JAPAN: Itsukushima Island

View of the island and Torii from the ferry.

Itsukushima Island, also known as Miyajima, is located off Japan's mainland at Hiroshima and can easily be accessed by a short, 10-minute ferry ride. The small, sacred island— home to many temples and shrines— is only 12 square miles with a population of around 2,000. There are no traffic signals on the island and few vehicles. The houses and temples are hidden within the beautiful mountains alongside free roaming deer and monkeys.

Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a Shinto shrine located on the peaceful island. Originally built in the 6th century, the shrine has been demolished several times. The current shrine was erected sometime in the mid-16th century in keeping with the design from its predecessor in the 12th century. Both the shrine and its gate (torii) are built into the water and dramatically affected by the strong tides. At high tide, the shrine and torii appear to be floating on the water offering visitors a magical view. However, during low tide the water recedes leaving a muddy floor below both the shrine and the torii. During this time it is possible to walk out to the torii and place coins in its cracks while making a wish. Because of its unique relationship with the tides, the view of the torii is classified as one of the Three Views of Japan (the other two include the sand bar Amanohashidate and Matsushima Bay).

During our visit we were lucky enough to view the shrine and torii during high tide. The tranquility of the area in combination with the forces of nature's tides gave the island an energy of its own. It was obvious why the shrine was built in that location so many years ago. Unfortunately, we were on a tight schedule and reluctantly left the island after our brief visit to only the one shrine. In my opinion, Itsukushima is a must-see for anyone visiting Hiroshima.

The ferry from Hiroshima to Itsukushima (Miyajima) Island

Itsukushima Torii

The entrance to the shrine

It is customary to cleanse your hands and face before entering most Shinto shrines.

The "offering altar" area where people of the Shinto faith drop coins into the wooden slats (foreground), clap twice, pray and then bow.

View of the shrine front from the Torii.