Miyajima Island
A sacred island in Japan's Seto Inland Sea, famed for its 'floating' torii gate and serene natural beauty.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cherry blossoms & autumn leaves
Miyajima Island
Best Time
Cherry blossoms & autumn leaves

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sacred island in Japan's Seto Inland Sea, famed for its 'floating' torii gate and serene natural beauty.
"This is a spot that gets over looked, I’d recommend staying at least one night."
Check the Tide Times! :ocean:
Plan your visit around high and low tides to see the torii gate in its full glory.
Stay Overnight for Serenity :zzz:
Experience Miyajima's magic after day-trippers leave. Ryokans offer a peaceful escape.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Itsukushima Shrine's Floating Torii
Miyajima Island
Witness the iconic 'floating' torii gate, a UNESCO World Heritage site, that appears to float at high tide.

Daisho-in Temple
Foot of Mount Misen
A serene temple complex with numerous statues, caves, and a peaceful atmosphere, offering a different spiritual experience.
Mount Misen
Miyajima Island
Hike or take the ropeway to the summit for panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea and surrounding islands.

Friendly Wild Deer
Throughout Miyajima Island
Encounter the island's resident wild deer, accustomed to visitors, but remember not to feed or touch them.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tides for the Iconic Torii
Overnight Stay for a Magical Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check the Tide Times! :ocean:
Plan your visit around high and low tides to see the torii gate in its full glory.
Stay Overnight for Serenity :zzz:
Experience Miyajima's magic after day-trippers leave. Ryokans offer a peaceful escape.
Don't Feed the Deer! :deer:
While cute, feeding the wild deer is discouraged and can cause health issues.
Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you plan to hike Mount Misen.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check the Tide Times! :ocean:
Plan your visit around high and low tides to see the torii gate in its full glory.
Stay Overnight for Serenity :zzz:
Experience Miyajima's magic after day-trippers leave. Ryokans offer a peaceful escape.
Don't Feed the Deer! :deer:
While cute, feeding the wild deer is discouraged and can cause health issues.
Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you plan to hike Mount Misen.
Book Accommodation Early :house_with_garden:
Popular ryokans, especially Iwaso Ryokan Miyajima, fill up fast.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Miyajima Island is overwhelmingly praised for its breathtaking beauty, particularly the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and its 'floating' torii gate. Visitors love the unique experience of seeing the torii at different tides, the charming wild deer, and the opportunity for hiking and exploring temples. Many recommend staying overnight to fully appreciate the island's tranquil atmosphere after the day crowds depart.
"Beautiful island with several deers hanging around. They are very comfortable with humans and not scared at all. Nice and wide walkway to the Jinja, lined up with souvenir shops, restaurants. There are benches facing ocean near the water line. An island map is available inside the ferry terminal. There are also buddhist temples, parks, hiking trails, ropeway. A little effort of uphill hike would offer a gorgeous view."
qlv assoc
"What a fantastic day trip. There is so much to see and do. Pro tip: plan to spend the entire day at Itsukushima Island. Pro tip 2: if there is a chance of rain plan to have a great lunch and get your treats in early. The shop keepers tend to fold up shop when the crowds die down and people start moving quickly to the ferry. Overall highly recommended for a day trip!"
Chris Manning
"This is a spot that gets over looked, I’d recommend staying at least one night. Lots of little cafes, beautiful hikes, temples, classes. Highly recommend"
Aaron Ryder
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is to take a JR train from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station, followed by a short ferry ride to Miyajima Island.
The JR ferry is covered by the Japan Rail Pass. Alternatively, you can take a tram from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi. The entire journey takes about an hour.For convenience and cost-effectiveness, the JR train and ferry combination is highly recommended, especially if you have a JR Pass. This ferry from Hiroshima to Miyajima is frequent and offers great views.
The JR ferry to Miyajima Island is free if you have a Japan Rail Pass. Otherwise, there is a small fee for the ferry crossing.
The journey from Hiroshima to Miyajima Island typically takes around 50-60 minutes, including the train and ferry ride.
No, private vehicles are not allowed on Miyajima Island. You will need to park your car on the mainland and take the ferry.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to Miyajima Island itself. However, you will need to pay for the ferry to get there, and there are admission fees for some attractions like Itsukushima Shrine.
Itsukushima Shrine is generally open from early morning until late afternoon. The exact hours can vary slightly by season, so it's best to check the official website before your visit.
Daisho-in Temple is free to enter and explore. It's a wonderful place to wander and discover its many unique features.
The Miyajima Ropeway has a round-trip fee. Prices can vary, so it's advisable to check the latest information on their official website or at the station.
While there isn't a single pass for all attractions, the Japan Rail Pass covers the JR train and ferry to Miyajima. Some local Hiroshima passes might offer discounts on transportation or specific sites.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The absolute must-sees include the Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic torii gate, exploring Daisho-in Temple, and taking the ropeway up Mount Misen for stunning views. Don't forget to interact with the friendly wild deer!
Yes, you can walk to the base of the torii gate during low tide. At high tide, it appears to float on the water. Checking the tide schedule is key!
Absolutely! There are several hiking trails leading to the summit of Mount Misen, offering a rewarding experience for nature lovers. The ropeway is also an option if you prefer a quicker ascent.
Yes, the main path leading to Itsukushima Shrine is lined with numerous souvenir shops selling local crafts, snacks, and mementos.
Many visitors opt for a full day trip, but staying overnight allows for a more relaxed exploration and the chance to see the island after the crowds depart.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss trying Momiji Manju (maple leaf-shaped cakes), grilled oysters, and Anago Meshi (conger eel over rice). These are popular local delicacies.
Yes, Miyajima offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries selling local snacks to more formal restaurants serving seafood and traditional Japanese cuisine.
While seafood is prevalent, some restaurants may offer vegetarian dishes like udon or soba noodles, or vegetable tempura. It's best to inquire directly with the restaurant.
Prices can vary. Snacks like Momiji Manju are affordable, while full meals at restaurants can be moderately priced. Eating at local stalls can be a budget-friendly option.
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks. However, be mindful of the environment and dispose of your trash properly.
📸 📸 Photography
The Itsukushima Shrine torii gate at high tide is a must. Also, capture the views from Mount Misen, the serene Daisho-in Temple, and the charming streets with wild deer.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the most beautiful light for photography, with softer shadows and a golden glow. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly magical.
Experiment with different angles, especially during low tide when you can get closer. Consider capturing reflections in the water or framing it with surrounding scenery.
Drone usage is generally restricted in many sensitive areas, including around shrines and temples, to preserve the peace and prevent disturbance. It's best to check local regulations before flying.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture the grandeur of the shrine and torii. Don't forget a tripod for low-light shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Miyajima: Getting Around
Be prepared for a fair amount of walking, especially if you plan to visit Daisho-in Temple or hike Mount Misen. Comfortable footwear is essential, as many visitors report spending the entire day on their feet exploring the island's diverse offerings. The island is relatively compact, making it easy to navigate on foot, but the inclines and stairs can add to the exertion. Consider the ferry schedule when planning your departure to ensure you don't miss the last boat back to the mainland.
The Magic of Miyajima's Tides
To make the most of your visit, it is highly recommended to check the tide charts for Miyajima Island in advance. Planning your visit to coincide with both high and low tides will give you the opportunity to witness and photograph the torii gate in its two distinct, captivating states. This foresight can significantly enhance your experience and ensure you capture the most memorable images of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Beyond the Torii: Exploring Miyajima's Depths
The island is also home to a population of friendly wild deer that roam freely. While they are accustomed to human presence, visitors are strongly advised not to feed or touch them, as this can disrupt their natural behavior and pose health risks. Exploring the charming streets reveals numerous shops selling local crafts and delicious snacks like Momiji Manju, a maple leaf-shaped cake that is a local specialty. For those seeking a deeper immersion, consider staying overnight in a traditional Miyajima ryokan, such as the renowned Iwaso Ryokan Miyajima, to experience the island's tranquility after the day-trippers depart.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit