Miyajima

A short ride from Hiroshima across the Seto Inland Sea from Hiroshima, Miyajima quite literally means “Shrine Island” for its principal Itsukushima Shrine, the whole island has long been considered sacred by association.

Miyajima is best recognised for its iconic red torii gate – an element of what is said to be one of the three best views in Japan. The spectacular red torii gate, built on tidal sands, faces the majestic Itsukushima shrine at the foot of Mount Misen. As the tide comes, sweeping under and around the ancient shrine, the torii appears to float on the sea. The shrine itself extends on stilts over the water, and at high tide the whole shrine appears to be floating on the waves.

Historically, to avoid spiritual ‘contamination’, stepping foot on the island itself was allowed for devout men only, with women banned completely. Common men could approach the shrine (built specially out over the water rather than on the land), but only by passing through the large torii gate in the sea by boat first. Nowadays customs are more relaxed, but births and deaths are kept on the mainland as much as possible, and burial on the island is still legally forbidden.

The local deer are not subject to any such restrictions, or indeed any interference at all – according to the Shinto religion they are the messengers of the gods. They wander the island freely, and they will happily approach anybody they think might have food for them.

Though Miyajima can easily be visited as a day trip, we recommend an overnight stay in one of the island’s superb ryokan or guest houses.

Experiences in Miyajima

Hiroshima – Miyajima Fireworks Display

Around 5000 fireworks are launched from boats in a spectacular display just off the north shore of Miyajima Island every year in mid August. Best viewed from around Itsukushima Shrine, combined with the shrine's giant torii gate, this is one...

Accommodation in Miyajima

guntû

guntû

Considered one of the world's greatest hotel experiences, guntû is a floating luxury ryokan that cruises in the Seto Inland Sea of Western Japan. guntû has just 19 luxurious cabin suites available in three different grades, all designed by famous...
Kurayado Iroha

Kurayado Iroha

Miyajima island's Kurayado Iroha ryokan faces onto the Seto Inland Sea. The charming ryokan is located right by the sea, midway between UNESCO Itsukushima Shrine and the Miyajima Ferry port. Iroha's rooms offer superb ocean views, and the spacious rooms...
Watanabe Inn

Watanabe Ryokan

You will find the small family-run ryokan, Watanabe Inn, at the end of a narrow alley lined with old wooden buildings, minutes away from the World Heritage site of Itsukushima shrine on scenic Miyajima island. All rooms have traditional Japanese...

Iwaso

Situated in a picturesque part of Momijidani Park, the stylish luxury ryokan Iwaso has among their guest list members of the Japanese royal family and has been welcoming visitors to Miyajima since 1854. Each comfortable room boasts creative design, such...