Miyajima Island

Picturesque scene of the iconic Itsukushima Shrine torii gate on Miyajima Island, Hiroshima, Japan.
Travelook App, Pexels

Miyajima Island offers a captivating blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, primarily known for the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and its 'floating' torii gate, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can explore ancient temples, hike Mount Misen for panoramic views, and encounter the island's free-roaming deer.

While Miyajima Island does not feature a prominent nightlife or party scene, travelers can find opportunities for gentle social interaction. The Omotesando shopping street offers a bustling daytime atmosphere for exploring local crafts and cuisine. Many traditional Japanese inns (ryokans) and guesthouses provide communal lounges or cultural activities, allowing for quiet exchanges with other guests.

Top 6 Things to do in Miyajima Island

Activities include exploring historic shrines and temples, ascending a sacred mountain for panoramic views, and enjoying local cuisine and shopping.

1. Itsukushima Shrine and its 'Floating' Torii Gate

Witnessing the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and its 'floating' torii gate is central to the Miyajima experience. This UNESCO World Heritage site, built on stilts over the water, changes its appearance dramatically with the tides; at high tide, it appears to float, while at low tide, one can walk directly to the torii gate. Staying until sunset reveals the shrine complex illuminated, offering a beautiful evening view, though entry is not permitted after dark. Plan to visit at both high and low tide for the full effect.

Cost: Admission to the main shrine area is JPY 300 for adults. A combined ticket with the Treasure Hall is JPY 500.

Transport: The shrine is easily accessible by a short walk from the Miyajima Ferry Terminal, which is the island's main arrival point. Ferries to Miyajima depart from Miyajimaguchi Pier, which is reachable by JR Sanyo Line from Hiroshima Station.

2. Ascend Mount Misen via Ropeway

Traveling up Mount Misen, the island's highest peak and a sacred site, provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea and surrounding islands. The Miyajima Ropeway offers a scenic 15-minute aerial journey through the primeval forest. From the upper station, a short hike (approximately 30 minutes) leads to the summit and various spiritual sites, including the Reikado (Sacred Fire Hall) with its eternal flame. Consider riding up and hiking down one of the trails, like the Momijidani Course, for a more active experience.

Cost: A round-trip ticket for the Miyajima Ropeway costs JPY 2,000 for adults; a one-way ticket is JPY 1,100.

Transport: The Miyajima Ropeway Momijidani Station is located within Momijidani Park, approximately a 20-minute walk from Itsukushima Shrine. A free shuttle bus is available from the Momijidani Park entrance to the ropeway station.

3. Explore Daisho-in Temple

Daisho-in Temple is a significant and oldest Buddhist temple on Miyajima Island, located at the base of Mount Misen. It offers a peaceful and vibrant atmosphere with various halls, statues, and unique features like the 500 Rakan statues and the Mani Prayer Wheels, which are believed to grant blessings when spun. This temple provides a deeper insight into Miyajima's spiritual heritage beyond the main shrine.

Cost: Entry to Daisho-in Temple is free.

Transport: Daisho-in Temple is a pleasant 5-minute walk from Itsukushima Shrine or about a 15-minute walk from the ferry pier.

4. Stroll and Shop on Omotesando Street

Omotesando Shopping Street is the island's bustling main street, leading towards Itsukushima Shrine. It is home to nearly 70 shops and eateries, offering a chance to sample local delicacies such as grilled oysters and momiji manju (maple leaf-shaped cakes), available in various flavors. This is also the place to find unique souvenirs, including traditional crafts like Miyajima shamoji (wooden rice spatulas) and Miyajima-bori (wooden carvings).

Cost: Costs vary based on purchases and food. Grilled oysters and momiji manju are popular street food items, typically costing a few hundred yen each.

Transport: Omotesando Street is centrally located and easily walkable from the Miyajima Ferry Terminal and Itsukushima Shrine.

5. Observe Miyajima's Free-Roaming Deer

Miyajima Island is home to a population of free-roaming Sika deer, considered sacred messengers of the gods. These deer are accustomed to human presence and can be seen wandering freely, particularly around the Itsukushima Shrine and along the beach. While they are a charming sight and interact with visitors, it is important to remember they are wild animals. Visitors are advised not to feed the deer and to keep belongings secured, as they are known to be curious about food.

Cost: Free.

Transport: Deer are found throughout the main tourist areas, particularly near the ferry terminal and Itsukushima Shrine, accessible by walking.

6. Visit Miyajima Public Aquarium

For those interested in marine life, the Miyajima Public Aquarium offers an opportunity to observe over 13,000 specimens from 350 species, with a particular focus on creatures from the Seto Inland Sea, including the finless porpoise. The aquarium also features interactive exhibits like the Contact Beach, where visitors can touch certain shoreline creatures, and regular live shows with animals such as seals.

Cost: Admission is JPY 1,420 for adults, JPY 710 for elementary and junior high school students, and JPY 400 for children aged 4 and above.

Transport: The aquarium is located approximately a 5-minute walk from the exit of Itsukushima Shrine.

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