1. What are the types of accommodation available on Miyajima Island?
1. Hotels: There are a few hotels, both luxury and budget, on Miyajima Island that offer comfortable and convenient accommodation for tourists.
2. Ryokans: Traditional Japanese inns called ryokans provide a unique cultural experience on the island. These typically have tatami rooms, communal hot spring baths, and serve traditional meals.
3. Minshuku: Similar to ryokans, minshuku are family-run guesthouses that offer simple and affordable accommodation with home-cooked meals.
4. Hostels: For budget travelers, there are a few hostels on the island offering dorm-style rooms and private rooms at a cheaper rate than hotels.
5. Guesthouses: This type of accommodation offers a more homely atmosphere with shared common areas like kitchens and living spaces. It is a good option for solo travelers or small groups.
6. Camping: There are several campsites on Miyajima Island for those who prefer to sleep under the stars. Some also offer rental tents for convenience.
7. Traditional Shukubo: These are temple lodgings run by Buddhist monks where visitors can experience staying at a temple and participate in morning prayers or meditation sessions.
8. Airbnb: Some locals on the island offer their homes or spare rooms through Airbnb for tourists looking for a more personal touch to their stay.
9. Temple Stays: Some temples on Miyajima Island also offer stay programs where visitors can partake in activities like meditation and incense-making while staying at the temple’s lodging facilities.
10.Villas and Holiday Rentals: For larger groups or families, villas and holiday rentals provide more space and privacy for a comfortable stay on the island.
2. How far is the nearest hotel from the Miyajima ferry terminal?
The nearest hotel from the Miyajima ferry terminal is Hotel Kikunoya, which is 650 meters away or about an 8-minute walk. There are also other hotels located within a similar distance from the ferry terminal.
3. Are there any budget-friendly options for lodging on the island?
There are a range of budget-friendly options for lodging on the island, including hostels, guesthouses, and budget hotels. Some popular options include Coco Village Hostel, The Bay Resort & Beach Club, and Palm Garden Resort Phuket. Additionally, websites like Agoda and Booking.com often have deals and discounts for budget accommodations on the island.
4. What are some recommended hotels or guesthouses for a scenic view of Itsukushima Shrine?
1. Miyajima Grand Hotel Arimoto: This traditional Japanese hotel offers stunning views of Itsukushima Shrine and Mt. Misen from its rooms, as well as a rooftop terrace.
2. Iwaso: Located in the heart of Miyajima’s historic district, this ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) boasts gorgeous views of the shrine and surrounding nature.
3. Kurayado Iroha: Situated on the waterfront, this luxury ryokan offers traditional Japanese-style rooms with private balconies overlooking Itsukushima Shrine.
4. Sakuraya Ryokan: This charming family-run inn is located just steps away from Itsukushima Shrine and offers beautiful views from its rooms and communal areas.
5. Hotel Miyarikyu: Nestled in the mountainside, this ryokan provides breathtaking views of both Itsukushima Shrine and the Seto Inland Sea from its hot spring baths.
6. Taikoen: This charming guesthouse offers budget-friendly accommodations with fantastic views of both the shrine and Mt. Misen.
7. Hiroshima Kanko Hotel: Located near Miyajima ferry terminal, this hotel features spacious rooms with balconies offering panoramic sea views.
8. Jukeiso Ryokan: With a prime location on the beachfront, this ryokan offers picturesque views of both Itsukushima Shrine and Mt. Misen.
9. Saginoya Hotel: In addition to its cozy rooms with scenic views, this hotel also has an open-air bath with panoramic vistas of Itsukushima Shrine.
10. Hayatama Ryokan: This peaceful inn is situated within walking distance of the shrine and offers lovely views of its torii gate and surrounding mountains from its outdoor bath.
5. Is it possible to stay overnight at a traditional ryokan on Miyajima Island?
Yes, there are several traditional ryokans on Miyajima Island that offer overnight accommodations. Some popular options include Iwaso Ryokan and Sakuraya Ryokan. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel times.
6. Can I find Western-style hotels on Miyajima, or are they mostly Japanese-style accommodations?
Yes, there are Western-style hotels on Miyajima. While the majority of accommodations on the island are traditional Japanese ryokans or guesthouses, there are several Western-style hotels available as well. These include hotel chains such as Holiday Inn and Best Western, as well as smaller boutique hotels. It is recommended to book in advance during peak seasons, such as cherry blossom season or summer holidays.
7. Are there any hotels or guesthouses within walking distance to Mount Misen hiking trails?
Yes, there are several hotels and guesthouses within walking distance to Mount Misen hiking trails. Some options include:
1. Miyajima Hotel New Kotobuki: This hotel is located just a short walk from the ropeway station, which is the starting point for many of the hiking trails up Mount Misen.
2. Sakuraya Ryokan: This traditional Japanese ryokan is located in the heart of Miyajima Island, within walking distance to the hiking trails. They also offer a free shuttle service to the ropeway station.
3. Iwaso Ryokan: Another ryokan option, Iwaso Ryokan is located near Momijidani Park and offers easy access to the hiking trails. They also have a private bath with views of the mountains.
4. Kikunoya Ryokan: This cozy ryokan is situated just 5 minutes’ walk from the first cable car station and offers access to both the Mt. Misen hiking trail and the Momijidani Park trail.
5. Jukeiso Ryokan: Located near Miyajima Port, Jukeiso Ryokan offers comfortable rooms and easy access to both Mount Misen and other popular attractions on Miyajima Island.
Overall, there are many accommodation options within walking distance or a short shuttle ride from Mount Misen’s hiking trails, making it convenient for travelers looking to explore the mountain on foot.
8. How convenient is it to travel from Honshu to Miyajima Island for day trips from my hotel?
It is generally very convenient to travel from Honshu to Miyajima Island for day trips. There are several options for transportation, including trains and ferries, and the journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes from Hiroshima city. The ferry terminal in Miyajima is also located near the island’s main tourist attractions, making it easy to explore the island on foot or by public transportation. Additionally, there are frequent departures throughout the day, providing flexibility in planning your day trip.
9. Is it better to book lodging in advance, or can I easily find last-minute accommodations on the island?
It is generally recommended to book lodging in advance, especially during peak seasons (December – March and June – August), as accommodations can fill up quickly on the island. However, if you are traveling during the off-season or are flexible with your accommodations, it may be possible to find last-minute options on the island.
10. What are some must-try local foods that can be found near hotels or lodges on Miyajima Island?
1. Oysters: Miyajima is famous for its delicious oysters, which can be found at numerous restaurants around the island. These oysters are typically grilled and served with lemon or soy sauce.
2. Momiji Manju: This local specialty is a small cake shaped like a maple leaf and filled with a variety of fillings such as red bean paste, custard, or matcha (green tea) cream.
3. Anagosui: This eel soup is a local delicacy made from fresh sea eel that is simmered in a flavorful broth.
4. Ikiyaki: This dish consists of skewered squid that is grilled and basted with a sweet and savory sauce.
5. Tororo Soba: Buckwheat noodles served in a broth made from grated mountain yam, this dish is both refreshing and hearty.
6. Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki: A popular dish throughout Hiroshima Prefecture, okonomiyaki is often described as a savory cabbage pancake filled with various ingredients such as meat, seafood, vegetables, and noodles.
7. Kamaboko: Fish cakes made from white fish paste, kamaboko comes in various shapes and colors and can be found at local shops on Miyajima Island.
8. Setouchi Lemon Jelly: A refreshing dessert made from locally grown Setouchi lemons.
9. Age-momodane: These deep-fried balls of sticky rice are often filled with savory ingredients such as shrimp or octopus and make for a tasty snack while exploring the island.
10. Miyajima Oyster Curry Bun: This unique twist on traditional Japanese curry features oysters in place of meat inside a steamed bun. Keep an eye out for this popular street food sold by vendors around the island.
11. Are there any pet-friendly accommodations available on the island?
Yes, there are several pet-friendly accommodations available on the island. Some hotels and vacation rentals allow pets with an additional fee or deposit. You can also find pet-friendly campgrounds and RV parks on the island. It is recommended to contact the accommodation beforehand to confirm their pet policies.12. How crowded does it get around peak seasons, and how does this affect availability and prices of lodging options?
During peak seasons, it can get very crowded at popular tourist destinations. This can affect availability and prices of lodging options as demand typically increases during these times. Prices for accommodations may also increase, making it more difficult to find affordable options. It is recommended to book accommodations in advance during peak seasons to ensure availability and potentially save on costs.
13. Do most hotel rooms come with private bathrooms, or are shared facilities common?
Most hotel rooms come with private bathrooms. Shared facilities are usually only found in budget or hostel-type accommodations.
14. Is staying overnight on Miyajima worth it if I want to visit other nearby attractions like Hiroshima?
Yes, staying overnight on Miyajima is worth it if you want to visit other nearby attractions like Hiroshima. By staying overnight, you will have more time to explore the island and its various temples, shrines, and scenic spots at your own pace. Additionally, you can also take a ferry to Hiroshima in the morning and spend the day there before returning to Miyajima in the evening. This will give you the opportunity to visit both places without feeling rushed.
15. Can I reserve a room with a view of both Mount Misen and Itsukushima Shrine?
Unfortunately, due to the layout and location of the hotel, it is not possible to reserve a room with views of both Mount Misen and Itsukushima Shrine simultaneously. However, some rooms may offer partial views of both landmarks. To ensure the best view possible, it is recommended to contact the hotel directly and request a room with your preferred view.
16. Are there any activities or tours organized by hotels that guests can participate in during their stay?
Many hotels offer activities and tours organized by their staff or partnered companies for guests to participate in during their stay. These activities can range from guided city tours and cultural experiences to adventure sports and outdoor activities. Some hotels may also have on-site facilities such as a spa, fitness center, or swimming pool that guests can use for additional relaxation and enjoyment. These activities and tours are often optional and may come at an extra cost, but they provide opportunities for guests to explore the destination and make the most of their vacation.
17. Is English widely spoken at lodgings and tourist facilities on the island?
Yes, English is widely spoken at lodgings and tourist facilities on the island. Many locals are fluent in English due to the island’s status as a popular tourist destination. Additionally, most hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions have staff who speak English to cater to international visitors. Some establishments may also have multilingual staff who can communicate in other languages commonly used by tourists such as German, French, Spanish, and Chinese.
18. Can I find unique lodging options like camping sites or floating cabins near Miyajima Island?
Yes, there are several unique lodging options near Miyajima Island, such as camping sites and floating cabins. Some popular choices include:1. Hashimoto Village Floating Cabin: This unique cabin is located on the sea and offers breathtaking views of the island. Guests can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and other water activities during their stay.
2. Miyajima Seaside Hotel: This hotel offers several unconventional lodging choices such as tepees and yurts located in a forest on the island. These unique accommodations also come with access to their own private beach.
3. Miyajima Morino Youth Hostel: This youth hostel offers tent camping sites nestled in a peaceful forest setting just steps away from the island’s attractions.
4. Iwaso Ryokan: This traditional Japanese inn offers guests a chance to stay in a luxurious villa on stilts above the water, with stunning views of Miyajima Island.
5. Omotenashi Campground: Located right next to Itsukushima Shrine, this campground offers sites for tents, RVs, and even has glamping options for those looking for a more upscale outdoor experience.
Note that some of these options may have limited availability or be closed during certain times of year, so it’s best to check with the accommodations directly before planning your trip.
19.Could you recommend some affordable yet highly-rated hotels for solo travelers in their 20s/30s?
1. Generator Hostel: A popular hostel chain known for its stylish design, social atmosphere and budget-friendly prices. Perfect for solo travelers looking to meet other young travelers.
2. HI Chicago Hostel: Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, this hostel offers clean and modern dorm rooms as well as private rooms at a budget-friendly price.
3. Freehand Miami: This trendy boutique hostel in Miami offers both dorms and private rooms at affordable prices. The communal spaces are perfect for meeting other travelers and the rooftop bar is a great spot to hang out.
4. Moxy Times Square: This trendy hotel in New York City offers small but functional rooms at a budget-friendly price point. The communal areas are designed for socializing and there’s even a basketball court on the rooftop.
5. Selina Porto: This hip hostel in Porto, Portugal has comfortable dorms, private rooms, as well as communal areas designed for socializing with other solo travelers.
6. Mad Monkey Hostel Bangkok: Located in the lively district of Khao San Road, this hostel offers a fun and social atmosphere with organized events like Thai cooking classes and pub crawls.
7. Z Hostel Manila: Located in the hip neighborhood of Makati in Manila, this hostel caters to younger travelers with its modern design and regular events such as rooftop parties and quiz nights.
8. M Montreal Hostel: This trendy hostel in Montreal offers shared dorms as well as private rooms at an affordable price, with amenities such as a rooftop terrace and onsite bar.
9. Wombat’s City Hostels London: With locations in both London’s iconic Tower Hill area and vibrant Shoreditch neighborhood, these hostels offer convenient access to top attractions and excellent facilities for solo travelers on a budget.
10.Mosaic House Prague: Located just steps away from Prague’s famous Old Town Square, this eco-friendly hostel features stylishly designed dorms and private rooms, as well as a rooftop terrace with stunning city views.
20. What are the cancellation policies for hotels and lodges on Miyajima Island in case of unexpected changes in my travel plans?
Cancellation policies for hotels and lodges on Miyajima Island may vary depending on the specific accommodations you have booked. It is important to carefully read the terms and conditions or cancellation policy at the time of booking. In general, most hotels and lodges offer a free cancellation period, typically up to 24-48 hours before your scheduled arrival date. If you cancel within this free cancellation period, you will not be charged any fees. However, if you cancel after this period or do not show up for your reservation, you may be charged a cancellation fee equivalent to one night’s stay or a percentage of the total booking cost. Some hotels may also have stricter cancellation policies during peak travel seasons or for certain room types. We recommend contacting your specific hotel or lodge directly for more information about their cancellation policies in case of unexpected changes in your travel plans.