The next morning we woke up refreshed and headed to the
island of Miyajima, one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations famous for
its giant floating Torii gate and tame island deer.
As a sky bridge directly connected the Crowne Plaza Okayama
to the Shinkansen station, the hotel could not have been more conveniently
located, and it took us about two hours to reach the island.
As the ferry pulled into the dock, we’re greeted by one of Japan’s
most treasured icons, the giant “floating” Torii Gate of Itsukushima Shrine.
Once you arrive at Miyajima, the first thing that you’ll
probably notice is the numerous domesticated deer that prowl around the island.
While they are safe to pet, it’s important to note that the
deer are always on the prowl for food.
On a previous visit, a deer had grabbed my visitors map and
ate it in a blink of an eye. If you are bringing in food, be cautious as those
cute looking deer pack a rather powerful bite.
We headed down the main tourist walkway lined with numerous
shops selling various tourist souvenirs and snacks.
Miyajima is well
known for its oysters, and if you’re looking to bring a gift home, I’d suggest
buying a box of Momiji, a maple leaf shaped pastry filled with various sweets.
At the end of the main walkway are the world famous
Itsukushima Shrine and Torii gate. Depending on the time of day, you’ll either
see the shrine surrounded by water or the water recedes far enough that you’re
able to walk to Torii gate and place a coin for good luck.
High Tide
Low Tide
While being able to walk to the gate was a unique
experience, I’d recommend coming during hours of high tide, as the shrine is
particularly stunning during the late afternoon hours.
Not as Picturesque
While the Itsukushima Shrine & Torii gate was indeed
jaw-dropping, the Toyokuni shrine was a slight disappointment, as the grand
wooden hall is essentially a hollow space inside.
However, the area near the hall does look stunning during
the fall season, and you might even stumble upon a few wandering deer.
After hitting the main tourist hot spots, we decided to
escape the crowds and headed to Momijidani Park towards the ropeway. Just a few
hundred meters from the main walkway and the crowds quickly thin out, and
you’ll soon find yourself inside an oasis of peace and serenity.
For those taking a day trip from Osaka, your time is
limited, and I’d advise skipping the ropeway and head back down but before
reaching the main walkway, take a sharp left head to the Tahoto Pagoda.
During the Sakura full bloom, the pagoda has a
postcard-perfect view where you can see the giant Torii gate surrounded by
Sakura blossoms.
Better yet, the Pagoda seems to be a well-hidden local
secret, with just a few Japanese tourists taking pictures and locals lounging under
the Sakura trees.
We then headed back to the ferry and headed to Iwakuni, one
of Japan’s most scenic bridges during Saukra.
