What makes Miyajima more than just another pretty island? It’s a quirky mash-up of stunning scenery, ancient culture, and selfie-happy deer. Nestled in Hiroshima Bay, Miyajima serves up peace, history, and the world-famous “floating” torii gate that looks straight out of a postcard.
It’s also ranked as one of the three most beautiful sites in Japan. Spiritual vibes, jaw-dropping views, and deer casually photobombing your Instagram? Sign us up!
Quick Shopping Tip: Japan Generation is filled with tips and tricks for traveling in Japan. I recommend you take a look at the Insta360 action camera so you can capture all of Japan's beauty in 360!
You can buy one on Amazon here. If you'd like a more realistic example of how it's used by someone exploring and sightseeing in Japan, check out this video of one of my favorite vloggers, Abroad in Japan (skip to 8:52 for the product review):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1GhoXzK8F1I&t=592s
Explore this little travel guide to learn about hiking Mount Misen and trying local foods. Discover why visiting Miyajima Japan is an adventure you’ll always remember. Ready to add it to your travel list?
Exploring the Iconic Floating Torii Gate
The Floating Torii Gate of Itsukushima Shrine is a cultural icon in Miyajima and Japan. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, showing ancient engineering and religious importance. When the tide is high, it seems to float, creating a stunning view.
Visitors can get close to the gate at low tide to see its grandeur. The gate’s reflection on the water at sunset is a favorite for photographers. Check out the photos below to get a contrast of the gate during high and low tide.
The torii gate also offers a spiritual experience since the whole island is practically a Shinto shrine. Walking through, you’ll feel a calm that highlights Itsukushima Shrine‘s religious importance. This iconic structure captures the heart of Miyajima Island.
Experiencing Miyajima’s Culinary Delights
The island is famous for a variety of foods that will make you want more. The eel dishes and momiji manju are the ones I went for but unfortunately overlooked the island’s renowned specialty, grilled oysters. They are fresh from the sea and grilled to perfection.
Hiroshima Bay’s oyster game is strong, and Miyajima has been riding that wave for over 300 years. These oysters are famously refined and, let’s be real, impressively huge—perfect for shocking the unprepared foodie.
On sunny days, you can devour these beauties while fending off curious deer who’ll act like they forgot they’re vegetarian. A pair of grilled oysters will only set you back ¥400-600 (~$2.60–$3.90) at food stalls.
And if you’re around in mid-February, don’t miss Miyajima’s oyster festival—a weekend ode to the shellfish that’s clearly running the island.
Another treat you don’t want to miss is Momiji Manju, a maple leaf-shaped cake with sweet fillings. It’s a great snack while you see the island’s beauty.
- Grilled Oysters: Freshly grilled oysters are a must-try local delicacy.
- Momiji Manju: A sweet treat shaped like a maple leaf with different fillings.
- Traditional Japanese Street Food: Explore the stalls along the shopping street for authentic flavors and craft beers.
If you like the Momiji Manju pastries, you can also buy boxes of them to take home as souvenirs for friends and family. You may leave Japan but Japan will never leave you!
Quick Shopping Tip: Japan Generation is filled with tips and tricks for traveling in Japan. I recommend you take a look at the Insta360 action camera so you can capture all of Japan's beauty in 360!
You can buy one on Amazon here. If you'd like a more realistic example of how it's used by someone exploring and sightseeing in Japan, check out this video of one of my favorite vloggers, Abroad in Japan (skip to 8:52 for the product review):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1GhoXzK8F1I&t=592s
Home to Friendly Deer
Miyajima Island is also known for its deer that roam freely all over the island. These friendly and sacred deer are protected by the few residents in the shrine and island. They may approach you as soon as you get off the ferry and step into the island so we recommend avoiding the initial crowds and waiting until you climb up the mountains to snap a better picture of the deer.
You’ll see them everywhere. They wander the streets, parks, and even around shrines. This adds a magical touch to the island’s calm atmosphere.
As mentioned above, many of the deer are used to people and might come close. This is a special moment, but remember to respect them. Don’t feed them and keep a safe distance for everyone’s sake.
The deer make Miyajima even more special. They add to the charm of the island. Whether you’re seeing the Floating Torii Gate, hiking Mount Misen, or trying local food, the deer make it unforgettable.
Daisho-in Temple: A Spiritual Journey
Tucked at the foot of Mount Misen and just a short stroll from Miyajima’s bustling shopping streets and the famous Itsukushima Shrine, this gem has been holding it down for over 1,200 years.
Founded by the legendary philosopher-poet-monk extraordinaire Kobo-Daishi (a.k.a. Kukai), Daisho-in oozes charm, history, and a whole lot of serenity. Honestly, it feels like the kind of place where monks perfected the art of zen and interior design. Whether you’re here for the wisdom, the Instagram shots, or just an excuse to skip cardio while climbing the stairs—Daisho-in delivers.
Conclusion
As your Miyajima adventure wraps up, you’ll probably leave with a camera full of shots and a heart full of memories. The iconic floating torii gate. The hike up Mount Misen… if you can manage it, sweat well spent. The deer? Adorable to look at but make sure not to feed them unless you want to lose all your snacks!
From tasting grilled oysters to munching on maple leaf cakes, Miyajima spoils your taste buds almost as much as your soul. Whether you found zen at Daisho-in Temple or just stared in awe at the views, this island blends culture, beauty, and a dash of magic.
With easy ferry rides and so much to explore, Miyajima is that perfect mix of adventure and peace—leaving you already planning your next visit before you’ve even left.
Quick Shopping Tip: Japan Generation is filled with tips and tricks for traveling in Japan. I recommend you take a look at the Insta360 action camera so you can capture all of Japan's beauty in 360!
You can buy one on Amazon here. If you'd like a more realistic example of how it's used by someone exploring and sightseeing in Japan, check out this video of one of my favorite vloggers, Abroad in Japan (skip to 8:52 for the product review):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1GhoXzK8F1I&t=592s
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