Mount Misen, the 535-metre peak that rises behind Itsukushima Shrine, is the sacred heart of Miyajima and the island’s finest walk. Revered for over a thousand years and covered in primeval forest, its trails climb through temples and past a hall holding a flame said to have burned continuously since the monk Kukai lit it in the ninth century — the same flame used to light the Flame of Peace in Hiroshima. The rocky summit is strewn with giant boulders and gives a magnificent panorama over the islands of the Seto Inland Sea. A ropeway carries you most of the way up, leaving a final rewarding climb on foot.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima |
| Hours | Ropeway ~9:00–17:00 (seasonal) |
| Admission | Ropeway ~¥2,000 return |
| Time needed | 2–4 hours |
| Best time | Clear days; autumn colour |
What to See
- A rocky summit of giant boulders with Inland Sea views.
- The eternal flame said to burn since the 9th century.
- Primeval forest and mountain temples on the trails.
- The ropeway up, then a final climb on foot.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with Itsukushima Shrine below.
- Pair with Miyajima’s autumn foliage in season.
- Read our Hiroshima overview .
Getting There
- By ropeway: from Momijidani, near the shrine, most of the way up.
- On foot: trails climb from the shrine area — allow extra time.
Tips
Take the ropeway up but be aware it doesn’t reach the very top — a rocky 30-minute climb remains from the upper station to the summit, so wear proper shoes and bring water. Check the last ropeway-down time carefully so you don’t get stranded, come on a clear day for the Inland Sea panorama, and combine it with the shrine below for a full Miyajima day.
