Things to do in Hatsukaichi

Activities, attractions and tours

Itsukushima Shrine featuring heritage elements and mountains
Itsukushima Shrine featuring heritage elements and mountains
Five-Story Pagoda showing heritage elements
Hatsukaichi showing food
Hatsukaichi showing a monument as well as an individual female
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Top places to visit

1. Itsukushima Shrine

Itsukushima Shrine is the crowning monument and namesake of Itsukushima Island (or, as it is popularly known, Miyajima, “shrine island”). A UNESCO world heritage listed site and a national treasure, the Itsukushima Shrine holds great cultural significance for the Shinto religion. Explore the shrine’s sacred buildings and stroll along connecting boardwalks. Enjoy views of the magnificent shrine complex and be awed by the way it appears to float above the waters of the Onoseto Strait.
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Itsukushima Shrine showing heritage elements and a lake or waterhole

2. Miyajima Ferry Terminal

Miyajima Ferry Terminal is the gateway to Miyajima Island, also known as Itsukushima Island, home to one of Japan’s most famous shrines. Located in the Seto Inland Sea, this sacred island is accessible only by boat. Watch for the breathtaking view of the shrine and its striking red torii gate as you approach on the water.
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Miyajima Ferry Terminal featuring boating and general coastal views as well as an individual male

3. Miyajima Aquarium

Miyajima Public Aquarium (Miyajima Suizokukan) is a modern showcase of the diverse sea life that resides in the Onoseto Strait, the Seto Inland Sea and the wider oceans of Japan. Discover an underwater world filled with marine animals and vegetation and learn about the intricate ecology of Miyajima’s coast and freshwater systems. Check out beautiful displays of shimmering fish and see the sunameri, or finless porpoise, which is the symbol of the aquarium.
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Miyajima Aquarium featuring marine life

4. Momijidani Park

Momijidani Park (Maple Leaf Park) is a remarkable garden of beautifully maintained Japanese maple trees in the foothills of Mount Misen, directly behind the famous Itsukushima Shrine. Wander through the elegantly designed park to enjoy overlooks of Momijidani River escarpments, traditional bridges and the mesmerizing foliage of hundreds of maple trees.
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Momijidani Park which includes a bridge and a garden

5. Daisho-in

Daisho-in (Daishōin) is a significant Shingon Buddhist temple on Miyajima (Itsukushima) Island. Admire the temple’s elegant buildings, statues and sacred spaces, set within a serene forest of Japanese maple, cypress and pine trees. Watch locals and visitors participating in Buddhist rituals and find a little good fortune of your own.
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Daisho-in showing a park and a temple or place of worship

6. Five-Story Pagoda

The Five-Story Pagoda on Miyajima (Itsukushima) Island is an ancient architectural masterpiece and sacred site. Constructed in 1407, the impressive red tower incorporates elements of traditional Zen Buddhist designs, elegantly mixed with Japanese flourishes. Admire this stunning piece of sacred architecture from several different viewpoints on Miyajima and approach the structure to see its beautiful vermilion beams, white panels and gold detailing.
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Five-Story Pagoda which includes a temple or place of worship

What to do in Hatsukaichi

Popular places to visit

Itsukushima Shrine showing heritage elements and a lake or waterhole

Itsukushima Shrine

Walk along wooden piers and observe the captivating sights of this Shinto shrine that appears to float on the water offshore from Miyajima Island.

Itsukushima Shrine
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Spend a day reflecting on the atomic bombing that devastated Hiroshima in 1945 and discover the city’s mission for peace at this beautifully designed park in the city center.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Atomic Bomb Dome

Atomic Bomb Dome

The only building still standing in the atomic bomb’s devastating hypocenter now crests the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, symbolizing the city’s plea for peace.

Atomic Bomb Dome
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

Learn about the catastrophic impact the atomic bomb had on Hiroshima through personal stories, scientific documentation and real footage at this museum dedicated to world peace.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
Miyajima Ferry Terminal

Miyajima Ferry Terminal

Take a relaxing and scenic ferry trip to the sacred island of Miyajima and begin your journey to serene shrines and a tranquil mountain peak.

Miyajima Ferry Terminal
Hiroshima Castle featuring château or palace and heritage elements

Hiroshima Castle

Visit this magnificently reconstructed castle to explore its towering main keep and learn about Japanese feudal history and Samurai culture at the museum within.

Hiroshima Castle
Atomic bomb dome

Hiroshima Central Shopping District

During your visit to Hiroshima, you can do some window-shopping at Hiroshima Central Shopping District. Visit the monuments in this walkable area or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Hiroshima Central Shopping District
Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims which includes interior views

Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims

Pay respects to the victims of the Hiroshima bombings in a new, contemplative space that brings together images, video and voices of survivors.

Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims
Miyajima Aquarium showing marine life and zoo animals

Miyajima Aquarium

See the majestic porpoises and sea lions of the Seto Inland Sea or touch penguins and shoreline creatures at this comprehensive aquarium on Miyajima Island.

Miyajima Aquarium

Frequently asked questions

Is Hatsukaichi worth visiting?
From retail therapy to history and outdoor pursuits, there are loads of great things to do in Hatsukaichi. Make sure to enjoy the area's mix of cool attractions, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Hatsukaichi?
After you've checked off key attractions like Itsukushima Shrine Treasure Hall and Miyajima History Folk Museum, spend the rest of your day exploring Hatsukaichi's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Hatsukaichi?
The top tourist attraction in Hatsukaichi is Itsukushima Shrine Treasure Hall, so don't forget to put it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Hatsukaichi?
Three days in Hatsukaichi is more than enough to enjoy the city's main attractions. Many guests book for two days on average. Itsukushima Shrine Treasure Hall, Mount Misen and Miyajima History Folk Museum are highly rated sights. Like to discover more? Stick around a while longer to explore nearby hotspots such as Hiroshima.
What are some activities to do in Hatsukaichi with kids?
If you are after attractions and activities for all ages, we've got some fabulous ideas for what to do in Hatsukaichi with kids.

What to do in Hatsukaichi for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or thrill seeker, there's no shortage of things to do in Hatsukaichi for adults including Omotesando Shopping Arcade and Gates of Peace.
Are there free things to do in Hatsukaichi?
In Hatsukaichi, Mount Misen is an unmissable spot for anyone planning to experience the city without taking their wallet out. Also, wander around the local parks and neighbourhoods, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's a good way to find out about the best free things to do in Hatsukaichi.

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