Miyajima Island, Hiroshima Travel Guide

Discover Miyajima Island in Hiroshima – a captivating blend of spiritual heritage, breathtaking scenery, and idyllic wildlife, offering an immersive journey into Japan's timeless allure.

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Miyajima Island

Miyajima Island, also known as Itsukushima, is a serene island located in Hiroshima Bay. It is most famous for its iconic torii gate, which appears to float on water during high tide, creating a mesmerizing and otherworldly sight. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of Japan's most scenic spots. Miyajima Island is home to the Itsukushima Shrine, a Shinto shrine that dates back to the 12th century. Visitors can walk along the wooden boardwalks of the shrine, which extend over the bay and offer stunning views of the surrounding waters. The island is also dotted with ancient temples, pagodas, and historical sites that provide a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage. Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore on Miyajima Island. The lush forests, hiking trails, and sacred Mount Misen offer opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Friendly deer roam freely on the island, adding to its magical charm. Whether you're seeking spiritual solace, historical insights, or natural beauty, Miyajima Island promises an unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit during high tide to see the torii gate appear to float on water.
Take the ropeway to Mount Misen for panoramic views of the island and Hiroshima Bay.
Try the local delicacy, momiji manju, a maple leaf-shaped sweet filled with red bean paste.
Stay overnight on the island to experience its tranquility after the day-trippers leave.
Respect the local wildlife, especially the deer, and avoid feeding them.

Explore Miyajima Island: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Miyajima Island

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Best Attractions

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Itsukushima Jinja

Discover the magical beauty of Itsukushima Jinja, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Japan known for its iconic floating torii gate and serene surroundings.

4.6

Itsukushima Shrine

Experience the spiritual beauty of Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its floating Torii gate and stunning natural surroundings.

4.6

Miyajima Public Aquarium

Explore the vibrant marine life at Miyajima Public Aquarium, where adventure meets education in a stunning natural setting.

4.2

Daishoin

Discover the serene beauty of Daishoin Temple on Miyajima Island, a spiritual haven rich in history and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

4.6

Best landmarks in Miyajima Island

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Miyajima Public Aquarium

Experience the enchanting marine life at Miyajima Public Aquarium, where education meets nature in a captivating setting.

4.2

Hokokujinja Senjokaku Pavilion

Explore the serene Hokokujinja Senjokaku Pavilion on Miyajima Island, a stunning Shinto shrine reflecting Japan's rich spiritual heritage and architectural beauty.

4.4

Itsukushima Jinja

Discover Itsukushima Shrine: A timeless sanctuary where art and nature converge on the sacred island of Miyajima, Japan.

4.6

Itsukushima Shrine

Discover the iconic 'floating' shrine of Itsukushima, a UNESCO World Heritage site on the sacred island of Miyajima.

4.6

Best restaurants in Miyajima Island

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Yakigaki No Hayashi

Discover authentic seafood dining at Yakigaki No Hayashi in Miyajima - where fresh flavors meet traditional Japanese hospitality.

4.4

Mame-tanuki

Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Mame-tanuki in Miyajima - where tradition meets flavor in every exquisite dish.

4.2

Anagomeshi (Conger Eel), Fujitaya

Savor authentic Anagomeshi at Fujitaya in Miyajima—where tradition meets exquisite culinary artistry amidst stunning views.

4.1

Kakiya

Experience authentic Japanese seafood at Kakiya in Hiroshima - fresh flavors, inviting ambiance, and culinary delights await you.

4.4

Best bars in Miyajima Island

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MIYAJIMA BREWERY(3階レストランは団体様のみ承り中)

Experience the essence of Japanese craft beer at Miyajima Brewery, where local flavors meet breathtaking views.

4.5

Niwa Cafe Miyama

Discover the flavors of Miyajima at Niwa Cafe Miyama, where modern izakaya dining meets a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

4.8

GEBURA

Experience the tranquil ambiance and delightful beverages at GEBURA, your perfect bar getaway in Miyajima, Hiroshima.

4.5

Miyajima BARL ISSAI

Experience the flavors of Japan at Miyajima BARL ISSAI, a culinary haven on beautiful Miyajima Island, offering exquisite dishes and stunning views.

4.0

Best nightclubs in Miyajima Island

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GEBURA

Explore GEBURA in Hatsukaichi - A vibrant bar offering a unique blend of local drinks and traditional Japanese charm in a lively atmosphere.

4.5

Charles Taproom

Discover the cozy ambiance and exceptional craft beers at Charles Taproom on Miyajima Island, the perfect retreat for beer enthusiasts.

5.0

Step1 International Bar

Experience the lively ambiance of Step1 International Bar in Hiroshima, where cocktails, dancing, and vibrant culture unite for an unforgettable night.

4.2

GEBURA SISTER

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of GEBURA SISTER, a must-visit bar in Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima, perfect for relaxation and socializing.

4.2

Best shops in Miyajima Island

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TORIIYA

Explore Toriiya, the quintessential souvenir store in Miyajima, Hiroshima, offering handcrafted treasures and local delicacies that celebrate Japanese culture.

3.8

Itsukusimagekijo

Explore Itsukusimagekijo in Miyajima for unique souvenirs and traditional crafts that embody the spirit of Japan.

4.9

ビームスジャパン宮島

Explore Beams Japan Miyajima for a diverse selection of clothing and unique souvenirs that capture the essence of Japanese culture.

4.3

Funatsuki

Explore Funatsuki Souvenir Store in Miyajimacho for authentic Hiroshima crafts and unique treasures that capture the spirit of your travels.

4.9

Explore Miyajima Island on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Miyajima Island, mapped for you.

Miyajima Island Essentials

Miyajima Island is easily accessible from Hiroshima city. To reach the island, take a train from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station, which takes about 30 minutes. From Miyajimaguchi, a short ferry ride of about 10 minutes will take you directly to Miyajima Island. Ferries run frequently throughout the day, and the views of the Seto Inland Sea are a highlight of the journey.
Miyajima Island is compact and can be explored on foot. Most of the main attractions are within walking distance. There are also options for renting bicycles to explore the island at a leisurely pace. For those wanting to venture further, local buses connect to various sites, including the cable car station for Mount Misen.
Miyajima Island is considered very safe for tourists. The crime rate is low, and violent crime is virtually non-existent. However, standard travel precautions should be taken. Avoid leaving valuables unattended, especially near crowded areas like the ferry terminal or shopping streets.
In case of an emergency, dial 110 for police or 119 for fire and ambulance services. The local hospital is located on the island, and a few clinics can handle minor health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking. When visiting shrines, dress modestly. Religion: Do be respectful at religious sites and follow local customs, such as removing shoes. Public Transport: Do be polite and queue for the ferry. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a polite bow or nod. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local specialty, 'Momiji Manju', and don't waste food as it's considered disrespectful.
To experience Miyajima Island like a local, visit the small shops that sell handmade crafts and local delicacies. Participate in the traditional rituals at Itsukushima Shrine, and try to catch the sunset behind the famous torii gate for stunning photographs. Engage with local residents, who are often happy to share stories about the island's history and culture.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Miyajima Island

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Miyajima Island. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloこんにちは
  [konnichiwa]
- Goodbyeさようなら
  [sayonara]
- Yesはい
  [hai]
- Noいいえ
  [iie]
- Please/You're welcomeどうぞ
  [douzo]
- Thank youありがとう
  [arigatou]
- Excuse me/Sorryすみません
  [sumimasen]
- How are you?お元気ですか？
  [ogenki desu ka?]
- Fine. And you?元気です。あなたは？
  [genki desu. anata wa?]
- Do you speak English?英語を話せますか？
  [eigo o hanasemasu ka?]
- I don't understandわかりません
  [wakarimasen]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseメニューを見せてください
  [menyuu o misete kudasai]
- I don't eat meat肉を食べません
  [niku o tabemasen]
- Cheers!乾杯！
  [kanpai!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseお会計をお願いします
  [okaikei o onegaishimasu]
- Help!助けて！
  [tasukete!]
- Go away!去ってください！
  [satte kudasai!]
- Call the Police!警察を呼んでください！
  [keisatsu o yonde kudasai!]
- Call a doctor!医者を呼んでください！
  [isha o yonde kudasai!]
- I'm lost道に迷いました
  [michi ni mayoimashita]
- I'm ill具合が悪いです
  [guai ga warui desu]
- I'd like to buy......を買いたいです
  [... o kaitai desu]
- I'm just looking見てるだけです
  [miteru dake desu]
- How much is it?いくらですか？
  [ikura desu ka?]
- That's too expensiveそれは高すぎます
  [sore wa takasugimasu]
- Can you lower the price?値段を下げてもらえますか？
  [nedan o sagete moraemasu ka?]
- What time is it?今何時ですか？
  [ima nanji desu ka?]
- It's one o'clock一時です
  [ichiji desu]
- Half past (10)十時半
  [juuji han]
- Morning朝
  [asa]
- Afternoon午後
  [gogo]
- Evening夕方
  [yuugata]
- Yesterday昨日
  [kinou]
- Today今日
  [kyou]
- Tomorrow明日
  [ashita]
- 1一
  [ichi]
- 2二
  [ni]
- 3三
  [san]
- 4四
  [shi]
- 5五
  [go]
- 6六
  [roku]
- 7七
  [nana]
- 8八
  [hachi]
- 9九
  [kyuu]
- 10十
  [juu]
- Where's a/the...?...はどこですか？
  [... wa doko desu ka?]
- What's the address?住所は何ですか？
  [juusho wa nan desu ka?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?(地図で)見せてもらえますか？
  [(chizu de) misete moraemasu ka?]
- When's the next (bus)?次の(バス)はいつですか？
  [tsugi no (basu) wa itsu desu ka?]
- A ticket (to ....)(...)への切符をください
  [(...) e no kippu o kudasai]

History of Miyajima Island

Miyajima Island, known as Itsukushima, has been a sacred site for centuries, with its history intertwined with Shinto beliefs. The island is dedicated to the deity of sea and storms, and its famous *Torii* gate, which appears to float on water during high tide, is a symbol of this spiritual connection. The island has been a pilgrimage destination since the Heian Period (794-1185), reflecting the deep reverence that locals and visitors have for its natural beauty and spiritual significance.
The Itsukushima Shrine, built in 1168, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a prime example of ancient Japanese architecture. Commissioned by Taira no Kiyomori, a powerful warlord, the shrine was constructed over the water to honor the gods, blending seamlessly with the island's natural landscape. This architectural style set a precedent for future shrine constructions and remains a focal point of Miyajima's cultural heritage.
During the Edo Period (1603-1868), Miyajima flourished as a center for culture and religion. The island became a popular destination for the samurai class and wealthy merchants who sought to experience its beauty and spirituality. The proliferation of temples, shrines, and cultural practices during this time solidified Miyajima's status as a national treasure, contributing to the development of its unique local culture, including traditional crafts and festivals.
Miyajima, like much of Japan, faced significant challenges during World War II. Though the island itself was not a military target, the war impacted the local economy and cultural practices. Many residents were displaced, and the shrine was temporarily closed. Post-war, efforts were made to restore the island's cultural sites and revive its tourism industry, which had been a critical part of its economy.
Today, Miyajima Island is a vibrant cultural hub that attracts millions of visitors each year. Festivals such as the Miyajima Water Fireworks Festival and the Itsukushima Shrine's annual rituals celebrate the island's rich heritage. The island is also known for its local cuisine, including *momiji manju* and grilled oysters, which reflect the culinary traditions of Hiroshima Prefecture. Efforts to preserve its natural and cultural environments continue, highlighting the ongoing importance of Miyajima in Japan's cultural landscape.