The O-torii stands approximately 16 meters (52 feet) tall, making it one of the tallest torii gates in Japan.
The gate is primarily made of camphor wood, known for its durability and resistance to decay.
During high tide, the base of the gate is submerged, creating the illusion that it is floating on the water.
Yes, visitors can walk to the gate during low tide and even touch it. However, during high tide, it is surrounded by water.
Visitors often enjoy boat rides around the gate, photographing it from different angles, and walking along the shore to get closer during low tide.
Traveler reviews
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.
Miyajima Island is a place you could explore for a good two days, not just because of how big it is but because of having to navigate your way through the crowds of people. The shops and food options are extensive close to the pier and there are other places to eat the more you explore. We took in the Itsukushima Shrine which is beautiful then worked our way to the interior of the island and to higher elevation. The crowds seemed to thin out and there are some beautiful spots. We didn’t have time to do the cable car but would imagine it’s beautiful. This is a place that you really need to spend more than a few hours visiting if you can.
The Itsukushima Jinja complex is quite impressive, a beautiful Shinto shrine originating from the 17th century. It has an iconic torii gate that appears to float on the bay waters. This was our first site in our day long tour of Hiroshima. We took the ferry to Miyajima Island, and then walked a short distance to the impressive gate and the shrine and it's surrounding buildings. It was slightly drizzling rain, but it did not detract from our experience...if anything it made it more naturalistic. We came across the super domesticated small deer that will come right up to you (although don't expect a bow, they don't roll like that!). The tide was out in the morning, so the the gate didn't quite have the floating on water look since you could see the underwater wear and tear. But this didn't detract from our experience! We had the pleasure of also witnessing a traditional marriage ceremony.
Itsukushima Shrine was even more beautiful. The famous floating torii gate and the peaceful atmosphere. The scenery changes beautifully with the tide, and the shrine architecture is stunning.
Admission was only around ¥300 for adults. The island is also lovely to walk around, with many shops, cafés, and friendly deer nearby.
It can get quite crowded, but the view and atmosphere are absolutely worth visiting at least once ⛩️
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)
More about Itsukushima Jinja O-torii (Grand Torii Gate) from our blog
