Miyajima

宮島

Home to the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, one of Japan's most photographed landmarks that appears to float on water during high tide. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage site offering temples, hiking trails, and stunning views across the Seto Inland Sea.

Things to do

• Itsukushima Shrine and Floating Torii Gate — Visit Japan's most iconic shrine with its famous vermillion torii gate that appears to float on water during high tide, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Mount Misen Hike — Trek to the 535-meter summit via forest trails for panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea and surrounding islands, or take the ropeway for a shorter ascent.
• Daisho-in Temple — Explore this important Buddhist temple complex featuring a five-story pagoda, elaborate halls, and a peaceful garden with walking trails.
• Momiji Manju Sampling — Visit artisan shops along the pedestrian streets to taste freshly made maple leaf-shaped cakes, Miyajima's signature souvenir filled with red bean paste or chocolate.
• Senjokaki Hall — Tour this historic building with tatami mats covering 857 square meters where feudal lords once held ceremonies and viewed the torii gate.
• Itsukushima Shrine Treasure Hall — View historical artifacts and national treasures including ancient scrolls, armor, and religious objects in this museum adjacent to the shrine.

Food to try

• Momiji Manju — Miyajima's iconic maple leaf-shaped sponge cake traditionally filled with sweet red bean paste, often enjoyed fresh from local bakeries.
• Anago Don — Grilled conger eel glazed with a sweet soy sauce served over rice, a local specialty that highlights the island's seafood traditions.
• Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki — Savory layered pancake made with cabbage, meat, noodles, and topped with okonomiyaki sauce and bonito flakes, a regional specialty from nearby Hiroshima.
• Grilled Oysters — Fresh Hiroshima oysters grilled in the shell over charcoal and seasoned simply with salt or soy sauce, reflecting the region's famous oyster harvests.
• Sake Tasting — Sample local sake from breweries in the Akitsu area connected by ferry, featuring varieties crafted with water from the Seto Inland Sea region.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Tide Times for Torii Photography — Plan your shrine visit around high and low tides; the torii gate's appearance changes dramatically and visiting at high tide offers the famous 'floating' effect.
• Dress Appropriately for Temple Visits — Remove shoes when entering temple buildings and halls, and avoid wearing revealing clothing as a sign of respect in these sacred spaces.
• Avoid Feeding Deer — The island's semi-wild deer are considered sacred; feeding them encourages aggressive behavior and disrupts their natural diet, so observe from a distance instead.
• Arrive Early to Avoid Crowds — Miyajima attracts thousands of daily visitors; arriving at dawn or visiting in shoulder seasons provides a more peaceful and authentic experience of the shrine.