After visiting the Itsukushima Shrine, our second activity of the day was to ride the Miyajima Ropeway and explore Mount Misen – the sacred mountain where some Gods are still believed to reside. There are a few ways to get to the top of Mount Misen, which is the highest peak (535 m) on Miyajima. We took the Miyajima Ropeway to Shishiiwa Observatory, optionally you can also hike to the top. If you choose to hike, there are several routes but each one would take roughly 2 hours for 1 way.
Momijidani Park | Mount Misen
On the way to Momijidani Station, we walked through Momijidani Park. The trees and the scenery were unbelievably green and beautiful.
Miyajima Ropeway
The Miyajima Ropeway only has 3 stations, you start at Momijidani Station in a smaller gondola (fits 8 people). It is a 10-minute ride then you switch to a funicular type with large carriers (fits 30 people) at Kayatani Station to get to Shishiiwa Station.
Miyajima Momijidani Station
This is the starting point for the Miyajima Ropeway, you can purchase tickets for one way or round trip.
While going up the hill, you get to see beautiful forest below and view of the Hiroshima Bay.
After switching to the funicular carrier at Kayatani Station, you will arrive at Shishiiwa Station/Observatory in 15 min.
As you exit the station, there’s a sign telling visitors what to see as well as the amount of time required to visit. It’s about 20-minute walk to see the eternal flame and 30-minute walk to the top of Mount Misen. The path is not paved so bring really comfortable hiking shoes and avoid heavy bags. It is not an easy hike so keep this in mind if you have small children.
Top 3 Scenic Spots of Japan | Mount Misen
View of Hiroshima Bay from Shishiiwa Rock.
After enjoying the view, it’s time to start hiking! Full transparency, we didn’t make it all the way to Mount Misen Observatory at the top. As you can see it was a pretty hot summer day and our children were a bit worn out from the hike. We did make it to Misenhondo and Reikado Hall to see the eternal flame. The eternal flame has been burning there for 1,200 years. It is believed the holy water boiled by this fire cures all sorts of diseases. The fire was also used as the pilot light for the “Flame of Peace” at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. There is a restroom and vending machine at this rest stop for guests to use.
As you head down the mountain, you get to enjoy the beautiful view once again. In the bay, you can see all the oyster farms floating on top of the water.
If we had more time, we would definitely try to make to the top. If you enjoy hiking and love undisturbed nature and scenery, we highly recommend hiking on Mount Misen. If you enjoyed the Mount Misen guide, check out Miyajima Travel Guide, Itsukushima Shrine, and other travel posts from Just One Cookbook.
Itsukushima Shrine
