Looking to add some fun to your trip to Hiroshima? Look no further! This venue is located near Miyajimaguchi Station, right where the ferries depart for Miyajima Island and its famous Itsukushima Shrine. Boat Race Miyajima is the perfect way to cap off your day of sightseeing, especially since the venue stays active until late afternoon on race days! It’s just a quick train ride from the major city of Hiroshima, making it easy to get to on a journey through the main tourist hubs of western Japan, and a perfect inclusion on the so-called Golden Route across more of the country.
Location Details
One-of-a-Kind Scenery
It’s hard to beat a location this convenient with views of a World Heritage Site right in front of you. Imagine sitting by the water with the otherworldly “floating” Itsukushima Shrine and its dramatic torii gate as the backdrop for a heart-pounding Boat Race! This spectacular fusion of ancient history and high-speed sport creates an entirely new dimension of fun. Whether you relax down at the terraced seating area or sit up in the premium seats, every floor of the venue provides this unforgettable view. Come soak in the atmosphere of this iconic island scenery.
Elevated Comfort!
In addition to watching the races close to the water’s edge, there are many options for an elevated perspective. As for how elevated and how comfortable, there’s plenty to choose from! The third floor has general seating, including individual chairs or sofas for groups, as well as a special “Kutsurogi Room” (Relaxation Room), the perfect spot for families with small children to stretch out on tatami flooring (only open on big race days, only for families with children up to junior high school age). The fourth floor has premium options like reserved upscale seating for lone visitors and private rooms for groups. There’s bound to be a view, seat, and atmosphere to suit every taste and budget.
General seating (sofas)
Kutsurogi Room
Happy Room
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1st Floor
1 Fukuchan2 Genki Udon (Vendor #10)3 Café Vessel (East Wing 1F)
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3rd Floor
4 Dining Area #15 Café Vessel II6 Café Vessel (East Wing 3F)
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4th Floor
7 Katsu Kaishu8 Café Vessel (East Wing 4F)
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Elevator
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Escalator
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Stairs
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Toilet
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Multipurpose Toilet
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Dining Area
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Smoking Corner
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Baggage Check
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General Information
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Service Corner (Sales)
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Wanpaku Room
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Security
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First Aid
Entertainment
Go see the World Heritage Sites of Hiroshima and then recharge with this dynamic Japanese motorsport! A visit to Boat Race Miyajima is not just about the races, it’s entertainment for the whole family. With dedicated spaces for small children as well as for events and activities, there is always something going on. Take in everything from the beautiful scenery, to the thrilling spectacle of high-speed boat races, to the lively atmosphere of the venue!
Fun for All Ages and Energies
As you stroll through the venue, there’s no limit to what you might spot going on. Maybe you’ll wind up involved in a sports festival, or you might spot one of your favorite characters walking around and putting on a show! The Event Hall regularly hosts fun for the whole family. There is something for all ages and interests, including racer talk shows. If you are traveling with small children, head to the newly renovated kids’ room for playtime! This spacious area, called the “Wanpaku Room” (Mischief Room), is sparkling clean and free of charge—the perfect spot for kids to play safely and freely, even if they do like to stir up a bit of trouble.
Photo Spots and Exclusive Souvenirs
Another popular attraction at the venue is the real motorboat displayed on the first floor! With its refined form and down-to-basics functionality, it is the epitome of a racing machine. Many guests take the opportunity to climb aboard for a commemorative photo. On this floor, you can also find the Service Corner. This is where you can buy exclusive goods featuring the Boat Race Miyajima mascots—our two cute monkeys, Monta and Momiji! Since every venue has its own mascot, you won’t be able to find these unique souvenirs anywhere else.
Cuisine
Whether you just want a bite or you have a massive appetite, the venue has options on every floor where you can grab a quick snack between races.
Satisfy Your Hunger for Something Hearty
If you need a satisfying sit-down meal, seek out the noodle shops for a regional specialty! Don’t miss the rich, savory Gansu Udon, which is made with a local fried fish cake called gansu—it’s a flavor experience truly unique to Hiroshima. As other options, you can also enjoy popular Japanese soul food dishes like katsudon (pork cutlet over rice) or set meals that fill you up with a variety of homestyle dishes. The Café Vessel branches on each floor offer a full range of heavy-duty meals and quick bites, so you can refuel without having to go far.
Quick Bites and Local Flavors
If you prefer a quick refuel, several spots have snacks you can take back to your seat. Don’t miss the famous original Agé Takoyaki (fried savory balls of batter and octopus) served with a distinctly sweet Hiroshima-style sauce! This spot also sells handmade dashimaki tamago (rolled omelets) which are so popular that they often sell out before noon. If you’re in the mood for a lighter flavor, grab some freshly made rice balls and delicious inari (rice stuffed in tofu pockets) from the main noodle counter. Café Vessel also has you covered on every floor with quick options like fries and soft-serve ice cream—perfect to eat while you’re watching the races.
Sightseeing
Combine a morning of culture and history with an afternoon of high-speed racing! Boat Race Miyajima is located right by Miyajimaguchi Station, making it a quick train ride from the bustling Hiroshima City Center. It makes it a perfect, easily accessible stop on any journey around the main tourist hubs of western Japan. Right next to the venue, you can easily access the ferries that will whisk you off to Miyajima Island, home of the famous Itsukushima Shrine. Here are some places that you can visit nearby in combination with your Boat Race outing.
The Enchanting Island of Miyajima, Your Boat Race Backdrop
Miyajima, which means “Shrine Island,” is much more than the famous “floating” torii gate. The island embodies the idea that nature and divinity are merged. After seeing the magnificent Itsukushima Shrine at the water’s edge, be sure to explore the many other temples and shrines tucked away around the island. For unforgettable views of this magical landscape, ride the Miyajima Ropeway for panoramic vistas of the Seto Inland Sea! On your way back to the ferry, browse the bustling Omotesando Shopping Street for local crafts, and keep an eye out for the island’s famously friendly deer. Miyajima is globally renowned for its magnificent autumn leaves, but its beauty is captivating all year round.
The City of Trams and Treasures, One Ride Away
A city renowned for its iconic landmarks and vibrant urban atmosphere, Hiroshima is a coastal gem where modern life and ancient history come together. It’s the perfect gateway to Boat Race Miyajima, which is located just a short ride from the bustling city center. It and other famous sites are all easily connected via the city’s beloved, distinctive tram network. Step off the tram and you’ll feel how the city streets brim with shops, restaurants, and energy. Hiroshima is a feast for the senses! Don’t miss the city’s signature sweet treat, the delightful Momiji Manju—a moist cake shaped like a maple leaf. It’s so well-loved that it’s a part of the city atmosphere all year round.
Access Information
Getting to Boat Race Miyajima is easy and convenient—it’s just a short train ride from the bustling city center of Hiroshima! There is a direct, hassle-free route to Miyajimaguchi Station, and the venue itself is a quick seven-minute walk from there. This makes Boat Race the perfect thing to spend an afternoon on after visiting the famous island of Miyajima.
From Iwakuni Station
