Itsukushima Shrine is a Shinto shrine located on Miyajima Island, near Hiroshima, and is celebrated as one of Japan's 'Three Views'. Founded around 593 AD and rebuilt in its current form in 1168, it is unique for its construction over the water, designed to appear to float during high tide. This architectural marvel, along with the iconic Great Torii Gate standing offshore, symbolizes a sacred boundary between the spiritual and human worlds, earning it UNESCO World Heritage status.
Visitors consistently praise the shrine's picturesque beauty and serene atmosphere. Many highlight the transformative experience of seeing the Great Torii Gate at both high and low tide, noting the opportunity to walk to its base during low tide. The vibrant vermilion color of the shrine against the backdrop of the sea and mountains is frequently mentioned as a highlight, offering numerous photo opportunities. Reviewers also appreciate the overall charm of Miyajima Island, including the friendly wild deer and the local culinary delights like oysters and anago (conger eel).
To make the most of your visit, it is highly recommended to check the tide schedule in advance. Many visitors suggest arriving early in the morning or staying overnight on the island to experience the shrine with fewer crowds and to witness the different appearances of the torii at various tide levels and times of day, including sunset and night illuminations. While the shrine itself has an entrance fee of 300-500 yen, the Great Torii can be viewed for free from the shore. Allocate 2-3 hours for a comprehensive visit, allowing time to explore the shrine complex, walk along the coast, and enjoy the surrounding shops and eateries.
Itsukushima Shrine is located on Miyajima Island, which is easily accessible from Hiroshima. From Hiroshima Station, take the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station (covered by JR Pass). From there, it's a short walk to the ferry terminal. JR Pass holders can use the JR ferry to Miyajima Island for free; otherwise, a small fee applies. The ferry ride takes about 10-15 minutes. Upon arrival on Miyajima, the shrine is a pleasant 15-minute walk along the waterfront, past numerous shops and food stalls, with deer often greeting visitors along the way. Some visitors also mention a direct ferry from Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, which offers a scenic route but is more expensive.
A common complaint among past visitors has been the occasional renovation work on the Great Torii Gate, which has sometimes been covered in scaffolding. While this is a temporary situation, it can impact the iconic view. It is advisable to check for any ongoing renovation announcements before planning your trip, especially if the floating torii is your primary reason for visiting. Despite renovations, many reviewers still found the island and the shrine complex itself to be beautiful and worth the visit, emphasizing that there is plenty else to see and experience on Miyajima.
