Hiroshima・Itsukushima

Miyajima (Itsukushima), one of Japan's three most scenic spots (along with Amanohashidate in Kyoto Prefecture and Matsushima in Miyagi Prefecture), became widely known from the writings of a Confucian scholar during the Edo period. I visited Matsushima last time, but I didn't find the scenery that impressive. However, I felt that this place truly offers genuine scenic beauty. While Itsukushima Shrine is famous, the entire island is elegant and beautiful. The coastal road leading to Itsukushima Shrine is nice, but Mount Misen also offers spectacular views (though I couldn't visit it this time due to time constraints). It was featured in the travel show "Tabizaru 16: Angirls Tanaka's Recommended Trip to Hiroshima Prefecture," and next time, I would like to visit Mount Misen as well. About half of the tourists are foreigners (Westerners), 30% are school trip students, and 20% are general Japanese tourists. Unlike in the past, there are now many more foreign visitors. They seem to like the deer. They were often seen playing with them in Nara as well. Lastly, there are two shuttle ferries, JR and Miyajima Matsudai Kisen, with different departure times. If you don't check carefully and enter the gate (IC cards are accepted), you might feel a bit frustrated if the other ferry departs first. This time, I took the Miyajima Matsudai Kisen ferry to the island and returned by JR ferry.