Miyajima

Over our Christmas break we decided to take a road trip up to Hiroshima. During our stay we visited Itsukushima, usually called Miyajima (Shrine Island). It has long been considered a very sacred place and is only accessible by ferry. We initially went just to see all the wild deer, but it quickly became one of our favorite places in Japan. We always joke that Japan is great if you want to go see shrines, shrines, and more shrines. They all start to look the same after awhile. Miyajima however, doesn't disappoint. If you only have a short period of time when visiting Japan, then Miyajima is the place to be because the entire island is covered with very large, fairly unique shrines. It is most well known for its massive "floating" torii gate, but it has a few other beautiful, impressive places. Also, like I said before, they have friendly deer roaming around, which means adorable deer souvenirs and deer-themed food items.

View our ferry and two rowing teams our on the water.

There is a great little shopping area. It made me miss my dad because I'm sure he would love all the little stands selling freshly cooked oysters! 

A popular treat on Miyajima is Momiji Manjyu, little maple leaf shaped filled cakes

One of the most iconic sites in all of Japan is the giant floating Torii gate that is part of Itsukushima Shrine which is now a UNESCO world heritage site.

15 week baby bump

David was swarmed by deer and old ladies alike. The little ladies loved seeing Eisley.

The deer would steal and eat anything, including paper maps and brochures

Eisley was in love with the deer. She didn't want to get her fingers eaten so she was walking around giving the deer "knuckles". 

Senjo-Kaku is a huge pavilion built in 1587. The floorspace is roughly the size of one thousand tatami mats and was built to honor and pray for fallen warriors. The massive supporting pillars are set on individual stone foundations since the ground of the island is considered holy.  

The island also has a lovely 5 story pagoda that was built in 1407. It is dedicated to the Buddhist god of medicine. 

The main shrine of Iksukushima is the world heritage site. It is dedicated to the three daughters of the Shinto God of the sea and storms, Susanoo-no-Mikoto. It is composed of several buildings and walkways all built on piers that appear to float on water during high tide. 

view overlooking Itsukushima Shrine

Daisho-in Buddhist temple is an ascending complex of temples situated as you walk up the side of Mt. Misen. It was founded in 806 and has several shrines and buildings, all with interesting offerings. My absolute favorite is the little hill covered in round little Jizo statues. These chubby, adorable statues can be found tucked away all over the temple grounds.  

These little Jizo statues represent children that have passed, families take care of them like they would their child and believe it offers redemption to their souls. 

We weren't the only ones that noticed how peaceful and quiet it was here, Eisley decided it was a great place to take a quick nap

There's a really fun sky car that gives you a ride up the side of Mt. Misen, It offers great views of the island and Hiroshima across the water.

During low tide you can walk out to the base of the Torii gate. Many people try to cram yen coins into the barnacles growing on the base of the gate. 

We were face-timing with my mom so she made it into our trip pictures :) It was so fun to feel like she was there with us!

We had an excellent visit and I would love to return before we leave Japan! It is definitely one of my favorite places here!