Autumn in Miyajima: Momijidani Park and Misen

The Ōtorii (Great Gate) of Itsukushima Shrine seems to float on the water at high tide.

An aerial view of the ferries passing back and forth between Miyajima and Hiroshima. Itsukushima Shrine and its Great Gate can be seen at right.

Shops in Miyajima offer fresh-baked momiji-manjū.

Momijibashi bridge, at the entrance to Momijidani Park.

The bridge adds highlights to the natural beauty of the gorge.

Strolling around Momijidani Park while passing through archways of autumn colors.

Honshū can be seen from the ropeway.

The beauty of the islands as seen from Shishiiwa observation deck.

Misen Hondō has a great temple bell that is designated a national important cultural asset.

Reikadō is said to bring divine favor on matchmaking, in the sense that “the flame of love will not go out.” The site is recognized as a place sacred to romance.

The bright reds of autumn near Reikadō.

The Misen observation deck is on the left-hand peak, surrounded by gigantic rocks.

Hikers pass by the boulders Fudōiwa (at right) and Kuguriiwa on the way to the summit.

The five-storied pagoda of Hōkoku Shrine, seen through the autumn foliage.

Miyajima is also worth seeing in springtime, when the cherries are in bloom.