Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima: What It Is
Itsukushima Shrine (Itsukushima-jinja) is one of Japan’s most iconic Shinto shrines, located on Miyajima (Itsukushima Island) in Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture.
Its vermilion shrine buildings and the famous torii gate, which appear to float on the sea, are breathtakingly beautiful and are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The shrine is said to have been founded in Suiko 1 (593), and in the Heian period it was expanded to its present scale with support from Taira no Kiyomori.
It is also one of the “Three Views of Japan (Nihon Sankei),” a designation that reflects its outstanding historical and cultural value and popularity with international travelers.
In this guide, we’ll introduce Itsukushima Shrine’s highlights and practical information to help you plan your visit.
Top Things to See at Itsukushima Shrine
1. The Iconic Floating Torii Gate
The symbol of Itsukushima Shrine is the Great Torii Gate standing in the sea.
This massive wooden torii is about 16.6 meters tall and weighs around 60 tons, with camphor tree trunks used for the main pillars.
The current gate is said to have been rebuilt in Meiji 8 (1875) and is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
The tide dramatically changes the scenery, which is one of the gate’s biggest attractions.
- High tide: A mystical view as if the torii is floating on the water.
- Low tide: You can walk close to the torii and feel its scale up close.
2. Beautiful Shrine Buildings and Corridors Over the Sea
The shrine buildings are based on Heian-period shinden-zukuri architecture and are known for their corridors built over the sea.
The vermilion corridors reflecting on the water are strikingly beautiful—like a “sanctuary on the sea.”
At high tide, seawater surrounds the pillars, adding to the shrine’s mystical atmosphere.
The corridor floorboards have small gaps, designed to release buoyancy at high tide and drain rainwater—an ingenious detail.
Take your time to appreciate the architectural beauty steeped in history.
3. National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties
Itsukushima Shrine preserves many National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties.
- Main Sanctuary, Worship Hall, and Offering Hall: Superb wooden structures designated as National Treasures.
- Takabutai Stage: A raised stage where elegant bugaku court dances are dedicated several times a year.
- Noh Stage: A rare Noh stage set over the sea, designated as an Important Cultural Property.
Including the main buildings, corridors, and subsidiary shrines, there are 6 National Treasure structures and 11 Important Cultural Property buildings, plus 3 Important Cultural Property structures such as the Great Torii—precious cultural heritage preserved through the centuries.
4. Mount Misen Hike and Panoramic Views
At the heart of Miyajima rises Mount Misen (535 meters), where sweeping views open over the islands of the Seto Inland Sea.
You can take the Miyajima Ropeway to Shishiiwa Station, then walk about 30 minutes to the summit observatory.
Near the top is Reikadō (Hall of the Spiritual Flame), linked to Kūkai (Kōbō Daishi), and famous for the “Eternal Flame,” said to have burned for more than 1,200 years.
Massive rock formations and primeval forest scenery are also part of the mountain’s appeal.
5. Meeting Miyajima’s Deer
On Miyajima, deer live freely in nature, and you’ll see them across the island.
Friendly deer welcome visitors, so meeting them as you stroll is part of the fun.
However, feeding deer is prohibited, so please be careful.
How to Enjoy the Area Around Itsukushima Shrine
Street Food and Local Specialties
Omotesandō Shopping Street near the shrine is packed with Miyajima favorites.
- Anago-meshi (conger eel rice): A local specialty with tender, grilled conger eel over rice.
- Momiji manju: Sweet maple-leaf-shaped cakes; deep-fried versions are also popular.
- Oyster dishes: Enjoy Hiroshima oysters as grilled oysters, fried oysters, and more.
Traditional Crafts and Souvenirs
Miyajima is known for wooden rice paddles (shamoji) as a classic local craft.
Handmade crafts and Itsukushima Shrine amulets are also popular souvenirs.
How to Get to Itsukushima Shrine
By Train and Ferry
- From JR Hiroshima Station, take the JR Sanyō Main Line to “Miyajimaguchi Station” (about 30 minutes).
- From “Miyajimaguchi Pier,” take either the JR West Miyajima Ferry or Miyajima Matsudai Kisen to Miyajima (about 10 minutes).
- Depending on the service, ferries may pass near the Great Torii, letting you enjoy the view from the water.
By Car
- It’s about 15 minutes from the Sanyō Expressway “Hatsukaichi IC” or “Ōno IC” to “Miyajimaguchi Pier.”
- You can take cars onto the ferry, but sightseeing on Miyajima is best done on foot.
Practical Tips for Visitors
Opening Hours and Admission
- Opening hours: 6:30–18:00 (Mar 1–Oct 14)／6:30–17:30 (Oct 15–Nov 30)／6:30–17:00 (Dec 1–end of Feb)
- Admission: Adults 300 yen / High school students 200 yen / Elementary & junior high students 100 yen
Best Time to Visit
Itsukushima Shrine is beautiful year-round, but these seasons are especially recommended:
- Spring (late March to early April): Cherry blossoms create a stunning scene with the shrine buildings.
- Autumn (mid to late November): Fall colors spread across Miyajima, beautifully complementing the vermilion shrine; Momijidani Park is a famous spot.
Check the Tides
The scenery around the Great Torii and shrine buildings changes greatly with the tide.
Check a tide table before your visit and plan to enjoy both high tide and low tide if possible.
Summary
Itsukushima Shrine is one of Japan’s signature destinations, where historical value and natural beauty come together in a truly unforgettable setting.
The floating torii gate, the elegant shrine corridors, and the changing seasonal scenery continue to captivate travelers from around the world.
When you visit Hiroshima, be sure to explore Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima and experience its mysterious beauty and rich culture firsthand.
Why not create special travel memories in this place where Japanese tradition and nature blend so perfectly?
