Wanderyn
Mt. Misen
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
poi · JP

Mt. Misen

Getting around: On Miyajima island; from the ferry terminal, take the ropeway (two connecting cable cars) up most of the mountain, followed by a roughly 30-minute hike to the summit, or hike the whole way (about 2 hours) from near Itsukushima Shrine.
Hours: Ropeway typically operates 9am-5pm (seasonal variation); trails accessible during daylight hours, no fee for hiking, paid ropeway ticket.

Mt. Misen is the highest point on Miyajima island, long considered sacred and reputedly home to a flame first lit by the monk Kobo Daishi over 1,200 years ago that has burned continuously since. The summit offers wide views over the Seto Inland Sea and surrounding islands, and several small temples and shrines dot the mountain along the way up.

Most visitors ride the two-stage ropeway partway up, then hike the remaining stretch to the summit; hardier visitors can hike the entire route from near Itsukushima Shrine.

Mt. Misen FAQs

Do I have to hike the whole mountain?

No, a ropeway covers most of the ascent; from its upper station it's about a 30-minute hike to the actual summit.

Is there a fee for the ropeway?

Yes, a paid round-trip ticket; hiking the whole route on foot is free.

What's at the summit?

Observation points with views over the Seto Inland Sea, plus small temples including one said to house an eternal flame.

How long does the full outing take?

About 3-4 hours round trip including the ropeway and summit walk.

Is Mt. Misen the same visit as Itsukushima Shrine?

They're both on Miyajima island but are separate activities; many visitors do the shrine first, then the mountain if time allows.

Your travel graph
Ready to plan Mt. Misen?Planning a trip soon? Add it to build an itinerary.

Reviews/Comments

No comments yet — be the first.