“Although I want to visit Hiroshima, taking the Shinkansen or transferring between trains sounds like too much trouble…”

For travelers who feel this way, we recommend taking the highway bus “Shimanami Express.”

You can travel directly from Imabari to Hiroshima without transfers. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, with one-way fares starting from ¥4,200. It is an easy way to save on transportation costs while reaching Hiroshima comfortably. Another unique attraction of this route is the spectacular scenery of the Shimanami Kaido from the bus windows.

In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to the Shimanami Express, including fares, travel time, bus stops, reservation methods, onboard facilities, and an actual riding experience. We will also introduce sightseeing spots and places to enjoy local food that you can visit immediately after arriving in Hiroshima.

What Is the “Shimanami Express”? Check the Fare, Travel Time, and Features

The “Shimanami Express” is a highway bus connecting Imabari Station Bus Stop and Hiroshima Bus Center.

From Imabari Station Bus Stop, the bus travels via the scenic Shimanami Kaido before continuing to Hiroshima Station and Hiroshima Bus Center.

It is also convenient for visiting the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, whether you are sightseeing, traveling for business, or visiting family.

Item	Details
Route Name	Shimanami Express
Operating Companies	Setouchi Shimanami Leading / Setouchi Bus / Hiroshima Kotsu (Hiroko Bus)
Route	Imabari Station Bus Stop – Hiroshima Bus Center
Major Stops	Innoshima, Hiroshima Station
Travel Time	Approx. 2 hours 50 minutes
Fare	From ¥4,200 one way
Reservation	Required
Payment Methods	Credit card / convenience store / transport IC card / cash, etc.
Seats	4-seat configuration / reclining seats
Onboard Facilities	estroom / Wi-Fi / charging (USB ports)
Break	1 stop
Recommended For Travelers	who want to reach their destination without transfers

※Information as of July 2026.
※Fares, travel times, and onboard facilities may vary depending on the service or operating conditions. Please check announcements from the operating companies for the latest information.

5 Recommended Highlights of the “Shimanami Express”

1. Directly from Imabari Station-mae Bus Stop → Hiroshima Bus Center, with no transfers
2. One-way fares from ¥4,200, making it easy to save on transportation costs
3. Convenient access to central Hiroshima・Hiroshima Bus Center
4. Easy to travel even with large luggage (can be stored in the luggage compartment)
5. USB charging ports are available onboard, allowing you to spend your journey comfortably

This highway bus is ideal for travelers who “want to travel as easily as possible while also saving money.”

＼Direct from Imabari to Hiroshima!／
Check the Seats & Fares for the “Shimanami Express”!
※From ¥4,200 one way｜Reservations can be completed in 3 minutes

Highway Bus vs. Train/Shinkansen｜Comparison of Fares, Travel Time, and Transfers

When traveling from Imabari to Hiroshima, there are several transportation options besides the highway bus, including trains, the Shinkansen, and driving. Here is a comparison of these options.

Transportation	Approx. Cost	Travel Time	Transfers	Advantages	Points to Note
Highway Bus “Shimanami Express”	From ¥4,200	Approx. 2 hr 50 min	None	No transfers Affordable	May be delayed due to road conditions
Train/Shinkansen	From ¥11,000	Approx. 3 hr 10 min	1	Travel time is relatively	predictable More expensive/Requires a transfer
Driving	From ¥7,010	Approx. 2 hr 10 min	None	Freedom to travel around	Greater driving burden/Parking and Shimanami Kaido tolls can be expensive

※Fares and travel times are for reference only. Actual conditions vary depending on the season, service, and booking time.

As you can see from the comparison, the “Shimanami Express” offers significant advantages in terms of affordability and convenience without transfers.

The travel time is similar to that of trains and the Shinkansen, while the fare is less than half the cost. It is particularly recommended for travelers with large luggage or those who want to avoid transfers.

How to Reserve and Purchase Tickets for the “Shimanami Express”

This section introduces the reservation and payment methods you should know before taking the bus.

The “Shimanami Express” Requires Reservations! Prepare Your Ticket Before Boarding

The “Shimanami Express” is a highway bus that requires advance reservations. To avoid situations such as “I couldn’t board because the bus was full,” we recommend reserving your seat as soon as your travel plans are confirmed.

Reservation Methods

There are two main reservation methods: “online reservations” and “counter/telephone reservations.”

Reservation Method	Features
Online Reservation	Available 24 hours a day, convenient for checking availability and fares
Counter Reservation	You can purchase your ticket while consulting with staff
Telephone Reservation	Convenient even for those who are not comfortable using the internet

Online Reservation

With online reservations, you can check availability using a smartphone or computer and make your reservation directly.

If you want to check availability and fares for the “Shimanami Express,” “Japan Bus Online” is a convenient option.

▶ Check availability and fares for the Shimanami Express via “Japan Bus Online”

Counter/Telephone Reservations

If you are not comfortable making an online reservation, you can also make a reservation at a bus company counter or by telephone.

Reservation Counter	Telephone	Business Hours/Holidays	Regular Holiday
Shimanami Reservation Center	0898-25-4873	9：00 – 17：00	None
Hiroko Reservation Center	082-238-3344	10：00 – 18：00	None
Imabari Station-mae Bus General Information Center	ー	8：00 – 12：00 13：00 – 17：00	Wednesday/Sunday

About Tickets

・Online payment → Simply show your smartphone screen to board
・Convenience store payment/Counter purchase → Be sure to bring the issued paper ticket

Since there may sometimes be several buses traveling in the same direction, be sure to check not only the destination but also the “service name” and “operating bus company.”

【With Photos】How to Walk from Imabari Station to Imabari Station Bus Stop Platform 2

Next, we will show you how to get from Imabari Station to the bus stop for the Shimanami Express.

① Exit through the Ticket Gate at Imabari Station (1st Floor)

After arriving at Imabari Station, first head to the ticket gates on the first floor. The platforms are on the second floor, while the ticket gates are on the first floor. There is only one ticket gate area, located in the center.

② Head to the East Exit

After passing through the ticket gates, head toward the East Exit.

Inside the station, you will see signs indicating “Bus Stop.” Follow these signs.

③ Head toward Imabari Station Bus Stop

Inside the station, you will see signs indicating “Bus Boarding Area.”

Follow the sidewalk, cross the pedestrian crossing, and the bus stop will be right in front of you.

④ Arrive at Platform 2

This is Platform 2 for the Shimanami Express.

What to Check at the Bus Stop

The area around the bus stop may become crowded shortly before departure.

If this is your first time taking the bus, we recommend arriving approximately 20 to 30 minutes before departure for peace of mind.

“Shimanami Express” Onboard Facilities｜Seats/Restroom/Charging/Wi-Fi

When taking a highway bus, one of the biggest concerns is onboard comfort.

“Are the seats spacious enough?”

“Is there a restroom?”

“Can I charge my phone?”

Here, we introduce the onboard facilities of the “Shimanami Express” based on an actual ride.

※Facilities may vary depending on the bus or service.

Luggage Compartment/Luggage Rack

Large suitcases and Boston bags can be stored in the luggage compartment before boarding. This gives you more space around your seat and keeps the area around your feet tidy, even during a long journey.

Since the “Shimanami Express” stops at Hiroshima Station before its final destination, Hiroshima Bus Center, staff will remind passengers to separate luggage intended for Hiroshima Station from luggage intended for Hiroshima Bus Center when checking it in.

Remembering that there are separate luggage storage areas for each destination will help make your journey smoother.

Seats

The bus has a four-seat-across configuration.

Since there is an appropriate amount of space between neighboring seats, you can feel comfortable even when traveling alone.

The seats are equipped with items such as vomit bags and cup holders.

The seats can be reclined, allowing you to change your position and stay comfortable during the approximately three-hour journey.

Charging Facilities

Each seat is equipped with a USB port, allowing you to charge your smartphone. The outlet on the window side is located on the wall, while the outlet on the aisle side is installed on the seat.

If you plan to watch videos or check maps after arrival, be sure to bring a charging cable.

※Facilities may vary depending on the bus.

Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi is available onboard the “Shimanami Express.” It is convenient for checking social media during the journey or looking up sightseeing information.

Although the bus travels across the sea along the Shimanami Kaido, there were no prolonged signal interruptions during the journey.

Restroom

This bus is equipped with a restroom. The restroom is located at the rear right side of the bus. Having a restroom onboard provides peace of mind even during the approximately three-hour journey.

The bus usually has a restroom, but a vehicle without a restroom may occasionally be assigned. To prepare for either situation, it is best to use the restroom before boarding.

If you need to use the restroom while the bus is moving, be careful when walking due to the movement of the vehicle.

Other Facilities・Amenities

The “Shimanami Express” offers the following facilities and convenient amenities:

・Reading light
・Luggage rack
・Hand sanitizer

Having hand sanitizer available allows passengers to travel comfortably and with peace of mind, which is another nice feature.

【Riding Report】From Imabari Station Bus Stop → Travel to Hiroshima Bus Center

Next, we will introduce the actual journey on the “Shimanami Express” in chronological order.

8:20　Arrive at Imabari Station-mae Bus Stop・Platform 2

I arrived at Platform 2 of Imabari Station-mae Bus Stop 20 minutes before departure. In addition to passengers taking local buses, there were also passengers waiting for the “Shimanami Express” departing a little earlier for Fukuyama, making the platform quite crowded.

Many passengers were carrying large pieces of luggage, giving the impression that the bus was popular with both tourists and business travelers.

8:45　Bus Arrives・Boarding Begins

As the departure time approached, the “Shimanami Express” bus arrived.

When boarding, please show your smartphone screen. We recommend preparing it in advance so that you can show it quickly and ensure a smooth boarding process.

At 8:48, we departed on time.

An onboard announcement provided information about the break and estimated arrival time. After organizing my luggage, I could simply relax and enjoy the journey to my destination.

It started raining just as we left Imabari.

However, the weather gradually cleared up, and I was able to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Shimanami Kaido along the way♪

10:10　Break at Yawata Service Area (Approx. 10 Minutes）

We stopped at Yawata Service Area for approximately 10 minutes. This was just enough time to use the restroom and buy a drink.

During the break, be sure to check the bus itself and the departure time!

Since buses with similar appearances may sometimes be parked together, it is reassuring to remember where your bus is parked and what it looks like.

11:35　Arrive at Hiroshima Bus Center

We arrived approximately five minutes later than scheduled. Even despite the bad weather, the delay was only about five minutes, making it a very comfortable journey.

The bus also stops at the Shinkansen Exit of Hiroshima Station. If you are heading to the area around Hiroshima Station or need to transfer to the Shinkansen, getting off at Hiroshima Station is more convenient.

Since you can travel all the way from Imabari to Hiroshima without changing buses, the journey felt very easy even with a lot of luggage.

3 Recommended Sightseeing & Food Spots You Can Visit Right After Arriving in Hiroshima

Here are three recommended spots that are easily accessible from both Hiroshima Bus Center and Hiroshima Station.

“Hiroshima River Cruise” with Views of the Atomic Bomb Dome from the River

The Hiroshima River Cruise is approximately a 10-minute walk from Hiroshima Bus Center.

This sightseeing attraction allows you to enjoy views of Hiroshima from the river and is a great place to visit after your bus journey.

I had previously only seen the Atomic Bomb Dome from land, so this was my first opportunity to see it from the river. The sightseeing commentary by the captain was also very interesting, making this a valuable experience that allowed me to discover a side of Hiroshima that I had never known before.

I also experienced “Route A,” which I especially recommend for first-time visitors. Although the entire cruise takes approximately 25 minutes, you can encounter a fresh perspective of Hiroshima throughout the journey.

◎ Hiroshima River Cruise Basic Information

Operating Hours	Vary by route *Please check the official website for details
Closed	Service may be suspended irregularly *Please check the official website for details
Distance from Boarding Point:	Approx. 10-minute walk from Hiroshima Bus Center
Telephone	082-258-3188 *Only Route A can be reserved online
Google Maps	https://maps.app.goo.gl/DYnrUJ6tQR6iCtCPA
Official Website	https://www.hiroshima-water-taxi.com/

A Great Collection of Popular Restaurants! “Hiroshima Okonomiyaki Monogatari Ekimae Hiroba”

When you think of Hiroshima, you naturally want to try okonomiyaki! “Ekimae Hiroba,” located in front of Hiroshima Station, brings together 12 popular restaurants.

Located on the 6th floor of the Hiroshima Full Focus Building next to the South Exit of Hiroshima Station, the floor is lined with okonomiyaki restaurants as soon as you step out of the elevator. With energetic calls such as “We have seats available!” and “Come on in!”, it can be difficult to decide which restaurant to choose.

This time, I chose “Shū.” To experience a Hiroshima specialty, I ordered okonomiyaki topped with plenty of oysters.

Here is a little tip for first-time visitors trying Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki!

Many okonomiyaki restaurants only start cooking after receiving your order. While waiting for your okonomiyaki, ordering some drinks and small dishes is a great way to enjoy your time until the okonomiyaki is ready.

It is conveniently located about 15 minutes by streetcar from Hiroshima Bus Center and about a 5-minute walk from Hiroshima Station, making it an easy destination even for first-time visitors.

◎ “Hiroshima Okonomiyaki Monogatari Ekimae Hiroba” Basic Information

Operating Hours	10：00〜23：00
Closed	Open year-round
Distance from Boarding Point:	5-minute walk from Hiroshima Station / Approx. 15 minutes by streetcar from Hiroshima Bus Center
Telephone	082-568-7890
Google Maps	https://maps.app.goo.gl/WsAxV5fcbkJZe66r5
Official Website	https://ekimae-hiroba.jp/

Enjoy Hiroshima Cuisine and Local Sake! “Hiroshima Prefectural Residents’ Sakaba Ekimae”

“Hiroshima Prefectural Residents’ Sakaba Ekimae” is located at the South Exit of Hiroshima Station. Here, you can enjoy Hiroshima specialties.

The crispy tempura of whitebait from the Seto Inland Sea is served hot and has no strong fishy smell, making it an excellent accompaniment to drinks.

I also tried Hiroshima’s B-grade gourmet specialty, stir-fried pork offal, for the first time. It had no unpleasant smell at all and was delicious!

The restaurant has a long, narrow interior with mainly counter seating, making it a comfortable place to enjoy Hiroshima cuisine and local sake even when dining alone.

◎ “Hiroshima Prefectural Residents’ Sakaba Ekimae” Basic Information

Operating Hours	17：00～0：00
Closed	Tuesdays
Distance from Boarding Point:	5-minute walk from Hiroshima Station / Approx. 15 minutes by streetcar from Hiroshima Bus Center
Telephone	090-6419-0066
Google Maps	https://maps.app.goo.gl/3oTSc7xtSsZxfzUv8
Official Website	https://www.instagram.com/official_hiroshima_sakaba/

4 Things to Keep in Mind When Taking the “Shimanami Express”

Please keep the following points in mind when taking the “Shimanami Express.”

① Arrival Times May Be Delayed Due to Road Conditions

Highway buses may be affected by road conditions and weather.

If you have plans immediately after arrival, we recommend allowing plenty of extra time to ensure that your schedule goes smoothly.

② Onboard Facilities Vary Depending on the Service and Bus

Facilities such as restrooms, Wi-Fi, charging equipment, and blankets may vary depending on the service or vehicle. If there is a facility that you consider absolutely essential, be sure to check the operating company’s information before making your reservation.

The “Shimanami Express” usually has a restroom, but during busy seasons, a vehicle without a restroom may be used.

③ Leave Plenty of Storage Space on Your Phone to Capture the Spectacular Scenery of the Shimanami Kaido!

Since the “Shimanami Express” travels over the sea, the scenery outside the windows is especially beautiful! To avoid situations such as “My storage is full and I can’t take any more photos…,” be sure to free up enough storage space before boarding.

In fact, many passengers were taking photos. Compared with rainy weather, we definitely recommend taking the bus on a sunny day!

④ Prepare Your Ticket and Reservation Screen in Advance So You Can Show Them at Any Time

To avoid fumbling when boarding, open your reservation confirmation email, or electronic ticket, in advance.

If you are concerned about an unstable internet connection, we recommend saving a screenshot beforehand.

Conclusion: Travel Easily Between Imabari and Hiroshima on the “Shimanami Express” Highway Bus!

The “Shimanami Express” is a highway bus route that takes you directly from Imabari to Hiroshima without transfers.

Although this journey can easily make you want to take a nap, the scenery of the Seto Inland Sea is so beautiful that this is a route where you may find yourself with no time to sleep at all.

Once you arrive in Hiroshima, you can immediately start sightseeing or continue with your planned activities.

If you are planning to travel from Imabari to Hiroshima, be sure to consider the “Shimanami Express” highway bus.

＼Direct from Imabari to Hiroshima, with no transfers!／
Check theAvailability & Faresfor the “Shimanami Express”!