Miyajima Island: The Sacred Island with Japan’s Iconic Floating Torii Gate

  1. Miyajima Sightseeing Guide: A Complete Introduction to the Island’s Charm
  2. Miyajima Overview: Basic Information and the Big Picture
  3. History of Miyajima: The Story of the Sacred Island
    1. Ancient Times to the Heian Period: The Birth of the Sacred Island
    2. Edo Period: Development as a Temple Town
    3. Modern Era to the Present: Becoming a World Heritage Island
  4. Must-See Spots on Miyajima: Highlights of an Island Walk
    1. Omotesando Shopping Street (Kiyomori-dori): The Ultimate Street Food Experience
    2. Mt. Misen: Ropeway and Spectacular Summit Views
    3. Momijidani Park: A Famous Autumn Foliage Spot and Valley Beauty
    4. Low-Tide Walk at the Great Torii Gate: Up Close with the Iconic Gate in the Sea
    5. Five-Story Pagoda and Senjokaku (Toyokuni Shrine): Hidden Historical Treasures
  5. Miyajima Gourmet Guide: 4 Must-Try Local Specialties
    1. Anago-meshi (Conger Eel Rice): The Quintessential Miyajima Dish
    2. Momiji Manju (Maple Leaf Cakes): A Taste-Test Tour of Miyajima’s Signature Souvenir
    3. Grilled Oysters: Savoring the Seto Inland Sea’s Bounty, Shell and All
    4. Miyajima Beer and Local Sake: Craft Drinks to Enjoy on the Island
  6. Miyajima Model Itineraries: How to Efficiently Explore the Island
    1. Half-Day Course (Approx. 4 Hours): Hitting the Highlights
    2. Full-Day Course (Approx. 7 Hours): The Complete Island Experience Including Mt. Misen Hiking
    3. Tips and Things to Keep in Mind
  7. Nearby Attractions
    1. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome
    2. Iwakuni and Kintai Bridge
    3. Seto Inland Sea Island Hopping
  8. How to Get There
    1. By Train
    2. By Ferry
    3. By Car
    4. Recommended Route
  9. Conclusion
  10. Frequently Asked Questions

Miyajima Sightseeing Guide: A Complete Introduction to the Island’s Charm

Floating in the Seto Inland Sea off the coast of Hiroshima Prefecture, Miyajima has been revered as a “sacred island” since ancient times and is counted among Japan’s Three Most Scenic Views (Nihon Sankei). The moment the ferry leaves the Miyajimaguchi pier, the scent of the sea brushes your cheeks, and the vermilion Great Torii Gate slowly emerges beyond the island’s silhouette—upon witnessing this sight, many travelers feel they have arrived somewhere truly special.

Miyajima’s official name is “Itsukushima.” Despite being a small island with a circumference of only about 30 km, it attracts approximately 3 million visitors annually. While Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is certainly famous, Miyajima’s appeal extends far beyond that. The bustling Omotesando Shopping Street offers delightful street food, Mt. Misen at 535 meters provides breathtaking hiking views, Momijidani Park is renowned for its autumn foliage, and the unforgettable experience of walking to the base of the Great Torii Gate during low tide—the entire island offers an incredible variety of attractions, like one enormous theme park.

In this article, we leave the details of Itsukushima Shrine to our dedicated Itsukushima Shrine article and instead present a comprehensive sightseeing guide to enjoying the entire island of Miyajima. From Omotesando Shopping Street gourmet, the Mt. Misen Ropeway, and Momijidani Park, to the low-tide walk at the Great Torii Gate and hidden gems known only to insiders—we have compiled everything you need for your Miyajima adventure. Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning, we hope this guide proves useful.

Miyajima Overview: Basic Information and the Big Picture

ItemDetails
LocationMiyajima-cho, Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture
AreaApprox. 30.39 km²
CircumferenceApprox. 31.5 km
Highest PeakMt. Misen, 535 m elevation
PopulationApprox. 1,600 residents
Annual VisitorsApprox. 3 million (peak of approx. 4.65 million pre-COVID)
World Heritage Registration1996 (Itsukushima Shrine)
AccessApprox. 10 minutes by ferry from Miyajimaguchi Pier

Miyajima is one of the most well-known tourist destinations among the islands of the Seto Inland Sea. It is designated as one of Japan’s Three Most Scenic Views (Nihon Sankei), alongside Matsushima (Miyagi Prefecture) and Amanohashidate (Kyoto Prefecture). This reputation originated when Edo-period Confucian scholar Hayashi Shunsai praised its beauty in his 1643 work “Nihon Kokujisekikō.”

Approximately 77% of the island is covered in primeval forest, making it a remarkably rich natural environment that includes the specially designated natural monument “Mt. Misen Primeval Forest.” In addition to wildlife such as owls and raccoon dogs, around 500 wild deer roam the island. Encountering friendly deer while strolling through the shopping streets is a quintessentially Miyajima experience. However, be warned—deer have been known to snatch lunches and souvenirs from unsuspecting visitors, so keep a close eye on your food.

Since ancient times, the entire island of Miyajima has been worshipped as a sacred body of the gods. Because of this, births and burials were once forbidden on the island, and to this day there are no cemeteries on Miyajima. This sanctity is considered one of the reasons why Itsukushima Shrine was built over the sea—it was believed that constructing buildings on the ground of “the island where gods dwell” would be an act of sacrilege, so the shrine was built upon the tidal waters.

Deer and tourists interacting near the Miyajima pier

History of Miyajima: The Story of the Sacred Island

Ancient Times to the Heian Period: The Birth of the Sacred Island

Miyajima’s worship as a “sacred island” dates back to ancient times. According to tradition, Saeki no Kuramoto established the shrine in 593 AD (the first year of Empress Suiko’s reign), which is considered the origin of Itsukushima Shrine. Because the island itself was considered sacred, people were hesitant to even live on it and instead worshipped from the opposite shore.

Miyajima’s history took a dramatic turn in the late 12th century during the late Heian period. After Taira no Kiyomori was appointed as the Governor of Aki Province, he became a devoted patron of Itsukushima Shrine. Kiyomori expanded the shrine’s over-water architecture to its current grand scale—a revolutionary design for the time—and revered it as the guardian deity of the Taira clan. At the peak of Kiyomori’s power, even Retired Emperor Go-Shirakawa and Emperor Takakura made pilgrimages to Miyajima, bringing the aristocratic culture of the capital to the island. During this era, Miyajima was truly one of the centers of Japanese politics and faith.

Even after the Taira clan was destroyed at the Battle of Dan-no-ura (1185), devotion to Itsukushima Shrine continued unabated. Both the Kamakura and Muromachi shogunates maintained and repaired the shrine buildings, and Miyajima sustained its prosperity, earning the nickname “the Capital of the West.” During the Muromachi period in particular, the “Battle of Itsukushima” (1555) took place in the waters surrounding the island, where Mōri Motonari defeated Sue Harukata in a battle that left its mark on Japanese history.

The corridor of Itsukushima Shrine and the sea, architecture reminiscent of Heian-period Shinden-zukuri style

Edo Period: Development as a Temple Town

During the Edo period, Miyajima evolved from a purely religious site into a popular tourist destination for common people as well. Under the patronage of Hiroshima domain lords Fukushima Masanori and the Asano clan, the shrine buildings were repaired and the island was developed. As the number of pilgrims grew, a temple town began to take shape—the precursor to today’s Omotesando Shopping Street.

During this era, inns (hatago) and teahouses lined the streets, and a culture of hospitality for visitors flourished. While the famous “momiji manju” (maple leaf-shaped cakes) as we know them were created in the Meiji period, Miyajima’s souvenir culture itself had already taken root during the Edo period. Travel journals from the time describe Itsukushima as having “beautiful scenery, excellent food, and warm-hearted people”—showing that the foundations of today’s Miyajima tourism were already being laid.

Additionally, in 1643 during the mid-Edo period, Hayashi Shunsai designated Miyajima as one of the “Three Most Scenic Views of Japan” in his work “Nihon Kokujisekikō,” alongside Matsushima and Amanohashidate. This designation has endured to the present day, establishing Miyajima’s fame as an unshakable fixture on the national stage.

Modern Era to the Present: Becoming a World Heritage Island

Following the Meiji Restoration’s decree separating Shinto and Buddhism (1868), some Buddhist facilities on Miyajima were affected, but Itsukushima Shrine itself was protected under national preservation. During the Meiji period, the expansion of railroads and steamship routes dramatically improved access to Miyajima. Tourists from across the country flocked to the island, and Miyajima was reborn as a modern tourist destination.

The registration of Itsukushima Shrine as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1996 was a landmark event in Miyajima’s history. The designated area includes the Mt. Misen primeval forest behind the shrine, and the rare combination of nature and culture was recognized as being of outstanding value to the world. After the registration, international visitors surged, and the annual number of island visitors peaked at 4.65 million.

In recent years, the major restoration of the Great Torii Gate, which had been underway for approximately three and a half years since 2019, was completed at the end of 2022, restoring its vibrant vermilion color. This major renovation—the first in approximately 70 years—used about 40,000 sheets of cypress bark and combined traditional techniques with modern preservative treatments. Today, Miyajima continues to captivate travelers from around the world as a “living heritage” where tradition and innovation exist in harmony.

Must-See Spots on Miyajima: Highlights of an Island Walk

Despite being a small island, Miyajima has so many attractions that one day may not be enough to see them all. For details on Itsukushima Shrine, please refer to our Itsukushima Shrine article. Here, we present a curated selection of sightseeing spots across the entire island.

Omotesando Shopping Street (Kiyomori-dori): The Ultimate Street Food Experience

Stretching approximately 350 meters from the ferry pier toward Itsukushima Shrine, Omotesando Shopping Street features around 70 shops lining both sides. Also known as “Kiyomori-dori,” it serves as both the starting point for Miyajima sightseeing and the island’s premier gourmet destination.

The moment you step into the shopping street, the savory smoke of grilled oysters mingles with the sweet aroma of freshly baked momiji manju, instantly stimulating your appetite. Along both sides of the street, you will find long-established restaurants serving Miyajima’s famous anago-meshi (conger eel rice), shops demonstrating the preparation of age-momiji (deep-fried momiji manju), hand-grilled senbei crackers, and sweet shops featuring Hiroshima lemon-based treats, all packed closely together.

The quintessential street food to try first is “age-momiji”—momiji manju coated in batter and deep-fried until crispy. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the moist, soft interior is exquisite. Priced at around 190 yen each, you can choose from several flavors including red bean, cream, and cheese. Next up is “grilled oysters.” Hiroshima oysters, raised in the nutrient-rich waters of the Seto Inland Sea, are grilled in their shells over charcoal. A squeeze of lemon over the plump meat fills your mouth with the rich umami of the sea. The going rate is about 500 yen for two.

If you plan to stroll through the shopping street and enjoy the street food at a leisurely pace, allow about 1 to 1.5 hours. Early morning hours tend to be less crowded, and you can enjoy popular shops without waiting in line.

Omotesando Shopping Street on Miyajima, bustling with tourists and souvenir shops on both sides

Mt. Misen: Ropeway and Spectacular Summit Views

Mt. Misen, Miyajima’s highest peak, stands at 535 meters yet offers a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the Seto Inland Sea. This sacred mountain is where the Buddhist monk Kūkai (Kōbō Daishi) is said to have practiced asceticism in 806 AD. Near the summit stands the Reikadō Hall, where a flame believed to have been lit by Kūkai has been burning continuously for over 1,200 years. This flame is also known as one of the source fires for the “Flame of Peace” in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

The most convenient way to access Mt. Misen is via the Miyajima Ropeway. Boarding at Momijidani Station, with one transfer along the way, you reach Shishiiwa Station in about 15 minutes. From the ropeway, you can enjoy the lush forest of Momijidani Valley below and the stunning multi-island scenery of the Seto Inland Sea. The autumn foliage season from late October to mid-November is particularly spectacular, when the mountainside is painted in shades of red and gold, offering the ultimate aerial promenade experience. The round-trip ropeway fare is 1,840 yen (adults).

From Shishiiwa Station, it is approximately a 30-minute hike along the trail to the summit observation deck. Along the way, you will encounter landmarks such as “Kuguri-iwa” (a passage through massive granite boulders) and “Sankidō,” a hall associated with Kūkai. Standing atop the summit observation deck, you can see countless islands dotting the Seto Inland Sea, the distant mountain ranges of Shikoku, and on clear days, views extending toward Yamaguchi Prefecture. Japan’s first Prime Minister, Itō Hirobumi, famously declared that “the true value of Japan’s Three Most Scenic Views lies in the panorama from the summit of Mt. Misen.”

Panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea and its many islands from the Mt. Misen summit observation deck

Momijidani Park: A Famous Autumn Foliage Spot and Valley Beauty

Momijidani Park, stretching behind Itsukushima Shrine, is a renowned autumn foliage destination where approximately 700 maple trees grow in clusters. Walking paths are maintained along the clear stream of the Momijidani River flowing through the park, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature in every season.

The peak autumn foliage typically occurs from mid to late November. During this period, the contrast between the vermilion-painted bridges and the fiery red maples creates a scene of painterly beauty. As you walk the paths, fallen leaves rustle underfoot, dappled sunlight filters through the canopy above, and the gentle murmur of the stream provides a soothing backdrop. A particularly popular photography spot—a red-railed bridge canopied by maple trees—has become a social media sensation.

The park is charming beyond autumn foliage season as well. In spring, fresh green maples form a refreshing verdant tunnel, while in summer the shade offers welcome relief from the heat. Walking through the quiet park in winter is equally special, as you can enjoy a space filled with nothing but the sounds of nature, virtually all to yourself. The park is free to enter, and a stroll takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Since the Momijidani Station for the Mt. Misen Ropeway is located within the park, combining your visit with a Mt. Misen hike is highly recommended.

Low-Tide Walk at the Great Torii Gate: Up Close with the Iconic Gate in the Sea

The Great Torii Gate, Miyajima’s most iconic symbol, appears to float on the sea at high tide, but when the tide recedes, the seabed is revealed and you can walk right up to the base of the gate. This “low-tide walk” is a truly one-of-a-kind experience unique to Miyajima.

The Great Torii Gate stands approximately 16.6 meters tall and weighs about 60 tons. Remarkably, it stands on the seabed solely under its own weight, with six pillar legs embedded in the sandy ground. At low tide, you can approach and observe barnacles and seaweed attached to the pillars, feeling the sheer power of this gate that has stood in the sea for centuries. Looking up at the base of the pillars, you cannot help but be overwhelmed by its massive scale.

To enjoy the low-tide walk, it is essential to check the tidal schedule in advance. A tide table is published on the Miyajima Tourism Association’s official website, and the window for walking is approximately two hours before and after low tide. During spring tides (when tidal ranges are greatest), even more of the seabed is exposed, and you can also walk beneath the elevated floor of Itsukushima Shrine itself. The ground is sandy, so wearing comfortable walking shoes is key. If you time your visit to coincide with low tide at sunset, you can enjoy the luxurious experience of watching the sun set directly behind the torii gate from up close.

Five-Story Pagoda and Senjokaku (Toyokuni Shrine): Hidden Historical Treasures

Rising proudly atop a small hill along the Omotesando Shopping Street are the vermilion Five-Story Pagoda and Senjokaku (Toyokuni Shrine). Since most tourists head straight to Itsukushima Shrine, these are surprisingly overlooked hidden gems—yet they are essential for experiencing Miyajima’s history and architectural beauty.

The Five-Story Pagoda, built in 1407 (Ōei 14), stands approximately 27.6 meters tall and features a distinctive architectural style that blends Japanese (wayō) and Chinese (karayō) elements. While the interior is not open to the public, the exterior alone commands an overwhelming presence. The sight of the vermilion pagoda set against a blue sky is one of Miyajima’s most iconic photo spots.

Adjacent to the Five-Story Pagoda, Senjokaku is a grand sutra hall that Toyotomi Hideyoshi ordered built in 1587 to honor fallen warriors. It earned the name “Senjokaku” (Hall of a Thousand Tatami Mats) because its floor space equals approximately 857 tatami mats. Due to Hideyoshi’s death, the hall remains unfinished to this day, giving it a unique open atmosphere with no ceiling boards. Upon entering the hall (admission: 100 yen), sea breezes blow through the gaps between the pillars, and you can look down on the buildings of Itsukushima Shrine and the Seto Inland Sea below. In summer, it is refreshingly cool like a natural air conditioner, and sitting on the floor gazing at the view, you may lose track of time entirely.

Miyajima Gourmet Guide: 4 Must-Try Local Specialties

One of the greatest pleasures of visiting Miyajima is the island’s distinctive cuisine. Miyajima gourmet, where the bounty of the Seto Inland Sea meets Hiroshima’s food culture, is so exceptional that many tourists visit specifically for the food. Here, we present the must-eat specialties when visiting Miyajima.

Anago-meshi (Conger Eel Rice): The Quintessential Miyajima Dish

The crown jewel of Miyajima cuisine is “anago-meshi” (conger eel rice). The conger eels from the Seto Inland Sea grow plump and tender in nutrient-rich waters, with an exquisite balance of fat. These eels are grilled with a secret sauce and laid out over rice that has been infused with the same savory glaze.

The long-established restaurant “Anago-meshi Ueno,” founded in 1901, is an immensely popular institution. Originally sold as an ekiben (train station bento) at Miyajimaguchi Station, it boasts over 120 years of history. The conger eel, grilled over charcoal to order, has a crispy, fragrant surface with a fluffy, juicy interior. The sweet-savory soy sauce glaze enhances the umami of the eel, creating a harmonious union with the seasoned rice below that is nothing short of moving. Prices are approximately 2,200 to 2,500 yen per serving. Popular restaurants can have wait times of 1 to 2 hours, so visiting right at opening time or on weekdays is recommended.

Momiji Manju (Maple Leaf Cakes): A Taste-Test Tour of Miyajima’s Signature Souvenir

When it comes to Miyajima souvenirs, nothing tops “momiji manju.” These beloved confections—maple leaf-shaped castella cakes filled with sweet bean paste—are said to have been invented during the Meiji era by a confectioner at the request of a local inn proprietress. Today, approximately 10 momiji manju makers operate on the island, each offering their own unique taste and texture, which makes comparing them all the more enjoyable.

While the classic koshi-an (smooth red bean paste) filling remains a staple, recent years have seen the emergence of diverse flavors including chocolate, matcha, cream, and cheese. Even more popular is the “age-momiji”—momiji manju coated in batter and fried until crispy. Biting into one while still warm, the crunchy coating gives way to gooey filling oozing out from within, delivering a completely different taste experience from the baked version. Walking down Omotesando Shopping Street while taste-testing at different shops is one of the quintessential joys of Miyajima sightseeing.

Momiji manju on Miyajima, freshly baked maple leaf cakes lined up at a shop front

Grilled Oysters: Savoring the Seto Inland Sea’s Bounty, Shell and All

Hiroshima is Japan’s top oyster-producing region, and oyster farming thrives in the waters around Miyajima as well. The rafts visible from the ferry are oyster cultivation rafts, and the simplest way to savor the oysters raised in these rich waters is as “grilled oysters.”

At shops along Omotesando Shopping Street and near the ferry pier, you can watch large oysters being grilled over charcoal in their shells. The briny aroma that rises the moment a shell pops open is enough to whet your appetite before you even take a bite. Squeeze some lemon over the plump, swollen meat and slurp it down—a rich, milky sweetness mingled with the flavor of the sea spreads across your palate. Oyster season runs from October to March, but some shops also serve “iwagaki” (rock oysters) in summer, so you can enjoy them year-round. Grilled oysters cost around 500 yen for two, and creative variations like oyster fries and oyster curry bread are also popular.

Miyajima Beer and Local Sake: Craft Drinks to Enjoy on the Island

To cap off your Miyajima adventure, why not enjoy some of the island’s craft beer or Japanese sake? “MIYAJIMA BREWERY” offers original craft beers brewed with Miyajima’s water, and sipping a glass while gazing out at the Seto Inland Sea is an experience of pure bliss. With several varieties available including pale ale and weizen, you can wash down your gourmet indulgences with the perfect beer.

Hiroshima Prefecture is also one of Japan’s premier sake-producing regions. Souvenir shops on Miyajima carry an extensive selection of local sake, including renowned brands from Saijō (Higashihiroshima City). Hiroshima sake is characterized by its mellow flavor achieved through soft-water brewing, and it pairs beautifully with oysters and conger eel. Enjoying a sake tasting at a liquor shop near the pier while waiting for the return ferry is a sophisticated way to spend your final moments on the island.

Grilled oysters on Miyajima, large shell-on oysters being cooked over charcoal

Miyajima Model Itineraries: How to Efficiently Explore the Island

Half-Day Course (Approx. 4 Hours): Hitting the Highlights

If you want to experience the best of Miyajima in limited time, the following half-day itinerary is recommended.

10:00 Arrive at Miyajima Pier. Walk along the seaside promenade toward Itsukushima Shrine. Deer will be there to greet you along the way.
10:15 Explore Omotesando Shopping Street. Try the age-momiji (deep-fried momiji manju) as you stroll.
10:45 Visit Itsukushima Shrine (approx. 30–40 minutes).
11:30 Tour the Five-Story Pagoda and Senjokaku (approx. 20 minutes).
12:00 Enjoy an anago-meshi lunch at Omotesando Shopping Street. Don’t miss the grilled oysters too.
13:00 Stroll around the Great Torii Gate area (walk to the base if it’s low tide).
13:30 Pick up souvenirs, then take the ferry back to Miyajimaguchi.

Full-Day Course (Approx. 7 Hours): The Complete Island Experience Including Mt. Misen Hiking

For those with more time, we recommend a full-day itinerary that includes Mt. Misen hiking.

9:00 Arrive at Miyajima Pier. Head along the coast toward Itsukushima Shrine.
9:20 Visit Itsukushima Shrine.
10:00 Stroll through Momijidani Park en route to the ropeway’s Momijidani Station.
10:30 Take the ropeway to Shishiiwa Station. Hike to the Mt. Misen summit (approx. 1.5 hours round trip).
12:30 Descend by ropeway.
13:00 Enjoy an anago-meshi lunch at Omotesando Shopping Street.
14:00 Tour the Five-Story Pagoda and Senjokaku.
14:30 Explore Machiya-dori, a quiet back street where even locals frequent. Browse cafes and galleries housed in renovated traditional townhouses.
15:00 Time your low-tide walk at the Great Torii Gate (check the tide table).
15:30 Pick up souvenirs and toast with a craft beer.
16:00 Take the ferry back to Miyajimaguchi.

Tips and Things to Keep in Mind

Here are some tips for a more comfortable Miyajima experience. First, checking the tide table is essential. To enjoy the low-tide walk at the Great Torii Gate, check the tide times in advance on the Miyajima Tourism Association’s official website. Second, wear comfortable walking shoes. The island has many slopes and cobblestone paths, and if you plan to hike Mt. Misen, athletic shoes are a must.

Feeding the deer is prohibited. There have been incidents where deer have eaten plastic bags and pamphlets, so please keep a close watch on your belongings. Also, Golden Week and autumn foliage season weekends are extremely crowded, so visiting on weekdays or early in the morning is recommended. Ferries run at 15-minute intervals, and the last ferry departs around 21:00, though times vary by season, so be sure to check in advance.

Nearby Attractions

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome

The most easily accessible nearby attraction from Miyajima is the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. From Miyajimaguchi Station, take the JR San’yō Main Line to Hiroshima Station (approx. 28 minutes), then transfer to a streetcar (approx. 15 minutes). The World Heritage-listed Atomic Bomb Dome and the Peace Memorial Museum are must-visit sites for anyone in Hiroshima. Combined with Miyajima, you can visit both of Hiroshima Prefecture’s World Heritage Sites in a single day.

Iwakuni and Kintai Bridge

Approximately 30 minutes west of Miyajimaguchi, Kintai Bridge in Iwakuni City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, is one of Japan’s Three Famous Bridges, known for its beautiful five-arch design. Built in 1673, this wooden bridge uses no nails whatsoever, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship that is a dream for architecture enthusiasts. The combination of Kintai Bridge with Iwakuni Castle and cherry blossoms in the background is renowned as one of spring’s finest views. Visiting Iwakuni alongside Miyajima makes for an efficient way to enjoy the highlights of both Hiroshima and Yamaguchi.

Seto Inland Sea Island Hopping

Using Miyajima as a starting point, island hopping across the Seto Inland Sea is another enticing option. From Hiroshima Port, high-speed boats depart for Ōkunoshima (Takehara City), famous as “Rabbit Island,” and Ikuchijima (Onomichi City), known as “Lemon Island.” By exploring the calm seas and diverse islands of the Seto Inland Sea, you can experience the depth of the “Setouchi cultural sphere” that goes beyond what Miyajima alone can offer.

The calm waters of the Seto Inland Sea and distant islands as seen from Miyajima

How to Get There

By Train

The nearest stations to Miyajima are JR San’yō Main Line “Miyajimaguchi Station” or Hiroshima Electric Railway “Hiroden-Miyajimaguchi Station.” From Hiroshima Station, it takes approximately 28 minutes by JR San’yō Main Line (420 yen) or about 70 minutes by Hiroshima Electric Railway (270 yen) to reach Miyajimaguchi. JR is faster and more comfortable, while the Hiroshima Electric Railway is recommended for those who want to enjoy the scenery along the way. From Miyajimaguchi Station, it is about a 5-minute walk to the ferry pier.

By Ferry

From Miyajimaguchi Pier, two ferry companies operate: JR West Miyajima Ferry and Miyajima Matsudai Kisen. Both take approximately 10 minutes, with a one-way fare of 200 yen (adults). JR West Miyajima Ferry takes a route that passes close to the Great Torii Gate, making it ideal for photography from the deck. The first ferry departs around 6:25 and the last around 22:14 (varies by season), providing ample time for day-trip sightseeing.

By Car

If driving, take the San’yō Expressway to “Hatsukaichi IC” or “Ōno IC,” then it is about 10–15 minutes to Miyajimaguchi. However, since private vehicles are restricted on Miyajima Island, the standard approach is to park at a lot near Miyajimaguchi and take the ferry across. Municipal parking lots (from 1,000 yen/day) and coin-operated parking are available near Miyajimaguchi, but during peak seasons they often fill up by late morning, so arriving early is recommended.

Recommended Route

The smoothest access route is to take the JR San’yō Main Line from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station, then transfer to the JR West Miyajima Ferry. When using JR, a covered walkway connects Miyajimaguchi Station directly to the ferry pier, so you stay dry even on rainy days. Transit IC cards (Suica, ICOCA, etc.) are accepted on both trains and ferries, eliminating the need to purchase tickets.

The ferry terminal at Miyajimaguchi Pier, with a ferry and tourists waiting to board

Conclusion

Miyajima is a destination where the entire island overflows with diverse charm, extending far beyond the World Heritage-listed Itsukushima Shrine. At Omotesando Shopping Street, you can feast on conger eel rice and grilled oysters; on the Mt. Misen Ropeway, the panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea will take your breath away; and during a low-tide stroll to the Great Torii Gate, you can feel the ancient sanctity of this place in your very bones.

A half-day is enough to cover the main highlights, and a full day allows you to enjoy Mt. Misen hiking and exploring the quieter back streets—a compact yet endlessly fascinating island. That is Miyajima. Why not plan a trip that combines it with Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, visiting both of Hiroshima’s World Heritage Sites in one journey?

For those who want to learn more about the history and highlights of Itsukushima Shrine, be sure to check out our detailed Itsukushima Shrine guide as well. We hope this helps you plan a trip that captures every facet of Miyajima’s charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

1

A.Visiting the main spots takes about 4 hours, while a full island tour including Mt. Misen hiking requires approximately 7 hours. If you only want to enjoy the Omotesando Shopping Street food stalls and visit Itsukushima Shrine, 2 to 3 hours is sufficient.

2

A.Since October 2023, a “Miyajima Visitor Tax” of 100 yen per person has been introduced. It is collected together with the ferry fare when boarding. The admission fee for Itsukushima Shrine is a separate 300 yen (adults).

3

A.The most popular time is the autumn foliage season from mid to late November, but spring cherry blossom season (late March to early April) and summer when the Kangensai Festival is held are also wonderful. For those who want to avoid crowds, the winter months of January and February are a hidden gem, offering a peaceful Miyajima experience in crisp, clear air.

4

A.The window for walking is approximately 2 hours before and after low tide. Since tides change daily, check the tide table on the Miyajima Tourism Association’s official website. Spring tide days are especially good, as more of the seabed is exposed and easier to walk on.

5

A.After the day-trippers leave in the evening, Miyajima transforms into a world of serene tranquility. The illuminated Great Torii Gate and the ethereal night view of Itsukushima Shrine are privileges reserved exclusively for overnight guests. Being able to visit the shrine early in the morning with no one around is another major advantage, and the island offers a variety of accommodation ranging from traditional Japanese inns to guesthouses.