Things to Do in Miyajima. Activities, Experiences, Adventures

Outdoor Adventures

Miyajima's natural landscape provides opportunities for exploration and connection with nature.

Hiking and Trekking Routes

Mt. Misen Trails

Three main hiking trails lead to the summit of Mt. Misen. They offer varying levels of difficulty and scenery. The Momijidani Course (1.5-2 hours one-way) is moderate with steep sections. The Daisho-in Course (1.5-2 hours one-way) is scenic and steep, passing by Buddhist statues. The Omoto Course (2 hours one-way) offers more shaded sections. Good physical condition and appropriate footwear, like Hiking shoes, are advisable for all routes due to the 535m elevation gain.

Water Sports and Activities

Some local operators offer guided sea kayaking or Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) tours around the Itsukushima Shrine. These provide a unique perspective of the 'floating' torii gate, especially during high tide. These activities are seasonal, typically from spring to autumn. Check with local tour providers for availability. You can also look for tours on GetYourGuide.

Wildlife Encounters

Miyajima is home to numerous wild Sika deer, similar to Nara. They roam freely around the island, especially near the main tourist areas. They are accustomed to humans, but remain wild animals. Avoid feeding them directly. Wild monkeys sometimes appear on Mt. Misen, especially near the Ropeway upper station, but encounters are less common than with deer.

Other Outdoor Activities

Cycling Routes: Miyajima island itself is not suitable for cycling due to its pedestrian nature and hilly terrain. The Shimanami Kaido, a famous cycling route across islands, is accessible from Onomichi, further east in Hiroshima Prefecture.
Adventure Sports: These are not a focus of Miyajima. The island's activities center on cultural exploration and moderate outdoor activities.
Fishing: Opportunities may exist, but Miyajima is not mainly known as a fishing destination for tourists.
Camping: No designated public camping sites exist on Miyajima island, and camping is generally not permitted.

Relaxation & Wellness

Spa & Wellness Centers: Many higher-end ryokan on Miyajima feature their own Onsen (hot spring baths), a part of Japanese wellness tradition. No standalone public spa or wellness centers exist.
Hot Springs: Miyajima does not have naturally occurring hot springs open to the public as in famous onsen towns. Onsen are typically within ryokan accommodations, sometimes using pumped spring water.
Yoga & Meditation: These are not typical offerings on Miyajima. Some temples like Daisho-in provide a serene environment for personal meditation.
Traditional Healing: Not a widely promoted tourist activity.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Live Music & Theater: Very limited on Miyajima.
Nightclubs & Dancing: None on Miyajima.
Bar Districts & Pub Crawls: None on Miyajima.
Late-Night Entertainment: Virtually non-existent on Miyajima. Shops and restaurants typically close by 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM. The main evening activity involves viewing the illuminated Itsukushima Shrine and torii gate.

Shopping & Markets

Traditional Markets: Omotesando Shotengai is the main shopping street, lined with souvenir shops and food stalls.
Artisan Crafts: Miyajima Bori (wood carving) and traditional rice paddles (Shamoiji) are local specialties. The Miyajima Traditional Crafts Center showcases these.
Souvenir Recommendations: Momiji Manju, shamoiji, local ceramics, oyster-related products, and Japanese sweets (Wagashi).
Luxury & Boutique: Limited on Miyajima. For luxury brands, Hiroshima city offers department stores and boutiques.

Important Considerations

Miyajima is a tranquil island after dark. For nightlife or extensive entertainment options, Hiroshima city is the appropriate destination. Plan your activities on Miyajima to align with its daytime and early evening offerings.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with Miyajima's rich history and traditions through various hands-on and observational experiences.

Workshops and Classes

Momiji Manju Making: Some shops on Omotesando Shotengai offer short, informal experiences to observe the making process or try pressing your own Momiji Manju.
Miyajima Bori (Wood Carving): The Miyajima Traditional Crafts Center sometimes offers workshops for this local woodcraft.
Language Learning Opportunities: No formal language learning opportunities exist for tourists on Miyajima. Learning basic Japanese phrases is always appreciated.
Community-Based Tourism: Formal initiatives are less prevalent as Miyajima is a highly developed tourist destination.

Cultural Performances and Ceremonies

Bugaku Court Dance and Music

Performed on the stage of Itsukushima Shrine during special festivals or ceremonies. Dates are limited; check the shrine's official schedule.

Shinto Rituals

Visitors can observe daily Shinto rituals at Itsukushima Shrine. These offer a glimpse into traditional Japanese religious practices.

Buddhist Rituals

Daisho-in Temple conducts various Buddhist ceremonies; visitors can observe respectfully.

Relaxation Opportunities

Many higher-end ryokan offer private Onsen baths for guests. The tranquil atmosphere of Momijidani Park and less-traveled paths are ideal for quiet contemplation.

Cultural Festivals and Events

Toka-sai (Flower Festival) in early April at Daisho-in Temple, Kangen-sai (Boat Festival) in mid-July at Itsukushima Shrine. The Miyajima Fireworks Festival is currently suspended.

Unique Shopping Experiences

Omotesando Shotengai offers unique local crafts and snacks. Seek out shops offering fresh Momiji Manju samples and the famous Shamoiji rice paddles.

Exploring Nature and Wildlife

Miyajima's natural beauty offers numerous opportunities for outdoor engagement.

Hiking Trails of Mt. Misen

Momijidani Course: Starts near Momijidani Park, approximately 1.5-2 hours one-way, with moderate difficulty and steep sections.
Daisho-in Course: Starts near Daisho-in Temple, approximately 1.5-2 hours one-way, considered the most scenic but also the steepest, passing by Buddhist statues.
Omoto Course: Starts near Omoto Shrine, approximately 2 hours one-way, offering more shaded sections.
All routes are moderately challenging due to the 535m elevation gain. Appropriate footwear is recommended.

Wildlife and Nature Exploration

Wild Deer Encounters

Miyajima is home to numerous wild Sika deer that roam freely, specifically near tourist areas. They are accustomed to humans but remain wild animals.

Mt. Misen Monkeys

Wild monkeys sometimes appear on Mt. Misen, especially near the Ropeway upper station, although encounters are less common than with deer.

Primeval Forest

Mt. Misen boasts a primeval forest, a designated natural monument, offering a tranquil environment for nature observation.

Seasonal Natural Beauty

Spring Cherry Blossoms

Delicate pink hues adorn the island, especially around the shrine and park areas, creating a picturesque setting for walks.

Autumn Autumn Foliage

Momijidani Park bursts with maple colors, making it a spectacular time to visit for scenic walks and photography.

Winter Snowfall

A quieter, serene beauty descends on the island, sometimes with light snowfall on Mt. Misen, creating an unique winter landscape.

Local Crafts and Souvenirs

Miyajima's shopping focuses on traditional crafts, local treats, and memorable souvenirs.

Artisan Workshops and Crafts

Miyajima Bori (Wood Carving): Shops sell carved wooden items, especially Shamoiji (rice paddles), which are a local specialty. Some shops may have artisans working on site.
Miyajima Traditional Crafts Center: Displays and sells various local crafts, offering insight into the island's artistic heritage.
Shamoiji (Rice Paddles): Miyajima is believed to be the birthplace of the wooden rice paddle. Available in various sizes, often decorated or inscribed with good luck messages.
Local Ceramics/Pottery: Find these at some local artisan shops, showing regional artistic styles.

Souvenir Recommendations

Momiji Manju

The most popular souvenir. Purchase fresh ones on the island from numerous shops along Omotesando Shotengai.

Oyster-Related Products

Look for dried oysters or oyster-flavored snacks, an unique culinary souvenir from Hiroshima's famous oyster production.

Japanese Sweets Wagashi

Beyond Momiji Manju, other traditional Japanese sweets are available at various shops, often beautifully packaged.

Traditional Markets

Omotesando Shotengai serves as the main shopping street, offering a bazaar-like atmosphere with a wide array of local products.

Luxury and Boutique Shopping

Luxury and boutique shopping options are limited on Miyajima. Most shopping focuses on traditional souvenirs and local crafts. For luxury brands, Hiroshima city offers department stores and boutiques.

Ethical Shopping Guidelines

Support local artisans and small businesses directly to contribute to the island's economy.
Be mindful of purchasing items made from protected species; however, this is unlikely in Japan's mainstream tourist areas.
Choose locally sourced products when possible.
Consider buying souvenirs that are unique to Miyajima.

Shipping and Customs Information

Shipping Services

Many souvenir shops can arrange shipping for larger purchases, specifically ceramics or wood carvings.
Inquire about shipping costs and delivery times at the point of purchase.
Keep receipts and tracking information for your records.

Customs Regulations

Be aware of your home country's customs regulations regarding food items, alcohol, and certain crafts.
Japan has strict rules on bringing certain agricultural products into the country. Confirm restrictions before traveling.
Declare all purchases as required by your country's customs laws.

Shopping Tip

Many shops on Miyajima accept credit cards, but having some Japanese Yen cash for smaller purchases or street food stalls is advisable.

Activity Planning Summary

Maximizing Your Day

Combine visits to major landmarks with exploration of hidden gems for a balanced experience.
Allocate sufficient time for hiking Mt. Misen if you plan to reach the summit.
Check festival schedules if you wish to experience a local cultural event.
An overnight stay on the island provides the opportunity to see the illuminated shrine and experience the island's evening serenity.

Practical Considerations

Wear comfortable walking shoes for extensive exploration.
Dress appropriately for the season and expected weather conditions.
Have some Japanese Yen cash for smaller purchases, although credit cards are widely accepted.
Basic Japanese phrases or translation tools can enhance interactions with locals.

Things to Do in Miyajima