Itsukushima Shrine: The Floating Icon of Japan
Guide to Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima
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Have you ever imagined that iconic shrine gate that floats on water and seems ever present on some of the most popular images about Japan? That enchanting illusion is real and it’s located in Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima! This visually stunning iconic site, one of the country’s most powerful visitor magnets, is also one of its oldest and most culturally significant places.
Established in 593 AD, the shrine’s striking red torii gate, emerging majestically from the sea, is an image that has become synonymous with Japan itself. As the tide rises and falls, the shrine and its torii gate create a mystical scene, drawing visitors from around the globe to witness this architectural marvel that perfectly harmonizes with its natural surroundings.
See also: Miyajima Island Hiroshima: Best Things to Do
What is Itsukushima Shrine?
Itsukushima Shrine (厳島神社), is a revered Shinto shrine located on the island of Itsukushima, also known as Miyajima, in Hiroshima Prefecture. Established in 593, the shrine is dedicated to the three daughters of Susanoo-no -ikoto, the Shinto god of seas and storms. Itsukushima Shrine is renowned for its unique architectural style, where the main buildings are constructed over water, giving the appearance that the shrine is floating during high tide.
The shrine’s most iconic feature is its grand torii gate, which stands 16 meters tall and seems to float on the sea. This torii gate has had a tremendous cultural and aesthetical influence in Japan, and as such is considered one of the Nihon Sankei (日本三景), or one of the three most scenic views of Japan, alongside Matsushima in Miyagi Prefecture and Amanohashidate in Kyoto Prefecture.
The shrine has survived numerous natural disasters and has been meticulously maintained and restored over the centuries. In 1996, Itsukushima Shrine was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its value as an outstanding example of traditional Japanese architecture harmonized with its natural environment.
What to See and Do at Itsukushima Shrine?
- The Floating Torii Gate: The shrine’s most iconic feature, this 16-meter tall gate appears to float on the sea during high tide, creating a magical sight. At low tide, you can walk out to the gate and get a close-up view, so you can get different views.High tide and low tide times vary daily and depend on the season, lunar phase and local weather conditions, but generally, there are two high tides and two low tides within a 24-hour period. It’s best to check the tide schedules online before your visit.
- Main Hall (Honden) and other buildings: Explore the main hall, one of the largest in Japan. The buildings of the entire complex are connected by wooden boardwalks and everything is located above the water, creating a similar effect to the floating torii gate during high tide. The complex also include smaller shrines like Tenjin Shrine and Daikoku Shrine on the West Corridor.
- Noh Theater Stage: The complex also includes a Noh Theater, and if you’re lucky and happen to visit in mid-April, there’s the annual Toka Festival where traditional Noh performances are held over three days from the 16th to the 18th of April.
- Local Deers: Miyajima is also famous for its friendly deers that roam freely around the island. These deers are considered sacred messengers of the gods and are accustomed to human interaction. While they can be quite friendly, it’s essential to treat them with respect while being careful with one’s belongings.
- Summer Fireworks: If you happen to be in the area in late August, then you cannot miss Miyajima Water Fireworks Festival, one of the most impressive fireworks in the country!
- [Optional] Spend the night at a local ryokan: To fully experience the magic of Itsukushima island, you can spend the night and see the shrine and the torii gate illuminated at night until 23:00. Strolling around the shrine area in the evening, with the gate beautifully lit against the dark water, is an unforgettable experience!
How to Get to Itsukushima Shrine
From Hiroshima, take a JR train to Miyajimaguchi Station, which takes about 30 minutes. From there, a short 10-minute ferry ride will bring you to Miyajima Island. Ferries run frequently, so you won’t have to wait long. Upon arrival, the shrine is a pleasant 10-minute walk from the ferry terminal, with signs guiding you along the scenic route.
Tourist Attractions Near Itsukushima Shrine
Exploring Itsukushima Shrine is just the beginning. The island offers several other attractions that will enrich your visit:
1. Miyajima Omotesandō Shopping Street
Miyajima Omotesandō Shopping Street (宮島表参道商店街) is the island’s main thoroughfare, filled with shops, eateries, and souvenir stands. Come here to indulge in local delicacies such as grilled oysters and momiji manju, a maple leaf-shaped cake filled with sweet bean paste.
The street is also lined with craft shops offering traditional items and unique gifts, so oit’s a perfect place to pick up a memento of your visit. And if you’re a Rilakkuma fan, take the chance to stop by the impossibly cute Miyajima Rilakkuma Sabo Cafe!
Information
 Access |
6-min walk from Itsukushima Shrine |
|---|---|
 Official Website |
https://www.miyajima.or.jp/live/omotesando.html |
2. Mount Misen Observatory
The Mount Misen Observatory (弥山 展望台) is the highest point on the island at 535 meters, with breathtaking panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea and surrounding islands. It’s accessible by a scenic hike or a relaxing ride on the Miyajima Ropeway. The journey to the top also allows you to explore the island’s rich flora and fauna, including ancient temples and unique rock formations.
Information
| Access |
15-min ropeway from Momijidani Station, then 22-min walk |
|---|---|
| Official Website |
http://miyajima-ropeway.info/view/ |
3. Daishoin Temple
Daishoin Temple (大聖院) is one of the most significant Buddhist temples in Miyajima. Located at the base of Mount Misen, it features a complex of buildings, beautiful gardens, and it’s specially remarkable for its variety of Buddhist statues and carvings, like its 500 Rakan statues, each with different facial expressions. Don’t miss its sacred cave filled with thousands of lit lanterns!
More info: Daisho-in Temple: the Hidden Wonder on Miyajima Island Hiroshima
4. Miyajima Public Aquarium
The Miyajima Public Aquarium (みやじマリン 宮島水族館), also known as Miyajimarine, showcases the diverse marine life of the Seto Inland Sea. The aquarium features interactive exhibits, live shows, and a variety of tanks housing creatures such as sea lions, penguins, and a multitude of colorful fish. It’s an educational and entertaining destination, perfect for families and marine enthusiasts alike.
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Written by
Photographer, journalist, and avid urban cyclist, making sense of Japan since 2017. I was born in Caracas and lived for 14 years in Barcelona before moving to Tokyo. Currently working towards my goal of visiting every prefecture in Japan, I hope to share with readers the everlasting joy of discovery and the neverending urge to keep exploring.
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