for small groups seeking a Private, guided experience with flexible scheduling.
6. Miyajima Exploring Highlights and Sunset Cruise
Number 6 provides a unique perspective of Miyajima—viewing the iconic torii gate from the sea at sunset. The tour combines a daytime visit to Itsukushima Shrine with an evening cruise around the island, offering spectacular photo opportunities and a peaceful atmosphere. The boat ride during sunset enhances the beauty of the red gate and the island’s scenery, making it a favorite for romantics and photographers alike.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a more intimate, scenic experience and don’t mind a longer day. The reviews highlight the beautiful scenery and the chance to see Miyajima from an unusual angle.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a combination of sightseeing and a memorable sunset cruise, with a focus on spectacular photographs.
7. Lunch Cruise on HANAIKADA (Raft-Type Boat) with Scenic View of Miyajima
Number 7 offers a relaxing 2.5-hour lunch cruise on the raft-shaped boat HANAIKADA, combining local cuisine with scenic views of Miyajima and the Ono Seto Sea. During this trip, you’ll float on calm waters surrounded by oyster rafts and islands, enjoying regional dishes aboard the boat. The spacious deck and peaceful setting make this a wonderful way to unwind while taking in the scenery.
Reviewers praise the quality of the food and the tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal midday break or special treat. It’s a budget-friendly option for those who want to combine good food with scenic cruising.
Bottom Line: A great choice for scenic, leisurely dining on the water, especially for travelers looking for an authentic local experience.
8. Day Tour Explore Port City Kure Cruise – Battleships and Submarines
Number 8 takes you into military history with a cruise around Kure, Japan’s largest naval port. You’ll visit the Yamato Museum, which showcases Japan’s WWII naval power, and step inside an actual decommissioned submarine. The tour offers a rare glimpse into Japan’s maritime defense, combining museum exhibits with a mini-cruise on Kure Bay.
This experience is best suited for history enthusiasts or military buffs. While the Yamato Museum is temporarily showing a satellite exhibit, the submarine tour and the overall naval theme keep this experience engaging. The reviews emphasize how informative and unique this tour is, especially for those interested in Japan’s naval past.
Bottom Line: An educational, historically focused cruise for those interested in Japan’s military history—an offbeat but rewarding experience.
$161.55 per person
9. 30 Minutes One Way Cruise from Miyahama Onsen to Miyajima
Number 9 offers a short, scenic boat trip from Miyahama Onsen to Miyajima, lasting about 30 minutes. This is perfect if you want a quick maritime experience en route to exploring the island or relaxing at the hot springs. The boat ride allows you to get close-up views of the Itsukushima Shrine’s torii gate and the surrounding waters.
Ideal for travelers with tight schedules or those who want a special transportation experience as part of a broader visit. The actual trip is simple but offers the chance to appreciate Miyajima’s divine ambiance from the water.
Bottom Line: A convenient, scenic transit option that enhances your Miyajima visit with a memorable sea journey.
$122.43 per person
10. Miyahama Onsen Cruise Tour to the Otorii with Drone Shooting
Number 10 is a luxury cruise experience that includes a drone-shooting session of the famous Otorii gate. It’s a premium tour lasting about 2 hours, offering exhilarating views of Miyajima from the water, combined with the chance to capture stunning drone footage. The cruise runs around Miyajima’s waters, giving a diverse perspective of the shrine and its environment.
While it’s a more expensive option, the combination of scenic cruising and drone photography appeals to those wanting a bespoke experience. The highlight is the spectacular aerial shots of the gate, ideal for photography lovers.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking a luxurious, photo-focused cruise, this offers a one-of-a-kind way to document Miyajima’s iconic site.
$269.58 per person
11. Explore Miyajima Sail from Miyahama Onsen
Number 11 provides a gentle one-hour sail along Miyajima’s coast, called the Seven Shrines Tour. It’s an intimate experience, ideal for those wanting a short, relaxing cruise with some cultural context. The tour visits several small shrines along the coast and offers a peaceful way to experience Miyajima’s divine landscape from the water.
This tour is perfect for casual travelers or families looking for a short water experience without the complexity of a full-day tour. Reviewers mention how beautiful the scenery and friendly guides make this a worthwhile addition.
Bottom Line: A brief, tranquil cruise that complements your Miyajima exploration with a touch of spirituality and scenery.
$127
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Hiroshima
When selecting your ideal boat experience, consider your interests, budget, and time. If you’re after an active, immersive day, the Hiroshima and Miyajima by Bike and Boat is excellent. For a relaxed scenic ride, the Hiroshima and Miyajima 1 Day Cruise Tour offers broad highlights with minimal effort. Want a romantic dinner? The Dinner Cruise on HANAIKADA is ideal.
If history and military history attract you, the Kure Battleship Tour provides a fascinating insight into Japan’s naval past. For those seeking a luxurious, photo-worthy experience, the drone cruise or sunset cruise might be perfect.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular times like cherry blossom season or autumn foliage. Consider your fitness level (active tours involve cycling) and interest in cultural history versus scenery when making your choice.
The Sum Up
Hiroshima offers a diverse array of water-based adventures that showcase its natural beauty, historical sites, and maritime culture. For a full-day active experience, the Bike and Boat Tour stands out. If you prefer a relaxing, scenic cruise, the Hiroshima and Miyajima 1 Day Cruise is a solid choice.
Looking for something truly special? The Dinner Cruise on HANAIKADA offers a romantic evening, while the luxury drone cruise captures unforgettable aerial photos. For history buffs, the Kure Naval Tour provides a rare glimpse into Japan’s military past.
No matter your style, Hiroshima’s boat tours promise unique views and memorable experiences. Be sure to book early to secure your spot and enjoy these water adventures at their best.