Get stunning travel pictures from the world's most exciting travel destinations in 8K quality without ever traveling! (Get started now)
What makes Miyajima Island in Hiroshima, Japan, a must-visit destination?
The name "Miyajima" translates to "shrine island" in Japanese, reflecting its historical role as a sacred site within Shinto beliefs.
The famous floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, constructed in 1168, is made of camphor wood and stands approximately 16 meters tall, showcasing traditional Japanese architectural styles.
At high tide, the torii gate appears to float on the water, an optical illusion that has captivated visitors and has earned the site a position among Japan's top three scenic views.
The island is home to free-roaming deer, which are considered messengers of the gods in Shinto belief.
Their presence contributes to the spiritual atmosphere of the island.
Mount Misen, the highest peak on Miyajima, rises 535 meters above sea level and has been a site of worship since at least the 6th century, emphasizing the island’s long-standing spiritual significance.
The island's climate is classified as humid subtropical, resulting in lush vegetation and diverse wildlife, which includes several species of endemic plants and animals.
Itsukushima Shrine and its torii gate were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, highlighting their cultural importance and the need for preservation.
The island's population is around 2,000 residents, creating a unique balance between tourism and local living, which is essential for maintaining the island's culture.
The Miyajima Ropeway, which transports visitors to Mount Misen, covers a distance of about 1,200 meters and offers panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea, showcasing the area's natural beauty.
The tidal changes in the area, which can reach approximately 3.5 meters, drastically alter the appearance of the landscape, influencing both the aesthetic and ecological aspects of the island.
The island is also known for its delicious momiji manju, a maple leaf-shaped cake filled with sweet red bean paste, which has become a local specialty.
A significant historical figure, Taira no Kiyomori, established the island as a clan sanctuary during the Heian period, reflecting the political and military importance of Miyajima in Japanese history.
The island experiences a phenomenon called "mizu no tsubaki" or water camellia, where the surrounding waters reflect the colors of the sky, creating stunning visual effects, particularly during sunrise and sunset.
Itsukushima Shrine is built on stilts, allowing for tidal flow and emphasizing the connection between water and spirituality in Shinto practices.
The island is affected by a unique geological formation known as the Seto Inland Sea, which is characterized by its calm waters and numerous islands, making it a significant area for marine biodiversity.
The floating torii gate has undergone several reconstructions over the centuries due to natural wear and tear, with the most recent major renovation occurring in 2001.
The island acts as a natural barrier, protecting Hiroshima from typhoons and severe weather, playing a role in the region’s agricultural productivity.
The Gojunoto pagoda on Miyajima is a five-story pagoda built in the 16th century, showcasing a mix of Buddhist and Shinto architectural influences.
The island is accessible primarily via ferry, with routes connecting it to Hiroshima and other nearby locations, emphasizing its role as a cultural and historical hub.
The local government has implemented measures to preserve the island's ecology and cultural heritage, including regulating tourism and encouraging sustainable practices among residents and visitors.
Get stunning travel pictures from the world's most exciting travel destinations in 8K quality without ever traveling! (Get started now)