Itsukushima Shrine & Floating Torii

Where it is & how to get there

• Ferry: JR or Matsudai ferries from Miyajimaguchi, 10 minutes (covered by JR Pass on the JR ferry).
• Tax: A small visitor tax is charged when arriving on Miyajima.
• Tides: Check tide tables: high tide for the "floating" torii, low tide to walk to it.

The story of Itsukushima Shrine

Itsukushima Shrine was established in the 6th century, and its present form dates to the 12th century, when the warlord Taira no Kiyomori built it over the water so the sacred island would not be disturbed.

Its great torii gate, about 16 metres tall, stands in the sea and appears to float at high tide. The shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Best time to visit

Tips before you go

• Check tide times: walk to the gate at low tide, see it float at high tide.
• Check tide times and see the torii at both high and low tide.
• Ride the ropeway up Mount Misen.

What's around Itsukushima Shrine

• Mount MisenRopeway and hiking.
• Five-storey PagodaAbove the shrine.
• Omotesando shopping streetMomiji manju cakes.
• Daisho-in TempleTemple on the hillside.

Questions travellers ask