Hiroshima to Miyajima Island: Ferry Options, Attractions, and Tips
Why Visit Miyajima Island? A Must-See Hiroshima Gem
Miyajima Island, also known as Itsukushima Island, is a captivating escape that should be on every visitor’s Hiroshima itinerary. This enchanting island, nestled in the serene Hiroshima Bay, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural experiences.
A Floating Shrine and Natural Wonders
The crown jewel of Miyajima is undoubtedly the iconic Itsukushima Shrine. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its mesmerizing “floating” torii gate, an awe-inspiring sight as the tide rises. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, the shrine’s intricate architecture and serene ambiance create an unforgettable experience.
Beyond the shrine, Miyajima boasts stunning natural landscapes, including lush forests, picturesque hiking trails, and breathtaking coastal views. Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the opportunity to explore the island’s diverse flora and fauna.
Friendly Encounters and Cultural Immersion
One of the most endearing aspects of Miyajima is its adorable deer population. These gentle creatures roam freely around the island, creating charming photo opportunities and adding to the island’s magical atmosphere.
Immerse yourself in Japanese culture by visiting traditional shops, sampling local delicacies, and exploring the island’s historic temples and shrines. Miyajima offers a glimpse into the heart of Japan, providing a truly authentic and enriching experience.
How to Get to Miyajima Island and What to See - Table of Contents
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Getting to Miyajima Island
Reaching the enchanting Miyajima Island is a breeze with several convenient options.
The Classic Route to Miyajima Island
For most visitors, the quickest and most affordable way to reach Miyajima is by combining the JR Sanyo Line with a ferry. Take the JR Sanyo Line from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station, a journey of approximately 30 minutes.
From there, two ferry companies, Miyajima Matsudai Kisen and the JR Ferry, offer frequent services to the island.
Bonus: If you have a JR Pass, the JR Miyajima Ferry is covered by the Japan Rail Pass , making it a cost-effective choice.
The ferry ride takes around 10 minutes and offers stunning views of Miyajima Island!
The Scenic Alternative - Peace Memorial Park (Via Motoyasubashi Pier) to Miyajima Island
For a more leisurely and scenic experience, consider taking the ferry from the Peace Park. Operated by World Heritage Seat Route, this journey takes a little over 45 minutes but rewards passengers with breathtaking panoramic views of the harbor and surrounding area. The ferry ticket costs ¥4,000 (¥2,200 one way) and can be purchased online or at Motoyasubashi Pier Ferry Terminal.
Tips for Your Journey to Miyajima Island
- Luggage: Smaller bags are easier to manage on the ferry.
- Weather: Check ferry schedules for potential delays during inclement weather.
- Alternative Options: For a private experience, consider inquiring about boat tours or water taxis.
Miyajima's Friendly Inhabitants: The Deer
Miyajima Island is renowned for its captivating wildlife, and the deer are undoubtedly its most famous residents. These gentle creatures roam freely, adding a touch of enchantment to the island’s atmosphere.
Unforgettable Encounters With the Miyajima Deer
From the moment you step foot on the island, you’re likely to be greeted by a curious group of deer. Known for their boldness, they often approach visitors with an almost expectant air. Be prepared for playful interactions, as these deer have a knack for snatching food and other items from unsuspecting tourists.
A Unique Wildlife Experience
If you’re a fan of deer, Miyajima offers a truly unforgettable experience. While Nara is famous for its deer, Miyajima provides a more intimate and less crowded encounter with these captivating creatures.
Omotesando Shopping Street: A Vibrant Hub
After my unforgettable encounter with Miyajima’s deer, I ventured onto Omotesando Shopping Street, the island’s main thoroughfare. This lively strip is a shopper’s paradise, teeming with a diverse range of shops and eateries.
A Shopping Extravaganza
Omotesando offers a delightful array of stores, catering to every taste and budget. From souvenir shops brimming with traditional crafts to boutiques offering unique fashion items, there’s something to pique everyone’s interest. While the street is filled with charming shops, it’s worth noting that many offer similar merchandise, so discerning shoppers may find themselves searching for hidden gems. Unfortunately, high-end luxury items were relatively scarce during my visit.
A Culinary Journey
To satisfy my appetite, I explored the culinary delights offered along Omotesando. The street boasts a tempting mix of sit-down restaurants and vibrant street food stalls. The tantalizing aromas of grilled seafood, savory snacks, and sweet treats filled the air, making it difficult to resist indulging in a delicious treat.
With my taste buds satisfied, I eagerly continued my journey towards the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, following the clear signage and passing under countless torii gates.
The Breathtaking Itsukushima Shrine
A Serene Beachside Interlude
As I made my way towards the renowned Itsukushima Sinto Shrine, I was met with a picturesque sight: a pristine sandy beach stretching along the shoreline. The warm weather provided the perfect excuse to escape the bustling streets and enjoy a refreshing dip in the cool waters.
The Majestic Itsukushima Shrine
The centerpiece of Miyajima Island, Itsukushima Shrine is a breathtaking architectural marvel. This intricate complex of temples, shrines, and traditional torii gates is a testament to Japan’s rich cultural heritage. While there’s a ¥300 admission fee to explore the shrine’s interior, much of its splendor can be admired from the outside.
A Unique Tidal Experience
One of the most captivating aspects of the shrine is its interaction with the tides. The surrounding area transforms dramatically as the water level rises and falls.
It’s important to remember that this sacred site is also a place of worship for many, so respectful behavior is essential. I observed visitors tying colorful ribbons to the shrine’s support beams, a poignant tradition that adds to the site’s spiritual aura.
During my visit, the tide was exceptionally low, granting me a rare opportunity to walk out into the bay and experience the iconic floating torii gate up close.
The Magic of High Tide
While I was fortunate to witness the shrine at low tide, the true magic unfolds during high tide. As the water rises, the torii gate appears to float on the water’s surface, creating a truly awe-inspiring spectacle. Unfortunately, I couldn’t experience this firsthand, but the image of it remains etched in my mind.
To get an idea of what the Floating Tori looks like at high tide, look at the “keyhole” photo below and imagine water up to the bottom of the keyhole.
A Beach Walk to Remember
Beyond the shrine lies another stretch of sandy beach, offering visitors a chance to relax and soak up the sun. During low tide, intrepid explorers can even embark on a unique adventure by walking out to the floating torii gate.
A Day on Miyajima Island
While I managed to pack a lot into my five-hour visit to Miyajima, the island offers so much more than can be experienced in a single day. For those seeking a deeper immersion, consider spending a night or two on the island. Miyajima boasts a variety of accommodation options to suit every preference.
Beyond the Shrine
In addition to the world-famous Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima offers a wealth of attractions for exploration.
- Mount Misen: For nature enthusiasts, Mount Misen provides a rewarding hike with breathtaking panoramic views from its summit.
- Miyajima Ropeway: This ropeway offers stunning views of the top of Mt. Misen.
- Cycling Adventure: Discover the island’s charm at a leisurely pace by renting a bicycle and exploring its scenic paths.
- Momijidani Park: Immerse yourself in the beauty of autumn foliage at this picturesque park.
- Cultural Immersion: Delve into Japan’s rich history by visiting the island’s numerous temples and shrines.
Miyajima’s allure lies in its ability to offer both a quick escape and a longer, more immersive experience. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, this enchanting island is a destination that invites visitors to return again and again.
Miyajima Island Tours
I thought a self-guided tour of Miyajima Island was practical for my sightseeing style. For me, it is more fun to try to figure things out on my own and take in the sights at my own pace. That being said, I know many travelers prefer to take a tour led by an expert. Below are some of the tours of Miyajima Island that caught my eye.
I am an affiliate partner of Viator. If you book a tour using one of the links below I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I would greatly appreciate it if you would consider booking using one of my links.
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