Just a short ferry ride from mainland Hiroshima is the island of Miyajima, famous the world over as Japan's Shrine Island. Covering an area of 30 square kilometers in Hiroshima Bay, Miyajima is best known as the home of the Itsukushima Shrine, a Shinto temple dedicated to the Princess daughters of the wind god Susanoo.
Dating from the eighth century, the majority of the shrine's buildings rise out of the waters of a small bay supported only by piles. The effect at high tide is simply stunning, making these structures - including the famous Great Floating Gate (O-Torii) - appear as if they're floating on water. Another notable feature is the shrine's stage, where visitors are entertained with traditional dances and musical performances. Also worth exploring are the island's exquisite grounds and gardens, home to wild deer and numerous bird colonies.
Food in the Island Shrine of Itsukushima
1. Oysters
Oyster is the most famous seafood dish in Hiroshima, and the waters around Miyajima have many flourishing oyster farms. The oysters produced on the island are renowned for their huge size, juiciness and freshness. Grilled and fried oysters are commonly found at Omotesando Shopping Arcade. I tried grilled oysters which came with different toppings ranging from cheese and mayonnaise to garlic butter to miso. The chef also prepared Ajillo-style and gratin-style grilled oysters. It’s not surprising that I enjoyed all the flavours. There are oyster teppanyaki, oyster pizza, and oyster hotpot available too. If you happen to visit Miyajima in early February, be sure to check out the Miyajima Oyster Festival.
2. Miyajima De Gansu & Miyajima Jake
Miyajima De Gansu, a specialty of Hiroshima, is a street food consisting deep-fried minced fish and onion. It has a super crispy exterior with insides so mashed, flavourful and creamy. I had a tough time resisting getting a second piece. The same cafe also offers Miyajima Jake where sponge cake is deep-fried, so you get a sweet and savoury snack.
3. Steamed Buns with Eels & Hiroshima Beef
Aside from oysters, conger eel is another popular seafood dish on Miyajima. There are many restaurants serving conger eel on rice, but I only came across one stall serving steamed buns filled with conger eel. This steamed bun is called, “Anagoman”. Although I was already quite full from feasting on oysters, I couldn’t resist having another bun, the “Gyuman”, which boasts a luxurious filling containing the highest grade of Hiroshima beef. They also serve a vegetarian steamed bun with tofu skin filling called, “Yubaman”. Forget about pictures and enjoy the buns while they’re hot!
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