30 Minutes One Way Cruise from Miyahama Onsen to Miyajima

A Scenic 30-Minute Journey from Hiroshima’s Miyahama Onsen to Miyajima

When thinking about visiting Hiroshima and its surroundings, most travelers focus on the Peace Memorial or the Hiroshima Castle. But just a short trip away, you’ll find the world heritage island of Miyajima, famous for its floating torii gate and friendly deer. This tour offers a unique twist: a 30-minute boat ride from Miyahama Onsen to Miyajima, giving you a chance to see the iconic shrine gate from the water, just as ancient worshippers once did.

For $122.43 per person, this experience is a delightful way to combine relaxation and sightseeing. The boat trip is just enough time to enjoy the gentle motion of the sea, the fresh air, and an up-close view of one of Japan’s most photographed sights. We love how this tour provides a quick, authentic maritime connection to Miyajima, especially since you can choose your start time — perfect for fitting into a busy itinerary.

What we really appreciate is the opportunity to perform a traditional prayer from the water — a rare, memorable moment for anyone interested in Japanese customs. Plus, the fact that the tour ends right on Miyajima’s main pier makes exploring the island’s highlights, like Itsukushima Shrine and the island’s charming streets, incredibly convenient.

One thing to consider: the tour doesn’t include any drinks, so bring your water or beverage of choice. For travelers who prefer a more flexible, land-based exploration, this might feel a bit short; however, for those eager to combine scenic travel with cultural moments, it’s just right.

This tour suits travelers looking for a brief but memorable maritime experience, those interested in cultural rituals, or visitors who want a smooth, scenic connection between hot springs (Miyahama Onsen) and one of Japan’s most iconic island sites.

Key Points

• Authentic maritime experience: Close-up views of the shrine gate and water prayers.
• Flexible start times: Choose your preferred departure for maximum convenience.
• Short & scenic: Perfect for those short on time but want a memorable sea journey.
• Cultural ritual: Opportunity to perform a traditional prayer from the water.
• Convenient ending point: Arrives right next to Miyajima’s main ferry terminal.
• Group size: Max of 8 travelers, offering a more intimate experience.

The Details of Your Miyajima Boat Ride

This tour is a straightforward yet charming way to see Miyajima from a different perspective. Starting at Okushin Pier in Miyahama Onsen, you’ll be greeted by your guide and provided with life jackets — essentials for any boat ride, but also a sign of how safety is prioritized.

Once aboard, the boat departs after your selected start time, heading toward Miyajima, with the Imposing 16-meter-high shrine gate coming into full view. This view is particularly striking because it appears to float during high tide, a classic photo opportunity. The boat’s design and size mean that you’ll be close enough to the shrine gate to appreciate its grandeur but still comfortable.

The 15-minute cruise is a relaxed affair, filled with the sounds of water and maybe a few seagulls. The guide often shares insights into the island’s significance, but the real highlight is the view itself. As you approach the island, you’ll have plenty of chances to snap photos, appreciate the traditional architecture, and feel a connection to centuries-old maritime practices.

Performing the traditional prayer — bow twice, clap twice, and bow once again from the water — is a deeply cultural moment. Not all tours include this, making it a genuine highlight for those interested in Japanese customs. It’s a touching, almost spiritual, way to start your visit to this sacred site.

The tour concludes at Pier 3 on Miyajima, conveniently located next to the ferry terminal. From here, you’re free to explore Miyajima at your own pace, whether that’s visiting Itsukushima Shrine, browsing local shops, or wandering in search of the island’s famed friendly deer.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Pricing at $122.43 per person offers a good value for the experience, considering it includes the boat ride and the cultural ritual. The tour is inclusive of the cruise fee but does not cover drinks or any additional expenses. It’s ideal for travelers who want a short, scenic, and authentic maritime experience without the hassle of arranging transportation separately.

Group sizes are limited to 8 travelers, fostering a more personal and engaging atmosphere. The flexible start times mean you can plan around other activities, such as a hot spring soak at Miyahama Onsen or a full day of sightseeing on Miyajima.

Preparation tips: Wear comfortable clothes, especially if you’re prone to sunburn or wind. During summer, long sleeves, hats, and sunglasses are advised for sun protection. In winter, pack an outer layer, scarf, and knit hat to stay warm against the wind. Remember, there are no restroom facilities on the boat, so plan accordingly before departure.

Weather considerations: If rain or rough sea conditions occur, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, with a notification sent by 3:00 PM the day before. The flexibility in cancellation is a bonus, especially in unpredictable weather.

Authentic Cultural Experience and Scenic Views

This tour excels in offering a glimpse into Japan’s maritime traditions. The water prayer, performed from the boat, is a moment that many reviews highlight as both meaningful and photogenic. It’s a chance to participate in a ritual that has been practiced for centuries, adding a spiritual layer to your sightseeing.

The view of the shrine gate during the cruise is genuinely impressive. We loved the way the gate appears to float during high tide, creating that iconic picture perfect scene. It’s also an excellent way to appreciate the island’s sacred nature, as the shrine was built over the sea to preserve its sanctity.

The experience is particularly good for those who enjoy scenic journeys and cultural rituals but don’t want a full-day tour. It complements other activities on Miyajima, making it an efficient addition to your itinerary.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat ride is perfect for travelers who appreciate authentic, intimate experiences and want a quick, scenic connection to Miyajima. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy cultural rituals and photo opportunities, especially of the famous torii gate from the water. If you’re traveling with limited time but want to enjoy a meaningful maritime experience, this tour fits the bill.

It’s also a great choice for family groups with older children, given the age restriction of over 7 years old and the small group setting. If you’re a solo traveler or a couple looking for a peaceful, culturally immersive moment, this cruise offers a quiet, memorable slice of Japan.

FAQs

How long does the boat cruise last?
The cruise is approximately 30 minutes, providing enough time to enjoy the views and participate in the water prayer.

Can I choose my departure time?
Yes, you can select your preferred start time when booking, allowing for flexible planning.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Participants must be over 7 years old, making it suitable for older children and adults alike.

What is included in the price?
The cruise fee is included, but drinks are not, so plan to bring your own beverage if desired.

Where does the tour end?
It ends at Pier 3 on Miyajima, right next to the ferry terminal, making it easy to continue exploring the island.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes, sun protection in summer, and warm outerwear in winter are recommended. Be aware there are no restrooms on the boat.

What happens in bad weather?
If weather conditions force cancellation, you’ll be notified by 3:00 PM the day before, with no cancellation fee.

In essence, this 30-minute boat tour offers a compact but meaningful way to connect with Japan’s maritime traditions and see the stunning shrine gate from the water. It’s an ideal choice for those wanting a brief, cultural, and scenic interlude on their trip to Miyajima — a memorable moment that combines natural beauty, cultural ritual, and authentic Japanese hospitality.