While in Miyajima we made the trip up to the peak of Mount Misen where we were treated to some gorgeous views of the nearby sea and islands. The mountain itself is part of the World Heritage site of the Itsukushima Shrine. Founded by Kukai, one of Japan’s most famous monks, it is home to the Daisho-in temple and a flame that has been burning for over 1200 years. It is a popular tourist spot for locals, and from the top of the mountain there are breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Miyajima is home to one of the most iconic locations in all of Japan: Itsukushima Shrine and its floating torii gate. The large vermillion gate emerging from the water is quite the sight to behold and is beautiful with both high and low tides.

During our time at Miyajima we stayed at the Watanabe Inn. Once we arrived at the island we decided to walk to our ryokan rathan than call and have them pick us up. Since we walked, we had to traverse through the main part of the town full of restaurants and stores. We left the main touristy areas to find our ryokan, which is nestled in the midst of the Japanese houses on the island, right next to a bubbling brook and near a shrine and a Buddhist temple. The Watanabe Inn is a ryokan housed in a traditional Japanese building and is run by the Watanabe family. It only has 3 rooms, and it is lovely and intimate!