Miyajima Itsukushima Shrine

Itsukushima Shrine is famous because of its fantastic floating torii gate, which looks like it is hovering over the water during high tide. It sits on Miyajima Island in the Seto Inland Sea, where you can see amazing views of the sacred Mount Misen and green forests. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it brings visitors from all over the world who want to see how it fits perfectly with nature. The shrine buildings also match beautifully with the nearby scenery, making it one of Japan’s must-visit places.

Itsukushima Shinto Shrine is protected because it is a World Heritage Site known for its cultural and historical importance. It holds a special place in Japanese culture, with a history that goes back to the Heian period. Protecting this national treasure ensures people can enjoy its beauty and spiritual connection to the landscape and sacred mountains.

What makes Itsukushima Shrine special is that it's the only shrine in Japan where the tide flows underneath, making it look like the shrine and its large O-Torii gate are floating on water. This amazing sight gives the shrine a magical feeling, especially when the tide is high.

To get to Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, start by taking a train from Hiroshima City on the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station. This train ride takes about 30 minutes. Then, from the Miyajimaguchi Passenger Terminal, hop on a ferry for a quick 10-minute ride to Miyajima Island. Once you arrive at the Miyajima Pier, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the shrine. The trip gives you scenic views and a chance to enjoy the lovely surroundings of the Seto Inland Sea, making your visit even more exciting.

The best times to visit Itsukushima Shrine are in spring or autumn when nature looks its best. Cherry blossoms in spring and fall leaves in autumn make the floating torii gate and shrine buildings even more beautiful. It’s also best to go during the day since the site isn’t open after sunset, especially in the afternoon when the high tide creates the famous floating effect for the Torii gates.