Itsukushima Shrine and Miyajima: Aki's Miyajima Where World Heritage Floating Torii Shines

"Miyajima (Itsukushima)" in Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima is an island rich in nature with Mt. Misen (elevation 535m), where "Itsukushima Shrine" was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. As one of Japan's Three Views (Matsushima, Amanohashidate, Miyajima), it has been loved by poets and artists since ancient times.

The Floating Great Torii

The symbol of Itsukushima Shrine is the 16.6-meter "great torii gate" standing on the sea. The vermilion great torii assembled from camphor wood appears to float on the sea at high tide, while at low tide you can walk across the sand to approach it closely. The great torii illuminated by morning sun, evening sun, and moonlight shows beautiful expressions at any time of day.

Architectural Beauty of Itsukushima Shrine

Itsukushima Shrine was founded in the 6th century, with the current shrine buildings developed by Taira no Kiyomori in the late Heian period. The shrine buildings built on the sea show different expressions with tidal changes. 19 buildings including the National Treasure main hall, worship hall, and corridor form a magnificent landscape.

Climbing Mt. Misen and Spectacular Views

Miyajima's highest peak, Mt. Misen, can be summited in approximately 2 hours combining ropeway and hiking. The multi-island beauty of the Seto Inland Sea viewed from the summit is an overwhelming spectacular view.

Access

About 10 minutes by ferry from JR Miyajima-guchi Station / Miyajima-guchi Pier.