Mount Misen

Mount Misen (弥山), standing at 500 meters, is the highest peak on Miyajima and a destination of both natural wonder and profound spiritual importance. The mountain is revered as a sacred site and is deeply connected to Kobo Daishi, the founder of the Shingon Buddhist sect, who is said to have practiced ascetic rituals here and introduced Buddhism to the island. Near the summit, visitors will discover two revered sites: the Misen Hondo (Main Hall), where pilgrims come to pay their respects, and the Reikado (Hall of the Spiritual Flame), which shelters a flame believed to have burned continuously since Kobo Daishi’s era. This eternal flame, steeped in history and legend, was used to ignite the Flame of Peace in Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park, symbolizing hope and remembrance.

Reaching Mount Misen’s summit is a rewarding journey in itself, offering hikers a choice of three scenic trails. The Momijidani Course is the shortest but also the steepest, while the Daisho-in Course features stone steps and panoramic viewpoints, and the Omoto Course winds through dense forest and tranquil groves. Each route offers glimpses of the island’s diverse flora and fauna, with occasional encounters with deer and, if you are lucky, wild monkeys along the way. For those who prefer a less strenuous ascent, the Miyajima Ropeway provides a comfortable ride most of the way up, leaving only a moderate walk to the top. From the summit, sweeping vistas of the Seto Inland Sea, scattered islands, and distant Hiroshima City reward your efforts, making Mount Misen a must-visit for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone seeking Miyajima’s spiritual heart.