basic information

Miyajima is a small island less than an hour outside the city of Hiroshima. Miyajima is most famous for its giant torii gate, which at high tide seems to float on top of the water. The sight is ranked as one of Japan's three best views.

While officially named Itsukushima, the island is more commonly referred to as Miyajima, Japanese for "shrine-island". This is because the island is so closely related to its shrine, Itsukushima Shrine, in the public's mind. Like the torii gate, the shrine's main buildings are built over water.

Miyajima is a romantic place, best enjoyed by staying overnight at one of the island's ryokan. There are many day tourists, but in the evening the area becomes much quieter and peaceful. There are wild deer on the island that have become accustomed to people. In the day the deer wander around the same sites as the tourists, and in the evening they sleep along the walking paths.

Attractions

Itsukushima Shrine (1) Famous shrine with floating torii gate. Misen Mountain (3) The island's highest mountain. Walking Trails (5) Leading around town and up Misen. Daisho-in Temple (2) Buddhist temple at the foot of Misen. Senjokaku (4) Large wooden hall built by Hideyoshi. Museum of History (6) Housed in a former merchant residence.

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Orientation

Access and Orientation How to get to and around Miyajima. About transportation in Japan

Accommodation

Sponsored Listings:

Benten no Yado Itsukushima Enjoy onsen baths and delicious seafood while staying in Miyajima Island. Offers the Torii gate views from some rooms. Miyajima Grand Hotel Arimoto 17th century sukiya style Japanese hotel built in the Edo Period. With private open air baths with view of Itsukushima Shrine torii.

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Tours and Packages

Hiroshima and Miyajima Tours Various tours and travel packages for Hiroshima and surroundings.

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news and reports

Miyajima Cherry Blossom Report March 28, 2009

travel community

Users who have been to Miyajima: 488
Most visited: Ranked 13th out of 106 destinations

Rating by users:		highly recommended (96/100, 294 votes)
Rating by staff:		highly recommended
Overall Rating:		best of the best

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Mijayima ferry Sunday

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updated 15 days ago

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