Important sightseeing spots on Miyajima, including the Itsukushima Shrine, are all accessible on foot. For those who like to hike, we recommend climbing to the top of Mt. Misen and enjoying the view of the Seto Inland Sea. Enjoy the changing seasons of nature in Miyajima and explore our historical sites.

The History of Miyajima and Arimoto

Itsukushima Shrine This shrine has over 1,400 years of history and was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. The current shrine buildings were built by Taira-no-Kiyomori using the Shinden style of architecture about 800 years ago. An 8th generation vermillion-lacquered O-Torii stands proudly in the water. Engaging Japanese court music and a variety of festivals and ceremonies which celebrate the four seasons in Miyajima take place on our main stage, registered as a national treasure.

Daiganji Itsukushima Benzaiten (the collection is open to the public annually on June 17) is one of the three most famous Benzaiten Temples in Japan and is a historic old temple of the Koyasan Shingon sect of Buddhism. Until the Meiji Restoration, this temple was responsible for the repair and construction of Itsukushima Shrine. Including the main symbol of the temple, a statue of the Yakushi Nyorai Buddha, there are four Buddhist statues placed inside that are important national treasures. Inside the Goma-do Hall, which was rebuilt in spring 2006, lies a Great Buddha born in the Heisei Period.

Daishoin Temple In 806, it is said that Kobo Daishi performed tantric rituals for 100 days and established this temple, the headquarters of the Mimuro branch of the Shingon sect of Buddhism. It is the oldest temple in Miyajima. Every year on April 15 and November 15 a “Fire Walking Ceremony” is held, a Shingon tantric ceremony performed by walking across the hot coals of gomagi (firewood) barefoot while making wishes. Many people come to view this ceremony, which is open to the public.

Senjokaku Toyotomi Hideyoshi built this large prayer hall in commemoration of fallen soldiers. It is also known as Hokoku Shrine and is registered as an important national treasure. Due to its size, it is more commonly known as Senjokaku or “Hall of One-thousand Tatami Mats.” After Hideyoshi’s death construction stopped, so the hall remains unfinished, and to this day one can view the extravagant open construction of the beams in the ceiling. It is said that the actual size of the hall is 857 tatami mats.

Momijidani Park This park affords exceptional views at the base of the mountain adjacent to the banks of the Momijidani River, which is fed by the headwaters of Mt. Misen. Enjoy the green leaves of spring, its cool breezes in summer, and the famous variety of fall colors which are exceptionally beautiful. In the “Geihantsushi” history book published in the Edo era, the following phrase is written:"A pure spring flows there, and the dense forest and moss-covered rocks leave one with an impression of subtle, profound, and ghostly beauty.“

Mt. Misen At an elevation of 530 meters, this main peak of Miyajima is covered in natural old-growth forest, and in ancient times was worshipped as the location where the great god of Itsukushima descended. At the summit are a variety of small and large rocks, in the distance one can view the mountains of Shikoku.One can also enjoy viewing the many beautiful islands of the Seto Inland Sea. The ropeway extends to Shishi Iwa (Lion Rock) and hiking courses may be chosen based on difficulty and the amount of time available.