Where Tourists Don’t Go – Miyajima Island

Where Tourists Don’t Go – Miyajima Island

[Music] Oo. Oo. Oo. Ooh. [Music] Ooh. [Music] Ooh. Ooh. [Music] Hey, it’s early morning in Aheime and I’m hitting the road for a new adventure. Today’s destination, Miaima. It’s going to be a long drive, but honestly, that’s one of my favorite parts. Just me, the open road, and some good music. The highways in this part of Japan are beautiful. Smooth roads, mountain views, and those long tunnels that feel like time machines. [Music] Quick stop at a service area. Honestly, Japan’s service areas are elite. Clean bathrooms, good food, and sometimes even [Music] views. I grabbed a drink, stretched a bit, and hit the road again. [Music] Before reaching Miaima, I flew the drone over one of the most beautiful roads I’ve ever seen. [Music] A quiet stretch of highway wrapped in cherry blossoms. Soft pink lining both sides like nature’s [Music] tunnel. I’ve been through so many tunnels on this drive. They’re everywhere in Japan. It’s kind of calming though, just the sound of the car and that endless line of lights guiding you through. [Music] Time to pay the toll. Pretty standard when driving on Japanese highways. The roads are smooth and wellkept, but yeah, they’re not free. Still, for a drive like this, it’s worth every yen. After a scenic drive from Eime, including stretches of soccered roads and tranquil tunnels, I finally arrived in Hiroshima City. This bustling metropolis is not only rich in history, but also serves as the nearest major city to Miaima Island, my next destination. From here, it’s a straightforward journey to Miaima. I’ll head to Miaimaguchi station where a short ferry ride across the sedo inland sea awaits leading me to the island’s iconic floating Tory gate and serene [Music] landscapes. This is the ferry that connects the mainland to Miaima Island. I’m actually taking my car across which is super convenient. Just drive on, park, and enjoy the short ride. The whole trip takes about 10 minutes but it’s such a cool experience. You get beautiful views of the water and if the weather’s clear, you can already spot the famous floating Tory gate in the distance. Miaima feels like a world apart. And crossing by ferry really adds to that feeling. Like you’re leaving the city behind and stepping into somewhere quieter, older, and full of [Music] nature. Finally arrived on Miaima Island. Since my hotel doesn’t have parking nearby, I had to park the car and walk a little. It’s actually a nice way to start exploring. The fresh air, quiet streets, and that peaceful island vibe hit you right [Music] away. Finally made it to the hotel. It’s tucked away in a quiet corner of the island, perfect for some peace and rest. I’m pretty tired after the long drive and day of traveling. So, I’m going to take it easy tonight and recharge. Tomorrow, the real adventure begins as I explore the whole [Music] island. Day two on Myima begins with perfect weather. The sun’s out, the air’s fresh, and the island feels peaceful like it’s been waiting quietly for me to explore it. Miaima, officially known as Itsukushima, is one of Japan’s most sacred islands. For over a thousand years, it’s been considered a spiritual place. So sacred, in fact, that people once weren’t even allowed to die or be born here. Now, I’m heading to the other side of the island, the part most visitors never see. No big crowds, no souvenir shops, just winding roads, untouched nature, and quiet coastlines. Hey, one thing you’ll notice right away on Miaima, the deer. They’re everywhere, quietly roaming the streets, the beaches, even near the shrines. The deer on Miaima aren’t just animals. They’re part of the island’s soul. For centuries, they’ve been considered messengers of the gods in the Shinto religion. That’s why they’re free to roam, protected and respected by everyone here. You’ve got to be extra careful when driving around this part of the island. The deer are everywhere. They’ll suddenly wander onto the road and they’re not in a [Music] hurry. Looks like this road leads to a secret beach. Not marked on many maps and definitely not part of the usual tourist trail. Let’s see where it takes [Music] us. Looks like I found it. A quiet hidden beach with almost no access by road. Just the sound of the waves, a few boats anchored offshore, and traces of campers who must have spent the night here under the [Music] stars over there. That’s the bridge connecting to the next island. You can just barely see it from here, stretching across the water. The view from here is just insane. Endless water, distant islands, the sound of waves. I could honestly sit here for hours and never get tired of [Music] it. [Music] Here I am, the next spot with an incredible sea view. It’s a bit daring to get here, but totally worth it. All I see from up here is just ocean and a bunch of tiny islands way out there. It’s kind of cool. [Music] [Music] I’m heading down to sea level now. If you look over in the left corner, there’s a couple who came by boat and set up a little [Music] campsite. Then I hit the road again. On this island, no matter where you go, the sea is always by your side. Out here, you’ll see people camping right by the sea. They drive in with their cars, set up tents, and just enjoy the view. It’s the perfect place to slow down and disconnect. [Music] One of the coolest things about Miaima is this massive Tory gate that looks like it’s floating on the water. At high tide, it’s like something out of a dream. Just standing there, perfectly [Music] calm. While most people rush to the Tory gate, there’s another iconic place here that’s just as powerful. Daishoin Temple. It’s one of the most important temples on the island, sitting quietly at the base of Mount Misen. With its deep red halls, ancient statues, and peaceful mountain atmosphere, this place feels like it’s frozen in time. Miaima is one of those rare places where time feels slower. Every corner has a sense of calm, from quiet forest paths to deer casually walking through town. It’s an island where nature and spirituality blend together. You hear the ocean, smell the incense from ancient temples, and feel this deep, peaceful energy everywhere you go. It’s not just about sightseeing, it’s about feeling. And once you’ve been here, a part of you stays here. [Music] Miaima welcomes over 4 million visitors a year. And when you walk these peaceful streets, it’s easy to see why. Whether you come in spring for the cherry blossoms or autumn for the fiery red leaves, there’s always something special here. Local shops line the roads with handmade crafts, grilled street food, and the famous maple leafshaped mumiji mangju. And just like that, it’s time to leave this beautiful island. Miaima gave me peace, views, and memories I won’t forget anytime soon. Thanks so much for watching. I hope you felt a little of the magic through the screen. Stay tuned for the next adventure. It’s just around the corner. Until then, take care and I’ll see you in the next vlog.

What Most TouMost people visit Miyajima on foot or by ferry—but I took the road less traveled. 🌿🚗 In this special vlog, I explored Miyajima Island by car, discovering quiet beach views, peaceful roads, and hidden scenery that many travelers never get to see.

From crystal-clear shores to serene forest drives, this is Miyajima through my eyes—calm, raw, and untouched.

Join me on this personal journey and feel the magic of the island in a whole new way. 🏝️✨

📍Location: Miyajima Island, Hiroshima

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