Sightseeing
Visit temples and shrines, including Itsukushima Shrine, a World Heritage Site, enjoy Miyajima delicacies, and try activities such as climbing Mt. Misen for a truly unique time on Miyajima.
Itsukushima Shrine
The shrine has a history of over 1,400 years and was registered as a World Heritage Site in 1996. The present shrine pavilion faithfully follows the Shinden style of architecture as when originally built by Taira no Kiyomori some 800 years ago. The vermilion-lacquered Otorii gate towering over the sea is the eighth generation structure. A variety of festivals and Shinto rituals, including the splendid Bugaku (dance and music) performed on the Takabutai stage, designated as a national treasure, highlight the four seasons on Miyajima.
Various Other
Sightseeing Attractions
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Miyajima Aquarium
“Miyajimarine”An aquarium where visitors can encounter the mysterious creatures of the Seto Inland Sea. There are also outdoor events such as live sea lion shows.
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Miyajima Ropeway
- Mt. MisenDirect ropeway to the deity-blessed Mt. Misen. Enjoy the mystical view and magnificent nature from the top of the mountain.
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Momijidani Park
In the fall, you can see some 700 trees change into vivid autumn colors, in the spring the cherry blossoms bloom, and in the summer the fresh greenery is lush.
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Five-storied Pagoda
Built in the 15th century, this 27-meter high tower is a landmark of Miyajima.
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Kiyomori Shrine
This shrine was built to honor the great achievements of Taira no Kiyomori, the builder of Itsukushima Shrine, and to console his spirit.
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Hokoku Shrine
(Senjokaku)This unfinished large hall was built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi as a memorial to his fallen generals. It is called Senjokaku (Hall of One Thousand Tatami Mats) because it is the size of 857 tatami mats.
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Daiganji Temple
This is a temple of the Koyasan Shingon Buddhist sect, thought to have been reconstructed in the Kamakura period (1185-1333) by the monk Ryokai, and is dedicated to Itsukushima Benzaiten, the goddess of music, wisdom, and wealth.
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Daishoin Temple
This temple has the oldest history in Miyajima. It was founded in 806 by the great monk Kobo Daishi Kukai. It is associated with Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
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Miyajima History
and Folklore MuseumThis museum features some 1,000 displays of documents related to Miyajima history and culture, as well as folk-cultural properties that supported the livelihood of Miyajima residents and similar items.
Shopping and Strolling
There are charming alleys with cafes and various little shops. You can take a gourmet stroll featuring freshly baked Momiji Manju (a sweet bean paste-stuffed cake shaped like a maple leaf), Anago-Meshi (broiled conger eel on top of rice), oysters, and other Miyajima delicacies, as well as do some shopping for handicrafts and souvenirs such as rice scoops. Be sure to enjoy a relaxing stroll around the nearby alleys.
Mt. Misen
Enjoy hiking up the mountain and the surrounding nature. The top of Mt. Misen provides a spectacular view of the Shikoku mountain range.
Surrounded by deep virgin forest, Mt. Misen is a mysterious mountain that is also a habitat for deer, and home to many traditions and histories. There are three mountain trails, including a ropeway, that allows you to observe nature, explore history, and hike to your heart’s content.
- *Please refrain from climbing the mountain after 3:00 PM, as it is very dangerous to climb after sunset.
- *There are no restrooms on the trail.
Useful Services
Services to support sightseeing are also available.
Please feel free to use these services.
【Official Miyajima Guide 】
Reservations are required (specific date and time) and can be arranged upon request.
Cost: 4,000 yen for two hours
【Miyajima Sea Kayak 】
Seven-minute walk from the hotel to
paddle a kayak with an
instructor around the Otorii Gate.
*The front desk will guide you to the location.