Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Mount Misen is a mountain with an elevation of approximately 535m located on Itsukushima (Miyajima) in Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, and is the island's highest peak. It has been considered sacred since ancient times, and legend has it that Kukai (Kobo Daishi) performed a goma ritual on the mountain's summit during the Heian period. The "Eternal Sacred Flame" in the Reikado Hall near the summit is said to be a fire associated with Kobo Daishi, and is known for having continued to burn for many years.
Mount Misen is a mountain rich in nature, with many virgin forests remaining, and from the summit and various observation points you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea's many islands, Hiroshima city, and the shrines and temples of Miyajima. Hiking routes and the Miyajima Ropeway are well-maintained, making it an attractive spot for a wide range of activities, from light hiking to sightseeing.
Highlights
- Ryokado Hall: The eternal sacred flame: An immortal flame that originates from the legend of Kukai. It has been revered since ancient times at a sacred site near the summit.
- Misen Main Hall (Misenji Temple): A temple based on mountain worship, suitable for worship and historical exploration.
- Shishiiwa Observation Deck (Shishiwa): A rock observation point with a base shaped like a lion. You can see the Seto Inland Sea's many islands and Miyajima's shrines and temples (such as Itsukushima Shrine) in the distance. The evening and night views are also popular.
- Primeval forest and nature observation: A natural forest with evergreen trees such as beech and chinquapin, where you can enjoy observing seasonal plants and wild birds.
- hiking trailsThere are a variety of routes, from short courses for beginners to routes requiring physical strength. There are rocky areas and stone steps, making it a very varied trail.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train: The nearest station is Miyajimaguchi Station on the JR Sanyo Main Line (approximately 25-30 minutes by JR from Hiroshima Station).
- Ferry: Take the ferry bound for Miyajima (Itsukushima) from Miyajimaguchi (approximately 10 minutes). Operated by JR Ferry, Matsudai Kisen, etc.
- Getting around the island: From Miyajima Pier, walk (about 10-20 minutes) towards Momijidani Park to the lower station (Momijidani Station) of the Miyajima Ropeway. The ropeway will take you to Shishiiwa Station in a short time, and from there it is about a 30-minute walk to the summit.
- If you are climbing on foot: There are several routes, such as the Momijidani Course (Miyajima Pier → Momijidani) and the Daishoin Course (from the Daishoin side). The required time and difficulty vary depending on the route, so please check in advance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- By ropeway: From Miyajima Pier to the trailhead, then to the upper ropeway station, and back to the summit, plus a stroll around the summit, takes about 2-3 hours (at a tourist pace).
- Walking (mountain climbing): Approximately 1-2 hours one way, 2-4 hours round trip (depending on the route and your stamina). Including a break and a view at the summit, a half-day to full-day plan is recommended.
- Typical combinations for day trips: Visiting Itsukushima Shrine and taking the Misen Ropeway to the summit can be enjoyed in half a day to a full day.
Nearby spots
- Itsukushima Shrine: A World Heritage Site. Its famous large torii gate stands on the sea.
- Daisho-in Temple: An ancient temple on Miyajima. Located at one of the trailheads for Mt. Misen, you can enjoy worship and strolling through the gardens.
- Momijidani Park: A park suitable for strolling throughout the year, especially beautiful during the autumn foliage season.
- Five-story Pagoda and Omotesando Shopping Street: Lined with souvenir shops and restaurants, it's convenient for sampling local specialties and exploring the area.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion:Both Itsukushima and Mt. Misen are crowded during spring (cherry blossoms), autumn (autumn leaves), holidays, and weekends. Please allow plenty of time for your trip, taking into account waiting times for the ropeway and congestion on the approach to the shrine.
- Clothing and equipment:The mountain trails have stone steps and steep slopes, so please bring trekking shoes or sneakers, drinking water, and rain gear. You will need to protect yourself from the heat in summer and the cold in winter.
- weather:The Seto Inland Sea can be windy, and the ropeway may be suspended during bad weather. Please check the operation information and weather forecast before setting off.
- Mountain etiquette:To protect the environment, please be sure to take your trash with you and do not trample on vegetation. Please pray quietly at sacred sites and temples, and do not enter restricted areas.
- animal:There are deer on the island, but please do not feed them (this can be dangerous for people and animals, and can lead to traffic accidents).
- safety:Be especially careful of slipping and falling when descending the mountain. Avoid descending after dark, and make sure to check the time of the last ropeway departure before making your plans.
Please use the above information to enjoy the nature, views, and history of Mt. Misen. If necessary, we can also provide information on ropeway operating times, detailed maps of each climbing route, and seasonal recommendations (autumn leaves, fresh greenery, early summer flowers, etc.).
