Miyajima One Day Course for Itsukushima Shrine and Mount Misen

This royal road course explores the World Heritage island of Miyajima, famous for the great torii that seems to float on the sea, in a single day. The ferry from Miyajimaguchi takes only ten minutes, and you can enjoy both Itsukushima Shrine, whose look changes with the tide, and the nature of Mount Misen reached by ropeway. Snacking along the approach is one of the pleasures.

Course Route

9:00 Board the ferry at Miyajimaguchi Take the train from the city to Miyajimaguchi. The ferry takes about ten minutes and around 200 yen one way to Miyajima pier. A separate visitor tax is required. 9:20 Stroll the Omotesando shopping street Walk from the pier along the shore and the shops, enjoying the scent of momiji manju and grilled oysters on the way to the shrine. 10:00 Visit Itsukushima Shrine Tour the vermilion halls built over the water. At high tide they appear to float, while at low tide you can walk all the way to the base of the great torii. 11:30 Head to the ropeway station Pass through Momijidani Park to the ropeway station. The colored valley is a sight in itself. 12:00 Climb Mount Misen Rise quickly to the summit area by ropeway. From the Shishiiwa observatory the many islands of the Seto Inland Sea spread out. If you have the energy, walk on to the very top. 14:00 Lunch after coming down Return to the foot of the mountain for a late lunch of the local anagomeshi or oyster dishes. 15:30 Take your time at the great torii View the great torii up close in line with the tide. At low tide you can walk across the sand to reach it. 17:00 Ferry back to Miyajimaguchi Cross the evening sea back to the mainland to close the course.

Highlights

The greatest appeal of Itsukushima Shrine is how the scene transforms with the tide. Mount Misen is covered in primeval forest and the view from the observatory is superb. Snacking along the approach and meeting the wild deer that wander freely are also unique to Miyajima.

Access and Tips

Two companies, one in the JR group and Matsudai Kisen, run the ferry, and both take about ten minutes. If you want to see the great torii up close, check a tide table in advance for high and low water times to plan your day.

A Quick Tip

Mount Misen has sections you walk, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The ropeway can have waits when busy, so moving early in the morning is safer.