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Itsukushima Shrine
Not only does the shrine boast unique architecture, but it also holds significant cultural importance and is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Join Mytour in exploring the fascinating aspects of this tourist destination in the article below!
The shrine is famous for its iconic Torii gate. @GaijinPot Travel
1. Introduction to the Shrine
Itsukushima Shrine, also known as Itsukushima-jinja, is located on Miyajima Island, near the coast of Hiroshima. With its position facing the vast coastline, the shrine resembles a precious gem, shining amidst the serene natural landscape.
According to legend, the shrine was first built in 593 to worship the gods who protected the people from disasters and wars. Later, in 1168, the warlord Tairano Kiyomori reconstructed the shrine, giving it the magnificent appearance it has today. In 1996, the shrine was recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site, becoming a prominent symbol of Japan.
The shrine is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. @theculturetrip
Currently, the shrine venerates three sea deities: Tagori, Ichikishima, and Tagitsu. Designed to resemble a port on the sea, the structure floats above the water, completely isolated from other areas of the island. From a distance, visitors will see the shrine seemingly floating on the azure waters, creating a breathtaking scene lauded as one of Japan's top three scenic views.
This place is praised as one of Japan's top three scenic views. @gethiroshima
2. Beautiful Spots at Itsukushima Shrine
Main Hall of Itsukushima Shrine
Itsukushima Shrine boasts an impressive beauty with its striking red lacquered exterior amid the vast expanse of water. Not only is it a national treasure of Japan but it's also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Main Hall is the central building of the shrine and is situated approximately 160m from the Torii Gate. Aside from the worship area, the interior of the hall also features a Bugaku performance stage, a traditional Japanese art form.
The unique architecture of the shrine. @VNTOWORLD
Torii Gate
The Torii Gate is one of the most prominent features of this shrine, often seen gracing the pages of world travel magazines. From afar, this gate appears to be floating on the water's surface. Particularly, when the tide is high, the gate stands firm amidst the rushing tide, exuding a steadfast and majestic beauty. As the tide recedes, visitors can walk through this gate and marvel at its architectural splendor.
From a distance, this gate appears to be gracefully suspended above the water. @bontraveler
When the tide recedes, visitors can stroll through the gate. @lookphotos
Soribashi Bridge leading to the shrine
In addition to the Torii Gate, Soribashi Bridge leading to the shrine is also a must-visit spot. Built since 1557, initially, the bridge was reserved for nobility and high-ranking officials representing the Emperor to visit. On such important occasions, additional steps would be added to the bridge to enhance the solemnity of the event.
Soribashi Bridge leading to the shrine is also a must-visit spot for check-ins. @Find Your Japan
To this day, the bridge maintains its unique architecture and ancient beauty, tinted by the passage of time. With its special curvature, Soribashi Bridge offers panoramic views of the surroundings, perfect for capturing stunning check-in photos.
3. The most convenient way to travel
As the shrine is located on an island, travelers need to pay close attention to transportation for the most convenient journey. In addition to the necessary transit segments throughout the journey, you should also note the tips for finding cheap flight tickets suggested by Mytour below!
Traveling from Vietnam to Japan
First, you need to travel to Hiroshima International Airport from one of the major domestic airports such as Noi Bai, Da Nang, or Tan Son Nhat. The airfare to Hiroshima typically ranges from 4,611,237 VND to 24,589,000 VND per way, depending on the airline, seat class, and booking time. However, to optimize costs, it's advisable to book tickets about 1-2 months before your trip and choose flight and hotel combo deals on Mytour. Regularly monitoring discount programs on Mytour will also give you the chance to receive attractive discount vouchers.
You need to travel to Hiroshima International Airport from one of the major domestic airports.
Traveling to Itsukushima Shrine
Because the shrine is located on an island far from the mainland, travelers need to take a ferry to the island. You can take the JR Sanyo Honsen line from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station, which takes about 30 minutes. Miyajimaguchi Station is only a 5-minute walk from the ferry terminal, where you'll board a ferry to Miyajima Island (Itsukushima Island). From there, it's just a 10-minute walk following the signs to reach this legendary shrine.
The ferry terminal to Miyajima Island.
The Best Hotels Near Itsukushima Shrine
hotels near Itsukushima Shrine
Traditional Japanese Inn
With this minimalist accommodation option, you can experience the Land of the Rising Sun while saving a considerable amount of money. Here are 2 suggestions from Mytour:
Hotel Makoto provides simple traditional-style guest rooms. @jalan
Tranquil ambiance at Jukeiso. @Booked
Miyajima Grand Hotel Arimoto
This hotel is just steps away from Itsukushima Shrine and a short walk from Omotesando shopping street. Miyajima Grand Hotel Arimoto features private hot springs and offers both traditional Japanese-style and modern Western-style rooms. All rooms include a seating area and tatami mat flooring. Ground floor rooms even have a small garden area outside. Room rates here typically range around $740 per night for 2 guests. Additionally, you can explore hotels in Hiroshima to find accommodation options that suit your preferences.
Modern Western-style rooms at Miyajima Grand Hotel Arimoto. @Kayak
Hotel Miyajima Villa
Queen and Suites rooms at Hotel Miyajima Villa typically range from $235 to $330 per night for 2 guests. This hotel also offers a private onsen experience, a highly popular amenity on Miyajima Island. Additionally, luxurious furnishings, modern bathroom designs, and other amenities such as restaurants and bakeries are a plus at this accommodation.
Modern bathroom design at Hotel Miyajima Villa. @Hotelmix
Villa Hamorebi
Villa Hamorebi is just a 3-minute walk from Itsukushima Shrine and close to many other famous attractions such as Miyajima Aquarium, Folk Culture Museum, and Daishoin Temple. This 80-year-old house has been recently renovated to provide the most comfortable experience for guests. Visitors here can enjoy onsen baths, dine on-site, or even cook their own meals according to their personal preferences.
Exterior space of Villa Hamorebi. @gambo
Interior design of Villa Hamorebi. @gambo
Livemax Resort Akino Miyajima
Livemax Resort Akino Miyajima is one of the largest hotels on the island, offering excellent amenities for travelers. Here, you have many accommodation options, including rooms with private hot tubs on the balcony, traditional Japanese-style rooms, and Western-style rooms.
Exterior design of Livemax Resort Akino Miyajima. @trvimg
Other facilities you can enjoy at this resort include public hot springs, a swimming pool, karaoke rooms, and restaurants. The location is near the historic Machiya street and is only a 10-minute walk from Miyajima Pier or Itsukushima Shrine.
5. Must-Try Local Dishes When Visiting Itsukushima Shrine
If you've set foot on Miyajima Island, you must taste the incredibly enticing local specialties here. Below is a list of culinary delights that Mytour wants to share with you:
Fresh oysters on Miyajima Island. @japagazine
Miyajima De Gansu is a famous street food in Hiroshima city. @alexisjetsets
Anagoman bun with special eel filling. @andrejaseyes
Momiji cakes with red bean paste filling. @AllAbout-Japan
Itsukushima Shrine
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