Day trip route
Miyajima and its floating torii gate sit less than an hour from Hiroshima, and this is one of the few places where the Japan Rail Pass covers a boat as well as the train.
Two operators run from the same pier: JR West Miyajima Ferry and Matsudai. Only the JR ferry is included in the Japan Rail Pass, so check the sign at the gate. The JR boat also swings closer to the torii gate on daytime crossings, which is the better photo.
Without a pass the ferry is 200 yen each way, plus 240 yen for the train.
The torii looks like it floats at high tide and you can walk up to it at low tide. Check the tide table for the day before you decide when to leave Hiroshima. Late afternoon is quieter, and the last convenient ferries back run into the evening.
Quick answers to common questions.
Yes, the JR West Miyajima Ferry is included. The Matsudai ferry from the same pier is not.
About 40 minutes in total: 27 minutes on the JR Sanyo line, a short walk, then a 10 minute ferry.
Yes. The shrine entry and the 100 yen visitor tax are not covered by any rail pass.
The Hiroden tram also reaches Miyajimaguchi but takes over an hour and is not covered by the Japan Rail Pass.
Keep exploring Japan Rail Pass topics relevant to your trip.