Exploring Miyajima in Autumn: The Magic of Itsukushima Shrine and Maple Leaves

Nestled just a short ferry ride from Hiroshima, Miyajima Island, formally known as Itsukushima, is a timeless testament to Japan’s spiritual and cultural heritage. This enchanting island transforms into unparalleled beauty in autumn, drawing visitors seeking natural wonder and historical depth. Renowned for its iconic “”floating”” torii gate and the sacred Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima’s historical significance dates back to the 6th century when it was first established as a site of Shinto worship. The island has long been considered sacred, with commoners historically forbidden to set foot on its grounds to maintain its purity.

©William Michaud

Itsukushima Shrine, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, epitomizes the harmony between spirituality and nature. Ingeniously constructed over the tidal flats of the Seto Inland Sea, the shrine appears to float at high tide, creating an ethereal scene that reflects Japan’s deep-rooted reverence for the seamless integration of human artistry and the natural world. The Torii gate, rising dramatically from the water, symbolizes passage into the sacred, standing resilient through centuries of storms and tides.

Come autumn, Miyajima’sMiyajima’s landscape transforms, taking on an even more profound and vivid beauty. The maples, for which the island is famous, burst into a kaleidoscope of fiery reds, oranges, and golds. Walking through Momijidani Park, with its winding trails and vibrant canopy, feels like stepping into a living masterpiece. Every step through the park immerses visitors in an interplay of color and light, where leaves flutter like embers against a cool blue sky. The gentle crunch of fallen leaves underfoot is accompanied by the whisper of wind and the distant murmur of temple bells, adding to the island’s tranquil allure.

©William Michaud

For those seeking adventure, hiking Mount Misen offers not only a physical challenge but a spiritual experience. Shrouded in legend and history, this mountain was once where monks meditated and practiced asceticism. Along the trail, ancient Buddhist relics and small temples hint at a bygone era of devotion and solitude. The peak rewards hikers with panoramic views that juxtapose the vibrant crimson and gold foliage with the serene, deep blue Seto Inland Sea and surrounding islets. On clear days, the sight stretches to the horizon, blurring the line between sea and sky, offering a moment of profound peace and reflection.

©William Michaud

The island is also home to deer, considered sacred messengers of the gods in Shinto belief. These gentle creatures roam freely, adding a touch of whimsy and connection to Miyajima’s spiritual atmosphere. Watching a deer nibble on fallen maple leaves or wander past the shrine’s vermillion pillars is a reminder of the delicate balance between the sacred and the ordinary.

©William Michaud

The island takes on a new kind of magic as the sun sets. The torii gate, bathed in the golden light of dusk, seems to float even more mysteriously as the tide shifts, casting long reflections over the rippling water. Visitors can savor the moment with a warm cup of matcha from a local teahouse or indulge in freshly grilled oysters, a regional specialty that embodies the sea’s bounty.

Miyajima in autumn isn’t just a scenic destination but a journey through time, where history, nature, and spirituality intertwine. Each visit imprints a memory steeped in vibrant color and quiet reverence, reminding travelers that some places are timeless, meant to be cherished slowly and wholly.