Miyajima Itsukushima Shrine
Tomoko KamishimaThe original formal procedure to worship Itsukushima Shrine was to pass through the big red torii gate on a special boat.
Itsukushima Shrine
The Itsukushima Shrine is located on the shores of Miyajima, an island in the Seto Inland Sea not far from Hiroshima city. While the name Itsukushima means “island of worship”, the site is more famously known as “the floating shrine”, as the buildings appear to be floating on the water when the tide rolls in.
Itsukushima’s main shrine was first constructed in AD 593, and was mentioned in a famous Japanese book (Nihon Koki, or Notes on Japan) in AD 811. The shrine became popular as a pilgrimage destination for members of the Imperial Court during the Heian Period (745-1185) and remained an important location in the Edo Period for those living in western Japan.
The main shrine precinct consists of a collection of buildings, such as the Purification Hall and the stage for bugaku (court music) performances. Many of the buildings are linked by covered corridors and dotted with bronze lanterns from the early 20th century. An arched bridge, dating back to 1557, was said to be used by Imperial messengers and is one of the links between the shrine and the mainland. Most notably, Itsukushima is home to a Noh stage that dates back to the early Edo Period, and is significant for the fact that it’s the only Noh stage in the country that floats upon the sea.
Due to their history and unique design, the buildings of Itsukushima Shrine were designated as a National Treasure in 1952 and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.
Visitors who wish to see the shrine as it “floats upon the waves” would do best to plan their visit according to the tides. A schedule of the day’s high and low tides is usually posted at the shrine’s main entrance.
Overview
Address
1-1 Miyajimacho, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima 739-0588 (Map) (Directions)Hours
6:30 - 17:00 Closed nowOpening Hours
Monday
6:30 - 17:00
Tuesday
6:30 - 17:00
Wednesday
6:30 - 17:00
Thursday
6:30 - 17:00
Friday
6:30 - 17:00
Saturday
6:30 - 17:00
Sunday
6:30 - 17:00
Holidays
6:30 - 17:00
Phone Number
0829-44-2020Website
Highlights
Itsukushima Shrine Torii Gate
Considered one of the defining views of Japan, Miyajima's 'floating' red torii gate proudly sits off the shore of the main island. At 16.5 meters in height, this iconic site is what first greets visitors arriving by ferry from the mainland. The torii’s main pillars are made from 500-600 year old camphor trees that are naturally resistant to rot and insects. The current gate dates from 1875. When the tide is low, it is possible to walk right up to the gate itself.
Itsukushima Honden Haiden
Designated a National Treasure of Japan, this beautiful white-and-vermilion building floats on top of the waters at high tide, just as the famous torii gate does. The extended curved eaves are covered with cypress thatch; the honden (main hall) along with the Haiden and Heiden were built during the Nara period.
Deer Near the Torii Gate
The deer of the island are docile and accustomed to human interaction. The cute inhabitants of the island often bravely go up to tourists and beg for food. They're a popular part of any visit to the island and fun to pose for photos with. Although they may seem tame, always exercise due caution when dealing with wild animals.
General Amenities
- Free parking
- Paid parking
- Prayer rooms
- Information Counter
- Restroom
What's unique
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
Payment Method
- Credit cards accepted
- Pay by cash
Access
Travel to JR Miyajimaguchi Station on the Sanyō Honsen Line. Walk to the ferry port. It's about 10 minutes from Miyajimaguchi Port to Miyajima Island by ferry.
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