Facts and Data
Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
View photos from OUR PLACE the World Heritage collection
Itsukushima Shrine (Miyajima-cho)
Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1996
Size of heritage: 431 ha
- Buffer zone: 2,634 ha
Coordinates:
Longitude: 132,325°
Latitude: 34,294°
Summary
The island of Itsukushima, in the Seto inland sea, has been a holy place of Shintoism since the earliest times. The first shrine buildings here were probably erected in the 6th century. The present shrine dates from the 12th century and the harmoniously arranged buildings reveal great artistic and technical skill. The shrine plays on the contrasts in colour and form between mountains and sea and illustrates the Japanese concept of scenic beauty, which combines nature and human creativity.
Location on Map
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Itsukushima Shinto Shrine: A Jewel of Hiroshima Prefecture
The Itsukushima Shinto Shrine, located in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its breathtaking beauty and historical significance. Situated on the island of Miyajima, the shrine is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Japan and attracts visitors from around the world.
History
The Itsukushima Shrine has a history that dates back over 1,400 years. It was first established in the 6th century and has since undergone several renovations and expansions. The shrine was dedicated to the three daughters of the Shinto deity Susano-o no Mikoto, who is believed to have banished a malevolent sea dragon from the island.
During the Heian period (794-1185), the shrine gained prominence as a sacred site and became a popular destination for pilgrims. Its iconic torii gate, which stands in the sea, was constructed in the 12th century and has since become an iconic symbol of Japan.
Throughout its history, the Itsukushima Shrine has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times due to natural disasters and fires. The current structures, including the main hall and the torii gate, were reconstructed in the 16th century and have remained remarkably well-preserved.
Current State
Today, the Itsukushima Shrine continues to be a vibrant center of religious and cultural activities. The shrine complex is characterized by its unique architectural style, known as the Shinden-zukuri, which features buildings with raised floors connected by covered corridors.
One of the most striking features of the shrine is the torii gate, which stands majestically in the sea. During high tide, the gate appears to be floating on the water, creating a mesmerizing sight that has captivated visitors for centuries. The gate is made of camphor wood and stands at an impressive height of 16 meters.
Visitors to the shrine can explore the various buildings within the complex, including the main hall, prayer halls, and a Noh theater. The buildings are adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant paintings, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of the artisans of the time.
The Itsukushima Shrine is not only a place of worship but also a popular tourist destination. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks along the island's picturesque trails, visit the nearby Mount Misen, or indulge in local delicacies at the numerous restaurants and shops in the area.
Due to its cultural and historical significance, the Itsukushima Shrine was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996. The site attracts millions of visitors each year, who come to witness the shrine's beauty and experience the tranquility of this sacred place.
In conclusion, the Itsukushima Shinto Shrine in Hiroshima Prefecture is a testament to Japan's rich cultural heritage. With its stunning architecture, iconic torii gate, and serene surroundings, it continues to captivate visitors and serves as a reminder of the country's ancient traditions and spiritual beliefs.
Hotels and places to stay
(RYOKAN) Miyajima Hotel Kikunoya
MIYAJIMA GRAND HOTEL ARIMOTO
(RYOKAN) Kurayado Iroha
Miyajima Hotel New Kotobuki
Kitanocho Itsumoya
(RYOKAN) Miyajima Hotel Makoto
(RYOKAN) Miyarikyuu
(RYOKAN) Sakuraya
Sakuraya
(RYOKAN) Iwaso
Videos from the area
4K Timelapse / Miyajima in Hiroshima. Nov. 8, 2014
Miyajima in Hiroshima 4K Timelapse, 4096x2304, 23.976fps ---- Itsukushima Shrine Mt. Misen Nikon D800 AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm F2.8 G ED © A.Terasawa.
Day 10: Miyajima and Mt Misen hike Oandb's photos around Miyajima, Japan (miyajima hiking)
Preview of Oandb's blog at TravelPod. Read the full blog here: http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/oandb/1/1271637014/tpod.html This blog preview was made by TravelPod using the...
世界遺産 宮島(厳島) 2014.11.15 Part06/17 紅葉谷公園1/4(広島の風景2014秋Part 58) World Heritage Sites Miyajima,Hiroshima
世界遺産 宮島(厳島) 2014.11.15 Part 06/17 紅葉谷公園1/4 です。 広島県廿日市市宮島町 (広島の風景 2014 秋 Part 58) World Heritage Site Miyajima(Itsukushima) 2014.11.15...
世界遺産 宮島(厳島) 2014.11.15 Part07/17 紅葉谷公園2/4(広島の風景2014秋Part 59) World Heritage Sites Miyajima,Hiroshima
世界遺産 宮島(厳島) 2014.11.15 Part 07/17 紅葉谷公園2/4 です。 広島県廿日市市宮島町 (広島の風景 2014 秋 Part 59) World Heritage Site Miyajima(Itsukushima) 2014.11.15...
世界遺産 宮島(厳島) 2014.11.15 Part09/17 紅葉谷公園4/4(広島の風景2014秋Part 61) World Heritage Sites Miyajima,Hiroshima
世界遺産 宮島(厳島) 2014.11.15 Part 09/17 紅葉谷公園4/4 です。 広島県廿日市市宮島町 (広島の風景 2014 秋 Part 61) World Heritage Site Miyajima(Itsukushima) 2014.11.15...
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Hiroshimanishi AirportMedium airport - 7 mi (12 km)
Hiroshima AirportMedium airport - 35 mi (57 km)
Matsuyama AirportMedium airport - 39 mi (63 km)
Iwami AirportMedium airport - 40 mi (65 km)
Yamaguchi Ube AirportMedium airport - 65 mi (105 km)
Oita AirportMedium airport - 66 mi (106 km)
Kitakyūshū AirportMedium airport - 80 mi (129 km)
Izumo AirportMedium airport - 84 mi (135 km)
Fukuoka AirportLarge airport - 118 mi (190 km)
Kansai International AirportLarge airport - 167 mi (269 km)
Osaka International AirportLarge airport - 180 mi (291 km)
Kagoshima AirportLarge airport - 196 mi (315 km)
Gimhae International AirportLarge airport - 202 mi (325 km)
Bigger and popular cities in the wider vicinity are these:
- Aki-takata
- Etajima
- Gotsucho
- Hamada
- Hatsukaichi
- Higashihiroshima
- Hikari
- Hiroshima
- Hofu
- Ikata-cho
- Imabari-shi
- Iwakuni
- Iyo
- Kudamatsu
- Kunisaki
- Kure
- Masuda
- Matsuyama
- Mihara
- Miyoshi
- Otake
- Ozu
- Saijo
- Shobara
- Shunan
- Takehara
- Toon
- Yamaguchi
- Yanai
- Yawatahama
These are some smaller cities that might be interesting. They are all rather close.