Panduan
Miyajima is an island located in Hiroshima Prefecture, home to the World Heritage site "Itsukushima Jinja." Known as one of the three most scenic views in Japan, the sight of the vermilion shrine buildings appearing to float on the sea and the iconic Great Torii gate attracts countless visitors. The entire island has a history of being revered as a sacred place, offering a unique landscape where nature and religious architecture harmonize beautifully.
Since ancient times, the entire island has been worshipped as a sacred island. Because the land itself was considered too sacred for human habitation, the shrine was built over the sea. The architectural complex of Itsukushima Jinja consists of the Main Hall (Honden), along with the Kyosha Shrine, Asaza-ya, Hara-den, Koutabutai, Hira-butai, the left and right gates, Tenjin-sha, Noh Stage, and various bridges (such as the Soribashi, Nagabashi, Yosui-bashi, and Naishi-bashi). These structures are historical legacies that embody a profound respect for nature.
The most iconic symbol of Miyajima is the wooden "Great Torii" gate standing in the sea. This is a specific style known as Ryobu Torii. Surrounding the shrine, you will find several historical structures such as the Senjokaku, the Five-Story Pagoda, and the Tahoto Pagoda. Depending on the tide, the shrine may appear to be floating gracefully on the water, or it may be connected to the land, offering a different way to experience the scenery at different times of the day.
The scenery of Miyajima changes significantly depending on the tides. During high tide, the shrine looks mystical as if floating on the ocean, while during low tide, you can walk much closer to the base of the Great Torii gate. To avoid crowds and enjoy a more tranquil atmosphere, visiting in the early morning or late afternoon is highly recommended. Generally, the area becomes quite crowded between 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
Beyond exploring the historical architecture, you can enjoy walking through the local shopping streets to sample famous Miyajima delicacies like "Momiji Manju" (maple-shaped steamed cakes). You can also take a stroll in the nature-rich environment at the foot of Mount Misen. Observing the changing scenery in sync with the tides and the seasonal shifts is a quintessential way to spend your time here.
Access to Miyajima is typically via ferry from the Hiroshima area. From JR Miyajimaguchi Station, you can take the JR West Miyajima Ferry or the Miyajima Matsudai Ferry. The boat ride itself is a scenic part of the sightseeing experience. The surrounding area is filled with historical temples and beautiful natural landscapes.
As this is a sacred shrine-temple site, visitors are expected to dress appropriately and respectfully. Since you may encounter sand or stairs, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and bringing rain gear if necessary. Please also be aware that certain fees, such as the Miyajima Visiting Tax, may apply, so it is helpful to check this in advance for a smooth trip.