At the gates of Hiroshima is located one of three famous Japanese landscapes, the holy shrine island of Miyajima. The history of the island dates back to the sixth century when Mount Misen was worshipped as a sacred location.

The Itsukushima Shrine was built in 593 A.D. Its buildings were constructed above the water level of the bay, using what was known as the pile construction method and the temple halls appear to float on the water at high tide, creating an extraordinary and unique image.

The Daigan-Ji Temple is conveniently located next to the Itsukushima Shrine. Right up until the Meiji Restoration, this temple helped to preserve it. A seated medical Buddha is worshipped and the temple itself is dedicated to Benzaiten, the deity of wisdom, music and wealth. It was not until 2004 that the Gomado Hall was reconstructed for the first time in a hundred and forty years.

The Tahoto Pagoda rises behind the Treasure House. Built in 1523 and over fourteen metres high, it overlooks the bay of the Inland Sea. Tokikoji-Way leads up to the Daishoin Temple Complex. Gods of war also guard one of the temples, which are built on top of each other and flank the route to the sacred Mount Misen.

High up in the dark Hen Jyokutsk Cave are the Buddha images of eighty eight temples of the Shikoku pilgrimage route.

When in the evening the ‘floating’ Torii sinks into the sea, the faithful happily vacate the island.