Overview
Mount Misen rises 535 meters at the center of the island of Miyajima (Itsukushima) in Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima Prefecture, and is the island's highest peak. A sacred mountain revered since ancient times, it lies partly within the registered area of the World Heritage Itsukushima Shrine. Both the mountain and the whole island fall within Setonaikai National Park, and from the summit the many islands of the Seto Inland Sea spread out in every direction. Blending pilgrimage, hiking and sweeping views, Misen is a holy mountain unlike any other on Miyajima.
Highlights
- ●Views over the island-studded sea from the 535-meter summit, the highest on Miyajima
- ●An ancient site of religious practice, said to have been visited by Kūkai in 806
- ●The Misen Primeval Forest on the northern slope, a national natural monument
- ●The 2013 summit rest-and-observation building and the giant boulders scattered around it
History
According to the Miyajima Tourist Association, Mount Misen was visited by Kūkai (Kōbō Daishi) in 806, the first year of the Daidō era, and it has been an important site of religious practice ever since. From the 9th century onward, shrines and halls were built on its slopes and a steady stream of worshippers came to the mountain. Because it remained an object of faith, much of it stays untouched to this day, and the northern slope is protected as the Misen Primeval Forest, a national natural monument. A summit rest-and-observation building completed in 2013 stands at the top, surrounded by clusters of giant boulders.
Access
The mountain lies in the Miyajima district of Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima Prefecture, at the center of Itsukushima (Miyajima), at roughly 34.28 degrees north and 132.32 degrees east. Reach Miyajima by ferry from the mainland; on the island, the Miyajima Ropeway, opened in 1959, is commonly used to rise from Momijidani Station to Shishiiwa Station, from where you walk to the summit. Several walking trails also lead up the mountain. Please confirm operating status and current services through official sources.
Best season
Momijidani Park at the foot of the mountain is, true to its name, famed for autumn foliage, when the whole mountain takes on color. Fresh spring greenery and clear winter air each have their own appeal. Since reaching the summit involves some walking, a season with stable, comfortable weather is recommended. Check peak times and required time through official sources.
Map
34.2797, 132.3197 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Cross to Miyajima by ferry from the mainland and head from the island gateway toward the mountain
- 2Ride the 1959 ropeway from Momijidani Park up to Shishiiwa Station in one sweep
- 3Walk from Shishiiwa Station to the summit, passing boulder clusters and religious halls
- 4Take in the Seto Inland Sea's many islands from the 535-meter summit observation building
Did you know?
💡 At 535 meters, Misen is the highest point on Miyajima. The Misen Primeval Forest cloaking the northern slope is designated a national natural monument, and together with the whole island it lies within Setonaikai National Park. The boulder clusters near the summit and the island views from the 2013 rest-and-observation building are highlights in their own right.
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