JV Wanderings

The Ultimate Miyajima Day Trip Guide

Author: Janice Vazquez | Last updated: April 13, 2025

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Miyajima Island, a small, forested island located in the Seto Inland Sea of Japan, just off the coast of Hiroshima Prefecture. Famous for its iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, the island also boasts scenic hiking trails, free-roaming deer, and delicious local street food. In this ultimate day trip guide, you’ll find everything you need to plan the perfect visit – from how to get there from Hiroshima to must-see temples, must-try foods, and a detailed itinerary packed with insider tips to help you make the most of your day on Miyajima Island.

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How to Get from Hiroshima to Miyajima Island

There are two main ways to get to Miyajima Island from Hiroshima: you can either take a combination of train and ferry, or opt for a direct ferry ride. My partner and I chose the ferry from Motoyasu Pier, as it was conveniently within walking distance of our hotel. It also fit perfectly into our itinerary, since we planned to visit the Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Park after returning from Miyajima Island.

Train + Ferry

Take the JR Sanyo Line from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station. From there, you can choose between two ferry options to reach the island: the JR West Miyajima Ferry* or the Miyajima Matsudai Kisen Ferry.

• Ferry Cost: 200 yen (100 yen for children)
• Time Needed: 45 minutes
• Ferry Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/NegRZ52DToLdwdMU7

*Note: The JR West Miyajima Ferry is included in the JR Pass.

One Day Miyajima Itinerary

Admire the Istukushima Shrine O-torii Gate (Grand Torii Gate)

One of Japan’s most photographed landmarks, the O-torii Gate stands majestically in the bay just offshore from Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island. Painted in striking vermillion, this iconic gate is best known for its magical appearance during high tide, when it seems to float gracefully on the water—a truly breathtaking sight, especially at sunrise or sunset.

The torii marks the entrance to the sacred realm of the gods, symbolizing the boundary between the physical and spiritual worlds. The current structure, built in 1875, follows a style with four supporting pillars that dates back to a reconstruction in 1537.You don’t need to pay admission to Itsukushima Shrine to enjoy views of the O-torii. In fact, you can admire it—and snap stunning photos—from various spots around the island. At high tide, the gate reflects beautifully in the water, often with Mount Misen providing a dramatic backdrop. During low tide, you can walk right up to the base of the gate, offering a close-up look at its impressive craftsmanship and weather-worn wooden pillars.

General Information about Istukushima Shrine O-torii Gate

• Tide Times: https://www.tidetime.org/asia/japan/miyajima.htm 
• Walking Time: 15 minutes from the Miyajima Matsudai Kisen Ferry Terminal
• Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/knxKdxRPnmBeucqq8

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Visit Daisho-In Temple

From the pier, make your way to Daisho-in Temple, one of the oldest and most revered spiritual sites on the island. Established in 806 AD by the monk Kūkai (also known as Kōbō Daishi), the founder of the Shingon sect of Buddhism, Daisho-in serves as the main temple of the Omuro school of Shingon Buddhism.

Once at the temple, don’t miss these highlights:

• Step inside the temple to admire the intricately decorated interior.
• Venture into the temple’s basement for moody, atmospheric photos of Buddhist statues.
• Explore Henjokutsu Cave, a man-made sanctuary beneath the Daisho-in Hall, filled with sacred icons and a tranquil ambiance.

Tip: As you make your way back down from the temple, skip the stairs and wander through the temple grounds instead. Along the path, you’ll encounter hundreds of small Jizō statues—protectors of children and travelers—each one adorned with its own distinctive charm and personality.

General Information about Daisho-In Temple

• Admission: free
• Walking Time: 25 minutes from the Miyajima Matsudai Kisen Ferry Terminal
• Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/8oyQA36KWaSwM9Dn6 

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Explore Itsukushima Shrine

Be sure to stop by Itsukushima Shrine, one of Japan’s most iconic and photogenic spots—famous for its dramatic “floating” torii gate that appears to hover above the water at high tide. The shrine dates back to 593 AD, said to have been founded by Saeki Kuramoto during the reign of Empress Suiko. It’s dedicated to the three daughters of the Shinto sea god Susanoo-no-Mikoto, who are worshipped as the goddesses of the sea, storms, and safe journeys. 

After paying the admission fee, follow the clearly marked route through the shrine to explore its ten main sites. The path begins at the Asazaya (Morning Service Hall), then leads you to the Main Shrine, where visitors pause to offer prayers. The route concludes at the Tenjin Shrine, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of scholarship—just to name a few of the highlights along the way.

General Information about Itsukushima Shrine

• Admission: 300 yen for adults, 200 yen for high school students, and 100 yen for elementary/junior high school students. 
• Walking Time: 15 minutes from the Miyajima Matsudai Kisen Ferry Terminal
• Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/guHGoUArrDeHM9fr9 

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Taste the Local Cuisine

Miyajima Island is full of delicious food, especially along Omotesando Shopping Street and throughout the island. From seafood to pastries, there’s a wide variety to choose from. Here are some of our favorite spots that my partner and I tried:

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Enjoy Your Time in Japan

Japan offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and museums, making it an incredible destination to explore. I hope these tips help you make the most of your trip to Miyajima Island Feel free to drop a comment and share your thoughts!

For more travel inspiration, check out our related posts on additional must-visit attractions in Japan!

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