Miyajima is one of the must-visit places in Japan if you have some time to travel around the country. It takes an important place in shintoism, Japans’ ancient religion in which all the deities of heaven and earth are worshipped. The special thing about Hiroshima’s neighbouring island is that the whole island is considered a god in shintoism, as people have sensed the unique aura around the island. And while Miyajima has many beautiful spots to visit, what would be a better way to experience this special energy than conquering the peak of the island – Mount Misen.

While many people take the ropeway to the top, hiking up the mountain takes you through a Japanese maple forest, across beautiful Japanese bridges and temples and you might see some Sika deer along the way without a bunch of tourist surrounding them! If you’re looking for a small adventure with stunning views and lots of culture, check out this Mount Misen Observatory Hike on Miyajima – a 2024 guide!

Overview

Time: 1,5 – 2,5h up, 1h down.
Difficulty: easy to intermediate (some steep parts, but overall pretty easy).
Facilities: toilets near the start of the trails and at the gondola station and the observatory. There are some vending machines at the start and top, but just make sure to bring enough water and food yourself.

Hiking or gondola?

If you have time to spare, or want to save some money (2000yen return ticket), I would definitely say HIKE! It’s a stunning hike, especially in autum, and it will be much more satisfying hiking to the top of the mountain all by yourself. It’s a not-too-long adventure, perfect for those who want to see some of Japans nature.

Where to start?

After taking the boat to Miyajima, there are three hiking trails that can take you to the top: the Momijidani course, the Daishoin course and the Omoto course. The first course is the shortest, the last one the longest. The first course can be connected to the Uguisuhodo Nature Walk, but all three you can start from near Itsukushima shrine (the famous big red torii).

When you have a whole day to visit Miyajima, my recommendation is to start with the shortest course going up – Momijidani, and take one of the other two to go down. The Omoto course is more of a nature-oriented course, while the Daishoin course takes you to the beautiful Daishoin temple – as you might have noticed, the last mentioned is definitely my go to route. Daishoin temple might even be my favorite temple in Japan so far. This would be my recommendation, but take your pick!

The hike up – Momijidani

The start of the Momijidani course is at Momijidani – or Maple Valley – park, one of Japans most famous maple tree parks. Momijidani park is beautiful in all seasons, but especially in autumn, when the whole park turns red because of the maple leaves changing colours. Before you enter the park you’ll find a beautiful red bridge (Momiji bridge) crossing a small river. If you have some extra time (maybe 10 minutes) I’d recommend walking along this river with the river on your right and the Ryokan/guesthouses on your left. It’s a beautiful short walk and you’ll find some nice little things along the way before you return to the bridge to cross it.

After crossing the bridge you’ll follow the walking trail towards Momijidani bridge and the ropeway station. This is your last option for a toilet break until you reach the top of the ropeway, so if you need to go, go :). From then on, following the route is pretty simple. There’s just one path and there are some signs that will guide you along the way. After some time you’ll reach a fork in the road. To the left you’ll find the ropeway station, to the right you’ll make your way to Mt Misen observatory. Again, if you have time you can first make your way to the ropeway station and check out the view from there, but in my opinion the view from the observatory is better so you might as well skip this extra part.

Before you reach Mt Misen observatory, you’ll come across some beautiful temples. One of them is Reika-do Eternal Fire Hall, also known as the lovers’ sanctuary, where a fire has supposedly been burning for 1200 years. The same fire was used to light the flame of peace in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. But my favorite little temple is Mikido temple, that houses three demon gods. By scanning a QR code inside, you can read more about them and this temple.

After having a look around these temples, make your way up to Mt Misen observatory for a break with a view. The observatory has three levels; a lower level with bathrooms, a middle shaded level and a top level with a 360 degree view. And what a view! Looking around really reminds you of Japan being an island nation, with 14.125 islands! It’s a great place to have your lunch.

Going back – Daishoin course

From the observatory it takes about 45 minutes to an hour to make your way back down if you take the Daishoin route. Enjoy the beautiful forest walk, but be aware of vipers (Mamushi) and hornets! After passing a waterfall you might soon here the big bell of Daishoin temple, marking the end of your walk. But don’t go back just yet! Make your way to the entrance of the Daishoin temple, because this is a place you don’t want to miss. When you enter you can walk up the stairs, or walk along the 500 Rakan statues (to your left). These statues are one of the most impressive things in Miyajima and one of the most beautiful things in Zen Buddhism in my opinion. Every statue represents an enlightened Buddhist munk who was a disciple of Shaka (Buddha). Each face is unique and will show you one of the many human emotions. Really take your time and look at all the beautiful representations of these guardians of Buddhist law.

When you reach the end of the Rakan statue walk you arrive at the huge bell and some other temple buildings. Every building is unique and beautiful, and even though you probably don’t have time to pay a visit to all of them, my advice is to at least check out the Henjo Cave at the back of the temple grounds. I remember the first time I walked in I was amazed by the lights. I don’t want to say more, just go and check it out for yourself.

Just past Daishoin temple you’ll walk straight into Miyajima town. You’ve done it, hiked to one of Japans peaks! Now rehydrate, take in the views and enjoy a snack at one of Miyajimas many food stands!

Did you enjoy Mount Misen observatory hike on Miyajima – a 2024 guide, then share it with the world! And let me know your thoughts and experiences through the comments below.

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