Usually quote is omitted if replying to the post immediately above. Therefore, I think abmj-jr's post is a reply to jc777.

I personally like Ikebukuro, but given that one of your destination is Hiroshima, I would pick a hotel near Tokyo or Shinagawa station where you can catch the Shinkansen trains. Ikebukuro to Tokyo station takes about 30 minutes, it's time you could be enjoying your holiday instead of being on a train.

The buses are more susceptible to surface road traffic jams than trains, but at least you should be comfortable. The trains will be punctual barring accidents, but will be crowded with commuters.