The Enchanting Island of Itsukushima
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage of Itsukushima, home to the iconic floating torii gate and serene landscapes.
Itsukushima, also known as Miyajima, is a picturesque island in Japan, famous for its iconic floating torii gate, stunning natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore ancient shrines, hiking trails, and charming streets lined with traditional shops and eateries.
A brief summary to Itsukushima
- Miyajimacho, Hatsukaichi, Miyajimacho, Hiroshima, JP
Local tips
- Visit during high tide for the best views of the floating torii gate.
- Try momiji manju, a local sweet delicacy, from one of the many vendors.
- Take the cable car to Mount Misen for stunning panoramic views.
- Plan to stay for sunset; the views are absolutely stunning.
- Be mindful of the free-roaming deer; they can be quite curious!
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car from Shima, you will want to take Route 42 towards Toba. Continue on Route 42 until you reach the Ise Expressway entrance. Take the Ise Expressway towards Matsusaka and then merge onto the Sanyo Expressway towards Okayama. Follow the signs for 'Hatsukaichi' and exit at the Hatsukaichi IC. From the exit, follow the signs for Miyajima. You will then reach the ferry terminal where you can park your car. Parking fees may apply, usually around ¥1,000 for a full day. From the terminal, take the ferry to Itsukushima, which takes about 10 minutes.
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Public Transportation - Train and Ferry
To reach Itsukushima using public transportation, start from Shima Station. Take the Kintetsu Limited Express train towards Nagoya and transfer at Toba Station to the JR train line bound for Hiroshima. Get off at Miyajimaguchi Station, which is the closest station to the ferry terminal. The journey will take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Once at Miyajimaguchi Station, follow the signs to the ferry terminal. The ferry ride to Itsukushima takes about 10 minutes and costs around ¥360. Make sure to check the ferry schedule ahead of time to avoid long waits.
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Public Transportation - Bus and Ferry
For those preferring to travel by bus, you can take a local bus from Shima to Toba. From Toba, board a bus to Hiroshima, which will take about 2 hours. Once in Hiroshima, transfer to a local bus to the ferry terminal at Miyajimaguchi. After arriving at the terminal, purchase a ferry ticket to Itsukushima. The ferry ride will take about 10 minutes and costs approximately ¥360. Be sure to check the bus schedules in advance, as they may vary throughout the day.
Discover more about Itsukushima
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Shishiiwa Observatory
2.0 km
Miyajima's easily accessible mountaintop vista, offering panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea and a gateway to Mount Misen.
Itsukushima Island
2.2 km
Explore Itsukushima Island, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site known for its iconic floating torii gate and rich cultural heritage.
Momijidani Bridge
3.0 km
Experience the beauty of Momijidani Bridge in Miyajima, a picturesque landmark surrounded by stunning autumn foliage and serene natural landscapes.
Kintaikyo Bridge
16.6 km
Experience the timeless beauty and masterful craftsmanship of Kintaikyo Bridge, a symbol of Iwakuni and a treasure of Japanese heritage.
Hiroshima Prefecture Staff Atomic Bomb Victims Memorial
18.2 km
A place of quiet reflection honoring Hiroshima Prefecture staff who perished in the atomic bombing, promoting peace and remembrance.
Nishiheiwao Bridge
18.6 km
Cross the Nishiheiwao Bridge in Hiroshima, a serene pathway to peace and remembrance, offering reflection and scenic beauty.
Hiroshima Municipal High School Atomic Bomb Cenotaph
18.8 km
A memorial to Hiroshima's lost students, symbolizing peace and resilience near Peace Memorial Park.
Peace Bridge
18.9 km
Walk across Peace Bridge in Hiroshima, a symbolic gateway to Peace Memorial Park and a poignant reminder of hope and resilience.
Former place of Kokutaiji Temple and Atago Pond
19.0 km
Discover Hiroshima's tranquil Atago Pond, the historic site of Kokutaiji Temple, offering a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into the city's past.
Pond of Peace
19.0 km
Reflect on peace and remember history at Hiroshima's serene Pond of Peace, a symbol of hope and remembrance in the heart of the city.
Korean Atomic Bomb Victims Cenotaph
19.0 km
Explore the Korean Atomic Bomb Victims Cenotaph in Hiroshima, a poignant memorial dedicated to peace and remembrance of those lost during the atomic bombing.
Shirakami-sha Shrine
19.0 km
Discover Hiroshima's maritime heritage at Shirakami-sha Shrine, a symbol of resilience and cultural continuity in the heart of the city.
Hiroshima Peace Park Rest House
19.1 km
Discover Hiroshima's past and present at the Peace Park Rest House, a retro-modern building with a poignant history and vital visitor services.
Hiroshima World Heritage River Cruise
19.2 km
Discover Hiroshima's iconic landmarks from a unique vantage point on a relaxing river cruise, blending history and scenic beauty.
Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall (Atomic Bomb Dome) Atomic bomb damage information board
19.2 km
A haunting reminder of nuclear devastation and a symbol of enduring hope for world peace in Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mount Misen
1.5 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich spirituality at Mount Misen, a must-visit mountain peak in Japan's scenic Miyajima Island.
Mount Misen Observatory
1.5 km
Experience stunning views at Mount Misen Observatory, a serene escape in Hiroshima's breathtaking landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Daishoin
2.4 km
Explore Daishoin Temple on Miyajima Island, a serene Buddhist retreat featuring stunning architecture, tranquil gardens, and a rich cultural heritage amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
Omoto Park
2.5 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Omoto Park in Hiroshima, where nature and serenity come together for an unforgettable experience.
Miyajima Public Aquarium
2.7 km
Explore the vibrant marine life at Miyajima Public Aquarium, where adventure meets education in a stunning natural setting.
Miyajima History and Folklore Museum
2.7 km
Discover the rich heritage of Miyajima at the History and Folklore Museum, where the island's captivating past comes to life through engaging exhibits.
Daigan-ji
2.8 km
Experience the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of Daigan-ji Temple in Miyajimacho, Hiroshima – a tranquil escape for every traveler.
Itsukushima Jinja
2.9 km
Experience the ethereal beauty and cultural richness of Itsukushima Jinja, a floating shrine on the sacred island of Miyajima near Hiroshima.
Itsukushima Shrine
2.9 km
Experience the spiritual beauty of Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its floating Torii gate and stunning natural surroundings.
Momijidani Park
2.9 km
Explore the stunning beauty of Momijidani Park in Hiroshima, a serene retreat featuring vibrant maple trees and rich cultural experiences.
Kayatani Station
3.0 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene landscapes at Kayatani Station, the gateway to Miyajima's natural beauty.
Hokokujinja Senjokaku Pavilion
3.0 km
Experience tranquility and cultural richness at Hokokujinja Senjokaku Pavilion, a stunning Shinto shrine on Miyajima Island.
Itsukushima Shrine Five-Story Pagoda
3.0 km
Discover the breathtaking Five-Story Pagoda at Itsukushima Shrine, an iconic symbol of Japan's cultural heritage amid stunning natural beauty.
Rokai Bune (Roaring Boat)
3.1 km
Experience the captivating beauty of Miyajima aboard Rokai Bune, a traditional yakatabune offering serene waters and rich cultural heritage.
okeiko Japan Miyajima
3.6 km
Explore traditional Japanese arts at Okeiko Japan Miyajima, where creativity meets cultural heritage on picturesque Miyajima Island.
Essential places to dine
Anagomeshi (Conger Eel), Fujitaya
2.6 km
Savor authentic Anagomeshi at Fujitaya in Miyajima—where tradition meets exquisite culinary artistry amidst stunning views.
Matochan
2.7 km
Experience authentic Hiroshima okonomiyaki at Matochan - where every bite tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Restaurant Otani
2.8 km
Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Restaurant Otani on beautiful Miyajima Island - a perfect blend of tradition and taste.
Miyajima Base
2.8 km
Discover culinary delights at Miyajima Base - where breathtaking views meet delectable dishes in Hiroshima's iconic destination.
Yakigaki No Hayashi
3.2 km
Discover authentic seafood dining at Yakigaki No Hayashi in Miyajima - where fresh flavors meet traditional Japanese hospitality.
Kakiya
3.2 km
Experience authentic Japanese seafood at Kakiya in Hiroshima - fresh flavors, inviting ambiance, and culinary delights await you.
Mame-tanuki
3.2 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Mame-tanuki in Miyajima - where tradition meets flavor in every exquisite dish.
Miyajima Les Clos
3.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Miyajima Les Clos, where every dish tells a story amidst stunning island views.
enishi
3.3 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Enishi in Hatsukaichi - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Niwa Cafe Miyama
3.3 km
Discover the unique flavors of Japan at Niwa Cafe Miyama - a modern izakaya restaurant offering coffee, cocktails, and delectable desserts.
Miyajima Shokudou
3.3 km
Discover authentic Japanese dining at Miyajima Shokudou on scenic Miyajima Island, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Mikotoya
3.5 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Mikotoya in Miyajimacho - a must-visit Syokudo and Teishoku restaurant for food lovers.
Kaisennoza Don Yume Town Hatsukaichiten
8.6 km
Experience authentic Japanese seafood donburi at Kaisennoza Don Yume Town Hatsukaichiten – a culinary gem in Hiroshima's charming town.
Restaurant
14.5 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine in a cozy countryside setting at this charming restaurant in Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima.
Okonomiyaki Kakkun
16.5 km
Discover authentic Hiroshima okonomiyaki at Okonomiyaki Kakkun - where flavor meets tradition in every savory bite.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fujiya
2.7 km
Explore Fujiya Souvenir Store on Miyajima for unique gifts and local delicacies that capture the heart of Japanese culture.
Yamamura
2.8 km
Discover unique souvenirs that encapsulate the essence of Hiroshima at Yamamura, your go-to souvenir store in Miyajimacho.
Itsukusimagekijo
2.8 km
Explore Itsukusimagekijo in Miyajima for unique souvenirs and traditional crafts that embody the spirit of Japan.
小野商店
2.8 km
Discover unique souvenirs at 小野商店 in Hatsukaichi, a charming store showcasing local craftsmanship and culture.
ビームス ジャパン 宮島
2.9 km
Explore Beams Japan Miyajima for a diverse selection of clothing and unique souvenirs that capture the essence of Japanese culture.
TORIIYA
3.2 km
Explore Toriiya, the quintessential souvenir store in Miyajima, Hiroshima, offering handcrafted treasures and local delicacies that celebrate Japanese culture.
角落生物商店-宮島
3.2 km
Explore Kakurosubio Store in Miyajima for authentic local products and a warm shopping experience that embodies Japanese culture.
Miyajima Omotesandō Shopping Street
3.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and delightful local cuisine at Miyajima Omotesandō Shopping Street, your gateway to the charm of Miyajima Island.
KIRARA Miyajima
3.3 km
Explore KIRARA Miyajima for unique souvenirs, local delicacies, and a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage on beautiful Miyajima Island.
Funatsuki
3.3 km
Explore Funatsuki Souvenir Store in Miyajimacho for authentic Hiroshima crafts and unique treasures that capture the spirit of your travels.
Japanese Souvenir Shop
3.4 km
Explore the Japanese Souvenir Shop for unique local crafts and authentic memorabilia that capture the spirit of Hiroshima and its rich culture.
Alpark East
13.8 km
Discover Alpark East, Hiroshima’s vibrant shopping mall featuring diverse shops, delightful dining, and family-friendly entertainment all in one location.
Marina Hop
14.1 km
Explore Hiroshima's Marina Hop: A Shopping Mall Experience with Local Flavors, Stunning Views, and Family-Friendly Fun.
広島 T-SITE
14.5 km
Explore Hiroshima T-SITE: A vibrant shopping mall blending modern design with a rich literary experience, perfect for book lovers and cultural explorers.
THE OUTLETS HIROSHIMA
17.4 km
Explore The Outlets Hiroshima: A vibrant shopping haven with diverse brands, delicious dining, and a lively atmosphere in Japan.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Charles Taproom
2.6 km
Experience the best of Hiroshima's pub culture at Charles Taproom, featuring a fantastic selection of craft beers and a warm, friendly atmosphere.
MIYAJIMA BREWERY(3階レストランは団体様のみ承り中)
3.1 km
Experience the essence of Japanese craft beer at Miyajima Brewery, where local flavors meet breathtaking views.
tuGiico
3.1 km
Discover the finest oysters at tuGiico, a charming oyster bar in Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima, offering fresh flavors and stunning coastal views.
GEBURA SISTER
3.1 km
Experience the heart of Hiroshima at GEBURA SISTER, where exceptional drinks and local culture come together in a cozy bar setting.
GEBURA
3.2 km
Experience the tranquil ambiance and delightful beverages at GEBURA, your perfect bar getaway in Miyajima, Hiroshima.
Sakuraya (Yakikaki)
3.4 km
Indulge in the freshest oysters and delightful yakikaki dishes at Sakuraya in Hiroshima's scenic Miyajimacho, a must-visit for seafood lovers.
Miyajima BARL ISSAI
3.5 km
Experience the flavors of Japan at Miyajima BARL ISSAI, a culinary haven on beautiful Miyajima Island, offering exquisite dishes and stunning views.
ゲストラウンジ&テラス こもLe美
3.6 km
Discover tranquility and stunning views at the KomoLeBi Lounge and Terrace in Hatsukaichi, a perfect retreat for tourists exploring Miyajima.
Kura Vitto
3.6 km
Discover the flavors of Miyajima Island at Kura Vitto, a cozy grill and café offering local cuisine and stunning views.
VITAL YAWD
13.5 km
Savor the authentic taste of Jamaica at VITAL YAWD, Iwakuni's premier destination for Caribbean cuisine and vibrant atmosphere.
Oldman
13.8 km
Experience the cozy atmosphere and local flavors at Oldman, a must-visit bar in the heart of Iwakuni, Yamaguchi.
マブハイ
13.8 km
Discover the vibrant culture and refreshing drinks at マブハイ, a must-visit bar in Iwakuni, Yamaguchi for all tourists seeking a lively evening.
Sky Lounge TOP OF HIROSHIMA
16.5 km
Discover breathtaking views and exquisite dining at Sky Lounge TOP OF HIROSHIMA, where every meal is a celebration of flavor and scenery.
Uluru
18.9 km
Discover the majestic beauty and cultural significance of Uluru, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of Australia, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Hiroshima Hop's
19.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Hiroshima at Hiroshima Hop's, where local beers and traditional izakaya dishes create unforgettable memories.