Miyajima

The sacred island of Miyajima

Itsukushima Shrine Torii on Miyajima
Torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine

Miyajima (also known as Itsukushima), is a place where ancient traditions and breathtaking natural beauty blend seamlessly to create a destination unlike any other in Japan. Named as one of the Three Views of Japan, Miyajiama is nestled in the calm waters of the Seto Inland Sea in Hiroshima Prefecture, and has long been regarded as a sacred sanctuary, revered for its iconic floating torii gate, dense forests, and serene temples.

One of the most recognizable landmarks on Miyajima is the floating torii gate, which sits at the entrance to the island’s Itsukushima Shrine. The gate is said to symbolize the boundary between the mundane and sacred worlds and is an iconic symbol of Miyajima. At high tide, the gate appears to be floating on the water, adding to its mystical charm.

The Itsukushima Shrine itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the three most beautiful shrines in Japan. The shrine was built in the 6th century and has been preserved over the centuries, despite numerous natural disasters and wars. Visitors can enjoy the shrine’s stunning architecture and serene atmosphere, as well as the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Exploring Miyajima is fun, and there is plenty to do.
Momijidani Park

In addition to its historical sites, Miyajima is also home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Japan. The island is covered in dense forests, rolling hills, and is surrounded by crystal-clear waters. Visitors can take a leisurely hike through the forest to see the island’s many temples, shrines, and beautiful vistas.

For those looking for a unique experience, Miyajima is also home to a thriving deer population. These friendly creatures roam the streets and are considered sacred on the island. 

Word of warning about the deer, they are wild animals, and have been know to bite when not given deer crackers fast enough. Personally speaking, I’ve even had a deer take a bite out of my ice cream while two other deer were distracting me. 

No trip to Miyajima would be complete without trying the island’s famous oysters. Miyajima is renowned for its fresh oysters and visitors can sample this local delicacy at one of the many restaurants on the island. In early February each year, Miyajima hosts its annual Oyster Festival, which celebrates the harvest of the Oysters from the Seto Inland sea. If you are an oyster lover, then a visit during the Oyster festival is a must. 

Explore attractions on Miyajima

Itsukushima Shrine Torii on Miyajima, one of Hiroshima Prefectures most iconic destinations.

Itsukushima Shrine

Scenic shrine famous for the floating torii gate

Daisho-in on Miyajima in Hiroshima Prefecture

Daisho-in

Ancient temple on Miyajjma

Senjokaku Pavilion and toyokuni shrine five-story pagoda

Senjokaku Pavilion

Wooden pavilion overlooking Miyajima

Mt. Misen on Miyajima

Mt.Misen & Miyajima Ropeway

Scenic views of the Seto Inland Sea

Momijidani Park is a popular destination year round, but is most popular during Autumn

Momijidani Park

Relaxing park on Miyajima

The outside of the Miyajima Aquarium

Miyajima Aquarium

Small, family friendly aquarium on Miyajima

Tours & Experiences on Miyajima

Want a unique experience when you visit Miyajima? Check out these cool experiences!

Klook.com
 

Explore Miyajima

Top Attractions

Itsukushima Shrine Torii on Miyajima, one of Hiroshima Prefectures most iconic destinations.

Itsukushima Shrine

Scenic shrine famous for the floating torii gate

Daisho-in on Miyajima in Hiroshima Prefecture

Daisho-in

Ancient temple on Miyajjma

Senjokaku Pavilion and toyokuni shrine five-story pagoda

Senjokaku Pavilion

Wooden pavilion overlooking Miyajima

Mt. Misen on Miyajima

Mt.Misen & Miyajima Ropeway

Scenic views of the Seto Inland Sea

Momijidani Park is a popular destination year round, but is most popular during Autumn

Momijidani Park

Relaxing park on Miyajima

Where to stay near Miyajima

Miyajima Grand Hotel Arimoto

Miyajima Grand Hotel Arimoto

Stunning hotel located in the heart of Miyajima, only a short walk from all of the island's top attractions. 

Sakuraya

Sakuraya

Ryokan located near the Miyajima ferry terminal, renowned for the remarkable sea views.

Hotel Miyajima Villa

Hotel Miyajima Villa

Popular Japanese style hotel with beautiful wooden interior, found ont he quiet back streets of Miyajima.

Grandvrio Hotel Miyajima Wakura

Grandvrio Hotel Miyajima Wakura

Modern hotel with Japanese-Western fusion style rooms, overlooking the sea to Miyajima.

Accessing Miyajima / Itsukushima

To get to Miyajima, you need to catch a ferry onto the island. Both JR West Miyajima Ferry, and the Miyajima Matsudai Kisen Ferry. Both offer more or less the same experience and cost the same. One notable difference between the two operators, is that the fare on the  JR West Miyajima Ferry is covered by some JR Rail Passes.

From Hiroshima, take the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station, from there, the ferry terminal is just outside. 

Explore more in Hiroshima Prefecture

Ferry for accessing Miyajima

Accessing Miyajima

How to get to the famous island of Miayjima

Daisho-in on Miyajima in Hiroshima Prefecture

Daisho-in

Ancient temple on Miyajjma

Fukuyama Castle

Fukuyama Castle

Flatland castle near Fukuyama Station

The Atomic Bomb dome, in Hiroshima Prefecture is a historical landmark, showing the damage from the Atomic bomb that was dropped on the city of Hiroshima in World War II.

Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Dome

Historic building near the Hiroshima bombing hypocenter

Hiroshima Castle Main keep

Hiroshima Castle

Reconstructed samurai castle with museum, moat, and scenic views

The Atomic B omb Dome, as seen from the Orizuru Tower in Hiroshima City, Japan.

Hiroshima City

The City Of Peace And Remembrance

Scroll to Top