Explore Miyajima Sail from Miyahama Onsen

An Authentic and Scenic Journey to Miyajima’s Sacred Shrines

If you’re headed to Hiroshima and looking for a way to explore a different side of Miyajima, the Explore Miyajima Sail from Miyahama Onsen offers a compact but meaningful glimpse into the island’s spiritual landscape. For just $127, you get approximately an hour of boat-based sightseeing that takes you along the coast, visiting two key shrines—Suyaura-jinja and Mitoko-jinja—while soaking in views of the Seto Inland Sea’s sprawling 30 km of islands and coastlines. Guided by local insights, this tour balances history, nature, and a touch of Japan’s legendary spirituality.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it blends a tranquil boat ride with visits to shrines steeped in legend, making it both relaxing and culturally enriching. The small group size—maximum of 8 travelers—ensures an intimate setting, perfect for conversation and reflection. Plus, the fact that you can choose your preferred start time adds flexibility to fit this into a busy Hiroshima itinerary.

One consideration to keep in mind is the weather dependency—since the tour involves outdoor time on the water, rough seas or rain could impact your experience or cause cancellations. Also, it’s designed for those over 7 years old, so it might not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues, given the nature of the sites involved.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of history, spirituality, and scenic views, especially those with a curiosity for Japan’s deep-rooted traditions and legends. If you’re looking for a short, meaningful excursion that’s easier than a full-day tour but still packed with cultural insights, this sail is worth considering.

Key Points

• Short but rich experience: A one-hour boat trip that offers cultural visits and scenic views in Miyajima.
• Small group intimacy: Max of 8 travelers ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Historic significance: Visits to shrines linked to legends and historical figures like Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
• Flexible timing: You can choose your preferred start time, making it easy to fit into your day.
• Weather considerations: Outdoor activity sensitive to weather; cancellations possible if sea conditions are adverse.
• Cost-effective: At $127, it provides a quick but meaningful cultural experience with added scenic beauty.

Exploring the Miyajima Sail in Detail

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at the Okushin Shipyard, conveniently located just across the street from Miyahama Onsen, a popular hot spring area. You’ll start by putting on a life jacket—an easy, non-intimidating step—and then board a boat that whisks you along the coast for about 15 minutes. The boat ride itself is a highlight, offering gentle breezes and stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea’s many islands and the coastline’s rocky, natural beauty.

First Stop: Suyaura Bay and Shrines

Your journey begins with a visit to Suyaura-jinja Shrine and nearby Mitoko-jinja Shrine. These shrines are set amidst untouched nature, with the coast providing a peaceful backdrop that enhances the spiritual atmosphere. Visitors often comment on how this part of Miyajima remains relatively pristine, away from the crowds that gather at the more famous Itsukushima Shrine.

Suyaura-jinja is known for its tranquil setting and the chance to pay respects in a quiet, authentic environment. The shrine is said to be part of the Nanaura Meguri, a ritual that dates back over a millennium, where pilgrims would visit seven shrines to purify their mind and body. As one reviewer noted, “The shrines are surrounded by beautiful nature, and visiting them felt like stepping back in time.”

Second Stop: Mitokoura Shrine and Legend

Next, you’ll visit Mitoko-jinja Shrine, which carries a legend of being a temporary home for the enshrined deity during the construction of Itsukushima-jinja in the 6th century. This adds an extra layer of significance—imagine standing where ancient builders and deities are said to have once been honored. The shrine’s history ties directly into the legend that the deity of Itsukushima-jinja wandered the island, seeking a home, making this stop both scenic and meaningful.

Return and Reflection

After about 25 minutes exploring and paying respects, you’ll return to the Okushin Shipyard. This short but immersive experience leaves plenty of room for reflection. The tour concludes around the one-hour mark, giving you time to continue exploring Miyajima or return to Hiroshima.

What’s Included and Practical Tips

The tour includes group discounts and a mobile ticket for ease of access. It’s designed for most travelers over 7 years old, and service animals are permitted. What you should bring is straightforward: comfortable clothes, sun protection in summer (hat, sunglasses, long sleeves), and warm outerwear in winter. It’s important to note there are no restroom facilities along the route, so plan accordingly.

Since weather can influence the experience, check the forecast—if rain or storms are forecasted, the tour provider will notify you the day before. This proactive approach helps you avoid disappointment.

Cost and Value

At $127, the tour balances affordability with a rich cultural experience. It’s not just a boat ride; it’s a chance to connect with Miyajima’s spiritual roots and enjoy scenic vistas that are often missed by standard sightseeing. Compared to full-day excursions, this is a quick, manageable way to add depth to your visit without a significant time commitment.

Authentic Experience and Cultural Connection

Multiple reviews highlight how this tour feels genuine and authentic. “It’s a rare chance to see the shrines in a peaceful setting away from the crowds,” one visitor remarked. Another appreciated the local-guided insights that provided context about the legends and history, making each stop more meaningful.

However, some travelers noted the limited duration means you only scratch the surface of Miyajima’s deep spiritual landscape. If you’re keen on a comprehensive temple or shrine tour, this might be a supplement rather than a replacement.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This activity is ideal for history buffs, spiritual seekers, and scenic lovers who want a quick, peaceful escape from the more crowded parts of Miyajima. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want a taste of local legends and beautiful coastlines. It’s also suited to those who appreciate small-group experiences with personalized interactions, and who enjoy being on the water in a relaxed setting.

Final Thoughts

The Explore Miyajima Sail from Miyahama Onsen offers a unique blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and spiritual significance. For just over an hour, you’ll connect with legend and history, all while enjoying gentle boat rides and peaceful shrine visits. It’s an experience that provides value through its intimate, authentic approach—without the crowds or complexity of larger tours.

Whether you’re a traveler with a deep interest in Japanese traditions or simply looking for a peaceful moment along Miyajima’s coast, this tour provides a meaningful snapshot of what makes this island special. It’s best enjoyed by those who want to combine scenic views with cultural discovery in a short, manageable outing.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately one hour, including boat ride and shrine visits.

What is the cost?
The tour costs $127, which covers the boat ride, guided visits, and small group setting.

Can I choose my start time?
Yes, you can select your preferred start time when booking, offering flexibility to fit your schedule.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but participants must be over 7 years old. Young children should be able to handle outdoor activities and boat rides.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes, sun protection in summer, warm outerwear in winter, and personal items like water and waterproofing for your phone.

What happens in bad weather?
If weather conditions are unsuitable, the tour may be canceled, and you’ll be notified by 3:00 PM the day before—no cancellation fees apply.

In summary, this tour is a well-balanced way to experience Miyajima’s spiritual core with scenic beauty and historical legends. It’s suited to travelers who enjoy a quiet, meaningful experience and are comfortable with outdoor activities. If you value authentic encounters over large crowds and are interested in Japan’s legends, this short sail fits the bill nicely.