Day Trip from Osaka to Itsukushima(Miyajima)
Wondering if you can make a day trip from Osaka to Itsukushima? Or, perhaps you’re wondering if this famous shrine is worth the journey? This guide is for first-time travelers looking for clear, easy ways to get from Osaka to Itsukushima without stress. Here, you’ll find all you need to know, from costs and time estimates to tips on making the most of your visit.
How to do day trip from Osaka to Itsukushima
What is the difference between Miyajima and Itsukushima?
Miyajima and Itsukushima both refer to the same island, but there’s a slight distinction. The official name is “Itsukushima,” meaning “island where God dwells,” highlighting its historical role as a sacred site. On the other hand, “Miyajima” is a more casual name often used in tourism and is associated with Itsukushima Shrine, where “miya” means shrine. When you visit, you’ll see it listed as “Itsukushima Shrine,” though most tourist pamphlets refer to the island as “Miyajima.” So, just remember: Itsukushima is the formal name, and Miyajima is the familiar one. Whichever name you use, locals will understand you perfectly.
Why is Itsukushima famous?
Itsukushima, and especially “Itsukushima Shrine,” is famous worldwide for its stunning torii gate that appears to float on the sea. This grand gate in Hiroshima Bay offers unique views throughout the day, with the scenery shifting as the tides change. The torii gate and Itsukushima Shrine are UNESCO World Heritage sites, making them iconic Japanese landmarks and top spots for photography. The shrine’s design, with stage-like pavilions built over the water, adds a deep sense of history and tradition. The red torii gate at sunset is especially breathtaking, attracting visitors from all over. Itsukushima also offers beautiful natural settings, including Mt. Misen, making it a popular destination year-round.
How much time is needed for Miyajima Island?
Generally, you’ll need about 3-4 hours to explore the main spots on Miyajima. This includes key sights like Itsukushima Shrine, Daigan-ji Temple, Daisho-in Temple, and Senjo-kaku Pavilion.
For this route, expect around 1 hour of travel between stops:
Miyajima Pier(Ferry Tarminal) → Itsukushima Shrine (about 15 minutes) → Daigan-ji Temple (about 5 minutes) → Daisho-in Temple (about 10 minutes) → Senjo-kaku Pavilion (about 15 minutes).
Plan for an extra hour if you want to stroll around, enjoy local street food, like oysters or eel. If you plan to hike up Mt. Misen, add about 2 more hours, including the ropeway and climb. A day is plenty to soak up the sights, but 3-4 hours works if you stick to the highlights.
What is the best time of day to visit Miyajima?
The best times to visit Miyajima are early morning and evening. Early morning has fewer tourists, giving Itsukushima Shrine a calm and mystical vibe. The torii gate in the morning light makes for a stunning photo! Evening is also magical, as the setting sun casts a romantic glow on the gate, creating a dreamy scene. The view of the torii changes with the tides, so it’s worth checking a tide schedule before you go to capture the scene you’re after. You can check the Miyajima tide timetables, so take a peek a few days in advance. Since crowds pick up in the daytime, visiting earlier is ideal for a more peaceful experience.
The best time to visit Miyajima is from mid to late November, when the autumn leaves are in full bloom. Miyajima is popular for its autumn foliage, and there are many beautifully colored foliage spots on the island, including the primeval forest of Mt. Misen, which is designated as a national natural monument.
Best things to do on Miyajima Island
Miyajima offers endless ways to enjoy your visit, but here’s a recommended route.
Start with the must-see Itsukushima Shrine to appreciate its beautiful buildings and the iconic torii gate floating on the sea. Next, take a 5-minute stroll to Daigan-ji Temple and another 5 minutes to Daisho-in Temple. Daisho-in is a significant Buddhist temple founded by Kukai, the founder of the Shingon sect of Buddhism. As you enter, you’ll see a steep staircase where turning the prayer wheels on the railing is said to bring good luck. Another highlight is Daisho-in’s 500 Buddha statues, each with unique expressions, many donning knitted hats from locals. On your way back to the ferry, stop by the five-story pagoda and Senjo-kaku Temple. This route lets you cover the island’s main sights efficiently. You’ll also encounter friendly deer roaming freely around the island, adding to its peaceful charm. Don’t miss trying Miyajima’s famous momiji manju buns, a treat I loved since childhood—you’ll probably want seconds! Finally, if you take the ropeway up Mt. Misen, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the Seto Inland Sea.
Osaka to Hiroshima day trip cost
For a day trip from Osaka to Hiroshima, the Shinkansen “Nozomi” train fare is around 10,000 yen one-way. You’ll need to pay entrance fee 300 yen for Itsukushima Shrine and 100 yen for the visitor tax. If traveling from JR Hiroshima Station to Miyajima, add about 420 yen one-way for the train and 200 yen for the ferry. If you visit Miyajima after the Peace Memorial Park, add 200 yen for a tram ride from JR Hiroshima Station to Peace Memorial Park (Hondori Station) and 2,000 yen for the ferry from Peace Memorial Park to Miyajima. In total, a round-trip day trip costs around 21,220 yen to 24,800 yen. However, if you have a JR Pass, both the Shinkansen and JR ferry fares are covered, making this trip much more budget-friendly!
Also, many restaurants and shop on the island do not accept credit cards, so you will need to bring cash.
Is Itsukushima Shrine worth it?
Itsukushima Shrine is a place of profound beauty and history that’s absolutely worth visiting. The Otorii gate floating on the sea looks different depending on the time of day and weather; at sunset, it takes on a beautiful orange glow. The shrine itself, with its stage-like pavilions stretching over the sea, has a mysterious and serene atmosphere. Itsukushima Shrine is more than just a tourist attraction—it’s a place where visitors can experience the deep roots of Japanese Shintoism, leaving a lasting impression. You’ll find yourself captivated by its sacred air and natural beauty.
Is a day trip to Hiroshima from Osaka worth it?
You can take a day trip from Osaka to Hiroshima, if you want to see Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima and the Peace Memorial Park only. At Miyajima, with Itsukushima Shrine, you’ll feel the calm and spiritual energy of nature, while the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima provides an opportunity to learn about Japanese history through the Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Museum.
Is one day enough for Hiroshima and Miyajima?
I have explained that it is possible to visit Hiroshima and Miyajima on a day trip, but it will be a bit rushed and you will not be able to spend much time there. If you want to enjoy the scenery of Miyajima and the relaxed atmosphere of the island, we strongly recommend that you stay overnight in Miyajima, visiting historical sites such as Hiroshima Castle in addition to Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome in Hiroshima, or hiking to Misen (Mt. Misen) and interacting with deer in addition to Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima.
How to Go from Osaka to Itsukushima by Train and Ferry
Osaka to Hiroshima Ferry and Osaka to Miyajima Ferry
There are no ferries from Osaka to Hiroshima or from Osaka to Miyajima. The most common way to get to Hiroshima from Osaka is to first take the Shinkansen bullet train from Shin-Osaka Station to Hiroshima Station, then take train from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi station, and take a ferry from Miyajimaguchi Port to Miyajima. This is the most recommended way to get there and I will explaine below.
How to Go to Miyajima Island from Osaka? About the Bullet Train
You can catch the “Nozomi,” “Hikari,” or “Kodama” Shinkansen for the journey from Osaka to Hiroshima. The “Nozomi” is the fastest, taking around 1 hour and 40 minutes, ideal for those in a hurry. The “Hikari” and “Kodama” trains take closer to 2 hours and 30 minutes. From Shin-Osaka Station, hop on the Shinkansen (Nozomi) to Hiroshima Station, which takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Once in Hiroshima, switch to the JR Sanyo Line to reach Miyajima-guchi in 30 minutes, then take a short 10-minute ferry ride. If you stick to this route, it should take about 2.5 hours in total. For those who’d like to see the Peace Memorial Park first, head from Hiroshima Station to Hondori Station on the Hiroshima Electric Railway; it’s a quick walk to the ferry terminal from there. To avoid the crowds, booking Shinkansen tickets ahead is a smart choice!
Osaka to Miyajima with the JR Pass
With the JR Pass, you can get from Osaka to Miyajima using all JR transportation options, including the Shinkansen (Hikari and Kodama), Sanyo Main Line, and JR Miyajima Ferry, at no extra cost. Although it takes a bit longer than the “Nozomi,” it’s a money-saver since both the Shinkansen from Osaka to Hiroshima and the ferry to Miyajima are covered. For those planning more extensive travel on the Shinkansen, the JR Pass is a great budget-friendly option. Plus, the JR Pass covers most of Hiroshima’s local transport and Miyajima, so you can navigate the area smoothly with just one pass. Adding time for transfers into your plan makes for an even easier travel experience.
How Much is the Ferry to Miyajima with the JR Pass?
Multiple ferry companies operate different services to Miyajima with various travel times and fares, and some even offer free boarding for JR Pass holders. For details on ports, schedules, and fares to Miyajima, please click here.
Summary: Day Trip from Osaka to Itsukushima
We’ve put together a travel plan for getting from Osaka to Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima, covering key details on how to reach the shrine, the best travel options, and the most efficient route—even if it’s your first time. With this guide, you’ll be all set for a smooth day trip to Itsukushima Shrine! Just follow these points to make the most of your visit.
- Is a day trip possible?
Yes, a day trip from Osaka to Hiroshima and Itsukushima Shrine is totally doable if you plan well. The travel time is around 2.5 to 3 hours one way, so leaving early in the morning is your best bet. - Use the Shinkansen and JR Pass.
Taking the Shinkansen(Nozomi) is the easiest option, especially if you have a JR Pass. This pass covers your trip from Osaka to Hiroshima, the Sanyo Main Line, and the JR Miyajima Ferry, all without extra charges. It’s a budget-friendly way to keep travel costs down and focus on sightseeing. - Take the ferry to Miyajima.
From Miyajima-guchi, hop on a quick 10-minute ferry ride to Miyajima. With the JR Pass, the JR Miyajima Ferry is free, making it a great value. Plus, if the weather is clear, you’ll get a stunning view of the Otorii (Grand Gate) of Itsukushima Shrine from the ferry—a perfect start to your adventure! - Itsukushima Shrine Highlights and Time Spent.
Miyajima has a wealth of sights to see, including Itsukushima Shrine and Mt. It is recommended that you allow 3-4 hours for sightseeing. The tides create a unique atmosphere, so consider staying overnight if you want to enjoy a variety of views throughout the day. - About the cost.
A round trip by Shinkansen and ferry costs about 20,000 – 25,000 yen per adult, but the JR Pass can help you save big.
In short, a day trip from Osaka to Itsukushima Shrine is easy when you plan ahead. Make the most of Japan’s fantastic transportation network and have an amazing, memorable trip!
