Mt. Misen, the highest peak on Miyajima Island in Hiroshima, is a treasure trove of scenic beauty and spiritual history. Visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the Seto Inland Sea and explore ancient temples along the way. Hike up one of the scenic trails or take the ropeway to experience the island’s natural beauty and spiritual significance.
Why Visit Mt. Misen
- Stunning Panoramic Views: From the summit of Mt. Misen, visitors are treated to breathtaking 360-degree views of the Seto Inland Sea, Hiroshima City, and the surrounding islands. The views from the Misen Observatory have even earned three stars in the Michelin Green Guide.
- Rich Cultural and Religious Significance: Mt. Misen is a sacred mountain with deep religious roots. It is believed that Kobo Daishi, one of Japan’s holiest figures and the founder of the Shingon sect of Buddhism, first practiced Buddhism here in 806 AD. The mountain is dotted with significant temples and religious sites.
- The Seven Wonders of Mt. Misen: The mountain is famous for its “Seven Wonders,” which include the Eternal Flame that has been burning for over 1,200 years, a sacred plum tree, and other mystical natural phenomena.
Hiking Trails on Mt. Misen
There are three main hiking trails that lead up to the summit of Mt. Misen, each offering a unique experience: the Momijidani Course, the Daisho-in Course, and the Omoto Course.
The Momijidani Course is perfect for those who enjoy a challenge. While it is the shortest route to the top, it is also the steepest, winding its way through a dense forest. As you ascend, you’ll be surrounded by the lush greenery of Momijidani Park, which is particularly stunning during the autumn months when the maple trees turn vibrant shades of red and gold. The trail can be demanding, but the serene forest and occasional glimpses of the Seto Inland Sea make it a rewarding journey.
For those looking for a more moderate hike, the Daisho-in Course is an excellent choice. This trail is considered the most scenic, offering a variety of views as you make your way up the mountain. Starting from Daisho-in Temple, you’ll pass by several smaller temples and shrines, each with its own historical significance. The path is less steep than the Momijidani Course, making it accessible for most hikers. Along the way, you’ll encounter beautiful forested areas, clearings with panoramic views, and even a few deer that call the mountain home.
The Omoto Course is ideal for hikers who want to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Mt. Misen without the steep inclines of the other trails. This path is the longest of the three but offers a gentler ascent, allowing you to enjoy the diverse flora and fauna of the mountain at a more leisurely pace. The Omoto Course takes you through the Omoto Park and along the Omoto River, where the sound of flowing water adds to the peaceful ambiance. The trail eventually joins the other paths near the summit, where you can enjoy the same stunning views and historical sites.
Miyajima Ropeway
If you’re looking for a less strenuous way to reach the top of Mt. Misen, the ropeway is an excellent option. This aerial tramway offers a scenic and relaxing journey up the mountain, allowing you to take in the beautiful surroundings without the physical exertion of hiking.
The ropeway station is conveniently located a short walk from both Itsukushima Shrine and the Miyajima ferry pier. It takes about ten minutes to reach the station from the shrine, or twenty minutes from the ferry pier. The journey to the upper station at Shishi-iwa Observatory takes about twenty minutes and includes a transfer to a second ropeway midway up the mountain.
As the ropeway ascends, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the dense forest below and the sprawling Seto Inland Sea. The aerial perspective provides a unique vantage point to appreciate the natural beauty of Miyajima Island. The ride is smooth and peaceful, making it an enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.
Upon reaching the upper station at Shishi-iwa Observatory, you’ll find yourself still about a kilometer from the summit of Mt. Misen. The observatory is a fantastic spot for taking photos, with panoramic views that stretch out across the island and beyond. From here, a well-marked hiking trail leads to the summit, passing several key attractions along the way.
The walk from Shishi-iwa Observatory to the summit takes approximately thirty minutes and involves a bit of climbing, but the path is well-maintained and offers plenty of opportunities to rest and take in the scenery. As you make your way up, you’ll pass by the Misen Hondo (Main Hall) and Reikado (Hall of the Spiritual Flame). These historical sites add a layer of cultural significance to your journey, with the Reikado housing the sacred flame that has been burning for over 1,200 years.
The final stretch to the summit is marked by a series of large rocks and natural formations, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape. Upon reaching the top, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most spectacular views in all of Japan. The 360-degree panorama includes the Seto Inland Sea, the surrounding islands, and on clear days, even the distant cityscape of Hiroshima.
Whether you choose to hike or take the ropeway, reaching the summit of Mt. Misen is an unforgettable experience. The combination of stunning natural beauty and profound historical sites makes this journey a highlight of any trip to Miyajima. The ropeway provides a comfortable and scenic alternative for those who prefer to take in the sights without the physical challenge of hiking, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the magic of Mt. Misen.
Key Attractions on Mt. Misen
Misen Hondo (Main Hall)
Misen Hondo is one of the most significant religious sites on Mt. Misen. Located near the summit, this temple enshrines Kokuzo Bosatsu, the deity of luck and wisdom. The hall provides a peaceful space for reflection and worship, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the spiritual ambiance of the mountain.
The Seven Wonders of Mt. Misen
Mt. Misen is famed for its mystical Seven Wonders, each with its own unique story and significance:
- The Eternal Flame (Kiezu-no-hi): This sacred flame, housed in Reikado Hall, has been burning continuously for over 1,200 years since it was lit by Kobo Daishi. It symbolizes eternal peace and was used to ignite the Flame of Peace in Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park.
- Shakujo-no-ume (Plum Tree of Tin Stick): Legend has it that this plum tree grew from Kobo Daishi’s crosier. The tree’s connection to the revered monk adds a sense of mystique to the site.
- Kanman-iwa (Ebb-and-flow Rock): This fascinating rock, located about 500 meters above sea level, contains a hollow that fills and empties with seawater, mirroring the tides despite its elevation. This phenomenon remains a mystery and intrigues many visitors.
- Mandara-iwa: Behind Misen Hondo Hall is a gigantic bedrock face on which handwritten letters, Sanskrit characters, and illustrations of Kobo Daishi are engraved. These engravings add to the spiritual and historical significance of the mountain.
- Hyoshigi-no-oto (Sound of Wooden Clappers): In this area, you can hear the mysterious ‘clink, clink’ sound of wooden clappers echoing in the night. According to legend, the sound is made by a tengu, a long-nosed goblin, and it is said that hearing it is an ominous sign.
- Shigure-zakura (Showered Cherry Blossom): This cherry tree was known for being constantly moist with dew, even on sunny days. While the original tree no longer exists, its legend continues to enchant visitors.
- Ryuoto No Sugi (Sea-fire Japan Cedar): This cedar tree was known for the mysterious lights that appeared around it, especially visible on the eve of a lunar New Year. Though the tree has since died, the stump remains, continuing to draw the curious and the faithful.
Shishi-iwa Observatory
The Shishi-iwa Observatory, located at the upper ropeway station, offers stunning 360-degree views of the Seto Inland Sea and beyond. This observatory is perfect for capturing panoramic photos and appreciating the natural beauty of the area. On clear days, you can even see the distant cityscape of Hiroshima.
Wildlife Encounters
Mt. Misen is home to various wildlife, including friendly deer that roam freely along the trails. These gentle creatures are a delight to encounter and add to the mountain’s charm. While sightings of wild monkeys are rare since many were relocated to the mainland, you might still spot one during your hike.
Primeval Forest
The north side of Mt. Misen is covered by a primeval forest, which is protected as a Natural Monument and part of the UNESCO World Heritage area. This ancient forest features a diverse array of flora and offers a serene and untouched environment. Walking through this forest is like stepping back in time, providing a peaceful and immersive nature experience.
Video
Mt. Misen is featured in this video travel guide fo Miyajima. The segment starts at 8:27.
FAQ
How long does it take to hike Mt. Misen?
Hiking to the summit of Mt. Misen typically takes between 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the trail you choose. The Momijidani Course is the shortest but steepest, the Daisho-in Course is the most scenic and moderately challenging, and the Omoto Course is the longest but offers a gentler ascent.
What is the best time of year to visit Mt. Misen?
The best times to visit Mt. Misen are during the spring and autumn seasons. In spring, you can enjoy the cherry blossoms, while autumn offers stunning views of the changing foliage. The weather during these seasons is also mild, making it ideal for hiking.
Can children hike Mt. Misen?
Yes, children can hike Mt. Misen, but it is important to choose a trail suitable for their age and fitness level. The Daisho-in Course is generally recommended for families as it is scenic and moderately challenging. Always ensure children are supervised and well-prepared for the hike.
What wildlife might I encounter on Mt. Misen?
Visitors to Mt. Misen can expect to see deer, which roam freely on the mountain. While sightings of wild monkeys have become rare, there is still a chance of encountering them. The mountain is also home to a variety of birds and other small wildlife.
Do I need to pay an entrance fee to hike Mt. Misen?
There is no entrance fee to hike Mt. Misen. However, if you choose to take the ropeway, there is a fee for the ride. Prices vary, so it’s best to check the current rates before planning your trip.
How to Get to Mt. Misen
Travel to Miyajima
The most common route involves taking the JR Sanyo Line from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station. The train ride is quick and efficient, taking about 25 minutes. Once you arrive at Miyajimaguchi Station, a short walk will lead you to the ferry terminal.
At the terminal, you have two main ferry options: the JR ferry and the Matsudai ferry. Both ferries operate frequently throughout the day, and the ride to Miyajima Island takes approximately 10 minutes for ¥200. You can pay by cash or IC card. Only the JR Ferry is covered by the
Reaching the Base of Mt. Misen
Once you disembark from the ferry at Miyajima, getting to the base of Mt. Misen is straightforward. If you prefer to start your journey on foot, it’s a pleasant 20-minute walk from the ferry pier to the ropeway station. The other trailheads are also accessible on foot.
