Port information & tips for Miyajima (Itsukushima)
Miyajima, the sacred island in Hiroshima Bay, is considered one of Japan's most spiritual places and welcomes cruise passengers with a timeless, magical atmosphere. The island impresses with its dense forests and offers an authentic Japanese experience thanks to the free-roaming deer and traditional architecture. World-famous sights such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site Itsukushima Shrine with its iconic red Torii gate and the magnificent Daisho-in Temple are within direct reach. Cruise ships use the centrally located Miyajima Pier (Miyajima-sanbashi), from which the picturesque streets of the island town, local specialty markets, and the base station of the cable car to Mount Misen are easily accessible on foot in just a few minutes.
Miyajima, also known as Itsukushima, is a picturesque island in the Seto Inland Sea and is considered one of Japan's most beautiful landscapes. Although large cruise ships primarily dock at the nearby Hiroshima Port (Ujina Port), you can reach the island itself via the Miyajimaguchi ferry port on the mainland. From there, the island and its famous sights are easily accessible by ferry.
Airplane
For guests from the DACH region, traveling by plane is the most common choice, with Hiroshima Airport (HIJ) being the nearest international airport. It is located approximately 72 kilometers from the Miyajimaguchi ferry terminal. A direct bus connection takes you to the Miyajimaguchi ferry terminal in about an hour, with costs around 4,000 Yen. Some buses even offer free luggage storage or transfers to partner hotels, which significantly eases the onward journey. Due to the long flight time from Europe, a pre-cruise overnight stay in Hiroshima or Miyajimaguchi is recommended to start your cruise experience relaxed.
Train
The Japanese railway offers a comfortable and efficient journey to the Miyajimaguchi ferry terminal. From Hiroshima Station, you can reach Miyajimaguchi Station directly via the JR Sanyo Line in about 25 to 30 minutes. This route is conveniently included in the Japan Rail Pass. From Miyajimaguchi Station, it is just a few minutes' walk to the ferry pier, where both the JR Miyajima Ferry and the Matsudai Ferry cross to Miyajima Island. The scenic crossing takes only about 10 minutes, and with a Japan Rail Pass, you can use the JR ferry free of charge. A visitor tax of 100 Yen applies for the ferry crossing, which is often included in the ticket price or paid separately.
Car
If you arrive by car, the Sanyo Expressway leads to the Hatsukaichi IC exit, from where you can reach the Miyajimaguchi ferry terminal in about 8 minutes via National Route 2. Several paid parking options are available directly at the ferry terminal, including the modern Mitsui Repark Miyajima-guchi Passenger Terminal Parking Lot, which is only a three-minute walk from the ferry pier and offers both short-term and long-term parking. It is important to note that there are no parking facilities for cars on Miyajima itself; your vehicle remains on the mainland in Miyajimaguchi. From there, you can comfortably take the ferry for the short crossing to the island.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will generally receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and consider that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the journey: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
Miyajima, also known as Itsukushima, is a picturesque island in the Seto Inland Sea and is considered one of Japan's most beautiful landscapes. Although large cruise ships primarily dock at the nearby Hiroshima Port (Ujina Port), you can reach the island itself via the Miyajimaguchi ferry port on the mainland. From there, the island and its famous sights are easily accessible by ferry.
Airplane
For guests from the DACH region, traveling by plane is the most common choice, with Hiroshima Airport (HIJ) being the nearest international airport. It is located approximately 72 kilometers from the Miyajimaguchi ferry terminal. A direct bus connection takes you to the Miyajimaguchi ferry terminal in about an hour, with costs around 4,000 Yen. Some buses even offer free luggage storage or transfers to partner hotels, which significantly eases the onward journey. Due to the long flight time from Europe, a pre-cruise overnight stay in Hiroshima or Miyajimaguchi is recommended to start your cruise experience relaxed.
Train
The Japanese railway offers a comfortable and efficient journey to the Miyajimaguchi ferry terminal. From Hiroshima Station, you can reach Miyajimaguchi Station directly via the JR Sanyo Line in about 25 to 30 minutes. This route is conveniently included in the Japan Rail Pass. From Miyajimaguchi Station, it is just a few minutes' walk to the ferry pier, where both the JR Miyajima Ferry and the Matsudai Ferry cross to Miyajima Island. The scenic crossing takes only about 10 minutes, and with a Japan Rail Pass, you can use the JR ferry free of charge. A visitor tax of 100 Yen applies for the ferry crossing, which is often included in the ticket price or paid separately.
Car
If you arrive by car, the Sanyo Expressway leads to the Hatsukaichi IC exit, from where you can reach the Miyajimaguchi ferry terminal in about 8 minutes via National Route 2. Several paid parking options are available directly at the ferry terminal, including the modern Mitsui Repark Miyajima-guchi Passenger Terminal Parking Lot, which is only a three-minute walk from the ferry pier and offers both short-term and long-term parking. It is important to note that there are no parking facilities for cars on Miyajima itself; your vehicle remains on the mainland in Miyajimaguchi. From there, you can comfortably take the ferry for the short crossing to the island.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will generally receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and consider that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the journey: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
Arrival at Miyajima Pier provides direct access to the island's cultural treasures and offers an ideal starting point for a variety of explorations.
On Foot
Most of the island is wonderfully walkable, and the famous Itsukushima Gate can be reached easily in about ten to fifteen minutes. The path leads directly along the picturesque waterfront promenade and, thanks to the central location of the terminal, offers initial views of the iconic red gate in the sea.
Miyajima Ropeway & Shuttle Bus
The cable car takes you comfortably to the summit of Mount Misen and grants impressive panoramic views over the Seto Inland Sea. A free shuttle bus also runs regularly between Momijidani Park and the valley station of the ropeway, facilitating access to the forested mountain area.
Rickshaws & Taxis
Traditional Japanese rickshaws (Jinrikisha) as well as local taxis are available for you directly at Miyajima Pier. The knowledgeable rickshaw drivers will charmingly guide you to hidden temples while sharing interesting stories about the rich history of this sacred island.
To fully savor the mystical atmosphere of the sacred island of Miyajima, a tour is recommended that combines the world-famous shrine complexes with the picturesque paths of nature and the lively island center.
Itsukushima-Schrein & The Great Torii
The iconic shrine, standing in the water, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers one of Japan's most famous sights thanks to its vermilion architecture and the majestic backdrop of the sea. The entire complex is connected by walkways and looks like a floating work of art at high tide; additionally, the monumental Torii gate is an unforgettable photo motif right off the coast.
Omotesando Shopping Street
This bustling street in the heart of the island is the vibrant center for visitors and invites you to stroll with its traditional craft shops and local delicacies such as freshly baked Momiji Manju. Thanks to its close proximity to the ferry terminal, it is the perfect place to enjoy the authentic island flair while marveling at the world's largest wooden rice scoop.
Mount Misen & Momijidani Park
A cable car ride up the sacred mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views over the Seto Inland Sea and is ideal for nature lovers seeking the spiritual tranquility of the island. The path there leads through the idyllic Momijidani Park, which is particularly impressive in autumn with its brilliant red maple trees, while simultaneously forming a gentle transition into the island's untouched mountain world.
Itsukushima Shrine and Momijidani Park
The world-famous Itsukushima Shrine with its iconic "floating" torii gate is reachable from the island's ferry pier in a relaxed, ten-minute walk and offers one of Japan's most impressive cultural settings. The extensive complex fascinates with its architecture above sea level and is also embedded in the picturesque Momijidani Park, which, with its gentle paths and traditional tea houses, is perfect for a relaxing break in nature. Thanks to the excellent infrastructure along the busy Omotesando Street, you can enjoy a first-class selection of cafes and local specialties here, such as the freshly baked Momiji-manju cakes. Ideally, visit the shrine in the early morning to experience the peaceful atmosphere before the larger crowds of visitors arrive, and to be on the safe side, plan your return trip by ferry to the mainland ninety minutes before boarding.
Returning to the port of Miyajima is very relaxed and safe thanks to the island's compact paths and excellent signage.
On Foot
The walk from the main sights, such as the Itsukushima Shrine or the lively Omotesando shopping street, back to the ferry terminal takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Simply follow the picturesque waterfront promenade and enjoy the view of the famous red Torii gate, while clearly visible signs always point you in the direct direction of the pier.
Ferries and Local Buses
JR and Miyajima Matsudai Kisen ferries depart regularly from the Miyajima Ferry Terminal, bringing you punctually to your tender boat or mainland connection. Additionally, a free shuttle bus from Momijidani Park conveniently takes you back to the center after visiting the ropeway, making the return journey to the port significantly easier thanks to its frequent service.
Taxi
A taxi rank is located directly on the square in front of the ferry terminal, allowing for a quick return from more remote points of the island or from hotels. Since the number of vehicles on Miyajima is controlled, a short reservation through a local hotel like the Iwaso ensures absolute punctuality and a comfortable transfer directly to the pier.
