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A Journey to Miyajima: Discovering Hiroshima's Hidden Gem
A trip to Miyajima will open your eyes to why the locals consider it God’s island. Home to one of the top three best views in Japan, Miyajima is a tourist paradise in the day or night. Join us as we explore all of the attractions, incredible sights, and activities in Miyajima!
Introduction to Miyajima Island
Located in Hiroshima, Miyajima Island is one of the most visited destinations in the prefecture. Itsukushima is the official name for the island but people call it Miyajima, which translates to “Shrine Island.” This nickname refers to the island's close ties with the Itsukushima Shrine. In fact, many travelers consider the shrine to be Miyajima’s top attraction.
Miyajima Island is famous for its indigenous wildlife and natural displays of beautiful greenery, cherry blossoms, and scenic mountain ranges. Its deep historical significance reflects on traditional local crafts and shrine artifacts. Miyajima is indeed a fantastic place to explore rich culture and enjoy nature’s gifts. Let’s dive into the details of these must-see attractions, starting with the most famous of them all!
The Iconic Itsukushima Shrine
The famous Itsukushima Shrine is an ancient Shinto shrine located in Miyajima. The area is more than a religious site for the people of Miyajima. It holds the island’s identity and is the source of both its official name (Itsukushima) and nickname (Shrine Island). Itsukushima Shrine is dedicated to the three Shinto deities of seas and storms.
The original Itsukushima Shrine was created in 593. Since then, it has undergone several reconstructions, most notably the one by Taira no Kiyomori during his reign as a military leader in the Heian period (794–1185).
The main shrine hall consists of multiple buildings, several of which have been designated as national treasures by the Japanese government. Seemingly built on water, the shrine has a prayer hall, a treasure hall, a theater stage, a main hall, and two smaller shrines.
Itsukushima Shrine’s most famous attraction is its "floating" torii gate, which is one of the most photographed sites in Japan and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 16-meter-tall gate was also built on the water, and when there is a high tide, it appears to float on the sea. During low tide, you can walk from the shrine to the gate on foot. Erected in 1875, it’s made of camphor wood, which is resistant to corrosion from water.
The gate and the rest of the shrine are illuminated at night. Tourists can walk around the shrine and enjoy views of the sea and the illuminations. Boat cruises are also available to take you to the torii gates.
Miyajima’s Historical and Cultural Significance
Miyajima has earned its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site by playing an important role in the cultural and religious history of Japan. Evidence of its significance exists on the island today in the form of temples, shrines, and cultural landmarks.
In 1643, scholar Hayashi Gahō created a list of the Three Views of Japan. Itsukushima Shrine made this list, and from the 17th to the 20th century, it was recognized nationwide as one of the best scenic views in the country. Today, it holds the designation of Special Places of Scenic Beauty and Special Historic Site.
The Toyokuni Shrine is another important Shinto location in Japanese history. Also known as Senjokaku, it used to be a Buddhist library, but today it’s a shrine dedicated to Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a samurai and the second “Great Unifier” of Japan.
Miyajima is home to several historically significant Buddhist structures. Its most important temple is Daishō-in Temple, the headquarters of the Omuro school of Shingon Buddhism. Next to it lies the Daiganji Temple, one of the most famous temples dedicated to the Buddhist goddess Benzaiten. It also contains precious artifacts from other religious sites, including the Five-Story Pagoda.
Top Attractions on Miyajima Island
We’ve already provided you with details of the island’s main attractions, the Itsukushima Shrine and its famous torii gate. Now it’s time to explore some of the other must-visit spots on the island. The following are Miyajima’s top attractions, besides Itsukushima Shrine:
Mount Misen: The ultimate peak of Miyajima Island, Misen reaches an altitude of 500 meters (above sea level). Climbing to the top of this mountain will allow you to enjoy spectacular views of Miyajima’s natural beauty, Japan’s Seto Inland Sea, and Hiroshima City. Three hiking trails and a ropeway lead to Mount Misen. While walking along its paths, you may encounter deer or monkeys. During your visit, you can stop by the Reikado, a hall that houses the eternal flame said to have been burning for over 1,200 years. Kobo Daishi, the man who created the Shingon school of Buddhism, was the first to practice the religion on the mountain and the entire island. Also, Daisho-in Temple is one of several Buddhist sites that surround Mount Misen.
Daisho-in Temple: At the base of Mount Misen lies Daisho-in Temple, the “'Great Holy Temple.'” It’s the oldest temple in Itsukushima and the head of a Shingon Buddhism denomination. Domestic and foreign tourists can participate in a Buddhist ritual while walking on Daisho-in’s steps, where a row of inscribed metal wheels lies. Although the inscriptions on the wheels are Buddhist scriptures written in Japanese, the belief is that anyone who spins the wheels will benefit from the same blessings as one who reads them. The temple houses several religious structures and artifacts, including the Maniden Hall, a tea room, 88 Shikoku Pilgrimage icons, the Tibetan monk’s sand mandala, and the Kannon-do Hall.
Senjokaku: In English, Senjokaku translates to “pavilion of 1000 mats.” This name was given to the shrine as a way to describe its size, which is large enough to hold a thousand tatami mats. Also called Toyokuni Shrine or Hokoku Shrine, it is the largest structure in Itsukushima. Japan’s second Great Unifier, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, began construction on the site but couldn’t complete it before his death in 1598. The shrine was never completed after his death. However, in 1872, the incomplete building was dedicated to him. Although it lacks some basic structures, such as an adequate ceiling or front entrance, Senjokaku is a famous tourist attraction.
Miyajima History and Folklore Museum: Once a merchant residence, this building now houses the history of Miyajima. It’s the best place to learn the most important facts about the island’s history. You can also discover how the ancient inhabitants of the island lived by observing their common tools and learning about the ceremonies they performed. The museum also contains several artifacts and works of art. Its main building was created over 160 years ago. Back then, it was the home and storage house of a soy sauce merchant family. The family’s living quarters have been preserved, and you can still explore them.
Miyajima Public Aquarium: Itsukushima is home to one of the best aquariums in the Chugoku region. It boasts over 13,000 creatures from 350 different species. The Miyajima Aquarium is the best place to explore the sea life of the Seto Inland Sea and other aquatic wonders from around the world. The finless porpoises of the Seto Sea are one of the aquarium’s main attractions. Oysters, which are a local specialty in Hiroshima Prefecture, are also on display. There’s even an oyster farm in the aquarium that represents real farms on the island.
Wildlife and Natural Beauty
Miyajima is home to different kinds of wildlife. Deer and raccoon dogs are the most common animals on the island. Some of the 500 Miyajima deer are accustomed to the presence of humans, so they often walk around in the open. The rest live in the forest and avoid human contact. Despite their friendly nature, feeding the deer is prohibited. Racoon dogs are not as common on the island. However, you might spot them on rare occasions.
The natural surroundings of the island are filled with virgin forests, with the most beautiful ones lying around Mt. Misen. These forests are habitats for plants like meadowsweet and maple trees, as well as 136 kinds of wild birds. You can also enjoy indigenous flowers and their changing colors in all four seasons. They include the symbolic Pieris japonica, Yoshino cherry blossoms, and Acer palmatum.
Experiencing Local Cuisine on Miyajima
The Seto Inland Sea offers most of the local culinary delights of Miyajima. One of the most popular Japanese dishes on the island is grilled oysters. The seafood, which is fresh from the sea, is grilled with butter, stew, and vegetables.
Anago meshi is another option. This is a local delicacy made of broiled conger eel served on a bowl of rice. Much like the rest of Hiroshima, Miyajima has a deep appreciation for savory okonomiyaki, a pancake dish made of wheat flour batter, vegetables, meat, and seafood.
Lovers of Japanese sweets can buy momiji manju at dessert shops in Miyajima. This buckwheat rice cake made into the shape of a maple leaf is Itsukushima’s indigenous wagashi.
Things to Do in Miyajima: Activities and Experiences
There’s an endless list of activities and experiences that you can enjoy in Miyajima. Check them out below:
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Hiking Mount Misen: Lovers of outdoor life can embark on an adventure by hiking to the peak of Mount Misen. There are three main trails to the top, and you can follow each one based on your interests. The trail with the nicest views is called Daisho-in Course. If you want a short but steep challenge through the forest, Momijidani Course is the ideal choice. The third trail, Omoto Course, offers a bit of both perks. Alternatively, you can ride a cable car to the mountain via the ropeway.
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Miyajima Island Sea Kayaking: One of the main offerings at Setonaikai National Park is the opportunity to explore the torii gates and Itsukushima-jinja on a kayak. The short course circles the island and is open to tourists of all kayaking experience levels.
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Shopping for souvenirs at Omotesando Street: Get your hands on local crafts and religious artifacts by shopping at Omotesando Street. This is the biggest shopping district on the island. You’ll find deer-themed trinkets, shakushi (wooden rice spoons), momiji manju, and tea cups.
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Enjoying Traditional Tea Ceremonies: There are paid sessions on the island that allow tourists to experience a traditional tea ceremony. The package includes kimono attire, an English-speaking guide, lessons on ceremonial traditions, and photo shoots.
Temples and Sacred Sites
By now, you’re aware that there are various temples and sacred sites on Miyajima. But you have to visit them to fully grasp their historical importance and architectural beauty. Of course, the most popular religious sites are Itsukushima Shrine, Daisho-in Temple, Daiganji Temple, and Senjokaku. However, Miyajima is also home to other sacred spots, including the Five-Storey Pagoda (Gojunoto), Kiyomori Shrine, Tahoto Shrine, and Omoto Shrine.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Let’s take a look at some seasonal events and festivals held in Miyajima. Feel free to plan your visits to allow you to enjoy as many of them as you can.
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Miyajima Oysters Festival (Second Weekend of February): This is a celebration of local specialty oysters. It offers you a chance to buy fresh oysters at low prices.
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Kiyomori Festival (March 22): It features a Itsukushima Shrine prayer parade.
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Miyajima Water Fireworks Festival (August 11): It features a spectacular fireworks display with 300,000+ spectators.
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Fire Walking Ceremony in Daiganji (November 3): Monks and volunteers walk over fire at Daiganji Temple.
Practical Tips for Visiting Miyajima
The following are practical travel tips for visiting Miyajima:
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If you’re making a day trip out of it, the best time to visit Miyajima is in the morning.
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The ideal way to enjoy Miyajima is to stay overnight at one of the available ryokans. The island gets quieter and more peaceful at night.
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To get to Miyajima from Hiroshima by train, take the JR Sanyo Line from Hiroshima Station and stop at Miyajimaguchi Station. Walk to the ferry pier and take a ride to Miyajima pier.
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There is a direct boat connecting Hiroshima Peace Park to Miyajima, but it is expensive.
Conclusion:
Experience the enchanting allure of Miyajima Island yourself by exploring its rich history through temples and shrines. A long hike will reveal views of the island and all of its stunning scenery. You can also experience its vibrant culture through the local festivals and culinary delights.
At Bokksu, we strongly believe in connecting cultures through food, and there’s no better way to do that than with a Bokksu Snack Box Subscription. Every month, we’ll send you a box of snacks and sweets from various regions of Japan.
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