How to Time Your Visit to Miyajima: A Guide to the Tides

The most famous view on Miyajima Island—the O-Torii gate and Itsukushima Shrine—does not look the same all day. Its appearance is entirely dependent on the ocean's tide.

At high tide, the shrine complex and gate appear to float on the water. At low tide, the water pulls back completely, allowing visitors to walk on the seabed right up to the gate.

To see the view you want, or to experience both, you must check the tide schedule before you go. This guide explains what to look for.

High Tide: The "Floating" View

This is the classic image of Miyajima. During high tide (manchō), the water level rises to cover the sand flat.

The Torii gate looks like it is floating, and the water flows directly underneath the wooden corridors of the main shrine complex. To see this specific view, you should plan to be at the shrine near the time listed for high tide.

Low Tide: Walking to the Gate

During low tide (kanchō), the water recedes far out into the bay, completely exposing the seabed in front of the shrine.

This allows you to walk from the shore directly to the base of the O-Torii gate. It provides a different perspective, emphasizing the massive size of the gate's pillars and allowing you to see the shrine's structure from below.

How to Check the Tide Schedule

The most important tool for your visit is the Miyajima tide table. You can check the times in several easy ways, both before you go and after you arrive.

• Online: Before your trip, the most reliable method is to check the official Miyajima Tourism Association website, which provides a detailed schedule. You can also find forecasts by searching online for "Miyajima tide forecast."

• On Arrival: Tide schedules are visibly posted for the day. You can find them at the tourist information center near the mainland ferry terminal (before you cross) and again at the ferry landing after you arrive on Miyajima Island.

  
  

When reading the table, pay attention to the times and the predicted water levels, which are usually listed in centimeters:

• For the "floating" view: A water level above 250 cm is generally required to see the shrine and gate clearly floating.

• To walk to the gate: A water level below 100 cm is best, as this ensures the ground around the gate is fully exposed and dry enough to walk on.

If your schedule permits, planning to stay for several hours will allow you to see the dramatic change as the tide comes in or goes out. Checking the tide table is the best way to ensure you see the version of Miyajima you are hoping for.