Iwakuni-Miyajima 2days

Iwakuni’s Kintaikyo Bridge and Miyajima’s Itsukushima Shrine are closer than you might think.
This model itinerary allows you to visit both in a relaxed overnight, two-day trip.

Miyajima – Itsukushima Shrine

Miyajima, surrounded by the gentle waters of the Seto Inland Sea, is said to be an island where the gods dwell. There are many preserved historical sites to visit, in addition to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Itsukushima Shrine.
On this second day, you can take a relaxing tour of the island, while connecting with its history.

7-hour course

JR Iwakuni Station
JR Miyajimaguchi Station
Ferry Boarding Point
Arrival in Miyajima
Great Torii Gate
Itsukushima Shrine
lunch
Daigan-ji Temple
Miyajima Public Aquarium
Daishoin Temple
Walking Along Omotesando Shopping Street
Making Momiji Manju
Walking Around the Town
Choosing Souvenirs
Depart from Miyajima Wharf

JR Iwakuni Station

The train from Iwakuni to the nearest station to Miyajima takes around 25 minutes. This route runs along the coast, and from the train window you can enjoy views of the Seto Inland Sea, its waves gently lapping against the shoreline.
You can also see oyster rafts, where oysters, a famous specialty product of Hiroshima, are cultivated.

JR Sanyo Main Line Approx. 25 mins

JR Miyajimaguchi Station

5 minutes on foot

Ferry Boarding Point

The ferry journey to Miyajima takes around ten minutes. You will be greeted by the sight of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Itsukushima Shrine, and its great arched torii gate.

The ferry journey takes around 10 minutes.

Arrival in Miyajima

The recommended way to reach Itsukushima Shrine is by walking the path along the shore, enveloped in the scent of the tide.
You may encounter several deer along the way.

10 minutes on foot

Great Torii Gate

This great arched torii gate that rises from the sea is the famous symbol of Miyajima. The base of the torii is not deeply buried, but stands on its own weight alone.
The construction of this torii was the result of the collective knowledge of those who lived long ago. At low tide, you can walk out to reach the torii, and experience a close-up view of its overwhelming size.

2 minutes on foot

Itsukushima Shrine

The main building of the shrine was constructed on top of the sea by Taira no Kiyomori in 1168. Even in the present day, it retains its beauty in the same physical form as in ancient times.

lunch

Miyajima’s Famous Specialty: Conger Eel RiceAnago-meshi (conger eel on a bed of rice) is a famous local specialty of Miyajima, and can be eaten at various restaurants here.
Conger eels are packed with vitamins, and are said to contribute to healthy, clear skin.

A Small Detour
Daigan-ji Temple
Kintaikyo Bridge is here!?

Under the eaves of the main hall of Daigan-ji Temple, located near to Itsukushima Shrine, there is a 1/25 scale model of Kintaikyo Bridge on display.
It is thought to have been built around the time of the late Edo period or the early Meiji period, but other details, such as the reason it was installed in Daigan-ji Temple, remain unknown.
The structure of Kintaikyo Bridge that was swept away by Typhoon Kezia in 1950 is said to have been rebuilt by using this model as a reference. It is certainly sophisticated enough in its construction for this to have been possible.

Miyajima Public Aquarium

You can encounter more than 350 species of aquatic life in this aquarium. When you step inside the building, you will be surrounded by the creatures of the Seto Inland Sea. It feels just like being under the waves.
The sight of adorable creatures, including penguins and finless porpoises, will warm your heart.

10 minutes on foot

Daishoin Temple

This temple, the oldest in Miyajima, was founded by the monk Kukai (also known as Kobo Daishi) in 806. It is famous as a spiritual power spot.
The Ichigan Daishi (“One Wish Saint”) statue is said to grant one wish to visitors, so why not give it a try?
The temple boasts a wonderful view over the island of Miyajima.

15 minutes on foot

Walking Along Omotesando Shopping Street

Also known as “Kiyomori Street”, this is the main street of tourism in Miyajima, with a line-up of souvenir shops and restaurants.
With several stores that sell Miyajima’s famous Momiji Manju steamed buns! Other recommended treats include succulent grilled oysters, and a tempura version of Momiji Manju, known as Age-Momiji.

Making Momiji Manju

Miyajima’s famous delicacy! You can try your hand at making your own Momiji Manju .
There’s something extra-special about the taste of freshly-made Momiji Manju that you made yourself.

Walking Around the Town

When you take a turn off the bustling Omotesando Shopping Street, a different townscape unfolds around you, one where you can feel the rhythm of island life.
Here, you will find buildings with a sense of history. How about taking a relaxed stroll along such quiet, scenic streets?

Choosing Souvenirs (Shakushi-no-Ie : “Rice Paddle House”)

The classic souvenir of Miyajima is a shakushi (wooden rice paddle).
Said to be an item that brings happiness and good fortune, shakushi are sold at many shops on the island.

You can customize lettering to be inscribed on a small shakushi.
The perfect souvenir of Miyajima.

Depart from Miyajima Wharf

Return Ferry
When the skies are clear, you can see incredible sunsets like this one!

To the 1st day course…