Miyajima is an island in the Inland Sea of Japan, located in the south of Hiroshima. Formally named Itsukushima, this island has been popularly known as Aki no Miyajima and one of the three major sceneries of Japan since old times. It will only 10 minutes by ferry from Miyajimaguchi on the Honshu side. As ferries run every 15 minutes, the island is easily accessible.
Itsukushima Shrine
Itsukushima Shrine with graceful vermillion-lacquered pavilions is the symbol of Miyajima. The shrine sits on the wooden structure protruding from the sea looks as if it was floating on the ocean. In front of the shrine, a gigantic Torii gate stands over the sea. The gate is 16,6 m tall and weighs 60 tons. It only uses the weight of the pillars to remain standing.
Momijidani Park
Miyajima is also known as the best spot for viewing autumn leaves. Momijidani Park is located at the foot of the mountain, just a 5-minute walk from the Itsukushima Shrine and a 20-minute walk from the pier.
local specialties
You must try local specialties when visiting Miyajima. Momiji Manju (the image on the top left) is a maple-leaf-shaped cake filled with mashed sweet bean paste. Maple trees have been designated as a tree of Hiroshima. Although this bean paste filling is a classic Momiji Manju, various fillings are available now, such as cheese, chocolate, and green tea. If you want to eat freshly-prepared Momiji Manju, try a deep-fried one (the image on the top right). Deep-fried Momiji Manju is only sold at Miyajima.
Hiroshima is the largest producer of oysters (the image on the bottom left) in Japan. Many restaurants offer fresh oysters along the shopping street in Miyajima.
Some have a long line at lunch. Anago-meshi, broiled conger eel on the top of rice (the image on the bottom right), is another local specialty. You can even find restaurants specialized in Anago-meshi in Hiroshima. The soft, fluffy texture of a conger eel goes well with sweet sauce.
Wild Deer
Lastly, what you shouldn’t forget in Miyajima is wild deer. They have been living on the island since old times. Although they are accustomed to people and sometimes come close to you, feeding them is prohibited, because they will stop finding food into the forest. Please be aware of them when you hold paper, such as maps and guidebooks. They might come to you to eat the paper. Please do not touch deer and warmly watch them.
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