Miyajima
Upon arrival on Miyajima, you will be accosted by wild deer! Don’t be afraid; these deer are very friendly and want to be fed. Most of them have had their antlers shaved off, so they are less dangerous. However, there are some male deer with magnificent antlers.
As you walk along the shore, you will see many souvenir shops. I recommend that you buy momiji manju for omiyageSouvenirs given to family, friends, coworkers, etc. Typically sweets or other food representing one of the specialties of the visited region. Failing to give such a gift after taking trip is a serious cultural faux pas in Japan. . Omiyage is Japanese for “souvernir”, specifically a souvenir you give to your friends or co-workers. It is an exteremly important custom in Japan. You must buy a local souvenir. Momiji means ‘maple’ and these sweets are famous throughout Japan. They are little cakes shaped like a maple leaf filled with anko (red bean paste). The fillings can vary, including chocolate, cream, cheese, macha (green tea) etc.
Miyajima is famous for its shrine built entirely in the sea. The shrine was built in the sea because the island itself is sacred, and thus, one shouldn’t build directly on it. When it is high tide, all the buildings as well as the large ‘o-torii’ (gate) are surrounded by water. At low tide, people walk out to the o-torii and try to throw stones on to it. According to superstition, if you can land a stone on the gate (any gate at a shrine or temple) your wish can come true. However, if you knock off someone else’s stone than you will have bad luck. Thus, proceed at your own risk. The Itsukushima Shrine and floating Torii are registed with UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, and is considered one of Japan’s top 3 views.
There are many temples and shrines around the island, as well as an aquatic park. There is a ropeway to bring you up to the summit of the island’s mountain. Mt. Misen is 529m above sea level, and commands a stunning view of the Seto Inland Sea. You can see Hiroshima, and Shikoku Island. There is a Monkey Center at the top of Mt. Misen. I have never seen any monkeys; nevertheless, there is a native monkey population on Miyajima. The signs warn tourists about naughty monkeys stealing things, such as your camera or items from your purse.
Miyajima is extremely popular during autumn. The momiji park (Maple Tree Park) is breathtaking during November. Some trees look like they are on fire with bright red and orange leaves. The gingko trees (iccho in Japanese I think) have brilliant yellow leaves. Thus, Miyajima offers historical temples and shrines, as well as a stunning natural environment.
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