Miyajima Island in Japan, the Island of Gods.

Considered one of the most beautiful places in the Japanese archipelago, Itsukushima or Miyajima Island in Japan is a Shinto shrine in its own right. Nature, culture, and tradition intertwine on this small island located not far from Hiroshima on the Seto Inland Sea. Known worldwide, its torii in the water is the first symbol visitors see from the ferry when arriving on the island. Let us explain why it's truly a must-visit during a trip to Japan.

Itsukushima Shrine, UNESCO World Heritage Site

History tells us that it was Shunsai Hayashi, a Confucian scholar, who wrote in 1643 that Miyajima was among the 3 most beautiful sites in Japan, along with Matsushima and Amonohashidate! Since then, the legend has continuously followed the site.

Classified in 1995 by UNESCO, a whole part of the island received this distinction. The Shinto temple Itsukushima, the waterfront with its famous red torii, and also Mount Misen.

Itsukushima Shrine, the floating shrine

The temple was built by Taira No Kiyomori, whose statue you can admire on the waterfront. Its history dates back over 1,400 years and alone offers a true example of unique architectural design, symbolizing Japanese culture, history, and spirit.

The :

The symbol of Miyajima is so famous that it is seen everywhere in illustrations of Japan. Accessible at low tide, you can walk beneath it. In the evening, the sea reclaims its rights and tourists come to admire the illuminated Torii spectacle from the shore. It is the symbol of the boundary between the profane world and the sacred world. It marks the entrance to the Itsukushima shrine, built on stilts.

The :

Built-in 1,407 and standing 28 meters high, it combines Japanese and Chinese architectural styles. It is located next to the Senjoukaku, the largest structure in Miyajima, overlooking Itsukushima Shrine.

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Covered with lush virgin forests, Mount Misen, the highest mountain on Miyajima Island, rises 535 meters above sea level. The mountain is considered sacred and has been revered since antiquity. Near the summit are temples linked to Koba Dashi, a great Buddhist priest. There are also unusually shaped rocks and an observatory. A cable car connects Shishilwa Station on Mount Misen to Momijidani Park. For those more athletic, three hiking trails are accessible to reach the summit (approximately 1h30 to 2h30).

Once at the top, the view is splendid. Stroll among the many temples including Reikado Hall where a flame has burned for 1200 years, lit by Kobo Daishi. This same flame was used to light the peace flame in Hiroshima. Just beside it, discover the Jizos, statues of child gods. It is said that any wishes concerning children will be granted if water is poured over them accompanied by a prayer.

Daisho-in

Daisho-in is not as well-known as Itsukushima Shrine. However, it boasts many features worth seeing. Notably its 500 statues of Buddhas, and its 600 volumes of sutras.

It is located at the foot of Misen's thick forest and is one of Miyajima's most famous temples.

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H/t to @sandgloeckchen for pointing me in the direction of the beautiful Lantern Hall at Daisho-in Temple on Miyajima Island. Daisho-in Temple, Miyajima, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan – September 2018. . . . #birthdaytrip #daishoin #miyajima #hiroshima #japan #insidejapantours #visitjapan #visitjapanau #magnificentjapan #artofvisuals #justgoshoot #visualambassadors #explorejpn #tokyocameraclub #culturetrip #agameoftones #super_japan_channel #temple #lanterns #symmetricalmonsters #travel #travelphotography #instatravel #gaytravel #gaytraveller #wanderlust #natgeotravel #picoftheday#lanaterner

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Other Points of Interest to See in Myajima

Machiya Street

Besides temples and nature, don’t hesitate to stroll through the small town. While Omotesando Street is full of tourists all year round, Machiya Street, which is just a block away from Omotesando, will give you a glimpse into local life in Miyajima with its row of century-old houses that showcase an aesthetic combination of historical architecture.

During your walk through town streets, take advantage of it to taste the famous maple leaf-shaped cakes filled with red bean paste, known as momiji manju.

Momijidani Park

At the foot of Mount Misen lies Momijidani Park, magnificent in autumn when maple leaves turn scarlet red. But rest assured, all four seasons offer beautiful colors too.

The Beach and Aquarium

If you're traveling to Japan with children, you can add an afternoon at the beach, aquarium or craft center during your stay in Miyajima; activities that will delight youngsters.

The beach is located 10 minutes by shuttle from the ferry terminal or a 40-minute walk away. A lovely white sand beach awaits next to Tsutsumigaura Park. The beach is designed for swimming and water games.

Miyajima's aquarium, like many aquariums in Japan, is very educational and fun. Shows take place every hour and your children can pet penguins, feed sea lions or even touch "weird" sea creatures.

The craft center will also delight youngsters. It presents various traditional crafts from the island and introduces foodies to making momiji manju or rice paddles.

The deer are part of the island's charm; you'll encounter them everywhere. Much less aggressive than those in Nara yet they remain wild animals nonetheless. Be mindful of personal items like tickets or cards as they love them but they will easily let you approach for a little souvenir photo.

Why You Should Stay Overnight on Miyajima Island in Japan

History; tradition; blue sea; mountains; greenery... So many highlights that deserve soaking up this country’s culture properly taking time during a trip to Japan sometimes being best option available allowing ample opportunity here specifically within Itsukushima spending longer compared elsewhere.. At end day when last ferry returns towards Miyajimaguchi island empties reclaiming atmosphere little paradise isolated from world lanterns illuminating floating Torii brightened after typical dinner Ryokan restaurants city (note close early!), stroll Yukuta along shore.

When Should You Visit Miyajima?

Throughout year events punctuate life island January December always festival discover island so magical choosing ideal period during stay Japan difficult rather visit every season!

Visiting Miyajima during Springtime!

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