Miyajima (宮島) is a small island less than an hour outside the city of Hiroshima. It is most famous for its giant torii gate, which at high tide seems to float on the water but what enjoyed the most with the motorbike… mountain curves!
But… be careful driving there… a lot of animals on the road!!
The area has a mild, Setonaikai climate. It is home to animals such as Nihonjika (deer). Deers have been protected from ancient times as being messengers of the Itsukushima Shrine’s gods (called Shinroku). The vegetation consists of a forest of Akamatsu trees, a mixed forest of Japanese red pine and evergreen broad-leaved trees, and an evergreen broad-leaved forest of Urajirogashi and Akagashi
Mt. Misen, the highest peak of Miyajima, has been worshiped by key figures such as Taira no Kiyomori and Ito Hirobumi. Many historical footprints and legends still remain at Mt. Misen. The summit of Mt. Misen can be reached from three hiking trails (Momijidani Course, Daishoin Course, and Omoto Course), Along the way, you can enjoy the view of the mainland shore across from the island and the island’s virgin forest. Many spiritual sites are scattered over a small area on the summit. In particular, the observation platform offers a stunning 360° panoramic view of the beautiful islands of the Setonaikai Sea and, on clear days, the Shikoku mountain range in the distance.