Miyajima is one of the best places in Japan to spend the night, and it has been increasingly popular. While many tourists consider Miyajima a day-trip only, and instead stay in the nearby city of Hiroshima, those who decide to stay on Miyajima are rewarded with one of the best overnight stays in the country. After the last ferry leaves and most tourists head back to the mainland, Miyajima transforms into a peaceful, tranquil island. You can stroll through the streets and visit popular sites without the daytime crowds, allowing for a more intimate experience of the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. In this guide, you’ll cover our favourite hotels for staying on Miyajima.

The island is home to excellent traditional ryokan (Japanese inns), where you can experience Japanese hospitality, or “omotenashi,” at its finest. There are several ryokan that have been operating for several centuries and are steeped in history. Most offer multi-course kaiseki dinners featuring local delicacies such as fresh oysters and anago (grilled eel). The opportunity to relax in an onsen (hot spring bath) after a day of exploration adds to the appeal.

Where To Stay on Miyajima

Top Rated

Miyajima Grand Hotel Arimoto

Located just moments from Itsukushima Shrine, the hotel blends elegant Japanese design with spacious comfort, sea-view rooms, and tranquil public baths overlooking nature. Impeccable service, beautifully prepared kaiseki cuisine, and an atmosphere of quiet exclusivity make it a standout choice. Availability is limited, especially during peak season, so be sure to reserve early to secure your ideal room and dates. The hotel is also regarded as one of the oldest on Miyajima, with a history of over 400 years; however, the current building was built in the 1970's.

The Hotel Miyajima Grand Arimoto is one of our favourite hotels on Miyajima, and we highly recommend it.

Check availability (Booking.com) Check availability (Agoda)

Best Budget Ryokan

Sakuraya

Enjoy simple, authentic comfort at Sakuraya, a welcoming ryokan just steps from the ferry terminal and a short stroll to Itsukushima Shrine. Offering clean Japanese-style rooms, friendly service, and excellent value on an otherwise premium island, Sakuraya is perfect for travellers seeking convenience without sacrificing atmosphere. Rooms are limited and book out quickly.

Check availability (Booking.com) Check availability (Agoda)

Best Atmosphere & Experience

Iwaso Ryokan

The Iwaso Ryokan on Miyajima is a timeless, historic retreat nestled within Momijidani Park, about a 10-minute walk from the Itsukushima Shrine. Established in 1854, this distinguished ryokan offers serene tatami rooms, seasonal kaiseki dining, and a tranquil onsen surrounded by forested hills. Iwaso blends heritage, nature, and refined hospitality. The Iwaso Rokyan offers a rare opportunity to experience such a historic traditional Japan. Reserve early to secure your stay.

The Iwaso Ryokan is also one of the oldest hotels on Miyajima, and while it has been updated in some regards, it is still operating out of the same facility since the 1854's.

Check availability (Booking.com) Check availability (Agoda)

Best Luxury Stay

Iwaso Ryokan

Indulge in contemporary luxury at Itsukushima Iroha, a design-forward boutique ryokan overlooking the Seto Inland Sea. Spacious suites blend modern comfort with refined Japanese aesthetics, while the rooftop open-air onsen offers serene island views. Seasonal kaiseki cuisine and attentive, personalised service elevate the experience. With only a limited number of rooms available, secure your stay early for an unforgettable Miyajima escape.

Check availability (Booking.com) Check availability (Agoda)

More Recommended Stays Near Miyajima

Hatsukaichi is directly across the bay from the island of Miyajima. If you can’t find a place to stay on the island, then Hatsukaichi is a great and more affordable alternative. Just make sure you book a room with a sea view if you want to look out towards Miyajima.