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Temples & shrines

Itsukushima Shrine

厳島神社

Miyajima · near Miyajima ferry pier (12 min walk)

Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima. The vermilion shrine built on stilts over the sea and its giant 'floating' torii gate feel magical, and tame deer wander the island streets on the way there.

Why children love it: The vermilion shrine built on stilts over the sea and its giant 'floating' torii gate feel magical, and tame deer wander the island streets on the way there.

Honest drawbacks: Reaching it needs a ferry, and the raised boardwalks over water have gaps and edges; the torii only appears to float around high tide, so timing matters.

Best for
Toddlers (2–4), Primary (5–11), Teens (12–17)
Time to allow
1.5h
Opening hours
Open daily from 6:30, closing 17:00-18:00 depending on season. The famous 'floating' torii appears to sit on water at high tide and can be walked out to at low tide.
Price
Adults 300 yen, high-school 200 yen, elementary/junior-high 100 yen. Combined ticket with the Treasure Hall 500 yen (adult). Ferry to the island is a separate fare.
Booking
Usually walk-in
English
★★★☆☆
Indoor / weather
mixed

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