Miyajima

Miyajima is a quick half hour train ride from Hiroshima, followed by a short Ferry ride to get across to the island. This is an essential destination when combined with a trip to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial.

Miyajima is most famous for its giant torii gate, which at high tide seems to float on top of the water. The sight is ranked as one of Japan's three best views.

While officially named Itsukushima, the island is more commonly referred to as Miyajima, Japanese for "shrine-island". Like the torii gate, the shrine's main buildings are built over water.

From the ferry you get a great view of the famous vermilion torii.


Its a pleasant walk from the ferry terminal to Itsukushima Shrine. Along the way, there are many interesting souvenir and carving shops, as well as local specialty foods and sweets. After the shops you walk along the beachfront, where the Deer (Shika) roam free.

Itsukushima Shrine

The most famous aspect of this shrine is the giant Torii that sits out in the water. As it was low-tide when we arrived, we were able to walk right out to it.


After Itsukushima we made our way up Mt Misen to where the cable-cars take you to the top of the mountain for what I hear is a magnificent view. However, the cable-cars were pricey and we had very little time left, so this is something that will have to wait for another visit.

We made our way down the mountain and unexpectedly came across the ...

Daishoin Temple

Daisho-in is one of the most important temples of Shingon Buddhism. It is located at the base of Mount Misen, on which the sect's founder, Kobo Daishi, first began the practice of Buddhism on the island of Miyajima.

Guarded by fierce carved figures on either side of the wooden gate at the bottom of the entrance stairs, the temple contains numerous treasures, including magnificent examples of traditional Japanese wood construction without nails, many carved figures of saints and mythical creatures, a small carp pond, a hall of Buddhist statues, and picturesque natural areas. This was an amazing place that wasn't on our planned itinerary and we came across completely by accident.





After we finished at Daisho-in it was getting late and we made our way back towards the ferry to check out the shops and get some dinner. On our way we passed the five-storied pagoda ...

It was now approaching sunset, so we decided to hang around and watch the sunset over the giant Torii, and get some photos. If you visit Miyajima, I highly recommend staying around for sunset.