Spots in Miyajima Area

  • Grand Torii
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    4.5
    3521 Reviews
    Travel / Tourism
    Hiroshima Hatsukaichi-shi
    This huge torii gate serves as a symbol of Itsukushima Shrine, a Shinto shrine which is one of Japan’s most famous and which stands as an embodiment of ancient Heian period culture. The great ryobu-style wooden gate, situated out on the ocean, stands 16.6 meters above the surface of the water; its main pillars are 9.9 meters in circumference and its roof is 24.2 meters long. The current gate was rebuilt in 1875. The eighth gate built here counting from the Heian period, it is said that the search to find trees sufficiently large to construct it takes 20 years. About the same height as the great Daibutsu statue in Nara, the gate’s supports are not buried in the sea bottom; instead, the gate is affixed to the sea floor with pine stakes but otherwise simply stands via its own weight. Due to significant damage and deterioration, the gate has been undergoing major repairs to preserve it since June 2019.

    This is a red coloured shrine located in Miyajima island which has a beautiful gate. One has to walk for about a km from the boarding platform. The shrine is very nicely maintained and has an entry...

  • Miyajima Ropeway
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    4.0
    791 Reviews
    Travel / Tourism
    Hiroshima Pref. Hatsukaichishi Miyajimachou In the autumnal park
    A ropeway connecting Shishiiwa Station at the top of the sacred mountain (Mt. Misen) with Momijidani Station at the foot of the mountain, in Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture. Mt. Misen is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with Itsukushima Shrine. There are still so many things to see here, such as the untouched natural primeval forest, amazing rock formations, shrines and temples, as well as an observation deck. Passengers can enjoy magnificent views of the natural scenery and deep blue sea down below from inside the gondolas. The journey time takes approximately 14 minutes. The mid-way Kayatani Station is used only for transfers so passengers cannot get off here.

    The ropeway is a good choice to buy time (almost 2 hours) if you do not want to stress up hiking all the way to the top (observatory). If you start early, you could complete the mountain top and the...

  • MIYAJIMA MISEN DAISYOIN
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    4.5
    606 Reviews
    Travel / Tourism
    Hiroshima Pref. Hatsukaichishi Miyajimachou 210
    It is the most important temple of the Shingon Omuro sect in Miyajima Town, Hatsukaichi City, and the temple with the longest history in Miyajima. It is believed to have been established when Kobo Daishi crossed to Miyajima in 806. It was once a different temple administering the ceremonial festivals of the Itsukushima Shrine and was deeply related to the Imperial Family. The temple has many statues in the Kannon-do Hall such as the Kannon Bosatsu or Deity of Mercy with eleven heads, and is the only temple in Japan enshrining Sanki Daigongen (the three fierce guardian gods). You can see the streets of the opposite shore from this serene environment, and it is also famous for its autumn colors.

    Daisho-in Temple is a truly remarkable and spiritual destination. The peaceful atmosphere and beautifully maintained grounds provide a tranquil retreat for visitors. The temples rich history and...

  • Itsukushima Shrine (Miyajima)
    Travel / Tourism
    Hiroshima Pref. Hatsukaichishi Miyajimachou 1-1
    A Shinto shrine located on the island of Itsukushima (Miyajima) in Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture famed as one of the three most scenic locations in Japan. The shrine is also registered as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This grand and majestic shrine is built along the sea shore where the tide ebbs and flows, and the shrine’s giant torii gate standing out in the sea is particularly famous. The shrine is said to have been built in 593, and the current seaside shrine building is said to have been constructed with the aid of Taira no Kiyomori in 1168. 17 of the shrine’s large and small structures are designated Important Cultural Properties or National Treasures, and the shrine’s Hirabutai stage, used for ceremonial dances and other performances, is considered one of the three most beautiful stages in the country. The shrine’s collection of treasures also includes numerous crafts and works of art designated Important Cultural Properties and National Treasures.
  • Toyokuni Shrine Five-storied Pagoda
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    4.0
    514 Reviews
    Travel / Tourism
    Hiroshima Hatsukaichi-shi Miyajimacho 1-1
    This five-tier red pagoda stands on a hill near the Honden front shrine of Itsukushima Shrine. The 27.6-meter-tall tower is located next to Toyokuni Shrine (location of the Senjokaku Pavilion). Skillfully blending Japanese and Chinese design aspects, the tower was built in 1407. Inside, the ceiling is painted with a dragon, while outside the ceilings have been painted with grapevine scrollwork and vivid patterns. The pagoda’s central pillar notably only extends up to the second tier in a design which helps prevent the tower from being toppled by strong winds. The pagoda used to enshrine the temple’s principal object of worship, a statue of Gautama Buddha; as well as statues of the bodhisattvas Samantabhadra and Manjushri, but these were moved to the Daiganji Temple on the opposite shore during the anti-Buddhism movement of the Meiji period. Today, the pagoda has been designated a National Important Cultural Property.

    After visiting the Itsukushima Shrine, I decided to walk for about 2 minutes to the west of the structure and climb a small hill to see this pagoda up close. Well-maintained, its five...

  • Toyokuni Jinja (Sen Tatami Kaku)
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    4.0
    487 Reviews
    Travel / Tourism
    Hiroshima Hatsukaichi-shi Miyajimacho 1-1

    The Senjokaku Pavilion is right at the side of the Toyokuni Shrine Five-Story Pagoda. If you need 5min to see the pagoda from the outside, you can spend 10-15min visiting the pavillion. The structure...

  • Miyajima Public Aquarium
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    4.0
    281 Reviews
    Leisure / Hobbies
    Hiroshima Pref. Hatsukaichishi Miyajimachou 10-3
    An aquarium located close to Itsukushima Shrine, a World Heritage Site, on the island of Miyajima in Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture. Notable for its Japanese exterior designed to fit in with the surrounding scenery, the aquarium, locally known as “Miyaji Marine,” was remodeled and reopened in 2011. The aquarium exhibits over 13,000 fish and marine mammals spanning 350 species with a focus on the creatures living in the Seto Inland Sea. Some of the aquarium’s most popular exhibits include cute animals such as rare finless porpoises, penguins, Stellar sea lions, and Japanese river otters. Daily sea lion shows are held at the aquarium’s Live Pool.

    Quite a bit of a distance to walk from the ferry terminal/main Itsukushima Shrine, but a great way to spend some time esp with kids. Not a very large aquarium but definitely capable of spending an...

  • Itsukushima-jinja Shrine Treasure Museum
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    4.0
    168 Reviews
    Travel / Tourism
    Hiroshima Hatsukaichi-shi Miyajimacho 1-1

    When I visit some temple or shrine, I usually skip this kind of treasure hall. But this treasure hall of Itsukushima Shrine is worth visiting for its remarkable collections. At the entrance of...

  • Daiganji Temple
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    3.5
    166 Reviews
    Travel / Tourism
    Hiroshima Pref. Hatsukaichishi Miyajimachou 3
    This is a temple of the Koyasan sect of Shingon, located in Miyajima Town, Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture. It is said that it was founded during the Heian period, but details are unknown. It is believed that in the Kamakura period the temple was restored by a priest named Ryokai; and the temple was responsible for the repair and construction of Itsukushima Shrine. The temple is also known to hold many Buddha statues such as a wooden statue of the Buddha of Healing, an Important Cultural Property. “Itsukushima Benzaiten”, one of the three major Benzaitens (Sarasvati) in Japan, transposed from Itsukushima Shrine due to the decree to separate Buddhism and Shintoism, is secured in the main hall, and is worshipped as the Goddess of Worldly Benefits. It is a spot where many worshipers wish for business prosperity, safety in the home, and fulfillment of major wishes.

    Beautiful temple just next to the Itsukushima Shrine and well worth a visit. It has a beautiful authenticity and old world charm. Lovely wooden statue of a old man who looks a like a philosopher to...

  • Tahoto Pagoda
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    4.0
    67 Reviews
    Travel / Tourism
    Hiroshima Hatsukaichi-shi Miyajimacho 1-1
    This two-tier, National Important Cultural Propert-designated pagoda stands on a hill on the west side of Itsukushima Shrine. Records state the pagoda was built by the priest Shukan in 1523. The basic shape of the pagoda’s exterior is purely Japanese in style, while the detailing displays Zen-style characteristics; it is also unusual in its construction consisting of a round upper level, square lower level, and square upper and lower roofs. The pagoda is the place where the Sue army first took up position during the Battle of Miyajima; today, the area is famous for its cherry blossoms in spring. The pagoda is also lit up at night, and many tourists take photographs of Itsukushima Shrine with this beautiful tower in the background.

    A lovely stop on your way around. An enchanting little pagoda surrounded by cherry blossoms while we were there

  • Momijidani Park
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    3.5
    36 Reviews
    Leisure / Hobbies
    Hiroshima Pref. Hatsukaichishi Miyajimachou
    This is a park of 700 mainly Japanese maple trees at the foot of the virgin forest of Mt. Misen, Miyajima. The scene of the striking red colors of the trees during mid to late November make this a famous area to view the change of the seasons. The area near the Momiji (maple) Bridge is a popular spot to take photos. Although many visitors come in the autumn season the park is also attractive from spring to the summer with its fresh greenery surrounding the park. It is approximately 20 minutes on foot from Miyajima Pier.

    Omoto park is the site of a very old battle field. This is a grea area for walking and for seeing the wild deer.

  • Kiyomori-jinja Shrine
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    3.0
    73 Reviews
    Travel / Tourism
    Hiroshima Hatsukaichi-shi Miyajimacho Nishi-matsubara

    The shrine itself is nothing special but we enjoyed walking up the peninsular to it, as we had good views of the torii.

  • Museum of Historical and Folklore Materials
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    4.0
    53 Reviews
    Travel / Tourism
    Hiroshima Pref. Hatsukaichishi Miyajimachou 57
    This history museum is located in Hatsukaichi City. Documents and folk culture items relating to the history and culture of Itsukushima Island, also called Miyajima, are preserved and on display at this museum. The historical artifacts concerning the Taira clan, who worshiped at this Itsukushima shrine, are of foremost interest. The erstwhile life of the residents of Miyajima Island can be tangibly experienced through the plethora of items, such as the rickshaws and earlier mailboxes, and memento ladles. A portion of the museum is housed in the former dwelling and clay storehouse of the Egami family, who were wealthy merchants prospering during the late Edo period and Meiji period. The beautifully manicured Japanese garden with a pond can be enjoyed from the main dwelling. The museum is a 3-minute walk from the Itsukushima Shrine exit.

    I haven’t planed to visit this one, but happy i did. It shows ordinary life tools, worship tools, a traditional Japanese house and all sort of ancient scrolls . A very pleasant and interesting...

  • Roadside Station Spa Rakan
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    4.0
    10 Reviews
    Transportation
    Hiroshima Pref. Hatsukaichishi Iyama 21-5
    This roadside station is in Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture located near Mt. Rakan. Come enjoy shopping at a store that sells locally produced products including vegetables and dining at the laidback cafe and cafeteria. You’ll also find a hot spring facility, making this relaxation spot the perfect place to wash away the fatigue from a drive or the day.

    道の駅スパ羅漢には、日帰り温泉の羅漢温泉が併設されています。 おすすめは、自然の中での露天風呂で、緑の木々と、天気のよい日は晴れた青い空がとても爽快で、癒されます。 夏は近くの川で水遊びをする家族も多く、ドライブの途中に立ち寄りたい道の駅ですね。

  • Natural Hot Spring Miyahama Benimansaku no Yu
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    3.5
    15 Reviews
    Accommodations / Hot Spring
    Hiroshima Pref. Hatsukaichishi Miyahamaonsen 2-2-1
    This day spa in Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture is equipped with nine baths to enjoy, including an open-air baths with sweeping views of the waters of Ono Seto. The spa is also equipped with a scenic terrace garden, a restaurant, and more. Due to its location near Itsukushima (Miyajima) Island, many people visit the spa after a day of sightseeing.

    夕方お風呂に入りにべにまんさくの湯に行きました。少し人は多かったですが、ここは宮島を見ながらお湯に入ることが出来て景色のよいお風呂です。塩分を感じるお湯で少し塩素の匂いがしますが、お風呂も大きくてゆったりと入ることが出来ます。良い場所だと思います。露天ぶろや内風呂があり、お湯の温度も40度前後で少し温めの長く入れるお湯です。 夕飯に、べにまんさくの湯のお食事処のわたやさんでお弁当を買いました...

  • Miyajima Traditional Crafts Center
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    4.0
    22 Reviews
    Travel / Tourism
    Hiroshima Pref. Hatsukaichishi Miyajimachou 1165-9
    The Miyajima Traditional Crafts Center sells and displays local specialty products from Miyajima such as wooden ladles, Miyajima carvings, and pieces made on a potter’s wheel or lathe. The center is located about one minute on foot from Miyajima Pier in Miyajima Town, Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture. Aided by experienced craftsmen, tourists can have a go at making their own Miyajima carvings or wooden ladles, or even try making some momiji manju cakes. An ideal gift and souvenir of your time here. Advance booking is required for the hands-on activities which last for about one hour.

    My sister and I heard that you could learn how to make manju (a sweet cake filled with a sweet filling) for about $8.00. When we went inside after disembarking from the ferry, we asked when the...

  • Youme Town Hatsukaichi
    Shopping
    Hiroshima Pref. Hatsukaichishi Shimohera 2-2-1
    This shopping mall in Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture is managed by IZUMI Co Ltd. which runs a chain of supermarkets and whose headquarters are in Hiroshima City. Along with a vast supermarket 1,200 tsubo (almost 4,000 square meters) in size, there are also fashion stores, general goods stores, and a hobby area, meaning there’s something for every age to enjoy.
  • Mount Misen
    Travel / Tourism
    Hiroshima Pref. Hatsukaichishi Miyajimachou
    It is a mountain in the center of Miyajima Town in Hatsukaichi City. It is the highest peak in Itsukushima (Miyajima), and it has been the object of worship for a long time. It is believed that the mountain was first used by Kobo Daishi in 806. Miyama Shrine is near the summit of the mountain, Daisho-in in the foothills, and Itsukushima Shrine at the base. The view from the mountaintop overlooking the opposite shore is famous for having once being praised by Hirofumi Ito. There are several hiking trails where historical sites and cultural properties are scattered, and you can choose a course to suit your physical strength and available time.
  • WoodOne Museum of Art
    rating-image
    4.0
    12 Reviews
    Leisure / Hobbies
    Hiroshima Pref. Hatsukaichishi Yoshiwa 4278
    This art museum is located in Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture. It displays various pieces such as modern Japanese paintings, Meissen porcelain, and Satsuma-yaki (Satsuma ware) from the Bakumatsu to Meiji periods (1853–1912). In addition, it holds not only permanent exhibits but also regularly has exhibitions. There is also a shop that sells original goods inside the museum. It is open from March to December every year and is closed during the winter.

    岸田劉生麗子像がウッドワン美術館の顔、と思っていましたが、ガラスなど、知らない世界がどっさり。宮島パワートライアスロンの際に尋ねましたが、次はもっとじっくりと来てみたいと思いました。

  • Shakushi no Ie
    rating-image
    3.5
    13 Reviews
    Travel / Tourism
    Hiroshima Pref. Hatsukaichishi Miyajimachou 488
    A shop specializing in Miyajima shakushi (shamoji—rice scoops) located in Miyajima Town, Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture. Based on an association with the phrase “meshitoru,” which can mean “to scoop up rice” or “to seize,” Miyajima shakushi are viewed as lucky talismans which aid in achieving victory and better fortunes. Miyajima shakushi began being made as souvenirs for visitors to Itsukushima Shrine at the end of the 18th century based on the teachings of an ascetic monk. This shop carries a wide variety of shakushi, from ones meant for actual use to decorative shakushi, shakushi with people’s names on them, and shakushi which can be used as a post card. Customers can also special order their name imprinted on a shakushi.

    ご飯の盛り付けや調理用の杓子から、合格祈願・必勝祈願などの縁起物、ネームプレート、キーホルダーやストラップなどラインナップが豊富です。広島カープやサンフレッチェ広島の選手によるサインの杓子が展示されています。

Hiroshima Areas

around-area-map

There is more than meets the eye awaiting any Hiroshima-bound traveler. Kicking off in Hiroshima city, the Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima Castle, and Shukkeien Garden offer a couple of days of exploring; however, the real beauty lies along the southern coast of the prefecture. There, a series of islands spreads across the Seto Inland Sea: from the mysterious sea-submerged Great Torii Gate at Miyajima Island to the first half of the islands that connect Honshu to Shikoku via six spectacular suspension bridges.

Hiroshima Photo Album

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