Miyajima is an island in the Seto Inland Sea, off the coast of Hiroshima Prefecture . It is one of the three most scenic spots in Japan, and the World Heritage Site of Itsukushima Shrine shines brightly amid its beautiful scenery. Dedicated to the deity who protects from maritime disaster and war, the shrine was reportedly built in 593. When it was rebuilt in 1168 by the Heian-period warlord Taira no Kiyomori (1118-1181), it was expanded into the magnificent vermilion-lacquered shrine pavilions seen today.

The most distinctive feature of this shrine is the buildings and Otorii gate built over the sea.

Gagaku is traditional court music and dance that has been performed at the shrine since the time of Taira no Kiyomori; it is still performed more than a dozen times a year. The high stage (and another) is used for gagaku performances, and is said to be among the three most famous stages in Japan.

Miyajima can be reached by train and ferry from Hiroshima City. From Hiroshima Station, take the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station (about 30 minutes). From Miyajimaguchi Passenger Terminal, take an approximately 10-minute ferry ride to Miyajima, and walk approximately 10 minutes to the shrine.

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