Itsukushima Jinja

Listed as one of the top three places to see in Japan, Itsukushima Jinja is busy — even in the off‑season. I definitely recommend going early to avoid the crowds. We arrived around 10:30 a.m., and it was already starting to fill up fast. The area around the shrine has tons of restaurants, shops, oyster bars, coffee spots (including Starbucks), and plenty of snack stands to explore. It costs about ¥300–500 to enter the temple grounds, and I recommend paying it because you can get some great photos of the torii gate from inside. Overall, it’s a beautiful place and absolutely worth visiting — just go early and be ready for crowds.

A must-visit if you’re staying in Hiroshima. We almost skipped it, but then realized it’s incredibly easy to reach — about 30 minutes by train from Hiroshima Station and then a short ferry ride (boats run every 30 minutes with two different companies). The trip itself is part of the experience. We arrived around golden hour and I’m really glad we did. Fewer people, beautiful light, and the whole island felt calm and atmospheric. The shrine, the torii gate in the water, the mountains in the background, and even the deer walking around made the area incredibly scenic. I only wish we had gone earlier in the day to spend more time exploring — it’s much more than just a quick photo stop. Highly recommended and absolutely worth the detour.

10/10! I would go here over and over if I could. The Shrine is absolutely breath taking, there's nothing like it! The Torii gate is like seeing a world wonder, nothing can beat it. The deer are also not too bad but they will dig in your pockets if youre not careful. Also there used to be monkeys but they aren't there anymore. There are also restrooms at the ferry station, right before the shrine entrance, and inside the shrine. Also the ferry rides are super quick like 5-7 minutes long. Highly recommend!!!

This has to be one of the most unique and grand shrines in Japan. I lived in Japan for 3 years and have visited the country countless times, yet this shrine completely took my breath away. I visited on a Sunday, one week before the New Year. The island was very crowded, but even so, it took less than 10 minutes to enter the shrine. The shrine is unlike any other in Japan. During high tide, it appears to float on the water, creating a mystical scene that feels like something out of a fantasy drama or anime. During low tide, you can walk all the way to the torii gate, so checking the tide table before visiting is highly recommended. The shrine also offers one of the best views of the torii gate. This alone is a great reason to enter, even if you are not visiting for prayer. It is an unforgettable experience and easily one of the most beautiful places in Japan.

Pretty cool floating Torii gate. At high tide it appears to be floating on top of the water and at low tide you can walk right out and stand beneath it. The local deer population also makes for a pretty cool experience. Only a short ferry ride across from the mainland. Views from the top of mountain are breathtaking, can either get the cable cart to the top or walk through the trees. The walk up is tough. Well worth a visit.

I was on the fence about making the trip over here. But I am so glad that I did. I only spent about 2 hours there but I could have easily spent longer. I also bought the treasure ticket amd it was very interesting to see. In addition, I bought access to the shrine and I am thrilled that I did. Make sure you bring you shrine/stamp book (sorry, I cannot remember what its called). The monks(?) will make it memorable and they hand write in the book. This is an added cost. Something I was pleased to find were the deer! So just a small added bonus. So overall, with all the shops, historical significance, and how easy it is to get to, I would HIGHLY recommend making this part of your travel plans. *as a side note: I took the overnight highway bus from Tokyo to Hiroshima and arrived in the city around 8am and immediately made my way to Itsukyshima Jinja. I also recommend this route too for people going that route.

This is worth every bit of effort to get to Miyajima, even if you are staying outside Hiroshima. Easily one of the best highlights of our trip. Recommend going very early for the most quiet viewing experience. I know it is becomming a cliche, but please be mindful and respectful to the locals, flora and fauna.

It’s very beautiful in person. We walked along the shore and took photos. The tide was high and the water was a pretty blue. The crowds were too intense to go any further. I would suggest going on a weekday not a Sunday like I did. The crowds make it less enjoyable (but of course this is a huge tourist attraction so you’ll generally have them)