Miyajima-cho on Miyajima

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Facts & Figures

Miyajima-cho within the Saeki District is the only town on the island Miyajima. Right now approx. 1500 people living there. To maintain the historical character of the town there are very strict rules in place. Close to the town you will find the Itsukushima Shrine with its famous huge torii. During high tide the shrine and its torii appear to be floating over the water. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Explore Ryokans in Miyajima >
Ryokans are the perfect way to discover old Japanese culture and traditions.

• Miyajima Itsukushima Shrine:
• Opening Hours - 6:30 am to 6:00 pm - March to October
• Opening Hours - 6:30 am to 5:00/5:30 pm - November to February
• Admission Fee - Adults: 300 yen, High school student: 200 yen, School child: 100 yen

My tips for local activities

How about exploring Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima and other sightseeing spots in Hiroshima with an English-speaking tour guide? For more details check out this page >

History

Since ancient times locals and high ranked people had worshiped and visited the island Miyajima. In 1168 (Heian Period) the huge torii of Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was created in its current form by Tairo no Kiyomori (head of the Heike clan). In November of 2005 Miyajima-cho was merged with the nearby city called Hatsukaichi.

Sightseeing spots nearby Miyajima-cho

Top:

Itsukushima Shinto Shrine - a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see destination in Japan Read more >

Senjo-kaku - huge pavilion built in 1587 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi

Mount Misen - the view from the top of the mountain (530m) is amazing Read more >

Daiganji - important Buddhist temple, dedicated to the Goddess Benzaiten, is dating back to the Heian period (794 to 1185)

Daishoin Temple - this Shingon temple is one of the most important in the western part of Japan Read more >

Miyajima Aquarium - reopend in August 2011, it is a Seto Inland Sea themed aquarium

Museum of Historical and Folklore Materials - constructed in 1830's, 3000 items about the Miyajima history are on display

Momijidani Park - located at the base of Mount Misen, best time to visit is the Autumn season

Taho-to - beautiful pagoda, located south of Itsukushima-jinja Read more >

Goju-no-to (Five-Storied Pagoda) - the vermillion colored pagoda with a height of 27.6 meters is an impressive sight Read more >

Omoto Park - it is one of the best cherry blossom spots at Miyajima island Read more >

Festival & Events (dates can change without notice)

February

Miyajima Oysters Festival (9th till 10th)
Miyajima is famous for its oysters. This festival gives you the chance to enjoy this delicious food.

March

Kiyomori Festival (22nd)
The Itsukushima Shrine prayer parade is held from 1 to 3pm.

August

Kangensai Festival (4th)
The largest annual festival at the Itsukushima Shrine is dating back to the Heian period.

Miyajima Water Fireworks Display (11th)
Every year more than 300 000 visitors enjoy this spectacle. It is considered to be one of the most famous in Japan.

November

Hiwatarishiki in Daiganji (3rd)
Monks from Miyajima island walk over fire during the ceremony. If you are brave enough you can join them:)