Miyajima Island

The journey begins at Hiroshima Station to catch the train to Miyajimaguchi. The journey takes about 30 minutes on the JR Sanyo Line.

Board the ferry for the short crossing to Miyajima Island. As we approach, the famous torii gate comes into view, and the forested mountain slopes of Mount Misen rise dramatically. The anticipation builds!

Step off the ferry to be greeted by Miyajima's famous deer, who roam the island freely. Unlike Nara's deer, these are protected as wild animals rather than sacred messengers, but they are equally charming.

This UNESCO World Heritage shrine appears to float on the water at high tide. Built in its present form in 1168, the vermilion buildings and famous torii gate create one of Japan's most iconic scenes. We explore the walkways extending over the water and the elegant main hall.

Standing 16 meters tall on massive camphor wood pillars, the great torii gate has been reconstructed eight times over 800 years. Depending on the day's tide schedule, we either admire it floating on the water from the shoreline or walk right up to its base across the tidal flats at low tide—and over the course of a full day on the island, you can often see the tide shift.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant specializing in Miyajima's famous cuisine. The island is renowned for grilled oysters (kaki), which thrive in the clean waters, and anago (conger eel), often served over rice.

One of Japan's most important Shingon Buddhist temples, featuring hundreds of statues, prayer wheels, and atmospheric halls climbing the hillside. Less visited than the shrine but equally impressive. The spinning prayer wheels line the approach path.

Take the ropeway up Mount Misen (535m), the island's sacred peak. The views over the Seto Inland Sea are spectacular. At the summit, we explore ancient temples and the Eternal Flame, said to have burned for 1,200 years since Kobo Daishi lit it during his training.

Browse the charming shopping street connecting the ferry terminal to the shrine. Sample momiji manju (maple-leaf shaped cakes), the island's signature sweet, and browse shops selling wooden rice paddles—a local craft for which Miyajima is famous.

We catch the ferry back to the mainland and return to Hiroshima Station. Miyajima's sacred atmosphere, natural beauty, and charming deer leave lasting impressions.