Itsukushima Shrine can be found on the Island of Itsukushima, otherwise know as Miyajima in Hiroshima Prefecture. Itsukushima Shrine is the top attraction of the island, attracting millions of people the island each year.
The shrine is built on top of the water and is best seen during high tide, when it seems to float on the water. The walkway that leads to the main gate, called the “O-torii,” is a massive vermilion-colored gate that stands at 16.2 meters tall and is one of the most iconic symbols of Japan. This gate is truly a sight to behold and is one of the most photographed landmarks in the country.
At lowtide, visitors to the shrine often walk out and beneath the massive torii gate, and some other locals collect shellfish from the nearby area as well. While you need to pay admission to explore the shrine itself, you can visit the O-torii for free. There are stairs that walk down to the shrine found on either side of the bay. At high tide, there is great vantage points of the O-Torii from all around the bay.
The shrine’s architecture is unique and unlike anything you’ll see anywhere else. The buildings are constructed using traditional Japanese methods, with wooden beams and columns, and the roofs are covered in thatched reed mats. The buildings are also built on stilts to accommodate the high tides, and this gives the shrine a sense of floating on the water. This makes for an unforgettable sight, and visitors are always amazed by the beauty and elegance of this timeless gem.
One of the most interesting things about Itsukushima Shrine is its history. The shrine has been a place of worship for over 1,400 years, and it was originally built as a tribute to the goddess of the sea and the deity of the island of Miyajima. Over the centuries, the shrine has undergone several renovations, but it has remained true to its original design and architecture. This is a testament to the skill and dedication of the Japanese people, who have preserved this beautiful shrine for generations.
Hours and Admission (Shrine Buildings)
- Hours: 6:30 am to 6:00 pm (March to Mid October)
- Hours: 6:30 am to 5:30 pm (Mid October through November)
- Hours: 6:30 am to 6:00 pm (December)
- 300 JPY
- Average Time Spent: 20-30 minutes
- Official Website
Accessing Itsukushima Shrine
To get to Miyajima, you need to catch a ferry onto the island. Both JR West Miyajima Ferry, and the Miyajima Matsudai Kisen Ferry. Both offer more or less the same experience and cost the same. One notable difference between the two operators, is that the fare on the JR West Miyajima Ferry is covered by some JR Rail Passes.
From Hiroshima, take the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station, from there, the ferry terminal is just outside.
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Where to Stay
Kinsuikan
Japanese Ryokan with a world class view of Miyajima and amazing local cuisine.
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Ryoso Kawaguchi
Popular Japanese style hotel with beautiful wooden interior, located near Itsukushima Shrine.
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Hotel Miyajima Villa
Remarkable hotel on Miyajima with stunning view of the Island and the Seto Inland Sea.
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