Miyajima can be reached from Hiroshima in less than an hour by train and ferry or by direct boats. See also how to get to Hiroshima.

By train and ferry

From JR Hiroshima Station, take the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station (25 minutes, 400 yen one way, covered by the Japan Rail Pass). Alternatively, you can take tram line number 2 from central Hiroshima bound for Miyajimaguchi. The tram is slower, but costs only 270 yen one way (not covered by the Japan Rail Pass).

From Miyajimaguchi Station, it is a short walk to the ferry pier, from where ferries depart frequently for Miyajima. The ferry ride takes 10 minutes and cost 170 yen one way. There are two competing ferry companies: JR and Matsudai. The Japan Rail Pass is valid on JR ferries.

By direct boat

Boats also connect Miyajima directly with Hiroshima Peace Park (55 minutes, 1900 yen one way, 3400 yen round trip, 3-12 round trips per day). There are also boats connecting Miyajima and Hiroshima Port (30 minutes, 1800 yen one way, 6-8 round trips per day). The Japan Rail Pass is not valid on these boats.

Orientation

Miyajima is quite a large island, but its attractions are concentrated in two main areas: the small town around Itsukushima Shrine and Mount Misen.

Visitors to Miyajima will first arrive at the ferry terminal, from where it is a ten minute walk to Itsukushima Shrine. All the other sights are also located within walking distance from the shrine.

Mount Misen can be accessed by the Miyajima Ropeway, whose lower station is a ten minute walk from Itsukushima Shrine. There are also three hiking trails from the town to the mountain's summit.

Itsukushima Shrine
Senjokaku Hall
Daisho-in Temple
Mount Misen
Walking Trails
Museum of History and Folklore
Miyajima Aquarium