What other travelers are saying about Itsukushima Jinja (Itsukushima Shrine)
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.
Day guides that include Itsukushima Jinja (Itsukushima Shrine)
Frequently Asked Questions
Itsukushima Jinja is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deities of sea and storm, believed to protect the island of Itsukushima. It is famous for its "floating" appearance during high tide.
The shrine is known for its unique architectural style, featuring a pier-like structure that extends over the bay, creating a floating illusion during high tide.
The shrine is dedicated to three daughters of the Shinto deity Susano-o no Mikoto, who are worshipped as the deities of the sea and storms.
Yes, visitors can enter the shrine and explore its various buildings and corridors. It is a popular pilgrimage and tourist site.
The shrine hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Kangen-sai Festival, which features traditional music and boat processions.
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.
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!!!
Miyajima Island - what a fantastic place. We went there with our private tour guide which we took for a whole day in Hiroshima.
You can get from Hiroshima to Miyajima Island by train ( JR ) and a ferry from the Harbor or if you are in a hurry you can get also a taxi to the Harbor , a little bit more pricey but more convenient. The trip with the ferry is quite a short one , maybe 10 - 12 min. By the way we paid also for the ferry with our Suica Card. So it was very convenient.
Once we arrived to the Island a lot of deers welcomed us. Very nice creatures and they are considered sacred and are protected and they’re believed to be messengers of the Shinto Gods.
We saw the main sites on the Island and it took us almost a half a day. Itsukushima Shrine is a wonderful one and also Daisho-in worth definitely a visit.
We went just under the iconic giant Torii to take some lovely pictures.
By the way the giant Toriiin the sea on Miyajima Island is called Otorii of Itsukushima , and this is the famous floating Torii which is in the water when high tides are in.
We visited in the morning and it was a low tide , so we could walk underneath ant to take pictures with it also from the other side.
We highly recommend to go early in the morning , low tide and less crowded.
The Torii’s legs are not buried in the sand and he’s standing there by his own huge weight.
Bottom line Miyajima Island is a very nice place to visit , beautiful landscape , many small shops on the narrow streets , great street food & restaurants.
A highly recommended place for a half day trip from Hiroshima.
Just bring comfortable walking shoes and hit the road.
Visiting Itsukushima Jinja Temple in Hiroshima was an unforgettable experience! As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the temple is absolutely stunning — especially the iconic “floating” torii gate over the water. The atmosphere is peaceful yet full of life. I loved meeting and gently petting the friendly deer that roam the island — such a unique experience! I also tried the pull-bicycle (rickshaw) service, and the driver was incredibly nice, helpful, and knowledgeable. He explained the history of the temple and made the whole visit even more special. A must-see spot in Japan for its beauty, culture, and amazing hospitality!
