Miyajima Travel Guide

Miyajima (宮島) is one of the crown jewels of Japan, and certainly one of its finest views. Located off the coast of Hiroshima, in Hiroshima Prefecture, the serene beauty of the island is an essential coda to that city.

Miyajima can be reached by sea fromHiroshimaetc. The main ferry terminal on the mainland is34.311333132.3050561Miyajimaguchi (宮島口), which can be reached from JR Hiroshima station either by train (30 min, ¥420) or tram line #2 (70 min, ¥270). The tram line also passes by the Peace Memorial Park.

Miyajima is small enough to cover by foot, and there are English-language signs throughout the island. Taxis can be taken from the pier to the hotels and residential areas, but not the tourist sights.

Tame deeramble around the island, harassing tourists for food (and all things paper, which they think is food). While somewhat more restrained than their counterparts inNara, they're still eager for a hand-out. In the past, waffle-like wafers and pellets could be bought to feed them. However, a feeding ban is now in place, which has led to declining numbers — and increased boldness among the remaining deer, who are willing to root in around bags or backpacks for food (even while said bags are be

Accommodation on Miyajima is uniformly expensive, and most people on a budget choose to day-trip from Hiroshima instead. But if you can swing it, a night here is definitely worthwhile, as the island is much nicer without the flag-waving, megaphone-equipped tour groups that descend during the day. But, do note, Miyajima can get rather sleepy in the evening hours, so for those looking for a relaxing evening, this is a great place for it.