Miyajima Ropeway
Miyajima Island, home to the iconic 'floating' torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine and the scenic Mount Misen.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Miyajima Ropeway
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Miyajima Island, home to the iconic 'floating' torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine and the scenic Mount Misen.
"A truly magical island where you can witness one of Japan's most iconic sights and enjoy breathtaking views."
Stay Overnight for Serenity
Experience Miyajima's quiet charm after day-trippers leave. Highly recommended for a peaceful visit. :zzz:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring the island's many paths and inclines. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Itsukushima Shrine's Floating Torii Gate
Miyajima Island
Iconic vermilion torii gate that appears to float at high tide. A UNESCO World Heritage site.
Miyajima Ropeway
Mount Misen
Ascend Mount Misen for breathtaking panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Daisho-in Temple
Foot of Mount Misen
A unique temple complex with numerous statues and a serene atmosphere, offering a different spiritual experience.
Wild Deer of Miyajima
Throughout the island
Friendly wild deer roam freely, adding a charming and unique element to your island exploration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Miyajima Visit
Island Access & Getting Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Stay Overnight for Serenity
Experience Miyajima's quiet charm after day-trippers leave. Highly recommended for a peaceful visit. :zzz:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring the island's many paths and inclines. :athletic_shoe:
Check Tide Times
See the iconic torii gate at both high and low tide for different perspectives. :clock1:
Try Local Delicacies
Don't miss out on Miyajima's famous oysters and Momiji Manju (maple leaf-shaped cakes). :icecream:
Tips
from all over the internet
Stay Overnight for Serenity
Experience Miyajima's quiet charm after day-trippers leave. Highly recommended for a peaceful visit. :zzz:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring the island's many paths and inclines. :athletic_shoe:
Check Tide Times
See the iconic torii gate at both high and low tide for different perspectives. :clock1:
Try Local Delicacies
Don't miss out on Miyajima's famous oysters and Momiji Manju (maple leaf-shaped cakes). :icecream:
Respect the Deer
The wild deer are part of the island's charm, but avoid feeding them and keep a safe distance. :deer:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Miyajima is widely praised for its breathtaking natural beauty and iconic Itsukushima Shrine, with many visitors captivated by the 'floating' torii gate. The opportunity to see wild deer and the stunning views from Mount Misen are also major highlights. Some find the island can get very crowded during peak hours, leading to recommendations to stay overnight for a more peaceful experience.
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 or bus to the ferry port.
Yes, it's possible to visit Miyajima as a day trip from Osaka, but it will be a very long day. Many travelers combine it with Hiroshima city. Consider an early start to maximize your time.
The JR ferry to Miyajima is free if you have a Japan Rail Pass. Otherwise, there is a small fee for the ferry.
The train ride from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station takes about 25-30 minutes, and the ferry ride is about 10 minutes. Factor in time for transfers.
Yes, there are also direct ferry services from the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park area, which can be more convenient if you're visiting the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Miyajima Island itself is free to enter. However, there are entrance fees for specific attractions like Itsukushima Shrine and the Miyajima Ropeway.
Itsukushima Shrine generally opens early in the morning and closes in the late afternoon or early evening, with hours varying slightly by season. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
The Miyajima Ropeway has a round-trip fee. Prices can vary, so it's advisable to check the official Miyajima Ropeway website for current rates.
The floating torii gate is part of Itsukushima Shrine, so there is an entrance fee to access the shrine grounds and get closer to the gate.
For most attractions on Miyajima, you can purchase tickets on-site. However, for the ropeway, checking for online booking options might save time during peak seasons.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The absolute must-sees are Itsukushima Shrine with its iconic floating torii gate, and ascending Mount Misen via the Miyajima Ropeway for stunning views. Daisho-in Temple and interacting with the wild deer are also highly recommended. +2
A half-day is sufficient for the main highlights like Itsukushima Shrine and a quick look around. However, to truly enjoy the island, hike Mount Misen, and experience its tranquility, consider a full day or even an overnight stay. +1
The main paths on Miyajima are relatively flat, but some areas, like the approach to Itsukushima Shrine and the hike up Mount Misen, can be challenging. The ropeway offers an accessible way to reach higher viewpoints.
Beyond the shrine, you can ride the Miyajima Ropeway up Mount Misen, explore the serene Daisho-in Temple, wander through the Omotesando shopping street, and enjoy the island's natural beauty and wild deer. +1
Yes, Miyajima has a vibrant Omotesando street filled with restaurants and shops selling local specialties like oysters, Momiji Manju, and grilled seafood.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The floating torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine is the prime photo spot, especially during high tide. The view from the top of Mount Misen is also spectacular. Look for unique angles with the wild deer. +1
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with fewer crowds. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly magical for capturing the torii gate.
Yes, you can take photos of the wild deer, but remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid feeding them, as this can alter their behavior.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grandeur of Itsukushima Shrine and the panoramic views from Mount Misen. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife shots of the deer.
Generally, photography is allowed in most public areas. However, always be mindful of signage within temples and shrines, as some areas may have restrictions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Miyajima Ropeway is an exciting way to ascend Mount Misen, offering stunning views without a strenuous hike. The main island paths are generally stroller-friendly, making it easier to navigate with younger children. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as prices can be higher on the island.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To save money on food, consider packing some snacks or enjoying street food like Momiji Manju from local vendors rather than full-service restaurants. Walking is the best way to get around, saving on local transport costs.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't forget to capture the panoramic views from Mount Misen via the ropeway, and the charming interactions with the island's wild deer. Experiment with different angles and times of day to get unique shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Itsukushima Shrine
Many visitors recommend checking the tide times to witness both the high tide 'floating' effect and the low tide experience. The shrine is particularly stunning during sunrise and sunset, offering a more serene and atmospheric experience away from the midday crowds.
Beyond the torii gate, the shrine complex itself is worth exploring. The intricate wooden structures and the peaceful ambiance offer a glimpse into Japan's rich spiritual heritage. Remember to be respectful of the sacred nature of the site during your visit.
Ascending Mount Misen via Ropeway
Once you reach the summit station, a short hike will lead you to the peak. Here, you'll find observation decks offering breathtaking 360-degree views. It's a fantastic spot to appreciate the scale of the landscape and the beauty of the Japanese archipelago.
Many visitors suggest allocating ample time for the ropeway and the summit hike, especially if you plan to explore the various viewpoints and perhaps visit the small temple at the peak. The descent offers a different perspective, and the changing light throughout the day can make for varied and stunning photographic opportunities.
Experiencing Miyajima's Tranquility
Imagine walking along the deserted paths, seeing the torii gate illuminated under the moonlight, or enjoying a peaceful sunrise without the hustle and bustle. This slower pace allows for a deeper appreciation of Miyajima's natural beauty and spiritual significance.
Several ryokans on the island offer traditional Japanese hospitality, including exquisite kaiseki dinners and relaxing onsen baths. This immersive experience transforms Miyajima from a tourist hotspot into a tranquil retreat, offering a truly memorable stay.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit