Miyajima Itsukushima Shrine
Tomoko KamishimaThe original formal procedure to worship Itsukushima Shrine was to pass through the big red torii gate on a special boat.
The Itsukushima Shrine is located on the shores of Miyajima, an island in the Seto Inland Sea not far from Hiroshima city. While the name Itsukushima means “island of worship”, the site is more famously known as “the floating shrine”, as the buildings appear to be floating on the water when the tide rolls in.
The 5-storied pagoda, on the shrine's northern side, is covered up and undergoing renovation works expected to last until December 20, 2026.
Itsukushima’s main shrine was first constructed in AD 593, and was mentioned in a famous Japanese book (Nihon Koki, or Notes on Japan) in AD 811. The shrine became popular as a pilgrimage destination for members of the Imperial Court during the Heian Period (745-1185) and remained an important location in the Edo Period for those living in western Japan.
The main shrine precinct consists of a collection of buildings, such as the Purification Hall and the stage for bugaku (court music) performances. Many of the buildings are linked by covered corridors and dotted with bronze lanterns from the early 20th century. An arched bridge, dating back to 1557, was said to be used by Imperial messengers and is one of the links between the shrine and the mainland. Most notably, Itsukushima is home to a Noh stage that dates back to the early Edo Period, and is significant for the fact that it’s the only Noh stage in the country that floats upon the sea.
Due to their history and unique design, the buildings of Itsukushima Shrine were designated as a National Treasure in 1952 and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.
Visitors who wish to see the shrine as it “floats upon the waves” would do best to plan their visit according to the tides. A schedule of the day’s high and low tides is usually posted at the shrine’s main entrance.
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Considered one of the defining views of Japan, Miyajima's 'floating' red torii gate proudly sits off the shore of the main island. At 16.5 meters in height, this iconic site is what first greets visitors arriving by ferry from the mainland. The torii’s main pillars are made from 500-600 year old camphor trees that are naturally resistant to rot and insects. The current gate dates from 1875. When the tide is low, it is possible to walk right up to the gate itself.
Designated a National Treasure of Japan, this beautiful white-and-vermilion building floats on top of the waters at high tide, just as the famous torii gate does. The extended curved eaves are covered with cypress thatch; the honden (main hall) along with the Haiden and Heiden were built during the Nara period.
The deer of the island are docile and accustomed to human interaction. The cute inhabitants of the island often bravely go up to tourists and beg for food. They're a popular part of any visit to the island and fun to pose for photos with. Although they may seem tame, always exercise due caution when dealing with wild animals.
Travel to JR Miyajimaguchi Station on the Sanyō Honsen Line. Walk to the ferry port. It's about 10 minutes from Miyajimaguchi Port to Miyajima Island by ferry.
The original formal procedure to worship Itsukushima Shrine was to pass through the big red torii gate on a special boat.
Miyajima Island's Itsukushima Shrine at low tide is beautiful in the fresh morning air of November
Itsukushima Shrine at hgh tide, with a view of its world famous torii gate
Miyajima has been known as an island of God for 1400 years. And the island itself has been worshiped by people all over Japan.
I heard that Miyajiima is considered as one of the "three most beautiful spots" in Japan. This is likely due to this beautiful Itsukushima shrine playing a central part, and rightly so.
Mysterious Miyajima at Night is truly beautiful. These photos were taken in late November.
Hiroshima's most famous fireworks display. Amazing, colorful bursts shot from the water in front of the huge red tori gate in front of Miyajima island.
This floating red shrine with a lush green forest backdrop is a stunning scene at the top of any sightseers list
Medieval Heian parade to pay thanks to the powerful Heike clan leader, Taira no Kiyomori, who turned Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima into the stunning sight we see today.
Under the big torii gate floating on the Seto Inland Sea, there was a brilliant sunset road on the water surface.
A traditional Japanese bugaku performance at Itsukushima Shrine tells the tale of Ryo-o, the Dragon King, in front of the floating shrine of Miyajima.
What you see on Miyajima, close to Hiroshima in western Japan, is up to you. Itsukushima Shrine, the floating gate, Gojunoto pagoda and Senjokaku Hall feature. Wherever you look, there is beauty and wonder.
Auberge Watanabe in Miyajima is conveniently located right in front of the entrance to the Daisho-in Temple grounds, on a quiet side street next to a stream.
Backpackers Miyajima is located in the Hatsukaichi city are of Hiroshima, right next to the ferry which takes you to the beautiful island of Miyajima.
Just steps away from the gateway to the world-famous "Island of Gods," a new standard of luxury awaits. Located in Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima (near Miyajima Island), HOTEL FORK & KNIFE offers an extraordinary blend of modern architectural beauty, profound tranquility, and unparalleled local gastronomy. Operating under the concept of "Tradition Served Quietly," this property invites travelers to quiet their minds and deeply feel the flow of time. Whether you are exploring the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Itsukushima Shrine or seeking a peaceful escape, this hotel promises a transformative experience. [photo id='247158'] Masterful Architecture by Fumihiko Sano The physical space of HOTEL FORK & KNIFE is a work of art in itself. Designed by architect and artist Fumihiko Sano, the building seamlessly fuses the aesthetic of good old Japanese architecture with modern design sensibilities. One of the most striking features is the hotel's entrance lobby. It houses a gallery space directly inspired by the iconic Noh stage of Itsukushima Shrine. Suspended from the ceiling, locally crafted Hiroshima lanterns cast a soft, welcoming glow over the regularly rotating art exhibitions, allowing guests to experience the culture of Miyajima with all five senses the moment they arrive. [photo id='247161'] A Destination for Local Gastronomy As the name suggests, culinary excellence is at the absolute heart of the HOTEL FORK & KNIFE experience. The restaurant is directed by Chef Ryo Ishihama, who brings an elite pedigree as the former sous chef of the Michelin one-star seafood French restaurant "abysse". The dining experience focuses heavily on "Local Gastronomy," respecting Hiroshima's rich food culture while adding new expressions. The Firewood Dinner: Guests are treated to a meticulous 11-course dinner that utilizes the dynamic power of firewood cooking to draw out the natural flavors of the region's sea and mountain ingredients. Fresh Donabe Rice: The restaurant features an in-house rice mill, ensuring that the rice is milled right before being carefully cooked in a traditional earthen pot (donabe). Perfect Pairings: Meals can be paired with sake from famous brewing areas like Saijo, alongside local Hiroshima wines and craft beers. [photo id='247118'] Rooms Designed for Relaxation The hotel offers a variety of room types—from the cozy Hinoka and Seoto rooms to the expansive 180-square-meter Premium Suite Midori. Every room harmonizes the warmth of natural wood with modern design and features carefully selected Japanese art. Many rooms incorporate a koagari (a raised Japanese-style seating area) so guests can take their shoes off and truly unwind. For those seeking ultimate luxury, the Midori suite boasts a private sauna, an open-air bath filled with natural hot spring water, and a private kitchen counter where a chef can be invited for exclusive meals. [photo id='247104'] A Welcoming, Communal Spa Experience For many international visitors, the traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring) experience—which typically requires bathing without clothes in strictly gender-segregated areas—can feel intimidating. HOTEL FORK & KNIFE elegantly solves this cultural barrier with its top-floor spa and indoor/outdoor onsen. Complete with a stunning open-air balcony, this facility operates as a communal space where guests can relax together. The hotel provides dedicated swimwear for every guest, making the experience incredibly comfortable and accessible for Western travelers. This thoughtful approach not only removes the anxiety of traditional bathing etiquette but also allows couples and mixed groups to enjoy the soothing hot spring waters and panoramic views side-by-side. [photo id='247109'] Ground-Floor Museum and Gallery Adding to the cultural depth of the property, the ground floor features a dedicated museum space designed to host rotating art displays and historical exhibitions. The hotel is currently planning to showcase a profound exhibition centered around the theme of "Hiroshima 1958." This unique gallery will feature a French photographic portrayal of Hiroshima, offering an international perspective on the city's resilience, redevelopment, and daily life during that pivotal post-war era. It provides guests with a quiet moment of reflection and a deeper connection to the city's history before they even step up to their rooms. [photo id='247103'] The Perfect Couple’s Retreat If you are planning a romantic getaway, HOTEL FORK & KNIFE is tailored for unforgettable moments together. To maintain a quiet and calm atmosphere, the hotel is exclusively for guests aged 12 and older (with rare exceptions made only for the private suite). This adult-focused environment ensures that couples can disconnect from the noise of daily life. Spend your afternoon soaking in the natural hot spring overlooking Miyajima or detoxing in the silent sauna. In the evening, after a romantic 11-course dinner, you can retreat to the atmospheric bar lounge, where time flows gently alongside a traditional sunken hearth (irori).
Delicious noodle and rice bowl dishes featuring Miyajima's famous oysters and conger eel on the Omotesando shopping street.
Hayashi-ya is located on a back street in the charming residential area of Hiroshima's most famous, Miyajima island, this small cafe-restaurant specializes in high quality
Kiyomori-Chaya restaurant stands on a little island near Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima. It's ideal for a restful lunch or tea break.
The Miyajima Omotesando Shopping Street is a 350m-long arcade that acts as one of the main paths between the island's port and Itsukushima Shrine. It's a lively thoroughfare filled with souvenir shops, street-side food counters as well as cafes, bars and restaurants. A folding roof provides a canopy to shelter from both rain or sun. Local delicacies steal the show so expect oysters, conger eel, momiji manju (a baked or deep-fried snack) or Miyajima craft beer along the route. Plenty of souvenir shops sell the famous shamoji (traditional wooden rice paddle) used for serving rice. A giant rice paddle—the symbolic Ōshakushi—used to be located here but has been relocated to the nearby etto Miyajima Community Centre. With most visitors to Miyajima not necessarily staying on the island overnight, many of the shops close by 5pm or 6pm. Nonetheless, once the sun sets the street takes on a warm, charming vibe under the glow of the lantern light that lines the street.
Momijidani Park (紅葉谷公園, Momijidani-Kōen) is one of the most famous maple leaves valley parks in Japan. The park is located at the foot of Mt. Misen, along Momijidani River, behind Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima, Hiroshima. [Wikipedia]
Daishō-in or Daisyō-in is a historic Japanese temple complex with many temples and statues on Mount Misen, the holy mountain on the island of Itsukushima, off the coast of Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima, Japan. It is the 14th temple in the Chūgoku 33 Kannon Pilgrimage and famous for the maple trees and their autumn colors. [Wikipedia]