About Itsukushima Shrine
The island of Miyajima has been considered sacred for so long that for centuries commoners were not allowed to set foot on it. Itsukushima Shrine was therefore built over the tidal flats, so that worshippers could approach by boat. Its present layout dates from 1168, when the warlord Taira no Kiyomori rebuilt it as a series of vermilion halls connected by boardwalks.
At high tide the shrine and its great torii appear to float on the water, a view ranked among the Three Views of Japan. At low tide visitors can walk out to the gate. The shrine honors three daughters of the storm god Susanoo, guardians of the sea. Behind it, Mount Misen is crowned by Buddhist halls linked to Kukai, including a fire said to have burned for 1,200 years.
What to see
- The floating Otorii gate
- Vermilion corridors over the water
- Noh stage built over the sea
- Daisho-in temple at the foot of Mount Misen
- Summit of Mount Misen and the eternal flame
Visiting Itsukushima Shrine: practical guide
- Best time
- Spring and autumn; check tide tables
- Hours
- Daily, about 6:30 to 18:00
- Entry
- About 300 JPY; island visitor tax about 100 JPY
- Dress code
- Respectful clothing
- Nearest airport
- Hiroshima Airport (HIJ), 70 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Check tide times to see both high and low tide views
- Stay overnight to enjoy the island after day visitors leave
- Take the ropeway partway up Misen and hike the rest
Festivals and special days
- Kangensai music festival (summer, lunar calendar)
- Hiwatari fire walking at Daisho-in (November)
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Shinto tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Bow once before passing under a torii gate.
- Walk to the side of the central path, which is reserved for the kami.
- Purify your hands and mouth at the water basin following posted steps.
- Do not photograph inside main halls or where signs prohibit it.
- Avoid visiting shrines when grieving a recent death, according to custom.
- Leave ema and omikuji in designated places rather than taking them away.
Location map
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Frequently asked questions
Where is Itsukushima Shrine?
Itsukushima Shrine is in Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan, Asia. GPS coordinates: 34.2959, 132.3198. The nearest airport is Hiroshima Airport (HIJ), 70 km.
What is the best time to visit Itsukushima Shrine?
Spring and autumn; check tide tables
Is there an entry fee for Itsukushima Shrine?
About 300 JPY; island visitor tax about 100 JPY Opening hours: Daily, about 6:30 to 18:00
What should I wear when visiting Itsukushima Shrine?
Respectful clothing
Which religion is Itsukushima Shrine sacred to?
Itsukushima Shrine is sacred to Shinto. Active place of worship. It is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
