Miyajima: A Ferry Ride to Island Serenity

Miyajima Island, also known as Itsukushima, is a picturesque gem located just a short ferry ride from Hiroshima. Famous for its "floating" torii gate, stunning landscapes, and friendly deer, Miyajima is a must-visit destination for travelers in Japan. Below is a guide on how to get to Miyajima from Hiroshima by ferry and what we did on this enchanting island.

Getting to Miyajima from Hiroshima

Go to Hiroshima Station.
Take the JR Sanyo Line train to Miyajimaguchi Station. The journey takes about 26 minutes and is covered by our JR Rail Pass.
Exit Miyajimaguchi Station and walk to the JR Ferry terminal. It is a short walk, about 2 minutes.
Show your JR Rail Pass to the staff at the ferry terminal.
Board the JR Ferry to Miyajima. The ferry ride takes about 10 minutes.

Additional information

The first ferry departs from Miyajimaguchi Station at 6:25 AM and the last one departs at 22:42 PM.
The ferry operates every 15 minutes during peak hours (7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM) and every 30 minutes during off-peak hours.
You can also take a tram from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station. The tram ride takes about 30 minutes and costs 200 yen.

What we did on Miyajima Island

Miyajima Island offers a wealth of experiences, whether you're interested in nature, culture, or simply relaxing by the sea. Here are some must-visit attractions and activities on the island:

1. Itsukushima Shrine

Begin your exploration at Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its "floating" torii gate. Depending on the tide, the gate appears to float on the water, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Explore the shrine's elegant architecture and stroll along its red-painted wooden corridors.

2. Mount Misen

Journey up Mount Misen for stunning vistas of the Seto Inland Sea and the surrounding islands. You can take a free shuttle bus part of the way and then two ropeway rides. To reach the summit, you'd have to hike another 30 mins from the last cable car stop.

3. Meet the Miyajima Deer

Much like Nara, Miyajima is home to friendly, free-roaming deer. You can feed them and take pictures, but please do so respectfully and follow local guidelines.

4. Try Local Cuisine

Savor local delicacies like Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki (savory pancake) and momiji manju (maple leaf-shaped pastries filled with various fillings). Many shops on the island offer these treats.

Miyajima Island offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, where the pace is relaxed, and nature is abundant. It's a place where ancient culture meets natural beauty and a day trip from Hiroshima is an opportunity you won't want to miss. So, hop on the ferry, embark on your Miyajima adventure, and discover the magic of this island sanctuary.