A small island 25 minutes from Hiroshima with a UNESCO shrine, a famous floating torii gate, free-roaming deer, and one of Japan’s finest mountain views. Here is the complete guide.
Miyajima (formally Itsukushima) has been considered one of Japan’s three most scenic views since the 16th century, alongside Matsushima Bay in Miyagi and Amanohashidate in Kyoto Prefecture. The island was historically considered sacred; no births or deaths were permitted on its soil, and the main Itsukushima Shrine was built over the water so the island itself would not be desecrated. The great torii gate standing in the tidal sea is Japan’s most recognizable island image.
Getting to Miyajima
- From Hiroshima Station: JR San’yo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station (about 25 minutes, JR Pass valid), then JR Ferry to Miyajima (10 minutes, JR Pass covers the ferry).
- From Hiroshima city centre: Hiroshima tram (streetcar) to the Miyajimaguchi pier terminus (about 25 to 30 minutes from the Peace Park), then the same JR Ferry.
- Total time from central Hiroshima: about 40-50 minutes.
- Ferry cost: 180 yen each way (or free with JR Pass).
JR Pass and the ferry: The JR Ferry is covered by the JR Pass. The private Matsudai Kisen ferry (also serving the route) is not. Confirm you board the JR-operated vessel at the pier.
Itsukushima Shrine and the Torii Gate
Itsukushima Shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan’s most important Shinto complexes. The main shrine building is constructed on wooden piles over the tidal flats, and the approach walkway floats above the water at high tide. Entry is 500 yen.
The great torii gate (O-torii) stands 16 metres tall in the bay, appearing to float on the water at high tide and rising from the sand at low tide. The best photographs of the gate depend on the tidal state:
- High tide: The gate appears to float, reflected in the still water. The most famous image. Best in morning or evening light.
- Low tide: Visitors can walk to the base of the gate and see the structure up close. The massive wooden pillars are extraordinary from directly below.
Check the Miyajima tide timetable before visiting. The Hiroshima tourist board website and several apps show real-time tide predictions for the island.
Mount Misen
The 535-metre summit of Mount Misen is the finest viewpoint in western Japan. On a clear day, the view extends over the Seto Inland Sea, scattered with hundreds of small islands, toward the Chugoku mountains on the mainland.
Ropeway (Easier)
A two-stage ropeway from Momijidani Park ascends to a station near the summit, with a further 20 to 30-minute walk to the top. Return cost is 2,000 yen. The ropeway offers aerial views of the island and the sea. Queue times on weekends and peak season can be long.
Hiking (Best)
Three hiking trails ascend Mount Misen:
- Momijidani Course: 2.0 kilometres, about 90 minutes ascent. Most popular, starting from Momijidani Park.
- Daisho-in Course: 2.0 kilometres, about 90 minutes ascent. Passes the Daisho-in Temple complex.
- Omoto Course: 3.0 kilometres, about 2 hours ascent. Quietest trail, passes ancient cedar forest.
The summit has a small hall marking the spot where Kobo Daishi (the Buddhist saint who founded Shingon Buddhism) allegedly meditated for 100 days. A sacred flame here is said to have burned continuously since that time, over 1,200 years ago.
Free-Roaming Deer
Deer roam freely throughout Miyajima, considered messengers of the gods since ancient times. Unlike Nara (where deer crackers are sold), Miyajima does not encourage feeding and signs throughout the island ask visitors not to feed the animals. The deer approach people closely and are completely unafraid.
Daisho-in Temple
A significant Shingon Buddhist temple on the slopes of Mount Misen with an extraordinary collection of stone lanterns, Buddha statues, and religious objects covering the hillside approach. Free entry. Quieter than the shrine area and worth 30-45 minutes.
Day Trip vs Overnight
Most visitors visit Miyajima as a day trip from Hiroshima or Osaka. An overnight on the island gives access to the torii gate at dawn (extraordinarily beautiful and almost empty) and the illuminated shrine at night. Island accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses to traditional ryokan. Book well ahead for weekend stays.
