Itsukushima
Japan · Hiroshima · 30 m
Description
Itsukushima (厳島), also Miyajima (宮島), is one of Japan’s most famous and spiritually significant islands, located in the Seto Inland Sea near Hiroshima. The forested island is renowned for the UNESCO-listed Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic vermilion torii gate, which appears to float on the sea at high tide, as well as its freely roaming sika deer and sacred Mount Misen with sweeping panoramic views. Traditional streets are lined with small shops, temples, and local specialties such as oysters and maple leaf-shaped Momiji Manjū. Miyajima uniquely combines nature, spirituality, and centuries-old culture and is traditionally celebrated as one of Japan’s Three Most Scenic Places.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 2 days (optimal 1 day)
Travel season
Best time to visit: March – May or October – November
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Itsukushima Shrine & Great Torii Gate (UNESCO)
- Mount Misen & Miyajima Ropeway
- Daishoin Temple
- Mount Misen summit hike
- Wild sika deer on Miyajima
- Momijidani Park
- Senjokaku Hall & Five-story Pagoda
- Miyajima Omotesando Shopping Street
- Momiji manju
- Miyajima oysters
- Miyajima traditional townscape
- Miyajima History and Folklore Museum
- Daiganji Temple
- Tahoto Pagoda
- Miyajima Public Aquarium
- Miyajima autumn foliage (November)
- Miyajima cherry blossoms (March - April)
- Miyajima Water Fireworks Festival (August)
Getting there
- Train stations:
- Miyajimaguchi
- Seaport:
- Reachable by ship or ferry