Itsukushima Island: Shrine Island

Discover Miyajima Island: a sacred haven where ancient shrines meet stunning natural beauty. Experience Japan's iconic floating torii gate!

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Itsukushima Island

Itsukushima Island, also known as Miyajima, is a small, scenic island in Hiroshima Bay, famous for the iconic "floating" torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the island blends natural beauty with ancient Shinto traditions, offering visitors a unique cultural and spiritual experience.

A brief summary to Itsukushima Island

Miyajimacho, Hatsukaichi, Miyajimacho, Hiroshima, JP

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Itsukushima Island.

Check the tide schedule to see the iconic torii gate at both high and low tides.
Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the island.
Take the Miyajima Ropeway up Mount Misen for panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Respect the wild deer and avoid feeding them human food.
Stay overnight to experience the island's tranquility after the daytime crowds have left.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Hiroshima Station, take the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station (about 25 minutes, ¥420, covered by the Japan Rail Pass). From Miyajimaguchi Station, walk to the ferry pier (3 minutes). Take the JR West Miyajima Ferry to Miyajima Island (10 minutes, ¥200, free with Japan Rail Pass). Note that a ¥100 visitor tax is applied separately.
Walking

Once on Miyajima Island, most attractions, including the Itsukushima Shrine and the floating torii gate, are easily accessible on foot. From the Miyajima Ferry Terminal, it's approximately a 15-minute walk to the Itsukushima Shrine and the iconic torii gate.

Discover more about Itsukushima Island

Itsukushima Island, often called Miyajima, is a celebrated island in Hiroshima Bay, known for its harmonious blend of nature and culture. The island has been a sacred Shinto site for centuries, with the Itsukushima Shrine and its seemingly floating torii gate as its most iconic features. The island's name, Miyajima, literally translates to "Shrine Island".The Itsukushima Shrine, dating back to the 6th century, was established by Saeki Kuramoto. In 1168 AD, Taira no Kiyomori significantly contributed to the shrine's current design. The shrine complex, built over water, comprises multiple buildings connected by boardwalks, including prayer halls, main halls, and a Noh theater. At high tide, the shrine and torii gate appear to float on the sea, creating a mesmerizing scene. The torii gate marks the transition from the mundane to the sacred.Miyajima is more than just the shrine; it's a place where wild deer roam freely and hiking trails lead to the summit of Mount Misen, offering panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea. Daisho-in Temple, another significant site, features intricate Buddhist statues and vibrant maple trees. Momijidani Park is known for its stunning autumn foliage. The island's rich history and natural beauty have earned it recognition as one of Japan's Three Most Scenic Spots.Visitors can explore the island's charming streets, sample local delicacies like oysters and Momiji Manju (maple leaf-shaped cakes), and experience the tranquility of a traditional ryokan. Staying overnight allows for a quieter experience after the day-trippers depart. The island is accessible by ferry from Hiroshima, making it a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers.