Complete Guide to Miyama Shrine (Itsukushima Shrine Inner Sanctuary)
What is Miyama Shrine?
Miyama Shrine is the inner sanctuary of Itsukushima Shrine, located on the summit of Mt. Misen (535m above sea level) in Miyajima, Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture. It has long been revered as a sacred site of mountain worship and is known as a sacred place with deep ties to the main Itsukushima Shrine.
Nestled amidst the mystical atmosphere of the mountaintop’s megaliths, it enshrines Sanki Daigongen and has flourished as a sacred site for Shugendo (mountain asceticism) since ancient times. Even today, it is one of Miyajima’s leading power spots, attracting many hikers and worshippers.
Deities and History
Deities Enshrined
- Sanki Daigongen
- Ichikishima-hime no Mikoto
- Tagori-hime no Mikoto
- Tagitsu-hime no Mikoto
Mt. Misen has been revered as a sacred mountain where gods reside since ancient times. It is said that during the Heian period, the inner shrine was established in conjunction with the faith of Itsukushima Shrine. A legend remains that Kobo Daishi Kukai performed a goma (fire ritual) on Mt. Misen in 806, preserving the history of the syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism.
Points to Note During Your Visit
The Mysterious Atmosphere of the Mountaintop
The most distinctive feature of Misen Shrine is its sacred area surrounded by massive iwakura (sacred rocks). Natural megaliths are scattered throughout the mountaintop, strongly retaining traces of primitive beliefs.
Highlights
- Giant Rocks: Huge rocks believed to be vessels where gods descend.
- Spectacular View from the Summit: A 360-degree panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea and its islands.
- Sacred Stone: A sacred stone believed to bring good fortune when touched while making a wish.
Proper Way to Visit
- Preparation Before Climbing: Be aware that Mt. Misen is a sacred mountain and begin your climb with reverence.
- Worship at the Main Shrine: Pray respectfully using the two bows, two claps, and one bow ritual.
- Visiting the Surrounding Rocks: If time permits, visit the giant rocks around the summit.
- Gratitude: Don’t forget to express gratitude for safely reaching the summit.
Recommended Time to Visit
- Spring (April-May): The fresh greenery is beautiful, and the weather is mild. The mountain is adorned with the beauty of Rhododendron dilatatum.
- Autumn (October-November): A famous spot for autumn foliage. The view from the mountaintop is also superb.
- Early Morning: Fewer people, allowing you to enjoy a mystical atmosphere. Visiting to see the sunrise is also popular.
Times to Avoid
- Mid-summer (risk of heatstroke)
- Typhoon season (September)
- During snowy or frozen periods (December-February)
Benefits and Divine Virtues
Main Benefits
Oyama Shrine has been known for its various miraculous powers since ancient times.
- Good Fortune and Prosperity: Located at the summit of a sacred mountain, it possesses powerful good fortune energy.
- Fulfillment of Wishes: Wishes are believed to be granted by overcoming difficulties and reaching the summit.
- Protection from Evil and Misfortune: Powerful protection from the Sanki Daigongen.
- Health and Longevity: Enhancement of vitality based on mountain worship.
- Business Prosperity: Divine virtue of Ichikishimahime-no-Mikoto.
Power Spots of the Entire Mt. Misen
The entire Mt. Misen, including the Misen Shrine, is a powerful sacred site.
- Reikado: The “eternal flame” lit by Kobo Daishi has been burning for over 1200 years.
- Sankido: An important sacred site dedicated to Sanki Daigongen.
- Kuguri-iwa: It is said that wishes will come true if you pass through the gap between the giant rocks.
Access and Hiking Routes
Three Main Hiking Routes
1. Momijidani Course (Most Popular)
- Estimated Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours for the ascent
- Distance: Approximately 2.5 km
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Features: The most well-maintained route. Starting from Momijidani Park, via Shinomiya Shrine
- Recommended Point: The view from the observation deck along the way is magnificent.
2. Daishoin Course
- Time Required: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes uphill
- Distance: Approximately 2.0 km
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Features: A historic approach to Daishoin Temple, starting from the back. Many stone steps.
- Recommended Point: You can climb while viewing historical buildings such as the Niomon Gate.
3. Omoto Course (Shortest)
- Time Required: Approximately 1 hour uphill
- Distance: Approximately 1.8 km
- Difficulty: Advanced (Steep)
- Features: The shortest but steep route. Suitable for those confident in their physical fitness.
- Recommended Point: A nature-rich route walking through a primeval forest.
Using the Ropeway
Using the Miyajima Ropeway, you can reach Shishiiwa Station in approximately 15 minutes. It’s about a 30-minute walk from there to the summit.
- Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Varies seasonally)
- Fare: Round trip: Adults 2,000 yen, Children 1,000 yen (as of 2024)
- Benefits: Recommended for those who are not confident in their physical fitness or have limited time
- Caution: May be suspended in strong winds
Access Details
Access to Miyajima
- To JR Miyajimaguchi Station or the ferry terminal
- To Miyajima Pier by ferry (approx. 10 minutes)
- 15-25 minute walk to each trailhead
Location: Mt. Misen summit, Miyajima-cho, Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Precautions for Visiting
Equipment and Items to Bring
- Required: Hiking boots or trekking shoes, drinking water (1L or more), towel
- Recommended: Hat, sunscreen, rainwear, snacks, first-aid kit
- Clothing: Comfortable, quick-drying clothing. Regulate your body temperature by layering your clothing.
Safety Precautions
- Wildlife: The deer of Miyajima are cute, but do not show them food. Beware of monkeys
- Weather Check: Always check the weather forecast before climbing.
- Time Management: Start climbing by 2 PM at the latest so you can descend before sunset.
- Avoid Solo Climbing: Climb in groups whenever possible.
- Climbing Notification: Inform your family or accommodation of your climbing plan in case of emergency.
Manners
- Always take your trash with you.
- No collecting of plants or animals.
- Do not shout (be mindful that this is a sacred mountain).
- Smoking is only permitted in designated areas.
- Be considerate of other worshippers when taking photographs.
Nearby Attractions
Mt. Misen Summit Area
- Mt. Misen Observatory: Enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea.
- Reikado: Water boiled by the “eternal flame” is said to cure all illnesses.
- Sankido: An important sacred site. Visiting in silence is recommended.
Places to visit after descending the mountain
- Itsukushima Shrine Main Hall: A World Cultural Heritage site. The large torii gate and shrine buildings float on the sea.
- Daishoin Temple: Miyajima’s oldest temple. A famous temple associated with Kobo Daishi.
- Momijidani Park: Stunning autumn foliage. Natural beauty throughout the seasons.
Summary
Miyama Shrine, located on the summit of Mt. Misen in Miyajima, has been a center of mountain worship since ancient times as the inner sanctuary of Itsukushima Shrine. The mystical atmosphere of the sacred mountain at an altitude of 535m and the sacred area surrounded by megaliths deeply move visitors.
Climbing requires physical strength and time, but the sense of accomplishment and divine blessings gained are exceptional. It is said to bring various benefits such as good fortune, fulfillment of wishes, and protection from evil, and is attracting attention as a power spot.
There are three hiking routes: the Momijidani course, the Daishoin course, and the Oomoto course, allowing you to choose according to your fitness level and available time. Using the ropeway makes visiting the shrine even easier.
When you visit Miyajima, be sure to challenge yourself by climbing Mount Misen, purify your soul at the Ooyama Shrine, and experience the breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea and the mystique of this sacred mountain.
