Miyajima is an island and a world cultural heritage site that has been a hotspot of faith since ancient times. On this walking tour, a local guides you to Miyajima's highest peak, Miyama, and to Itsukushima Shrine.

Travel to the ferry stop

Itsukushima Shrine

You will cross to the island of Miyajima by ferry and visit Itsukushima Shrine. Itsukushima shrine is widely known for being one of the "Japan Sankyo” (Japan's three most famous scenic spots), alongside "Matsushima" in Miyagi and "Amanohashidate" in Kyoto, and is also recognized as a World Heritage Site. Miyajima is one of the tourist attractions which symbolizes Japan. Stay at Itsukushima Shrine for about 30 minutes and enjoy the spectacular view of the famous red torii gates floating in the sea.

Daishoin

Nearby at the base of Mt. Misen is the Daishoin Temple. There are many things to see at Daishoin such as a cave filled with 88 Buddhist icons representing all 88 temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. As you walk up the stairs to the temple, spin the wheels that line the stairs - they are inscribed with Buddhist scriptures (sutra) and turning them is said to have the same effect as reading them, so you can benefit from the blessings of reading sutra.

Mt. Misen

Next, we will begin hiking Miyajima's highest mountain, Mt. Misen (altitude 535 m), which is the highlight of this tour. Along the way, we will walk through the cathedral courses from the back of the cathedral to the summit along three hiking trails leading up and around the mountain. While climbing, we’ll take a break but then keep up the climb of about 2000 stone steps and aim for the summit. As the guide will guide you according to your pace, you can enjoy the scenery without worry. At the top of the mountain there is an observation platform, and Itsukushima Shrine can of course be enjoyed with a wonderful view overlooking the Seto Inland Sea up to the islands of Ehime prefecture on the other side. After a break at the summit, we’ll walk to the ropeway stop, hop on, and go down the mountain.

Lunch

Having most likely worked up a hunger, your guide will escort you to a restaurant that suits your preference for lunch. After lunch, the ferry returns from the harbor to Miyajimaguchi on the other side, and the tour ends.