Things to Do in Miyajima. Activities, Experiences, Adventures

Outdoor Adventures

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

Hiking and Trekking Routes

Mt. Misen Trails

Three main hiking trails lead to the peak 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 fore-way) offers more shaded sections. Being in good shape condition and suitable footwear, like Hiking shoes, are advisable for all routes due to the 535m elevation gain.

Water Sports and Activities

Some regional providers have 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 companies for availability. You can also look for tours on GetYourGuide.

Wildlife Encounters

Miyajima is home to plenty of wild Sika deer, similar to Nara. They roam freely circling 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, notably by 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 owing 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 typically a focus of Miyajima. The island's activities are all about cultural exploration and moderate outdoor activities.
Fishing: Opportunities could exist, but Miyajima is not mainly known as a fishing destination for tourists.
Camping: No designated public camping sites exist on Miyajima island, and pitching a tent is generally not permitted.

Relaxation & Wellness

Spa & Wellness Centers: Many higher-end ryokan on Miyajima feature their own Onsen (hot spring baths), a part from 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 generally promoted tourist activity.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Live Music AND Dramatic arts: Very limited on Miyajima.
Nightclubs & Dancing: None on Miyajima.
Bar Districts & Pub Crawls: None on Miyajima.
Late-Night Entertainment: Virtually non-existent on Miyajima. Retailers and restaurants usually shut 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, bordered by 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 Of japanese origin sweets (Wagashi).
Luxury & Boutique: Limited on Miyajima. For luxury brands, Hiroshima city offers large retail stores and boutiques.

Important Considerations

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

Cultural Immersion

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

Workshops and Classes

Momiji Manju Making: Some retailers on Omotesando Shotengai offer short, informal activities 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.
Opportunities For Language study: No formal opportunities for language study exist for tourists on Miyajima. Learning basic Japanese phrases is always appreciated.
Community-Based Tourism: Formal initiatives are less widespread 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 authentic Japanese spiritual 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 featuring 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 plus sheer 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 shoes are recommended.

Wildlife and Nature Exploration

Wild Deer Encounters

Miyajima is home to plenty of wild Sika deer that roam freely, specifically near tourist areas. They serve as 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 peaceful atmosphere for nature observation.

Seasonal Natural Beauty

Spring Cherry Blossoms

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

Autumn Autumn Foliage

Momijidani Park bursts with maple colors, making it a breathtaking 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, making 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 dish the area is known for. Some shops possibly has artisans working on site.
Miyajima Traditional Crafts Center: Displays and sells a lot of local crafts, offering insight into the island's artistic heritage.
Shamoiji (Rice Paddles): Miyajima is believed to be the origin of the wooden rice paddle. Available in various sizes, often decorated or inscribed with good luck messages.
Local Ceramics/Pottery: Discover these at some local artisan shops, demonstrating 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 primary 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 inside Japan's mainstream tourist areas.
Choose locally sourced products where you can.
Consider buying souvenirs that are unique to Miyajima.

Shipping and Customs Information

Shipping Services

Many souvenir shops can arrange shipping for big buys, specifically ceramics or wooden sculptures.
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 prior to your trip.
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 well-rounded 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 undergo the island's evening serenity.

Practical Considerations

Wear comfortable walking shoes for thorough discovery.
Dress appropriately for the particular season and expected weather conditions.
Have some Japanese Yen cash for smaller purchases, although credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.
Basic Japanese phrases or translation tools can make interactions better with locals.

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