An ancient temple of Miyaji housing one of Japan's three greatest Benzaiten shrines
About this spot
An ancient Shingon Buddhist temple standing right beside Itsukushima Shrine, which served as the auxiliary temple managing the shrine until the Meiji-era separation of Buddhism and Shintoism. Its main deity, Itsukushima Benzaiten, is counted among Japan's three greatest Benzaiten shrines, and many pilgrims visit on its opening day. The grounds feature magnificent nine-pine trees estimated over 200 years old, and beautiful wisteria trellises visible in early summer, offering a quiet place to spend time through all seasons. It provides a different atmosphere from Itsukushima Shrine's crowds—a chance to touch Miyaji's calm history.
Fireworks details
Name: 玉取祭
Date & time: 8/29 (Sat) Time TBA
Venue: 廿日市市宮島町・嚴島神社
嚴島神社の大鳥居の沖合を舞台に、褌姿の男たちが海に投げ込まれた宝珠(玉)を奪い合う、宮島でも屈指の勇壮な神事です。小舟に乗った男たちが激しく水しぶきを上げながら宝珠を追い、これを手にした者には一年の幸運がもたらされると伝えられています。海上の攻防を陸から見守る参道は、太鼓の音と観客の歓声で祭り一色に染まり、昼間参拝した神社が夜には全く違う熱気に包まれる様子を体感できます。夏の終わりを告げる宮島の伝統行事として、地元でも大切にされてきた祭りです。
Tips
見物には嚴島神社の廻廊や海沿いの参道が定番のスポットです。夕方以降は混み合うため、早めに場所を確保しておくと安心です。夜間は足元が暗くなるので懐中電灯があると便利です。
Tips
About 10 minutes on foot from Senjokaku, just west of Itsukushima Shrine. Free admission. The compact grounds can be explored leisurely in an hour.
Best time to visit
Duration approximately 45 minutes. Early morning quiet hours ideal for unhurried worship.
Access & map
〒739-0588 Hiroshima Prefecture, Hatsukaichi City, Miyaji Town 3
Model course featuring this spot
2026 Tamatorigai Festival Full-Day Experience Course
Hiroshima
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