Cẩm nang
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, anchored by the iconic Great Torii Gate, draws visitors from all over the world. The entire island has been revered as a sacred place throughout history, offering a unique landscape where nature and religious architecture blend seamlessly.
Since ancient times, the entire island has been worshipped as a sacred land. Because the land itself was considered too sacred for human habitation, the shrine was constructed over the sea. Itsukushima Jinja consists of a complex structure including the Main Hall, Kyodoshin Shrine, Asaza-ya, Hara-dono, high stages (Takabutai, Hira-butai), various gates, and several bridges (such as the Soribashi and Nagabashi). 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 Ryobu-style torii gate. Surrounding the shrine, you will find other 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 during high tide, or you may be able to walk right up to the base of the torii gate during low tide. Each time of day offers a different, beautiful expression of the landscape.
The scenery changes significantly depending on the tide. During high tide, the shrine offers a mystical, floating appearance, while during low tide, you can walk toward the foot of the Great Torii. To enjoy a more tranquil atmosphere away from the crowds, 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 viewing the historical architecture, you can enjoy a culinary stroll through the local shopping streets to taste the famous "Momiji Manju" (maple-shaped manju cakes). You can also explore the lush natural environment at the foot of Mount Misen. Observing the changing scenery dictated by the tides and the seasonal shifts in nature is a quintessential Miyajima experience.
To reach Miyajima, the most common way is to take a ferry from Hiroshima. From JR Miyajimaguchi Station, you can use the JR West Miyajima Ferry or the Miyajima Matsudai Kisen. The ferry ride itself is a scenic part of the journey. The surrounding area is rich with various temples, shrines, and beautiful natural landscapes.
As this is a sacred Shinto shrine area, please dress appropriately and respectfully. Since the landscape involves sand and stairs, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. It is also wise to prepare for weather changes or rain. Please check in advance if any specific fees, such as the Miyajima Visit Tax, are applicable to ensure a smooth visit.