Miyajima - Discovering Japan

Travelling to Miyajima

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Miyajima, a pretty good destination in Japan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Miyajima and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Miyajima, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Japan, here's everything to know about Miyajima for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Miyajima

Miyajima is a small island located in Hiroshima Bay in Japan. The island is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, as well as its famous Itsukushima Shrine, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Miyajima is also home to a population of wild deer, which roam the streets and provide a unique experience for visitors. The island is easily accessible by ferry from the city of Hiroshima, and is a popular destination for day trips and overnight stays. Some of the popular things to do on Miyajima include hiking, exploring the local temples and shrines, and sampling the island's famous cuisine, including fresh oysters and grilling fish.

What to visit in Miyajima

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Miyajima, Japan and details about each of them: 1. Itsukushima Shrine - This iconic Shinto shrine is known for its "floating" torii gate that appears to rise up out of the water during high tide. Founded in the 6th century, the shrine is also considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. Mount Misen - At 535 meters high, Mount Misen is Miyajima's highest peak and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can reach the top via a scenic hike or cable car.
3. Daisho-in Temple - This historic Buddhist temple is known for its impressive collection of over 500 stone lanterns and its atmospheric forested setting. Visitors can also explore a collection of smaller shrines and relics.
4. Momijidani Park - This picturesque park is especially beautiful during the autumn months when the maple trees turn brilliant shades of red and orange. Visitors can also explore the Momijidani Suspension Bridge or take a stroll along the scenic Momijidani Stream.
5. Miyajima Public Aquarium - This popular attraction gives visitors the chance to see a range of marine life up close, including playful dolphins, seals, and penguins. Interactive exhibits and informative displays provide visitors with an educational experience.
6. Miyajima Traditional Crafts Center - Here, visitors can watch craftspeople at work as they create traditional Japanese items like pottery, lacquerware, and wood carvings. The center also offers hands-on workshops for those interested in trying their hand at these crafts themselves.
7. Miyajima History and Folklore Museum - Housed in a traditional Japanese-style building, this museum is dedicated to the history of Miyajima island and its people. Exhibits showcase important cultural artifacts and provide insight into life on the island over the centuries.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that Miyajima has to offer visitors. With its rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture, there's truly something for everyone on this stunning Japanese island.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Japan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Miyajima.

When to go on holiday to Miyajima

The best time to visit Miyajima is during the spring or autumn when the weather is mild and comfortable for sightseeing. The months of March to May in the spring and September to November in the autumn are considered the best time to visit Miyajima. During these months, the temperature is mild, and the foliage is stunning, adding to the natural beauty of the island. Additionally, there are fewer visitors, and accommodation and transportation options are more affordable. However, keep in mind that the peak season in Miyajima is from late March to early May, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Miyajima

Miyajima is located on an island near Hiroshima in Japan. To get there, you can take a ferry from the mainland. Here are the steps to follow: 1. Take a train to Hiroshima: The easiest way to get to Hiroshima is to take a bullet train from Tokyo or Osaka. There are other options as well, such as local trains, buses, and flights.
2. Get to the Miyajimaguchi Port: From Hiroshima, take a train to Miyajimaguchi Station (on the JR Sanyo Line). The journey takes around 25 minutes. You can also take a streetcar from Hiroshima to Miyajimaguchi.
3. Take a ferry to Miyajima: At Miyajimaguchi Port, take a ferry to Miyajima Island. It takes around 10 minutes to reach the island. The ferry operates from early morning until late at night.
Once you arrive on the island, you can explore its famous landmarks such as the Itsukushima Shrine (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Miyajima Aquarium, and Mount Misen.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Miyajima, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Miyajima

Sure, here are some typical foods of Miyajima in Japan along with a brief description for each: 1. Momiji Manju - A popular souvenir, this dessert is shaped like the maple leaf and is filled with sweet red bean paste.
2. Anago Meshi - This is a type of rice bowl topped with grilled sea eel and served with a savory sauce.
3. Kaki Gaki - Miyajima is known for its fresh oysters, and Kaki Gaki is a specialty dish that features grilled oysters topped with soy sauce and other seasonings.
4. Mitarashi Dango - A sweet treat made of sticky rice balls coated in a sweet soy sauce glaze.
5. Okonomiyaki - While not strictly a Miyajima dish, this savory pancake is a popular Japanese comfort food and can be found in many restaurants on the island. It’s made of cabbage, flour, eggs, and a variety of toppings like meat, seafood, and vegetables.
6. Miyajima Beer - A local craft beer that’s brewed on the island and is perfect to try while enjoying the sea view.
7. Sasa Kamaboko - A type of fish cake served in a unique bamboo leaf shape. It's a popular snack or appetizer in Miyajima.
8. Kakiage Udon - Udon noodles are tossed with a variety of vegetables and shrimp or other seafood, then deep-fried. The dish is served with a dipping sauce and is a great way to enjoy fresh seafood in Miyajima. Hope this helps!
You can find general info about typical foods in Japan here.

Is Miyajima an expensive destination for tourists?

Miyajima, located in Japan's Hiroshima Prefecture, is a popular tourist destination known for its iconic floating torii gate. While it can be a bit pricey compared to other destinations in Japan, it is not considered excessively expensive. Accommodation prices on Miyajima Island do tend to be higher than other destinations, especially during peak travel season. However, food prices are generally reasonable, and there are many affordable dining options available. Additionally, there are several free attractions on Miyajima Island, such as hiking trails and public parks. There are also several reasonably priced museums and cultural sites that visitors can explore. Overall, Miyajima is a destination that can be enjoyed even on a moderate budget, especially if travelers plan ahead and are careful with their spending while on the island.

Where to find accomodation in Miyajima

There are three main areas to find accommodations when visiting Miyajima island in Japan. The first is Misenhama, which is located near the foot of Mount Misen and is known for its tranquil and secluded atmosphere. The second is Omotesando, which is the main tourist area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and traditional inns. The third area is located near the ferry terminal, which is convenient for those who want to be close to transportation and easy access to the mainland. However, it can be a bit noisy due to the constant movement of people and boats.
You can check hotel prices at Miyajima here:
Booking.com

Is Miyajima a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Miyajima is generally a very safe place for tourists. Japan is known for being a safe country, with a low crime rate and strict law enforcement. Miyajima is a small island that attracts many tourists, and local authorities work hard to ensure the safety of visitors. However, as with any travel destination, it is always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. It is always a good idea to keep your valuables secure and stay alert when walking in crowded areas.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Japan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Miyajima.

What type of travelers will enjoy Miyajima the most?

Miyajima, also known as Itsukushima, is a beautiful island located in Hiroshima Bay in western Japan. This island is considered one of the three most scenic spots in Japan. Miyajima is a great destination for all types of travelers, but it is particularly suited for those who are interested in Japanese culture and history. Families will enjoy the natural beauty of the island, as well as the chance to see its famous wild deer and to visit the historic Itsukushima Shrine. Couples will appreciate the romantic atmosphere and the stunning views of the sea from the island's Mount Misen, which can be accessed via a scenic ropeway ride. Young people looking for fun may enjoy exploring the island and its downtown area, where they can find shops, restaurants, and other attractions. Miyajima is also a great place for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and cycling. Overall, Miyajima is a charming destination that anyone can enjoy, regardless of their age or interests.

How to get around Miyajima

In Miyajima, the most common and convenient mode of transportation is by foot. The island is small enough that you can easily walk to most of the popular tourist spots such as Itsukushima Shrine and Mount Misen. However, if you prefer, you can also use the Miyajima Ropeway to go up to Mount Misen or hire a bicycle to explore the island. There are also sightseeing boats available for those who want to enjoy the sea views around the island.

What to see around Miyajima

Here are some beautiful places to visit in a day trip from Miyajima, Japan: 1. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park - Visit the park and the Atomic Bomb Dome to learn about the tragic history of Hiroshima.
2. Hiroshima Castle - This stunning castle is also known as the "Carp Castle" and is located in the center of Hiroshima City.
3. Shukkei-en Garden - This stunning Japanese-style garden is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
4. Onomichi - A picturesque town with a beautiful temple and scenic views of the Seto Inland Sea.
5. Miyoshi - A small town located about an hour from Miyajima, known for its stunning waterfalls and hot springs.
6. Kurashiki - A charming town located about two hours from Miyajima with well-preserved traditional Japanese architecture, a beautiful canal district, and many galleries and museums.
7. Iwakuni - A small city located about an hour from Miyajima with a beautiful bridge, a historical castle, and a stunning forest park. I hope this helps!
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