Miyajima Travel Guide: What to See, How to Get There and When to Go

A Miyajima visit is one of the best-value outings from Hiroshima, because the island is not far from the city yet feels clearly different. You get Itsukushima Shrine, the great torii that appears to float on the water, forested mountain slopes and deer wandering through the village. The island's formal name is Itsukushima, though most people say Miyajima, which means shrine island.

Who it suits and how long to stay

It suits people who like to walk slowly, take photos and are interested in Japanese culture. Families with children can manage it, since most paths are flat, though climbing Mount Misen takes real effort. Those who dislike crowds or want adventure may find the central area packed on holidays. Most visits take half a day to a full day; if you want to see both high and low tide or climb the mountain, plan a full day or stay a night.

Best months and weather

Getting there and getting around

From Hiroshima Station, take the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station, which takes roughly half an hour. Then walk a short way to the pier and board the ferry to the island, about ten minutes. Both JR and private operators run ferries. The alternative is the Hiroden Miyajima streetcar line from the city centre, which is slower but handy if you are staying in the middle of town. Once on the island, nearly everything is on foot because the main area is compact.

Must-see sights

• Itsukushima Shrine: its raised walkways stand over the water, and the great torii is clearly visible.
• The floating torii: it appears to float at high tide and you can walk out to it at low tide.
• Mount Misen: take the ropeway or hike up for views over the Seto Inland Sea.
• Daishoin Temple: a hillside temple, quieter than the shrine area.

Quieter spots and hidden gems

Momijidani valley is a shaded park, good for escaping the crowds and for autumn colour. The five-storey pagoda and Senjokaku hall sit close to the shrine and offer a different view. Early morning, or the evening after the last big wave of day visitors has gone, the island is much quieter and the atmosphere improves, especially if you stay overnight.

Areas to know

The pier area is where you land, then Omotesando Street is the shopping strip, followed by the shrine, and behind that Momijidani valley, where the route to the Mount Misen ropeway begins. All of it is within walking distance. On the mainland side, Miyajimaguchi has some restaurants and lodging.

Food and souvenirs

Grilled oysters, anago-meshi and momiji manju are the well-known foods, and souvenirs include boxed momiji manju and the wooden shamoji rice paddle. For deeper detail on eating and shopping, see the dedicated food guide for the island.

Rainy days and the deer

Rainy days still work, since parts of the shrine walkway are covered and wet foliage looks lovely, but avoid climbing the mountain in strong wind or poor visibility. The deer are wild animals, so do not feed them, and keep paper and food bags out of sight because they may try to snatch and chew them.

Mobile data helps a lot when checking ferry times, tide tables and the latest information on the move, and an eSIM is one convenient option.

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