Miyajima, a small island located less than an hour outside of Hiroshima, most famously known for the Giant Torii gate, which during high tides appears to almost magically float on water. Officially named Itsukushima, which translates to “Shrine Island”, but more commonly referred to as Miyajima. Miyajima is best enjoyed overnight in one of the island’s many ryokan. While most popular during the day among tourists, at night it becomes much quieter and peaceful. Much like Nara, the island is home to many wild deer that are becoming more accustomed to people. During the day they can be found sleeping along the paths of many popular sites. Although do be careful with food or any edible items, as they do enjoy stealing. Aside from deer, you many encounter Tanuki (Japanese for Raccoon Dog)
Discover Traditional Japan: To fully experience traditional Japanese lifestyle and hospitality, stay at one of the island’s many ryokans. Here you can experience elements such as tatami rooms, futon beds, Japanese-style baths and local cuisine.
Experience Local Cuisine: After exploring all Miyajima has to offer, it’s time to discover the famous delicacies of the island. From sweet to savory, there isn’t a dish on this island that will disappoint your taste buds.
Oysters: Oyster farming was originally developed on Hiroshima’s shores, and has been thriving in Miyajima for more than three centuries. The oysters served on Miyajima are quite large, which can be a surprise for the unacquainted gourmets. Oysters are of huge importance to Miyajima culture, that an oyster festival is held over a week in mid-February each year.
Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki: A savoury pancake dish consisting of wheat flour batter and cooked on a teppan. Common additions include cabbage, meat and seafood, and topped with okonomiyaki sauce, aonori, katsuobushi, Japanese mayonnaise and pickled ginger.
Momoiji Manju: A confection made of buckwheat and rice cake which is shaped into a Japanese maple leaf. Typically filled with red bean paste, but can include custard and chocolate.
The Great Torii: A free-standing gate in the middle part of the sea and part of Itsukushima Shrine. It is a Shinto Shrine, and considered to be the boundary between the spirits and the human world.
The Miyajima Museum of History and Folklore: Containing works of art and artifacts related to the island’s shrines and ceremonies. The museum also displays common tools used by local inhabitants in their day to day life, in hopes to illustrate both the larger historical context and commonplace details of Miyajima residence day to day life. The museums building itself is also a place of interest. Built 160 years ago, it was originally a residence and store house of a wealthy merchant who prospered in the soya sauce business.
Entrance Fee: JPY 300, with discounts for students as well.
Itsukushima Shrine: The three deities of Itsukushima Shrine were born when Amaterasu Omikami (goddess of the sun), and her brother Susanoo-no-mikoto made a pledge on the Celestial Plain, using a jewel and a sword. Since ancient times, they have been worshipped as deities to ensure that the imperial family were always in well-being. When deities were looking for a location to settle, Saeki no Kuramoto, who governed over the island, received an oracle. Led by a divine crow from the celestial plain, he sailed around the island with the deities and decided to build the shrine at the place where the tide ebbs and flows. In 1168, Taira no Kiyomori, who worshipped at the shrine, rebuilt it in the architectural style which residences of the nobility were built in called shinden-zukuri. “Miyajima of Aki Province”, became well known as one of the three most scenic places in Japan, along with Matsushima and Amanohashidate. In 1996, Itsukushima Shrine was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Daishoin Temple: Daishoin Temple is one of the most important temples in Kansai of Shingon and Omuro sect Buddhism. Located at the base of Mount Misen, this temple contains the deepest history in Miyajima. After Kukai returned from the Tang Dynasty, he travelled to Miyajima and trained at Mount Miyajima, where the shrine was founded in 806 AD (the first year of Datong). Having a deep relationship with the Imperial Family, this prestigious temple has served as a prayer dojo for Emperor Toba’s orders, as a lodging place for Emperor Meiji’s visits during the tour of Chugoku region, and even where Hideyoshi has held tea ceremonies.
Niomon: At the main entrance of Daishoin Temple, there is a shrine to Nioh Venerable. Protector of the Buddhist dharma and dispels foreign enemies. (Pictured on right.)
Pilgrimage Cave: It is said that the main shrine of the 88 sacred sites in Shikoku is enshrines here. The sand of each sacred site is buried in front of the main shrine, and by walking on it, you will have the same merit as if you made a pilgrimage to Shikoku.
On the right after climbing the stairs, there is a large building, which is where the eleven-sided Kanzeon Bodhisattva, the work of Gyoki Bodhisattva, and the original Buddha of Itsukushima Shrine is enshrined.
Amida Hall: Enshrines the three sons of Amitabha. (Pictured below.)
Senjokaku Pavilion: Commissioned by the great warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi and left unfinished until after his death, the Senjokaku Pavilion (thousand mat hall) was intended as a place for monks to copy sutras while surrounded by nature. Despite its simple exterior, the hall is famous for its views and the many paintings lining its roof beams. This five-story pagoda was restored in 1533 and stands at 27.6 meters high (90.5ft), and is best known for housing Bhaisajyagura, the bodhisattva of medicine.
Mount Misen: At 500 meters above sea level, Mount Misen is the highest peak on Miyajima Island. Enjoy spectacular views of the Seto Inland Sea, and see as far as Hiroshima City. There are also a number of Buddhist Structures near the peak. Visitors are able to hike to the top, or ride the ropeway to the observation deck. There are three hiking paths to take: The Momijidani Course, Daishoin Course and the Omoto Course, each taking about two hours. Along the trails or at the top, you may encounter monkeys or deer.
Miyajima Ropeway: Miyajima Ropeway operates two types of aerial ropeway systems; circulating and funicular, which is unique to Japan. You can enjoy spectacular views of the Seto Inland Sea and the Misen Primeval Forest.
Fare:
Round-Trip One-Way
Adult – JPY 2,000 JPY 1,100
Child: JPY 1,000 JPY 550
Miyajima Public Aquarium: An aquarium located within Setonaikai National Park, with an arrangement of exhibits focusing on the Seto Inland Sea in order to convey its nature and characteristics. From the finless porpoises (known as “whales of Setouchi”), to the penguins, otters, seals and sea lions, Miyajima Aquarium is home to many creatures. There is also daily events allowing you to interact with the sea creatures to experience the appeal up close and personal.
Ticket Prices:
Adults: JPY 1,400
Highschool/ Middle School Students: JPY 700
Younger Students: JPY 400
Momijidani Park: Untouched since the Edo Period, Momijidani Park houses around 700 maple trees, which are particularly stunning in the autumn when their foliage turns into stunning reds, oranges and yellows.