Hiroshima
Miyajima (Itsukushima)
Lorenzo Lamonica / Unsplash
Island with Japan's floating torii gate, sacred deer, and upscale ryokans.
Miyajima (Itsukushima) is a 25-minute ferry from Hiroshima and one of Japan's Three Views. The giant O-torii gate appears to float at high tide and tame deer roam the shrine grounds freely. Staying overnight in a ryokan means experiencing the island once the day-trippers leave — a quiet, almost spiritual atmosphere that justifies the higher room rates.
Scores
Walkability
Transit
Price
Local feel
Nightlife
Family-friendly
Centrality
What you gain
- ↑O-torii gate at high tide — one of Japan's most iconic images
- ↑Itsukushima Shrine and forested Mt Misen hiking trails
- ↑Tranquil atmosphere after day-trippers leave on the last ferry
What you sacrifice
- ↓Overnight ryokans among the most expensive in the region
- ↓Extremely crowded during peak daylight hours
Best for
Avoid if
Other Hiroshima neighbourhoods
A-bomb Dome, Peace Museum, and riverside walks at the rebuilt heart of Hiroshima.
Covered shopping arcade meets izakaya strip — Hiroshima's eat-and-drink heartland.
Tram-served hill suburb anchored by a mossy temple far from the tourist trail.
Know where to stay — now find when to go.
Best time to visit Hiroshima →