Hiroshima is the only city in Japan with a large and extensively used streetcar system, known as the Hiroden streetcars. To this day, Hiroden remains not only an efficient means of transportation but also a popular tourist attraction.
Prior to World War II, many cities across Japan operated streetcar systems. However, like Hiroshima, most of their infrastructure was destroyed during the war. Due to the devastation caused by the atomic bombing, other cities in Japan donated their remaining tram stock to help Hiroshima rebuild its public transport network.
Today, some of these pre-war streetcars still operate daily, traveling along Hiroshima’s wide streets. They remain one of the most iconic and convenient ways to get around the city.
Over the years, Hiroden has expanded, supplementing its historic streetcars with modern rolling stock and introducing a guided bus system known as Astram.
One of the best routes to take on the Hiroden streetcar is from Hiroshima Station to the Miyajima Island ferry terminal. This scenic trip costs just 240 yen, as the streetcars operate on a flat-fare system across the city.
Official Website:
http://www.hiroden.co.jp/
