Miyajima is the island of shrine in Hiroshima, Japan, and it has been the popular sightseeing place for Japanese people for long time. One of best season to visit is Spring when the island is covered by lots of cherry blossoms.
The collaboration of nature and architecture
If you want to see both traditional and seasonal views at once in Japan, "Miyajima" is the best destination. Miyajima means the island of shrine, it is often called as "Itsukushima" as well. This island is regarded as one of the three most famous scenic locations in Japan.
The island shrine built on the sea
As the shrine island, this small island is strongly related to the main shrine, Itsukushima Shrine The giant red torii gate stands on the sea and its reflection in the water gives the magnificent view. These historical and cultural backgrounds made Miyajima as one of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1996.
The island covered by pinky waves
In spring, there are about 1,900 cherry trees start blooming, painting the world around you pink. You will be surprised that how many different cherry trees such as Yoshino cherries, Yamazakura and Weeping cherry trees are there on the same island, creating the scenic view. Today, not only Japanese tourists, but also travelers from oversea come here just to enjoy this beautiful moment. The recommended season is between the end of March and the beginning of April, but it is up to the weather. According to the weather report, cherry blossoms start blooming on March 28th 2018 and reaching at their peak on April 4th 2018. During this time, another festival “Miyajima Hina-meguri” is held from March 21st to April 3rd 2018. Hina is the special puppets to celebrate girls’ growth and you can see them during the festival. Taho Towers, located at the end of Itsukushima Shrine is built on the hill and it is a good place for observatory and seeing cherry blossoms.
The flower brings the spring
In Japan, cherry blossom is not just the flower. It is the symbol of spring, meaning, that the long cold winter is over and the beginning of new life. School starts in April and traditional Japanese calendar also starts from April. There is the weather channel reporting about when and where they can see cherry blossoms. When you come to Japan in Spring, you will see it is a part of Japanese culture.
How to visit?
From Tokyo to Miyajima, it takes about 90 minutes by a bullet train called “Nozomi” which is the fastest one. After taking off at Hiroshima Station, take the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station for 25 minutes. From Miyajimaguchi Station, it is a short walk to the ferry pier. Ferries constantly depart for Miyajima.
