Miyajima

The island’s official name is Itsukushima, named after the famous Itsukushima Shrine, which has a floating torii gate during high tide. But, most people, including locals and tourists, call it "Miyajima," which means "shrine island." So, whether someone says "Miyajima" or "Itsukushima," they are referring to the same island.

Yes, you can explore both Hiroshima and Miyajima Island in a single day. Start your morning by going to Miyajima to see the famous large torii gate. After that, come back to Hiroshima and explore the Peace Memorial Park and the A-Bomb Dome in the afternoon. If you have extra time, you can also check out Hiroshima Castle. It's a busy day, but you can make it a fun and memorable trip!

Miyajima Island, also known as Shrine Island, is famous as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning natural beauty and rich Japanese culture. The island is home to the Itsukushima Shrine with its floating torii gate and other sacred places like Daiganji Temple, Daisho-in Temple, Omoto Shrine, and Momijidani Park with its maple trees.

To get to Miyajima Island, take a train from Hiroshima City on the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station. The train ride takes about 30 minutes. From there, catch a ferry for a quick 10-minute ride to Miyajima pier. Enjoy the stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea along the way, making the ferry ride even more exciting.

The best times to visit Miyajima is in spring or fall. In spring, you can enjoy beautiful cherry blossoms and mild weather. Fall brings amazing red and orange leaves that make the island look incredible. These seasons offer the best weather for exploring the island’s natural beauty and historical shrines.

Plan to spend at least a full day on the island to enjoy all its natural beauty and cultural sites. A day gives you time to explore Itsukushima Shrine, hike Mount Misen, and relax in peaceful parks like Momijidani Park. If you want to try a tea ceremony or eat at local restaurants, you might want to stay overnight in a traditional Japanese inn called a ryokan.

If you’re staying overnight on Miyajima Island, consider booking a room at a traditional Japanese inn called a ryokan. Iwaso Ryokan is a popular choice with its comfortable Japanese-style rooms and relaxing hot springs offering views of the floating torii gate. Another good option is Hotel Miyajima Villa, which is close to the ferry terminal.