It is the island where God dwells. There is a beauty born from that belief.
Itsukushima Shrine is one of the most significant shrines in Japan, and the only shrine in the world which has a torii-gate and shrine building in the middle of the sea. Its view is considered one of the best three views in Japan.
Miyajima is believed to be the island where God dwells. It is said that Itsukushima Shrine is built in the coast because the whole island is believed to be God’s body and is sanctified. Itsukushima Shrine was built in the end of sixth century and modified to the present building with its solemn appearance by Kiyomori Taira, who came into power for the first time as a warrior in 1168. It is located in the sea and has a bold structure because the shape changes by the rising and falling tide. Also, the scenery combined with the vermillion-lacquered shrine building, green virgin forest on the back and the blue sea duly symbolizes the Japanese sense of beauty. The beautiful scenery never ceases to attract visitors.