The Reiwa Renovation of the Great Torii Gate

Itsukushima Shrine "The Reiwa Renovation of the Great Torii Gate"

From June 2019 to december 2022, the O-torii, the Great Torii of the World Heritage site of Itsukushima Shrine went under a major renovation project.

The O-torii has been surrounded by scaffolding and white translucent sheeting so that in the daytime, its form can be glimpsed as if it were hidden behind white blinds. When illuminated at night, the entire structure glows golden, creating a magical beauty reflected in the water at high tide. This sight could only be seen during the renovation process.

Miyajima Tourist Association http://www.miyajima.or.jp/new/?p=5129

What to See on Miyajima During the Renovation

Main Hall of Itsukushima Shrine

The O-torii has been renovated, but during the renovation it was possible to still visit Itsukushima Shrine. Enjoy the beautiful architecture of Itsukushima Shrine and the view that can be seen from there.

Miyajima

Dining, shopping, and strolling around Miyajima

Popular foods on Miyajima include oysters, anago-meshi (conger eel on rice), and momiji-manju (maple leaf-shaped cakes). Visitors can enjoy these all around Miyajima, including the Omotesando Shopping Arcade.

In addition to restaurants, the Omotesando Shopping Arcade is a great place to buy traditional Miyajima crafts and other souvenirs. The street running behind the Arcade is called Machiya Street. It is lined with old historical buildings, some of which have been converted into trendy cafes.

Mt. Misen Hiking & Ropeway

Mt. Misen, at 535m above sea level, the highest part of Miyajima, has been worshipped for uncounted centuries. The primeval Forest Misen has been registered as a Natural Monument of Japan, and is part of the World Heritage site of Itsukushima Shrine.

Mt. Misen has a number of climbing routes surrounded by the sort of beautiful nature you can only get to see in such a primeval forest that has survived since the ancient past, allowing hikers to enjoy the mystical mountain.
If you aren't sure of your climbing abilities, or are short on time, then the ropeway will whisk you to the top.
▪ Miyajima Ropeway http://miyajima-ropeway.info/english/

Mt. Misen

Mt. Misen Observatory

An observation deck situated on the summit of Mt. Misen. The view from the summit will take your breath away. From here, you can enjoy a magnificent panorama over the Seto Inland Sea, the mountains of Shikoku, and more. The huge boulders that crowd the area add a mystical touch to the scenery.

The scenic view of Setouchi Islands placed no. 7 on The New York Times' 2019 article, "52 Places to Go in 2019", and was the only place in Japan to be featured.