Itsukushima

Itsukushima is a mountainous island located in the western part of Japan's Inland Sea.

It sits in the northwest of Hiroshima Bay and belongs to the city of Hatsukaichi. The island is part of the Setonaikai National Park. Many people call the island Miyajima, which means "Shrine Island."

It is a famous destination known for its sacred sites and natural beauty. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also considered one of the Three Views of Japan.

The geography of the island is defined by its relationship with the sea. The waters of the Seto Inland Sea around the island experience strong tides. This tidal movement creates a dramatic visual effect for visitors. At high tide, the sea covers the seabed mud. The water even flows underneath the boardwalks of the shrine.

At low tide, the seabed is exposed. This allows people to walk past the large torii gate on the ground. The island is mostly rural and mountainous with a population of about 2,000 people. There are no cities, only small towns with simple houses and private shops.

Religious structures on the island represent both Shinto and Buddhist traditions. In Japan, "shrine" refers to Shinto structures, while "temple" refers to Buddhist ones. The Itsukushima Shrine is a major Shinto site. It is famous for its torii gate that appears to float on the water.

The island also contains many Buddhist temples. These include Daiganji Temple and Daishō-in Temple. Daishō-in is the most important temple on Miyajima. It serves as the headquarters for the Omuro branch of Shingon Buddhism. The island's sacred status means that trees may not be cut for lumber.

History has shaped the island's architecture over many centuries. It is possible that locals built simple shrines here before 593 AD. In 1168 AD, the warrior-courtier Taira no Kiyomori helped give the shrine its current form. In the 16th century, the warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi built the Senjokaku.

This building is also known as Toyokuni Shrine. The name Senjokaku means "pavilion of 1000 mats." It was intended to be a Buddhist library. Another important structure is the Five-storied Pagoda. It was constructed in 1407 and enshrines Yakushi Nyorai Zazo.

Specific religious sites offer unique spiritual experiences. Daiganji Temple is dedicated to the goddess Benzaiten.

She is the goddess of eloquence, music, arts, wealth, and knowledge. Daiganji is one of the three most famous Benzaiten temples in Japan. It was reconstructed around 1200 AD during the Kamakura period. The temple is open to the public only once a year on June 17. On this day, a large festival is held for people to offer prayers. The temple also enshrines three Buddhas: Gautama Buddha, Wisdom Buddha, and Mercy Buddha.

Nature plays a central role in the life of the island. Mount Misen is the highest point, reaching 535 meters.

Visitors can use the Miyajima Ropeway to get near the peak. From there, they can hike for about 30 minutes to the top. The island is also famous for its seasonal colors. In autumn, the maple trees turn a deep crimson.

Sika deer also roam freely throughout the island. In the Shinto religion, these deer are considered messengers of the gods. They often walk through the streets near tourists.

Local culture and commerce are tied to the island's identity. Many visitors enjoy eating Momiji manju, which are pastries filled with custard or azuki jam. These sweets often feature maple-leaf emblems. Another local specialty is the shamoji, a wooden rice paddle. A monk living on the island is said to have invented this style.

Travel to the island is easy via ferry from the mainland at Miyajimaguchi. The trip takes about ten minutes. There is also an hourly express ferry that goes to Hiroshima harbour. This connection allows many people to visit the sacred forests and shrines daily.