Itsukushima (厳島) or Miyajima Island (宮島) is located just northwest of Hiroshima. From what I understand, the official name is Itsukushima, but many locals call it Miyajima, which means “Shrine” Island, an obvious derivation from the most popular and most photographed structure on the island.
It is a UNESCO site and is considered one of Japan’s most scenic places. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting the island twice, but I have yet to see the shrine “floating in the water”. Both times I visited, the water level was so low, that you can actually even see the part that is usually covered by water.
From Hiroshima Station, you need to first take a train to the ferry terminal. You can take the JR Sanyo line to Miyajimaguchi Station, which will take about 25 minutes. From there, just follow the signs for a short walk to the ferry terminal. At the terminal, you will discover that there are 2 companies that run ferries to the island. If you have a JR pass, you can take the JR ferry free of charge.
Upon arrival onto Miyajima Island, the ferry exit reminded me of Nara, because there were so many deer just strolling around the island freely.
A short walk will take you through Omotesando shopping street, which is probably the loudest and liviest place on the island. The street consists of numerous covered shops and restaurants, which you need to walk through before you can reach the shrine.
A short walk will take you through Omotesando shopping street, which is probably the loudest and liviest place on the island. The street consists of numerous covered shops and restaurants, which you need to walk through before you can reach the shrine.
The shrine is expectedly crowded with tourists trying to take photos. Aside from photos, there really doesn’t seem to be much else you can do around the area where the shrine is, so we started walking back towards town when we noticed these farmers working near the water.
0 comments on “An Afternoon at Miyajima Island” Add yours →