Although Miyajima is a small island, there are plenty of different activities to enjoy here. Although most tourists visit for just a day trip from Hiroshima, you’ll get the most out of the island by staying overnight.

Book a hotel on Miyajima Island

Sights and history

Itsukushima Island, more commonly known as Miyajima, is famous primarily for its iconic red ‘floating’ torii gate, which belongs to the local Shinto shrine.

Information on admission fees, tide times and the history of the site is described in detail in the section on the Itsukushima Shrine.

You certainly shouldn’t miss Daisho-in, one of the most significant Buddhist temples in Japan.

Hiking

This densely forested and sparsely populated island is a hiker’s paradise.

Although Miyajima as a whole is one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations, you’ll be surprised to find very few people on most of the walking trails.

The main area for signposted walking trails is Mount Misen, the highest peak.

Click on the name above for details about the cable car, walking routes and sights around the summit.

Apart from Mount Misen, there are two other well-known walking routes on the island:

• Tsutsumigaura Nature Trail – a winding forest path connecting the town of Miyajimacho with the sandy beach atTsutsumigaura
• The Trail to the Ruins of the Military Batteries – the entire route follows a tarmac road along the coast and is the easiest trail on the island

Try some grilled oysters

Oyster fishing in the waters of Hiroshima Bay has a centuries-old tradition. Today, oysters are mainly harvested around Miyajima Island, making them a natural local speciality.

Local oysters are large, which is why they are rarely eaten raw.

Traditionally, oysters on Miyajima are grilled or boiled.

You can buy oysters at many street stalls and restaurants throughout the town.

The usual price for two oysters is 600 jpy.

Beaches and swimming

If you’re spending more than one day on Miyajima, why not relax on one of the local beaches?

Right in the town of Miyajimacho, you’ll find the lovely Mikasa Beach, although it is often covered in seaweed.

A much nicer beach is calledTsutsumigauraand is situated outside the town, about 4 km from the harbour. You can get there on foot or by local minibus.