Itsukushima, Miyajimacho, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima 739-0588, Japan
What other travelers are saying about Kangen-sai Boat Festival
Miyajima is famous for the Itsukushima Shrine which is a Shinto shrine. It is known for its "floating" torii gate. The historic shrine complex is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as one of the National Treasures by the Japanese government. There are lots of deer, roaming freely and very friendly. A superb place to visit. From Hiroshima, we took a tram to the Miyajima ferry terminal and took us 1 hour. Then a ferry ride for another 15 minutes.
Itsukushima, also Miyajima is a magnificent island. From the moment I arrived early morning and seeing the deers relaxing, I immediately got a smile on my face. Seeing the shrine and Torii gate from low to high tide is lovely. Walking uphill to a different shrine and enjoy the views. Great food, drinks, atmosphere and scenery, what do you want more in life. Soak it all in.
The island is famous for the Itsukushima shrine and the floating torii gate. But other than this, there is also the famous souvenir street near the shrine. You can buy souvenirs there and try local food. The place is famous for oysters farms, so grilled or raw oysters and oyster curry bread are local delicacies. Hiroshima is famous for lemons so any lemon drinks can be nice here. Miyajima is known for maple leaf shaped cakes.
I like this island. Is very near to my place, and I visit whenever I can. It has natural areas, ravines, and hiking trails if you want to get away from the crowds for a bit.
Miyajima, aka Itsukushima, exceptionally scenic in autumn, is famous for its iconic vermilion torii gate of the UNESCO World Heritage Itsukushima Shrine, which appears to float at high tide. The island has wild roaming deer, beautiful Momijidani Park, Daisho-in Temple, Mount Misen, Onotesando Shopping Street, onsen ryokans and local delicacies like oysters and maple leaf-shaped cakes (Momiji Manju). Relaxing to take the slow streetcar ride (station just in front of ferry pier) back to Hiroshima Station (38 stops, flat JPY240 fee) after all that walking. Must-visit when in Hiroshima, best to avoid weekend and public holidays crowd.
The festival is held on this date to align with historical and spiritual traditions, specifically related to the lunar calendar and the customs of the time.
The boats are central to the festival, representing offerings to the gods. They are decorated elaborately and are used to carry participants who perform traditional music and dances.
Participants include local residents, shrine priests, and musicians. They dress in historical clothing, reflecting the styles of the Heian period, to enhance the authenticity of the event.
The festival offers a rare opportunity to witness traditional Japanese customs in a picturesque setting. The combination of music, dance, and historical reenactment attracts both locals and international visitors.
Preparations include decorating boats, rehearsing performances, and making offerings. The community works together to ensure the festival's success, reflecting strong local traditions and community spirit.
