Miyajima is a small island in Hiroshima prefecture. Its official name is Itsukushima, and Miyajima is a common name, meaning “God’s Island”. Itsukushima Shrine is located in the center of Miyajima and enshrines Ichikishimahime, the third daughter of the goddess of creation of Japan. There is no bridge to the island, and it takes about 10 minutes by ferry.
Itsukushima Shrine was founded about 1,500 years ago, and the current shrine building was built 900 years ago. Miyajima was selected as one of the three most scenic spots in Japan during the Edo period. It is highly rated internationally and is registered as a World Heritage Site. The red torii floating in the sea is the gate to the island of the gods. At low tide, a wide sandy beach is formed, and you can walk to the torii gate.
In recent years, Miyajima has been included in the Hiroshima Peace Museum tour course. For this reason, many visitors stay for about two to three hours, and after visiting the shrine, enjoy shopping and lunch on the approach street before returning to Hiroshima. However, sightseeing in Miyajima does not end there. There is a 535-meter mountain called Misen in the center of the island, which can be climbed by ropeway. There is a huge stone rolling there, and there is a divine figure. The view from the top of the mountain is wonderful. Let’s all use half a day for sightseeing in Miyajima.