No trip the Hiroshima area is complete without a visit to the island of Miyajima. Miyajima is a small island located in Hiroshima Bay. It is considered one of the most scenic spots in Japan. I also found it particularly peacefully.
Transportation
Miyajima is just a short trip from Hiroshima. Visitors first must the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station (about a 25-minute ride). This route is covered by the Japan Rail Pass. If you do not have a rail pass, you can also choose to take the tram line 2 to the Miyajimaguchi Station.
Upon arrival at the Miyajimaguchi Station, follow the signs for a short walk to the ferry pier.
At the ferry pier, you can catch the Miyajima JR Ferry (also covered by the Japan Rail Pass). The ferry takes about 10 minutes to arrive at Miyajima.
Upon arrival to the island, it is just a short walk over the main area of Miyajima. There are various food and snack places along the way. The island is also filled with lots of wild deer who run around.
What to See
Daisho-in Temple: This is a Japanese temple complex. The flame inside the temple is said to have been burning since the temple’s construction.
Itsukushima Shrine: The main site of Miyajima is the Itsukushima Shrine. Depending on what time you go, the tide can be in or out. When it is out, you can walk right up to the shine.
Mount Misen: The other main attraction of the island is Mount Misen. Visitors can take several hiking trails around the mountain and island that provides some amazing views of the island.
Make sure to stop and get ice cream or a snow cone at one of the vendors. They are delicious.
Teacher Tip: Visit the island more than once to get different views of the Shrine. We visited in the morning and in the evening. I would also recommend visiting when the tide is out.
