Miyajima

Travel to Miyajima

From JR Hiroshima Station, take the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station (25 minutes, 400 yen one way, covered by the Japan rail pass). Alternatively, you can take tram line number 2 from central Hiroshima bound for Miyajimaguchi. The tram is slower, but costs only 270 yen one way (not covered by the Japan rail pass).

From Miyajimaguchi Station, it is a short walk to the ferry pier, from where ferries depart frequently for Miyajima. The ferry ride takes 10 minutes and cost 170 yen one way. There are two competing ferry companies: JR and Matsudai. The Japan rail pass is valid on JR ferries.

Otorii A "torii" is an entrance to a Shinto shrine.

Otorii stands in front of the shrine pavilions in the sea because people used to visit Itsukushima Shrine from the sea. Otorii is 16 meters high and weighs about 60 tons.

Its two big pillars were made using natural camphor trees between 500 and 600 years old.

Built using a traditional Japanese construction technique, these pillars stand by themselves without requiring any other means of support.

Because the experience of Itsukushima Shrine involves the water over which it is built, it is good to be aware of the timings of the tides during one's visit. At high tide the shrine and its gate appear to float above the water, and this is certainly the time at which they are most picturesque. At low tide, the water drains out of the bay. This is when visitors can take the opportunity to walk out and see the gate from up close.

Itsukushima shrineItsukushima Shrine is known for the unique and bold concept of being built in the sea as well as its elegant architectural style called “Shinden Zukuri”. It is said to have been first built in 593, and the present shrine pavilions were constructed in 1168.  The buildings of Itsukushima Shrine have been designated as National Treasures (Green) and Important Cultural Properties(Yellow).

Daiganji TempleDaiganji Temple is an ancient Shingon Buddhist temple that stands next to Itsukushima Shrine.The temple is dedicated to Benzaiten, the goddess of eloquence, music, and wealth, and enshrines one of the three most famous Benzaiten statues in Japan in addition to many other valuable Buddhist statues.

Daioshoin templeDaishoin Temple is an ancient Shingon Buddhist temple built at the foot of the sacred Mt. Misen.

During the time of fusion period of Shintoism and Buddhism, this distinguished temple governed all priests in Miyajima and was in charge of religious ceremonies of Itsukushima Shrine.

Its green, plant-filled precincts command a fine view and are decorated with many Buddhist statues.

Resources

Http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3453.html http://

www.miyajima.or.jp/english/spot/spot_daishoin.html http://visit-miyajima-japan.com/flash/english