Visitors are drawn to Mitaki-dera for its tranquil beauty, historical significance dating back to 809, and over 300 stone Buddha statues that dot the landscape. The temple offers a unique opportunity to experience peace and spirituality while being enveloped by nature. It's also an ideal spot for autumnal excursions due to the stunning foliage.
To reach Mitaki-dera, head towards the north-west of Hiroshima. Once you arrive at the temple grounds, take the left path past one of the temple's namesake waterfalls to get to Mitakidera. The temple is nestled in a heavily forested valley on Mount Mitaki-yama.
Aside from exploring the temple buildings and soaking in the spiritual atmosphere, visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the three waterfalls within the temple grounds. The area is also perfect for hiking, with paths leading through the verdant forests surrounding the temple. During the autumn months, the temple becomes a popular spot for viewing the spectacular fall colors.
Yes, there are several hotels near Mitaki-dera for those wishing to stay overnight. Notable options include the RIHGA Royal Hotel Hiroshima (approximately 1.89 miles away) and other accommodations suited to various budgets and preferences.
While Mitaki-dera is beautiful year-round, the best times to visit are during the spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, and in autumn, when the foliage turns vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow, providing a breathtaking backdrop to the temple's peaceful environment.
Traveler reviews
An incredible place with a mystical atmosphere, this location is very easily accessible from the city by bus, an ideal place to enjoy nature and its atmosphere. I visited in mid-November, when the autumn colours were just beginning to appear. It is definitely one of the most beautiful places I have visited in Japan. It is not exactly a hidden gem, as there were quite a few people there, but it was far from crowded. Be aware that there is quite a bit of climbing involved.
Mitaki dera truly feels like an enchanted forest. As soon as you walk through the grounds, it's easy to just switch off from the current world and be fully present in the moment. The atmosphere is incredibly serene, with lush greenery, moss-covered Jizo statues everywhere, and the soothing sound of flowing water from the three waterfalls.
At just 200¥ for the entrance fee and one of Hiroshima's hidden gems. Be sure to bring four 50¥ coins with you to play the notes in the entrance... The trail is well-maintained and provides a beautiful, reflective escape from the busy city. Absolutely don't buy tickets online, but trow at the entrance box to help maintain the temple.
A beautiful peaceful & serene temple accessible from Hiroshima town centre using the No 22 bus. As the enter the site there is an "honesty" donation casket requesting 200 baht, it's the least you can give to visit such a beautiful place. The Temple buildings & Shrines are layered at different levels up the hillside with water cascading down via several waterfalls from the highest point of the Temple. Be prepared to walk up several series of steps to reach the top.
Unbelievably tranquil and peaceful this whole Buddhist park and temple area. Many places to relax and pray and meditate.
There is a ¥200 per person recommended donation in cash so have the coin ready. You can choose a chime a lot to hear a certain chime sound
There is also a pray bel to ring but only once pp - we took the city bus out to the park and walked up the hill depending on your transportation it is easy to get to by train and bus from the city
Would definitely make this a highlighted stop while you are in Hiroshima just to escape the busyness if the city
The space also has bathrooms as well. The hike to the top point is healthy and you have mobility issues may not be a good fit
A nice little escape from downtown Hiroshima. Mitaki dera is very easy to get. Just 1 bus ride lasting around 35 mins from downtown Hiroshima brings you up to the mountains and to tranquility. Technically free to enter but they ask for a small donation (¥200 I believe?). Honour system, you put payment into a neat collection box that plays musical notes as coins drop
Plan to spend about 1-1.5 hrs exploring the area. Not a very popular tourist spot. When I went there on a weekday morning, I saw around 10 people visiting and it looked like 6 of them were locals.
Unfortunately, the bus back doesnt come too often and you may need to walk downhill to Mitaki train station to get back. Its not a bad walk down and takes around 25mins to get to the station.
