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Nearby Destinations

Nearby Destinations

Japan

Miyajima Island Itsukushima Shrine

Miyajima is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Itsukushima Shrine with its famous "floating" torii gate, the spiritual Mount Misen, and tame wild deer.

Allocate a full day (6-8 hours minimum) to explore Miyajima, including visiting the shrine, Daishoin Temple, and ascending Mount Misen.

Transportation Options

  • JR Train + Ferry: Take a JR train from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station (25-30 minutes), then a 10-minute ferry. The JR ferry is covered by the Japan Rail Pass.
  • Direct Ferry: Private companies offer direct ferries from central Hiroshima to Miyajima, faster but typically more expensive.
  • Independent Travel: Miyajima is easy to navigate independently using public transport and ferries.
  • Time Required: A full day (6-8 hours) for thorough exploration.

Beyond Miyajima

Explore more fascinating destinations beyond Miyajima for diverse experiences.

Kure

A historic port city and former naval base, located east of Hiroshima, reachable by JR Kure Line train (30-45 minutes).

Highlights

  • Yamato Museum: Demonstrates the battleship Yamato and naval history.
  • JMSDF Kure Museum: Also known as the Iron Whale Museum, features a real submarine.
  • Time Required: Half-day to full-day.

Iwakuni

Known for its unique historic Kintai-kyo Bridge, located southwest of Hiroshima, reachable by JR Sanyo Line train (45-60 minutes) and then a local bus.

Highlights

  • Kintai-kyo Bridge: A beautiful and unique wooden arch bridge.
  • Iwakuni Castle: Accessible by ropeway from near the bridge.
  • Time Required: Half-day to full-day.

Onomichi

Experiences

  • Explore the Temple Walk: A path connecting numerous temples on a hillside.
  • Visit Senkoji Temple: Enjoy panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea.
  • Wander through Cat Alley: A charming local path.
  • Start of Shimanami Kaido: World-renowned cycling route.

Details

  • Transportation: JR Sanyo Main Line train from Hiroshima (1.5-2 hours).
  • Time Required: Full day for Temple Walk, longer for cycling.
  • Rural Glimpse: Towns along the Shimanami Kaido offer a glimpse into rural Japanese life.
  • Local Communities: Experience charming local communities.

Day Trip Planning

  • Booking Day TripsGetYourGuide Day Trips
  • Explore OptionsDiverse Excursions
  • FlexibilityIndependent or Guided
  • Local InsightsHidden Gems
  • Transportation EfficiencyJapan Rail Pass Benefits
  • Scenic RoutesCoastal Views
  • Cultural ImmersionBeyond City Limits
  • Time ManagementPlan Ahead

Tip: Miyajima Ferry

The JR ferry to Miyajima is covered by the Japan Rail Pass, making it a cost-effective choice for pass holders.

Natural Escapes

Hiroshima Prefecture offers diverse natural landscapes for those seeking outdoor beauty.

Mount Misen

On Miyajima, offers hiking trails and stunning natural beauty with ancient forests and unique rock formations.

Sandankyo Gorge

A Special Place of Scenic Beauty with dramatic waterfalls, rapids, and picturesque hiking trails.

Seto Inland Sea

Provides breathtaking scenic islands and coastal views from various vantage points or ferries.

Parks and Reserves

Miyajima Island, part of the Setonaikai National Park, protects an unique ecosystem. Adhere to park rules.

Deer on Miyajima

  • Do not feed wild deer human food; it can harm them.
  • Avoid littering, especially plastic bags, which deer may consume.
  • These seemingly tame animals are wild; maintain distance.

Seasonal Phenomena

Experience Japan's seasonal natural beauty.

Best Times

  • Cherry Blossoms: Late March-Early April at Peace Park, Shukkei-en, Miyajima.
  • Autumn Foliage: Late October-Mid-November at Miyajima, Sandankyo Gorge.
  • Pleasant Weather: Fall offers comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities.

Nature Immersion

Hiking TrailsVenture into nature
Scenic ViewsPanoramic landscapes
Wildlife ObservationRespectful encounters
Photography OpportunitiesCapture beauty
Outdoor ActivitiesExplore actively
Relaxing EscapesTranquil environments

Eco-Friendly Travel

  • Minimize carbon footprint by using public transportation.
  • Prioritize trains, trams, and buses for intercity and local travel.
  • Consider carbon offsetting for longer journeys. TerraPass Carbon Offsets
  • Support eco-friendly accommodations and tours. Ecobnb
  • Pack reusable items like water bottles. Reusable Water Bottles

Cultural Excursions

Extend your cultural exploration beyond Hiroshima's city limits.

Historical Insights

Explore sites that offer understanding of Japan's past.

Locations

  • Kure: Learn about Japan's naval history at the Yamato Museum.
  • Iwakuni: See the unique Kintai-kyo Bridge and Iwakuni Castle.
  • Takehara: Known as "Little Kyoto of Aki" with preserved merchant houses.

Rural Charm

Experience traditional Japanese life and local communities.

Local Experiences

  • Onomichi: Gateway to the Shimanami Kaido, with its Temple Walk.
  • Shimanami Kaido Islands: Cycle through charming rural villages and agricultural areas.
  • Traditional Life: Glimpse into local Japanese customs and landscapes.

Pilgrimage Sites

Miyajima's sacred sites offer a sense of traditional Japanese spirituality.

Spiritual Depth

  • Itsukushima Shrine: A UNESCO World Heritage site and significant spiritual center.
  • Daishoin Temple: Explore this ancient temple complex on Mount Misen.
  • Reflection: Experience moments of contemplation and peace.

Ethical Tours

Choose tours that prioritize local benefits and ethical practices.

Responsible Choices

  • G Adventures: An ethical tour operator focused on community and sustainability.
  • Community Engagement: Support tours that respect local customs and people.
  • Small Group Travel: Often provides a more immersive and less impactful experience.

Beyond Day Trips

Consider multi-day extensions for a regional experience.

Kyoto Extension

Japan's ancient capital, rich in traditional temples and cultural experiences, accessible by Shinkansen.

Shimanami Kaido Cycling

Dedicate a full day or two to this world-class cycling route, staying overnight on an island.

Setouchi Art Islands

Explore islands like Naoshima and Teshima for contemporary art and unique museums.

Next Destinations

From Hiroshima, easily travel east by Shinkansen to Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, and Tokyo, or head west to Fukuoka on Kyushu island.

Extended Exploration

Hiroshima serves as a gateway to extended regional travel for those with more time.

Multi-Day Extensions

1

Kyoto 2-3 days

Japan's ancient capital, rich in traditional temples, beautiful gardens, and geisha districts. Easily accessible by Shinkansen.

2

Shimanami Kaido 1-2 days

Cycle a portion or the entirety of this world-class route, staying overnight on one of the islands.

3

Shikoku 2-3 days

Explore Japan's smallest main island, known for its 88-temple pilgrimage route and rugged coastlines.

Suggested Routes

  • Golden Route Extension: Tokyo to Kyoto, Osaka, and then Hiroshima/Miyajima via Shinkansen.
  • Setouchi Route: Focus on the Seto Inland Sea region, including Hiroshima, Onomichi, and the Art Islands.
  • Kyushu Exploration: Head west to Fukuoka and other Kyushu attractions after Hiroshima.
  • Shimane Prefecture: Travel north to Izumo Taisha Shrine for ancient mythology and landscapes.
  • Efficient Shinkansen: All major cities are well-connected by Japan's high-speed rail network.
  • Local Connections: Local trains and buses connect to smaller towns and rural areas.

Affiliate Link Tip

  • Consider booking your day trips and experiences through trusted platforms like GetYourGuide.
  • Explore various activities from cultural tours to outdoor adventures for an unforgettable trip.
  • Check for combination tours to maximize your time and budget while exploring.
  • Look for skip-the-line options for popular attractions to save time.
  • Read reviews to find experiences that align with your interests and preferences.
  • Booking in advance often secures better prices and availability, especially during peak season.

Further Exploration Resources

Sustainable Gear

Find ethical outdoor gear for your adventures at Patagonia.

Zero Waste Travel

Explore reusable products for your journey at Package Free Shop.

Conservation Support

Support rainforest conservation via The Rainforest Site.

Travel Connections

Efficient Shinkansen connections make multi-city itineraries easy. Plan your route to seamlessly explore different regions of Japan.
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