Miyajima is an island in the Inland Sea to the west of Hiroshima city. It’s real name is Itsukushima, but most people call it Miyajima. It’s famous for its huge torii gate in the sea, a part of Itsukushima Shrine. The whole island is considered sacred, and people were expected to avoid giving birth and dying on the island. It’s also known for its tame deer who aggressively beg for food, as well as for its cherry blossoms in spring, and autumn foliage. Miyajima has a number of religious sites, including Toyokuni Shrine, once a Buddhist temple, with a five-storied pagoda, and Daigan–ji Temple. Toyotomi Hideyoshi built a large prayer hall, the Senjō-kaku, on a hill above Itsukushima Shrine. At 535 m, Mt. Misen, is the highest point on the island, topped with large and mysterious rock formations. The mountaintop is accessible by cable car, but walking is more rewarding. There are several sites related to Kūkai, the founder of Shingon Buddhism and the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Miyajima lies within Setonaikai National Park. You can get to Miyajima by ferry from nearby Miyajimaguchi, and by hourly express passenger ferry from Hiroshima harbour.