Hiroden Itsukaichi Station

Hiroden-Itsukaichi Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Hiroshima’s Historical Sites

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Hiroden-Itsukaichi Station is a vital transportation gateway in Hiroshima, linking the city’s historic core with the scenic Miyajima Island and serving as a hub for both local commuters and tourists. Established in 1924 as part of Hiroshima’s urban expansion, the station has grown into a symbol of resilience, integrating modern amenities and accessibility while preserving the city’s cultural legacy. Its strategic location on the Hiroshima Electric Railway’s Miyajima Line and close proximity to JR Itsukaichi Station enables seamless transfers across tram and rail services, offering direct access to renowned destinations such as Itsukushima Shrine and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. This comprehensive guide provides up-to-date information on visiting hours, ticketing options, station layout, accessibility features, nearby attractions, and practical travel tips to enhance your experience at Hiroden-Itsukaichi Station and the surrounding Saeki Ward (Dive! Hiroshima, Japan Station, Trip to Japan).

Introduction
Historical Overview
Role in Hiroshima’s Transportation Network
Infrastructure, Layout, and Facilities
Tickets, Visiting Hours, and Accessibility
Navigating the Hiroden and JR Lines
Nearby Attractions and Cultural Highlights
Socioeconomic & Cultural Impact
Sustainability Initiatives
FAQs
Visuals and Interactive Media
Internal & External Resources
Summary & Call to Action
References

Historical Overview

Hiroden-Itsukaichi Station (広電五日市駅) was inaugurated in 1924 amid Hiroshima’s rapid urbanization, primarily to connect the city center with outlying districts and Miyajima Island via the Miyajima Line. Over nearly a century, Hiroden-Itsukaichi has mirrored the city’s transformation from rural outskirts to vibrant suburb, playing a critical role in postwar recovery and development. The station has undergone several renovations to accommodate increasing ridership and technological advancements, remaining central to Hiroshima’s transit ecosystem (Dive! Hiroshima).

Role in Hiroshima’s Transportation Network

Integration with Tram and Rail

Hiroden-Itsukaichi Station is a key node on the Hiroden Miyajima Line, one of Japan’s largest and oldest streetcar systems. The station enables seamless transfers to the adjacent JR Itsukaichi Station on the Sanyo Main Line, allowing travelers to move effortlessly between local tram, regional, and national rail networks (JP Rail). The Miyajima Line connects central Hiroshima to Hiroden-miyajima-guchi, the port for ferries to Miyajima Island.

Gateway to Major Destinations

The station is the primary public transit stop for visitors to Miyajima Island, home to the famous “floating” torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine. It also provides access to local attractions in Saeki Ward, including traditional temples, shopping streets, and parks, making it essential for both tourism and daily community life (Trip to Japan).

Postwar Significance

After Hiroshima’s devastation in 1945, the Hiroden network was among the first public services to resume operations. Hiroden-Itsukaichi, situated outside the city center, remained a critical transit point during the city’s reconstruction, symbolizing Hiroshima’s enduring spirit (Trip to Japan).

Infrastructure, Layout, and Facilities

Station Layout

JR Sanyo Main Line Section: Features two side platforms, clear bilingual signage, ticket gates, vending machines, and barrier-free access (elevators/escalators).
Hiroden Streetcar Section: At-grade platforms with open boarding, route maps, real-time timetables, and direct pedestrian pathways to the JR station (joyinhiroshima.com).

Facilities

Ticketing: Automated machines and onboard purchase; accepts cash and IC cards (PASPY, ICOCA, and others).
Accessibility: Step-free access, tactile paving, ramps, and accessible restrooms.
Amenities: Sheltered waiting areas, vending machines, seating, and nearby convenience stores and eateries.
Information: Bilingual signage, color-coded maps, and digital displays for service updates.

Tickets, Visiting Hours, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours

Station open daily from approximately 5:00 AM to midnight, in line with the first and last tram/train services.
Ticket machines and IC card readers operational throughout service hours.

Ticketing Options

Single Fares: ¥180–¥260 for Hiroden trams; JR fares based on distance.
IC Cards: PASPY and ICOCA accepted across both lines; recharge limitations on Hiroden devices (¥1,000 bills only).
Passes: The Visit Hiroshima Tourist Pass offers unlimited rides on Hiroden trams, select buses, and ferries—ideal for sightseeing (JP Rail).

Accessibility

Elevators, ramps, and tactile guidance for wheelchair users and visually impaired travelers.
Barrier-free restrooms and staff assistance available.

Navigating the Hiroden and JR Lines

Transfers: The Hiroden stop is directly adjacent to JR Itsukaichi Station; transfers typically take under five minutes.
IC Card Use: Tap at entry/exit points; recharge ICOCA at JR machines or in advance, as Hiroden machines have limited recharge options.
Planning: Use apps like Japan Transit Planner and Google Maps for real-time schedules and route planning.

Nearby Attractions and Cultural Highlights

Miyajima Island: Access via Hiroden-Miyajima Line to Miyajima-guchi, then ferry to Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Live Japan).
Peace Memorial Park: Reachable by Hiroden streetcar; includes the Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Museum.
Itsukaichi Honsha Shrine: Historic shrine within walking distance, free entry from morning to dusk.
Saeki-ku Historical Museum: Exhibits on local history and Hiroshima’s development.
Itsukaichi Natural Hot Spring Yurayura: Popular hot spring facility known for its high pH water and relaxation amenities (Dive Hiroshima).
Local Shopping & Markets: Explore traditional shops, supermarkets, and markets for souvenirs and local products (Ecofriendly Travels).

Socioeconomic & Cultural Impact

Community Hub: Supports local businesses, jobs, and schools, fostering a vibrant community environment.
Cultural Identity: Integral to local festivals and daily routines; features in city celebrations like the Hiroshima Flower Festival and Toukasan Yukata Festival.
Food Culture: Surrounding eateries serve Hiroshima specialties, including okonomiyaki and oysters (Live Japan).

Sustainability Initiatives

Green Transport: The electric tram system reduces emissions and traffic congestion (Ecofriendly Travels).
Waste Management: Color-coded recycling, public bins, and strict waste separation.
Eco-Friendly Accommodation: Local hotels promote energy savings and sustainable practices.
Responsible Tourism: Support local businesses, minimize waste, and use public transport for a low-impact visit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for Hiroden-Itsukaichi Station?
A: The station operates daily from about 5:00 AM to midnight, matching the tram schedule.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Tickets are available via station machines, on board trams, and through IC cards like PASPY and ICOCA.

Q: Is the station accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, with elevators, ramps, tactile paving, and accessible restrooms.

Q: Does the Japan Rail Pass cover Hiroden trams?
A: No, the pass covers JR lines; Hiroden tickets must be purchased separately.

Q: Where can I store luggage?
A: Limited storage at Hiroden-Itsukaichi; coin lockers available at the adjacent JR Itsukaichi Station.

Q: How do I get to Miyajima Island?
A: Take the Hiroden tram to Hiroden-Miyajima-guchi, then transfer to the ferry.

Visuals and Interactive Media

Hiroden-Itsukaichi Station exterior (alt=“Hiroden-Itsukaichi Station building with streetcars”)
Hiroden streetcar on Miyajima Line (alt=“Low-floor Hiroden streetcar at Hiroden-Itsukaichi Station”)
Itsukaichi Honsha Shrine (alt=“Traditional architecture of Itsukaichi Honsha Shrine near Hiroden-Itsukaichi Station”)
Scenic view of Miyajima Island (alt=“Famous Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island accessible via Hiroden-Itsukaichi Station”)
Interactive maps and virtual tours available on the Hiroshima Tourism Portal

Internal & External Resources

Summary & Call to Action

Hiroden-Itsukaichi Station exemplifies Hiroshima’s balance of tradition, innovation, and sustainability. With integrated ticketing, modern facilities, and barrier-free design, it provides a smooth and inviting experience for all travelers. Use the Audiala app for real-time updates, ticketing, and exclusive travel tips. Embrace the city’s heritage, explore its world-famous sites, and support Hiroshima’s ongoing journey of resilience and peace (Live Japan, Ecofriendly Travels, Japan Experience).

Plan your Hiroshima trip with confidence—download the Audiala app for the latest updates and be part of the city’s vibrant story.