Today’s adventure took me to the enchanting island of Miyajima, a place brimming with natural beauty and cultural significance. Located just off the coast of Hiroshima, Miyajima is famed for its stunning landscapes, sacred shrines, and breathtaking views. The island is often considered one of Japan’s most scenic spots, and after spending a full day there, it's easy to see why. From visiting serene shrines to exploring lush parks and taking in panoramic views from the mountaintop, Miyajima proved to be a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences. Staying at the Grand Prince Hotel Hiroshima was incredibly convenient, as it offered a boat service located just one minute away from the hotel, making the journey to Miyajima seamless. Join me as I recount this memorable day.
Morning Visit to Itsukushima Shrine
Our day began with a visit to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, one of Japan's most famous and photographed sites. Renowned for its "floating" torii gate, the shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds deep spiritual significance. My first visit to this shrine was about five years ago, during high tide, when the gate appeared to float majestically on the water.
The sight was magical, with the orange-red gate contrasting beautifully against the blue sea. Today, however, the tide was low, revealing the seabed beneath the gate and offering a completely different perspective. It was fascinating to see how the view and the ambiance of the shrine changed with the tides, each providing its own unique beauty. The exposed seabed allowed us to walk closer to the gate, providing an intimate connection with this revered landmark.
As we wandered around the shrine, we marveled at the architectural beauty of the wooden structures, designed to withstand the elements and the changing tides. The peaceful atmosphere, coupled with the gentle sound of the waves lapping against the shore, created a serene environment that was perfect for reflection and appreciation of Japan's rich cultural heritage.
Hokoku Shrine and the Pagoda
After taking in the beauty of Itsukushima Shrine, we made our way to Hokoku Shrine, a site that is less frequented by tourists but equally captivating. This shrine is known for its stunning five-story pagoda, which stands as a testament to Japan's architectural ingenuity. The pagoda’s vibrant red hue and intricate design make it a striking sight against the backdrop of the island’s lush greenery. As we admired the pagoda, I was struck by the sense of history that pervades the area; each structure seemed to tell a story of a bygone era, steeped in tradition and reverence.
On our way down from the shrine, we stumbled upon a small, charming shrine dedicated to a pine tree. This unique spot, where the entire tree has been carefully cultivated like a bonsai, showcased an extraordinary level of detail and dedication. The tree's branches were perfectly shaped, creating a geometric pattern that was both artistic and awe-inspiring. This peaceful spot offered a moment of quiet reflection amid the lush surroundings, adding a special touch to our visit.
A Serene Stroll in Momijidani Park
Our next stop was Momijidani Park, a haven of natural beauty located at the base of Mount Misen. Known for its stunning maple trees that turn brilliant shades of red and orange in the autumn, the park is a year-round destination for nature lovers. The lush greenery provided much-needed relief from the summer heat, and as we walked along the shaded paths, we were delighted when a baby deer approached us. The deer on Miyajima are known for being friendly and accustomed to human interaction, and this close encounter added a touch of magic to our walk. The serene environment of Momijidani Park, with its babbling brooks and dense foliage, made it the perfect spot to relax and reconnect with nature.
Cable Car Adventure to the Mountain Top
The highlight of our day was undoubtedly the cable car ride up Mount Misen, the highest peak on Miyajima. The journey began with a scenic ride through the forest, where the trees gradually gave way to stunning panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea. As we ascended, the vistas became more and more breathtaking, with each turn offering a new perspective on the island's natural beauty. The ride itself was an adventure, as the cable car swayed gently in the breeze, giving us a sense of both excitement and tranquility.
At the summit, the view was nothing short of spectacular. The island’s lush forests, sparkling waters, and distant mountains combined to create a vista that was both awe-inspiring and humbling. Adding to the experience were the observation tubes attached to the fences, which pointed out significant landmarks visible from the mountain. These guides made it easy to identify and appreciate the various points of interest in the landscape below, making the experience educational as well as visually stunning.
At the summit, the view was nothing short of spectacular. The panoramic scenery encompassed the island’s lush forests, sparkling waters, and distant mountains, creating a vista that was both awe-inspiring and humbling. The tubes attached to the fences pointed out significant spots, helping us identify and learn more about the landmarks we were viewing. This thoughtful addition made the experience educational as well as visually stunning.
Relaxing at the Grand Prince Hotel
After a day filled with exploration and adventure, I returned to the Grand Prince Hotel Hiroshima, where I was staying. The hotel, known for its luxurious amenities and stunning views, provided the perfect sanctuary after a busy day. I indulged in a soothing onsen bath, which uses marine water to provide a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. The onsen offered a magnificent view of the surrounding landscape, allowing me to reflect on the day’s adventures while soaking in the warm, therapeutic waters.
From my room, I enjoyed a panoramic view of the sea and the distant islands, a sight that was as tranquil as it was beautiful. The serene and luxurious environment of the hotel was the perfect conclusion to my day, providing a moment of peace and reflection before drifting off to sleep.
Conclusion
Our day on Miyajima was filled with moments of wonder and tranquillity. From the spiritual depth of Itsukushima and Hokoku Shrines to the natural beauty of Momijidani Park and the breathtaking views from the mountain top, every part of our journey was memorable. Miyajima’s blend of cultural heritage and natural splendour makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Japan. If you ever find yourself in this part of the world, be sure to take in the serene shrines, lush parks, and, of course, the spectacular views from above. This island truly has something magical for every traveller, and today’s adventure will remain etched in my memory as one of the highlights of my travels in Japan.
As I prepare for tomorrow’s journey, I can’t help but feel grateful for the experiences and the beauty that this day has brought. Miyajima is more than just a destination; it’s a place where history, nature, and culture come together to create an experience that is both enriching and unforgettable.
Until the next adventure, happy travels!
Marco
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