Discover the Enchanting “Island of the Gods” in Japan’s Seto Inland Sea
Immerse yourself in the captivating allure of Miyajima Island, a must-visit destination on any adventure through Japan’s scenic Seto Inland Sea. This picturesque region, spanning the southern islands of Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu, is renowned for its mild climate, delectable seafood, and breathtaking landscapes. With its floating shrine, friendly deer, and rich spiritual history, Miyajima Island is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences.
Marvel at the Itsukushima Shrine:
Known as the “Island of the Gods,” Miyajima beckons travelers from Hiroshima, just a short train and ferry ride away. The island’s most iconic sight is the towering 55-foot-tall torii gate, which appears to float on the tranquil waters of the Seto Inland Sea during high tide. Serving as the entrance to the revered Itsukushima Shrine, this Pi-shaped torii gate symbolizes the boundary between the sacred and the ordinary.
Uncover the Island’s Spiritual Heritage:
Miyajima has a profound history as a sacred site of Shinto worship, dating back to the 6th century. The Itsukushima Shrine, built to pay homage to the island’s divine spirits and majestic Mount Misen, stands as a testament to this ancient legacy. While the original structures were modest, the current complex, commissioned by military ruler Taira no Kiyomori in 1168, showcases impressive architecture and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996.
Embark on an Unforgettable Journey:
Whether you opt for a leisurely cruise, plan a day trip, or venture deeper into the island’s wonders, Miyajima guarantees a remarkable experience. In addition to its awe-inspiring shrine, you’ll encounter friendly deer roaming freely, adding a touch of whimsy to your explorations. And let’s not forget the gastronomic delights – indulge in the freshest seafood, including the famous local oysters, further enhancing your journey through this captivating island paradise.
Capture the Essence of Miyajima Island and the Seto Inland Sea:
As you traverse the Seto Inland Sea, reminiscent of the Mediterranean, allow Miyajima Island to captivate your senses. Its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and delectable cuisine converge to create an unforgettable tapestry of experiences. Discover the magic of this enchanting destination and add Japan’s sacred “Island of the Gods” to your travel itinerary.
Note: Don’t miss out on the opportunity to capture stunning photographs during your visit to Miyajima Island, where every frame tells a story of beauty and serenity.
Kiyomori, the visionary behind Itsukushima, made a bold decision to position the shrine’s gate in the shallow waters facing the sea. This unconventional layout occasionally required early worshippers to approach the shrine by boat. According to Virtuoso travel advisor Koji Kodaka, Kiyomori believed that something sacred emanated from the vast expanse of the Setouchi’s open sea, which also blessed the area with exceptional seafood.
Present-day visitors, however, have the privilege of entering the shrine from the land side. During low tide, they can even descend to the moist sand and walk toward the gate’s base adorned with barnacles. For those opting to follow tradition, a ritual entrance involves bowing twice towards the shrine, clapping twice, and then bowing once more before passing beneath the gate’s winged lintel.
Throughout the centuries, Itsukushima’s wooden structures, adorned in reddish-orange and white hues, have faced the ravages of fires, typhoons, and the corrosive sea air. Nevertheless, they have been diligently reconstructed and restored numerous times. Retaining the original shinden architectural style favored by twelfth-century nobles, the buildings feature expansive open-air corridors and gracefully curved cypress roofs. The shrine’s courtyard, ingeniously designed, embraces the sea itself, with pillars elevating the structures to accommodate the ebb and flow of the tide. During high tide, the entire shrine seemingly floats above the serene waters, while during low tide, shimmering pools reflect the gentle slopes of its thatched roofs and vermilion-lacquered pillars.
Witness the enduring beauty and architectural marvels of Itsukushima Shrine as you immerse yourself in the harmonious interplay between nature and sacred traditions.
If you desire a more immersive and spiritual experience on serene Miyajima, Virtuoso advisors can assist in arranging an overnight stay at one of the island’s historic ryokans (traditional inns). As a pro tip, once the day-trippers have departed, take a leisurely sunset stroll through the town’s labyrinth of winding alleyways. Along this enchanting path, you may encounter free-roaming deer gracefully making their way toward the captivating red pine and evergreen oak forest that adorns the slopes of Mount Misen.
Indulge in the Finest Japanese Seafood Delicacies Transitioning seamlessly from admiring sacred monuments to savoring Miyajima’s culinary treasures is a delightfully appetizing experience. The island boasts an array of delectable specialties that attract food enthusiasts from all over Japan. Delight in sea bream with seasoned rice, indulge in octopus sashimi, relish the flavors of roasted conger eel, and explore the abundance of tiny dried fish known as chirimen. However, the true stars of Miyajima’s culinary scene are the oysters. Whether charcoal-grilled on the half shell, fried to perfection, or included in savory hot pots, these oysters are a culinary sensation. During the peak season in mid-February, a vibrant festival takes place, where vendors offer freshly harvested oysters prepared in a myriad of ways. This lively event is accompanied by captivating live taiko drumming performances and other cultural displays.
Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of Miyajima’s seafood offerings and embark on a culinary journey that will leave your taste buds yearning for more.
While exploring the enchanting Seto Inland Sea, make sure to indulge in a soulful delicacy called okonomiyaki, a savory pancake cooked right at your table on a griddle. This delectable dish is generously coated with a tangy sauce, typically Worcestershire-style, and creamy mayonnaise. Koji Kodaka recommends trying okonomiyaki in Hiroshima, where it possesses a distinct character from its counterpart in Osaka. Each venue offers a unique sauce and batter, and as you venture farther from the city, you’ll notice delightful variations in flavors. To complement the piquant notes of the sauce, savor the refreshing craft beers from Miyajima Brewery, such as the hoppy Misen Dragon IPA.
Another treat associated with Miyajima is the momiji manju, a delightful confection shaped like a maple leaf and filled with sweet red bean paste. However, for those seeking a more exclusive dessert, Koji Kodaka suggests seeking out the Setoda lemon cake. This delectable creation hails from nearby Ikuchi Island and combines a sweet sponge cake in the shape of the iconic fruit with tangy candied lemon peel. To acquire this hidden gem, make your way to the Shima-Gokoro souvenir shop at Miyajimaguchi Station’s Miyajima Matsudai ferry landing.
Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in these culinary delights, as they offer a taste of the region’s unique flavors and culinary craftsmanship.
Expand your exploration of the captivating Seto Inland Sea and its surrounding islands and coastlines by embarking on a boat journey. With the assistance of Virtuoso travel advisors, you can arrange private charters and personalized itineraries tailored to your preferences in this picturesque region. Koji Kodaka suggests the exciting option of chartering a yacht, allowing you to chart your own course and make a stop at the enchanting Miyajima Island along the way. He recommends venturing to the smaller islands, which offer a sense of seclusion akin to private retreats, accompanied by exceptional seafood restaurants and invigorating hot springs.
For a convenient and comprehensive island-hopping experience, consider cruising with esteemed companies like Ponant. Their seven-night expedition aboard the elegant Le Soléal, traveling from Osaka to Fukuoka, provides the opportunity to visit lesser-known islands that are off the beaten path. Discover the rugged beauty of Inujima, once a copper refinery and now a haven for contemporary art enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the charm of Mitarai, a fishing village on Osaki Shimojima Island, where you can leisurely stroll along narrow lanes lined with nineteenth-century wooden dwellings.
Whether you choose to embark on a private charter or join a curated cruise, the Seto Inland Sea and its diverse islands offer an abundance of hidden gems and remarkable experiences waiting to be explored.