Miyajima: A Complete Guide to the Floating Torii Gate and More

Top Reasons to Visit Miyajima

Miyajima, a small island floating in the Seto Inland Sea off the coast of Hiroshima, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning scenery, historical landmarks, and delicious cuisine. Here are a few reasons why you should add Miyajima to your Japan itinerary:

• World Heritage Site: Miyajima is home to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its “floating” torii gate.
• Natural Beauty: The island is surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests, offering breathtaking views from various vantage points.
• Rich History: Miyajima has a long and fascinating history, dating back to the 6th century. You can explore ancient temples, shrines, and other historical sites.
• Local Delicacies: Miyajima is famous for its fresh seafood, particularly oysters and 穴子 (anago), a type of conger eel. There are many restaurants and stalls on the island where you can sample these local delicacies.
• Convenient Access: Miyajima is easily accessible from Hiroshima by ferry, making it a great day trip destination.

Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or delicious food, Miyajima has something to offer everyone. Add it to your Japan itinerary today and experience all that this beautiful island has to offer!

Attractions

Itsukushima Shrine

Itsukushima Shrine is the most famous attraction on Miyajima, and it’s easy to see why. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its iconic “floating” torii gate, which appears to float on the sea during high tide. The shrine is also famous for its beautiful architecture and its collection of historical artifacts.

Specialties:

• Floating torii gate
• Beautiful architecture
• Historical artifacts

Omoto Park

Omoto Park is a beautiful park located on the north side of Miyajima Island. The park is home to a variety of trees, flowers, and wildlife, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and sea.

Specialties:

• Variety of trees, flowers, and wildlife
• Stunning views of the surrounding mountains and sea

Momijidani Park

Momijidani Park is a scenic park located on the west side of Miyajima Island. The park is famous for its 紅葉 (momiji), or Japanese maple trees, which turn brilliant shades of red and orange in the fall.

Specialties:

• Japanese maple trees
• Brilliant fall foliage

Daisho-in Temple

Daisho-in Temple is a Buddhist temple located on the north side of Miyajima Island. The temple is known for its beautiful gardens and its collection of over 500 stone statues of Jizo, a bodhisattva who protects children and travelers.

Specialties:

• Beautiful gardens
• Collection of over 500 stone statues of Jizo

Senjokaku Museum

Senjokaku Museum is a museum located on the south side of Miyajima Island. The museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the history and culture of Miyajima.

Specialties:

• Collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the history and culture of Miyajima

Delicacies

Anago Meshi

Anago meshi is a local dish made with 穴子 (anago), a type of conger eel, cooked in a sweet sauce and served on top of rice. This dish is a must-try for any visitor to Miyajima.

Kaki

Miyajima is famous for its fresh oysters, which are known as kaki in Japanese. You can enjoy them grilled, fried, or raw.

Momiji Manju

Momiji manju is a popular souvenir from Miyajima. These small, maple-leaf-shaped cakes are filled with sweet red bean paste.

Gansu

Gansu is a type of Japanese fish cake made with ground fish, vegetables, and spices. It’s a popular snack food in Japan, and it’s often served with beer.

Souvenir Guide

Momiji Manju

Momiji manju is a popular souvenir from Miyajima. These small, maple-leaf-shaped cakes are filled with sweet red bean paste. They are a delicious and affordable way to remember your trip to Miyajima.

Shamoji (Rice Paddle)

Shamoji are traditional Japanese kitchen tools used for serving rice. Miyajima is famous for its shamoji, which are often decorated with intricate designs. They make a unique and practical souvenir.

Kiriha菓 (Paulownia Leaf Cake)

Kiriha菓 is a traditional Japanese confection made with a mochi dough filled with a sweet bean paste. They are a popular souvenir from Miyajima, and they are known for their delicate flavor and beautiful appearance.

Local Crafts

Miyajima is home to a number of local artisans who create beautiful handmade crafts. You can find a variety of items, such as pottery, glassware, and textiles. These crafts make unique and meaningful souvenirs.

Detailed Itinerary

This itinerary can be customized to fit your interests and time constraints. For example, if you’re interested in hiking, you could spend more time exploring the island’s trails. Or, if you’re interested in history, you could visit some of the other historical sites on the island.