Itsukushima Shrine

Shrine

Prefecture

Hiroshima

Type

Shrine

N/A

1 review

English Staff Train Access

About This Destination

UNESCO World Heritage shrine on Miyajima Island, famous for its vermillion torii gate appearing to float on the sea at high tide.

Itsukushima Shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Miyajima Island, one of Japan's three most scenic views. The shrine is best known for its giant vermillion torii gate that appears to float on water during high tide. Originally built in the 6th century and given its present form by Taira no Kiyomori in 1168, the shrine complex extends over the water on stilts. At low tide, visitors can walk out to the base of the 16-meter torii gate. The island is also home to free-roaming deer, Mount Misen with its ropeway, and charming shopping streets. A ferry from Miyajimaguchi takes about 10 minutes and is covered by the JR Pass. Plan to spend a half-day or full day exploring the island.

Location

Prefecture: Hiroshima

Address: Hiroshima, Japan

Nearest Station: Miyajimaguchi Station

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Food Options: Momiji manju (maple leaf cakes), grilled oysters, and anago (conger eel) rice on the island.

Official Website

Access

Hiroshima, Japan

Get Directions

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Miyajima Island?

Take the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station, then walk 5 minutes to the ferry terminal. The ferry to Miyajima takes about 10 minutes and is covered by the JR Pass (use the JR ferry, not the Matsudai ferry). From Hiroshima Station the whole journey takes about 1 hour. Note: since October 2023 Hatsukaichi City levies a ¥100 Miyajima Visitor Tax per person per visit, collected at the ferry terminal even if you hold a JR Pass — the ferry itself is still free with the pass, but the tax is separate.

When is the best time to see the torii gate?

At high tide the gate appears to float on the water — the most photographed angle. At low tide you can walk across the exposed seabed to its base and touch the camphor-wood pillars. Check tide tables online before visiting; ideally plan a visit that catches both within the same day. Sunset light hits the vermillion face directly, and after-dark illumination runs until 23:00.

How much time should I spend on Miyajima?

Plan at least half a day (4–5 hours) to see Itsukushima Shrine, the shopping street (Omotesando), and walk around. A full day allows time for Mount Misen via the ropeway and a meal of grilled oysters or anago-meshi. Last ferries leave around 10 PM, so you can stay for dinner and illuminated views.

What's the entry fee for Itsukushima Shrine?

Adult shrine admission is 300 yen, with discounts for high-school and elementary students. A combined ticket with the shrine treasure hall is 500 yen. Walking the island, viewing the torii from the shore, and visiting Omotesando shopping street are all free — only the shrine corridors over the water require a ticket.

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