Shishiiwa Observatory: Miyajima's Panoramic Peak
Miyajima's Shishiiwa Observatory: Stunning sea views accessible by ropeway, perfect for photos and serene moments on Mount Misen.
Perched atop Miyajima's sacred Mount Misen, Shishiiwa Observatory offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea. Reachable via the Miyajima Ropeway, it provides a serene escape with breathtaking vistas without a challenging hike to the summit. From the observatory, visitors can see Hiroshima and Kure Ports, the Itsukushima Strait, and Akinada Island. The modern observatory building features restrooms, a shaded rest area, and an open-air viewing platform. The contrast between the area's seasonal beauty and the sea is a must-see. Shishiiwa Observatory is near the end of the Miyajima Ropeway. The ropeway consists of two lines: the Momijidani Line and the Shishiiwa Line. The first line is a 10-minute ride from Momijidani Station to Kayatani Station, followed by the Shishiiwa Line, which takes you to Shishiiwa Station. From Shishiiwa Station, a well-marked hiking trail leads to Mount Misen's main hall.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Check the weather forecast to ensure clear visibility.
- Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views.
- Combine your visit with a hike to explore the surrounding nature.
- Consider visiting during sunset for a magical experience.
A brief summary to Shishiiwa Observatory
- Hatsukaichi, Miyajimacho, Hiroshima, 739-0588, JP
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Hiroshima Station, take the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station (¥420, ~30 minutes). Alternatively, take tram line number 2 from central Hiroshima to Miyajimaguchi (¥240, ~70 minutes). From Miyajimaguchi Station, walk to the ferry pier (~5 minutes). Take either the JR or Matsudai ferry to Miyajima Island (¥200 one way, ~10 minutes). Note that the JR ferry is covered by the Japan Rail Pass. Upon arriving on Miyajima, a 25-minute walk or a free shuttle bus ride will take you to Momijidani Station. From there, take the Miyajima Ropeway to Shishiiwa Station (¥2,000 round trip for adults). Finally, walk a short distance to Shishiiwa Observatory.
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Walking
From the Miyajima ferry terminal, walk towards Itsukushima Shrine, then continue through Momijidani Park. Follow signs to the Miyajima Ropeway Momijidani Station (~25 minute walk from the ferry terminal). Take the Miyajima Ropeway to Shishiiwa Station (¥2,000 round trip for adults). From Shishiiwa Station, it is a short walk to the observatory.
