Miyajima is one of those places in Japan that deserves more than just a quick stop. Famous for its iconic floating torii gate, this little island in Hiroshima is where you’ll find beautiful sea views, peaceful shrines, and deer casually wandering around like they own the place.
We took our time exploring the island, tried some local food, and enjoy the slower pace away from the busy city. I’d say, Miyajima is a lovely addition to your Japan itinerary.
How to Get to Miyajima Island?
Take the JR Sanyo Line from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station, which takes 30 minutes only or you can take the cute Hiroden Tram line that will take an hour to reach the station. Of course we took the latter because we love to sight seeing too.
Once you get off to the station, walk 5 minutes to the ferry pier, which will take you to the island for only 10 minutes.
What to expect in Miyajima Island?
The island is a little bit touristy, but not as touristy as Tokyo or Osaka, so it’s still manageable. You’ll be greeted by deer everywhere, which was unexpected because, to be honest, I didn’t do any research about the island. I just knew there was a floating torii gate, and that was it! We just wanted to be spontaneous on this trip.
The deer in Miyajima
If you compare the deer in Nara to Miyajima, both are wild deer that freely roam around the area. The only difference is in Miyajima, you don’t feed them – they are just nosy and steal your food but less pushy LOL!
The fun part, they are literally everywhere!
Get mesmerized with the Torii Gates
We love torii gates because of their purpose: they act as gateways to the realm of gods and spirits. And since the torii gate in Miyajima is unique and easily recognisable for appearing to float on the water, I’d say this is one of the best views of a torii gate we’ve ever seen.
The torii gate is best viewed at low tide and during sunset. Unfortunately, we didn’t stay long enough to catch the sunset.
You would also love the torii gate in Itoshima in Fukuoka for this Spring trip.
Visit the shrines in Miyajima Island
The island has many shrines on it but since people are everywhere, we’ve looked for a less touristy shrine lol and we’ve found Toyokuni Shrine, located on a small hill. The shrine has paintings all over the ceiling and I was there imagining how it was before and what they do in that hall. It also has a nice view of the island so we just sat there for a while and enjoyed it.
There were better shrines but there were just tooooo many tourist on those shrines so we had to skip them. Sumimasen!
Foodtrip! Foodtrip! Foodtrip!
Miyajima Island’s delicacy is oyster and to be honest, I don’t eat that LOL. But since we’re there and I don’t want to miss the opportunity, we tried it! What else to do but to enjoy their food stalls and eat, right?
I didn’t expect to love it but damn, it was sooooo delicious! I love scallops though but oysters are on a different level for me hah!
We also tried their oyster croquettes and it didn’t disappoint!
And had some desserts! Look at this very kawaii ice creams! The dedication to their craft!
Enjoy the Cherry Blossoms around Miyajima Island
Aside from the deer, the floating torii gate, and the great food, you’ll also enjoy visiting the island in spring, when the scenery becomes even more beautiful with sakura, especially during full bloom.
There are also hotels in the island so if you want to experience Miyajima on your own at night and the next morning without so many tourists then I think it is your best option.
