Miyajima Island, also known as Itsukushima, is one of Japan’s most enchanting destinations. Located in Hiroshima Bay, this small island is famed for its spiritual ambiance, scenic landscapes, and iconic floating torii gate. While major landmarks like Itsukushima Shrine and Mount Misen draw thousands of visitors, understanding the best ways to get to and around the island—as well as what to expect throughout the year—can elevate your experience.
Whether you’re planning a quick day trip from Hiroshima or a relaxed overnight stay, this guide walks you through the logistics, seasonal highlights, and travel tips you’ll need for a smooth visit to Miyajima Island.
- Getting to Miyajima Island from Hiroshima
- Getting around Miyajima Island: on foot and beyond
- Miyajima Island by season: What to expect year-round
- Travel tips: When to go to Miyajima Island and how to avoid the crowds
- Essential information at a glance
- Final thoughts: Plan smart for a seamless Miyajima Island adventure
Getting to Miyajima Island from Hiroshima
From Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi
Most travelers begin their journey at Hiroshima Station, a major transportation hub connected by Shinkansen and JR trains from cities like Osaka and Tokyo, and arrive at Miyajimaguchi, a neighborhood of Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima Prefecture which serves as the departure point to Miyajima Island.
From Hiroshima Station, follow these steps:
- Take the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station.
- Alternatively, you can take Hiroshima Electric Railway’s Tram Line #2 to Hiroden-miyajima-guchi Station, but it’s slower and better suited for travelers with flexible schedules.
- Time required: Approximately 30 minutes by JR / 70 minutes by tram
- Cost: JR: Around 420 JPY / Tram: 270 JPY
Ferry services to Miyajima Island
From Miyajimaguchi Pier, two primary ferry services transport passengers to the island:
- JR Miyajima Ferry: Covered by the Japan Rail Pass. The route offers views of the iconic torii gate from the water.
- Matsudai Kisen Ferry: Offers a similar ride but is not covered by the JR Pass.
Both ferries take around 10 minutes to reach Miyajima Pier, the island’s main entry point.
- Frequency: Ferries depart every 10-15 minutes
- Operating hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM (varies slightly by company)
- Tip: Sit on the right side of the boat to photograph the torii gate on the approach.
Photo for illustrative purposes
Getting around Miyajima Island: on foot and beyond
Exploring on foot
Once you arrive, you’ll quickly notice that Miyajima Island is walkable. Most main sights—including temples, shrines, and shopping streets—are within a 15- to 30-minute walking radius from the pier.
- Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain includes gentle slopes and stone paths.
Other transportation options
Although walking is the most common way to explore, the island offers a few other transport options for specific needs:
Miyajima Ropeway (to Mount Misen)
- Connects Momijidani Park to Mount Misen’s summit area.
- Operates from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (last descent by 5:30 PM).
- Takes about 20 minutes, including a transfer at Kayatani Station.
Taxi services
- As of June 2025, there are two taxis operating on the island, run by Miyajima Carp Taxi.
- Unfortunately, advance reservations are not available.
Miyajima Island by season: What to expect year-round
Each season brings a different charm to the island. Here’s what to expect depending on when you visit.
Spring (March to May): cherry blossoms and pleasant weather
- Cherry blossom season in Miyajima Island typically peaks from late March to early April.
- Momijidani Park and the Five-Storied Pagoda offer particularly picturesque spots.
- Temperatures are mild, ranging from 10-20 °C (68.0 °F), making it ideal for hiking and exploring on foot.
- Photo tip: Visit in early morning to photograph the torii gate with minimal crowds and soft light.
Summer (June to August): festivals and fireworks
- The island becomes lush with greenery, and traditional events like the Kangen-sai Festival (July) celebrate maritime culture with floating rituals and music.
- Temperatures often exceed 30 °C (86.0 °F), so plan indoor visits around midday.
- Tip: Stay hydrated and use shaded rest areas. Bring a fan or cooling towel if visiting in July or August.
Autumn (September to November): vibrant foliage and crisp air
- Arguably the best season to visit Miyajima Island, with Momijidani Park’s famous maple trees (momiji means maple in Japanese) turning vibrant red and orange.
- Mid-November is typically the foliage peak.
- Comfortable temperatures ranging from 15-25 °C (77.0 °F) make for perfect hiking weather.
- Best trail: Try the Daisho-in Course to Mount Misen for panoramic views and fall colors.
Winter (December to February): peaceful atmosphere and clear views
- With fewer tourists and lower humidity, winter offers the clearest views of the Seto Inland Sea.
- Occasional snowfall enhances the mystical feel of the island, especially around shrines and pagodas.
- Some businesses may have shorter hours, especially in January.
- Tip: Visit the Daiganji Temple for New Year’s blessings in early January.
Photo for illustrative purposes
Related articles:
- Discover the best trails, scenic viewpoints, and hiking tips for reaching the island’s highest peak in our article, “Hiking Mount Misen: A Journey Through Miyajima Island’s Natural Beauty.”
- Learn about the spiritual heart of Miyajima Island and the iconic shrine that draws visitors from around the world in our article, “Miyajima Island: Exploring the Sacred Itsukushima Shrine and Its Floating Torii Gate.”
Travel tips: When to go to Miyajima Island and how to avoid the crowds
Best times to visit
- Weekdays (especially Tuesday through Thursday) offer a quieter experience.
- Spring and autumn are peak seasons—visit in early March or late November for beauty without the crowds.
How to avoid crowds at Miyajima Island
- Take the first ferry of the day for peaceful shrine visits.
- Visit secondary sites like Daisho-in Temple or the quiet neighborhoods behind Omotesando Street.
- Travel during the shoulder months—late February or early December—to enjoy good weather with fewer tourists.
Essential information at a glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Nearest station | JR Miyajimaguchi Station (30 min from Hiroshima) |
| Ferry duration | Approx. 10 minutes |
| Ferry cost | 180 JPY one-way (JR Ferry is free with JR Pass) |
| On-island transport | Walking, ropeway, limited taxi |
| Ropeway hours | 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Best seasons | Spring (cherry blossoms), Autumn (foliage) |
| Avoiding crowds | Visit on weekdays and arrive early |
Final thoughts: Plan smart for a seamless Miyajima Island adventure
Miyajima’s allure lies not only in its sacred landmarks but also in its seasonal beauty and tranquil atmosphere. By understanding how to reach the island, how to navigate it efficiently, and what to expect across the year, you can make the most of your time on this cultural jewel of the Seto Inland Sea.
Whether you’re watching the morning mist rise behind the torii gate, admiring fiery autumn leaves, or boarding a ropeway into ancient cedar forests, a well-planned journey ensures that your experience is as magical as Miyajima Island itself.
