Cherry Blossoms and Torii on Miyajima – Escape to this Enchanting Island Near Hiroshima
Cherry Blossoms and Torii on Miyajima - Escape to this Enchanting Island Near Hiroshima - Explore Itsukushima Shrine and the Floating Torii Gate
One of the top attractions on Miyajima is the Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its iconic floating torii gate. This vermilion-colored gate appears to float on the water when the tide comes in, creating a striking photo opportunity.
The shrine itself dates back to the 6th century and is dedicated to three female deities. Visitors can explore the shrine buildings spread across the water and interconnected by wooden walkways. Be sure to check out the impressive Noh stage as well as the treasure house displaying ancient scrolls, swords, and other artifacts.
While the shrine and torii gate may be the star attractions, there is much more to discover across the sprawling shrine complex. Wild sika deer roam freely around the grounds, posing for pictures and eagerly awaiting treats from visitors. For panoramic views of the shrine and Inland Sea, climb the steep path up Mt. Misen behind the shrine.
At high tide when the torii gate appears to float, long wooden boats shuttle visitors to and from the gate for close-up views. Watching the vermilion color reflect off the rippling water is an ethereal experience. For the classic torii gate photo, head to the small beach across from the gate.
The best time to see the "floating" torii gate is at high tide. Check tide times in advance, as the difference between high and low tides is substantial here. If visiting at low tide, you can walk right up to the torii gate. The contrast between the towering gate over the exposed seabed is also scenic in its own way.
What else is in this post?
- Cherry Blossoms and Torii on Miyajima - Escape to this Enchanting Island Near Hiroshima - Explore Itsukushima Shrine and the Floating Torii Gate
- Cherry Blossoms and Torii on Miyajima - Escape to this Enchanting Island Near Hiroshima - See the Pink Cherry Blossoms Against Mt. Misen
- Cherry Blossoms and Torii on Miyajima - Escape to this Enchanting Island Near Hiroshima - Try Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki in Miyajima Town
- Cherry Blossoms and Torii on Miyajima - Escape to this Enchanting Island Near Hiroshima - Get Up Close With the Island's Friendly Deer Population
Cherry Blossoms and Torii on Miyajima - Escape to this Enchanting Island Near Hiroshima - See the Pink Cherry Blossoms Against Mt. Misen
For a breathtaking contrast, head to the slopes of Mt. Misen behind the Itsukushima Shrine. Here you'll find a stunning display of cherry blossoms that bloom in vibrant shades of pink, creating a stunning backdrop against the lush greenery of the mountainside. The steep hiking trail up Mt. Misen offers panoramic views over the entire shrine complex, including the iconic floating torii gate.
The cherry blossom season typically runs from late March to early April on Miyajima, making it a prime time to visit. As you ascend the winding trail, the delicate petals will drift down around you, carpeting the path in a soft pink hue. Pause to take in the sweeping vistas of the Inland Sea and the shrine nestled below. This is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque spots on the island.
For the best views, continue upwards to the summit observation deck. From here, you'll be rewarded with a 360-degree panorama of the entire island, including the shrine, the torii gate, and the surrounding forested peaks. On a clear day, you may even be able to spot the Shukkeien gardens in Hiroshima on the mainland across the sparkling waters.
Cherry Blossoms and Torii on Miyajima - Escape to this Enchanting Island Near Hiroshima - Try Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki in Miyajima Town
No visit to Miyajima Island is complete without indulging in the local specialty - Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. This savory pancake-like dish is a beloved staple throughout the region and can be found in abundance across the charming streets of Miyajima Town.
Okonomiyaki translates to "grilled as you like it," and that's precisely the appeal of this delectable regional dish. Unlike the thicker, fluffier Osaka-style okonomiyaki, the Hiroshima variety features a thin, crepe-like base topped with an array of ingredients. The classic version includes tender cabbage, pork belly, bean sprouts, pickled ginger, and a special okonomiyaki sauce, all grilled to perfection on a sizzling iron griddle right before your eyes.
For the true Miyajima experience, seek out one of the many family-run okonomiyaki shops lining the main street leading up to the Itsukushima Shrine. Here, you'll find locals and visitors alike gathered around the open griddles, eagerly watching the chefs skillfully assemble and cook each okonomiyaki with practiced precision. The tantalizing aromas of sizzling meat and vegetables will have your mouth watering in anticipation.
Many of these small eateries also offer the option to customize your okonomiyaki, allowing you to add or omit ingredients to suit your personal preferences. Consider trying variations that incorporate local seafood, like juicy oysters or plump shrimp, for a true taste of Miyajima's coastal bounty. Vegetarian-friendly versions with generous helpings of crisp vegetables are also readily available.
As you savor each bite, take in the lively, convivial atmosphere of the okonomiyaki shops. Interact with the friendly chefs, who are often eager to share the secrets of their family recipes and techniques. It's a wonderfully immersive dining experience that allows you to connect with the local culinary culture.
Cherry Blossoms and Torii on Miyajima - Escape to this Enchanting Island Near Hiroshima - Get Up Close With the Island's Friendly Deer Population
One of the most delightful experiences on Miyajima is encountering the island's friendly deer population. These sika deer roam freely around the shrine complex and town, mingling curiously with visitors. Miyajima has been considered a sacred site since ancient times, and the deer are believed to be divine messengers. As such, they are treated with reverence by locals and tourists alike.
The best opportunities to see the deer up close are around Itsukushima Shrine and the town's main walking street, Omotesando. The deer here are quite accustomed to human contact. They will readily pose for photos and eagerly nibble on special shika senbei crackers sold by vendors. Take care not to feed them anything else, as it can upset their diet.
As you explore the shrine's sprawling hillside forest, keep an eye out for deer grazing placidly beneath the trees' dappled shade. When walking the cobbled streets of town, don't be surprised if a deer sidles up expectantly, hoping for a tasty snack. Miyajima's deer display remarkable confidence and curiosity around people. Yet they remain entirely wild, so keep a respectful distance.