Miyajima Adventure Tours
Itsuku-shima is an island in the western part of the Inland Sea of Japan, located in the northwest of Hiroshima Bay. It is popularly known as Miyajima, the Shrine Island. The island is one of Hayashi Razan’s Three Views of Japan. Itsukushima is part of the city of Hatsukaichi in Hiroshima Prefecture. The island was the town of Miyajima prior to the 2005 merger with Hatsukaichi. Itsukushima is famous for the Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. According to records, the shrine was established in the time of Empress Suiko. The warrior-courtier Taira no Kiyomori gave the shrine its present form. In 1555, Mōri Motonari defeated Sue Harukata at the Battle of Miyajima. Toyotomi Hideyoshi built a large building, the Senjō-kaku, on a hill above the shrine. The island of Itsukushima, including the waters around it (part of Seto Inland Sea), are within Setonaikai National Park. This sea is affected by strong tides. At low tide, the bottom of the sea is exposed past the island’s torii shrine arches. At high tide, the sea covers all the previously-exposed mud and fills areas under the shrines.
Itsukushima is mountainous and sparsely settled. It does have an elementary school and a middle school. There are no traffic signals.
Frequent ferry services, operated by JR West (JR Miyajima ferry) and by Miyajima Matsudai Tourist Ship, carry traffic between the island and the mainland. The trip takes about ten minutes. There is an hourly express passenger ferry to Hiroshima harbour.
Miyajima’s maple trees are renowned throughout Japan; they blanket the island in crimson every autumn. Momiji manju, pastries filled with azuki jam or custard, are popular souvenirs and carry maple-leaf emblems. Many other varieties such as chocolate and cheese are also available. Because the island is seen as sacred, trees may not be cut for lumber. Deer and monkeys roam freely. Deer are thought of as sacred in the native Shinto religion because they are considered messengers of the gods.
A style of wooden spoon used to serve cooked rice without impairing the taste is said to have been invented by a monk who lived on the island. This style of spoon is a popular souvenir, and there are some outsized examples around the shopping district.
The peak of Mount Misen, at 1,750 feet, is the highest point on the island. Miyajima Ropeway carries visitors to within a 30-minute hike to the top. There are several sites related to the historical Buddhist priest and founder of Shingon Buddhism, Kōbō Daishi (774–835), near the top. The island also contains the Miyajima Natural Botanical Garden on its north coast.
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We are here to help craft tailor-made adventures for individuals, couples, families, and groups of explorers.
Family-friendly Japan
Japan is a spectacular dynamic destination for the entire family. Experience the profound traditions and the 21st century energy. Join a group in summer or visit on your dates. Early April is cherry blossom time!
From $5700 Per Person
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Classic and Festive Japan
Take in Japan's highlights and contrasts, and meet the Japanese as they welcome you with open arms. If you go in May, you'll witness Aoi Matsuri, and elaborate festival in Kyoto showcasing hundreds of people in grand imperial court costume.
From $7400 Per Person
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Ancient Arts and Temple Gardens of Japan
We've taken the original and very popular Classic and Festive Japan itinerary and tweaked it for those interested in exploring more of the arts, crafts, and gardens that Japan is famous for. Your adventure takes you from vibrant Tokyo to Mt. Fuji and scenic Lake Ashinoko in Hakone, then to the old capital of Kyoto via bullet train.
From $8000 Per Person
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