Miyajima Island is a small, picturesque island located in Japan's Hiroshima Bay. Known also as Itsukushima Island, it is famous for its breathtaking views of the iconic vermilion floating torii gate and the shrines and temples that are built atop the water. The island is also home to a large population of tame deer that roam free and often approach visitors for food. With its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and friendly atmosphere, Miyajima Island is a must-visit for all travelers to Japan.
From Hatsukaichi city, take the JR Sanyo line to Miyajimaguchi Station then transfer to the Miyajima ferry bound for Miyajima Island.
The best time to visit Miyajima Island is during spring (March - May) or autumn (September - November) when the weather is mild and the island's cherry blossom trees and maple leaves are in full bloom.
Miyajima Island experiences a mild, temperate climate, with rainy summers and snowy winters. Temperatures average around 18°C in spring and autumn, 28°C in summer, and 6°C in winter.
Accommodation ranges from budget-friendly hostels and ryokans starting at around ¥3000 JPY ($28 USD) per night, to luxurious ryokans with private hot springs costing upwards of ¥25,000 JPY ($235 USD) per night.
Local restaurants offer affordable traditional dishes like okonomiyaki and Hiroshima-style tsukemen noodles for around ¥1000 JPY ($9 USD) per meal, while grocery stores sell packaged meals for ¥500 JPY ($5 USD) and local snacks for around ¥200 JPY ($2 USD) each.
Miyajima Island is considered a safe destination, with low crime rates and a tolerant, welcoming community. Visitors should take basic precautions such as avoiding dark alleys at night and keeping an eye on their belongings.
Miyajima Island is home to a small population of around 2000 people, consisting mostly of traditional Japanese families who have lived on the island for generations. The dominant religion is Shintoism, though there are also small Christian and Buddhist communities present.
Popular tourist activities on Miyajima Island include hiking the Mount Misen trails, visiting the Itsukushima Shrine and its floating torii gate, exploring the Daisho-in temple complex, and interacting with the island's friendly deer population.