Miyajima, officially known as Itsukushima and less than an hour from Hiroshima, is famous for Itsukushima Jinja’s giant torii gate, which seems to float on the water at high tide - the sight is ranked as one of Japan's Nihon Sankei (three best views) - and you’re bound to have seen it in Japan tourism advertising.

As soon as you’re off the boat, expect to be pestered by not-so-wild deer that have become used to tourists and try to cadge food - even pulling things out of visitors’ pockets.

There are some excellent walking trails on Miyajima, including three paths that lead to the summit of Mt Misen. Alternatively, you can take the Miyajima Ropeway to near the top.

Hiroshima city’s Tram line 2 goes as far as Miyajima-guchi, from where ferries depart to Miyajima.

While their are accommodation options on the island, visiting as a day trip from Hiroshima works well.

Practical Info

Miyajima@JNTO

National Parks of Japan: Setonaikai@JNTO