Itsukushima Iroha
Room Types
2
Established
1867
Water
Hot Spring
Cuisine
Kaiseki
About
Itsukushima Iroha (formerly Kurayado Iroha) is a beautifully renovated ryokan on Miyajima's Omotesando Avenue, just a 5-minute walk from the UNESCO World Heritage Itsukushima Shrine. Reopened in March 2024 after a comprehensive renewal, the property traces its roots to 1867 as Higashiya Ryokan, carrying 155 years of hospitality history. The rooftop baths offer panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea and the iconic floating torii gate, while the restaurant MIYAJIMA YOHEI serves refined kappo cuisine with local ingredients.
Ideal For
Key Experiences
Gallery
Ready to experience Itsukushima Iroha?
See Prices on AgodaRoom Types
Ocean Side Japanese-Western Room
Renovated room combining tatami mats with plush Western beds, polished floors, and floor seating, with views of the Seto Inland Sea and the sky from your room.
- Ocean and sky views
- Tatami mats with Western-style beds
- Deep soaking tub
- High-speed Wi-Fi
- Low dining table and floor seating
- Down-duvet bedding
- Modern amenities
Mountain Side Japanese-Western Room
Renovated room facing the historic townscape and sacred Mount Misen, featuring the same blend of Japanese and contemporary design with tatami and Western beds.
- Historic townscape and Mount Misen views
- Tatami mats with Western-style beds
- Deep soaking tub
- High-speed Wi-Fi
- Low dining table and floor seating
- Down-duvet bedding
Onsen & Baths
Spring Type
Natural hot spring (mineral bath with views of the Seto Inland Sea)
Indoor Baths
- Rooftop indoor bath with sea views
Outdoor Baths
- Rooftop open-air bath overlooking the Seto Inland Sea and floating torii gate
- Wash thoroughly before entering any bath
- Do not bring towels into the bath water
- Keep conversations quiet in the bathing area
- Tie long hair up to keep it out of the water
- Be respectful of other guests in the shared rooftop baths
Dining
MIYAJIMA YOHEI (kappo cuisine restaurant — dinner)
Lounge (complimentary breakfast)
Specialty Dishes
Dietary Options
At least 3 days in advance recommended
Amenities
Premium
Best Times to Visit
Spring (Mar–May)
- Cherry blossoms on Miyajima create a stunning backdrop for the shrine
- Pleasant temperatures for island exploration and hiking
- Spring seafood season with fresh catches from the Inland Sea
- Very popular season — book well in advance
- Day-tripper crowds peak during cherry blossom weekends
Summer (Jun–Aug)
- Miyajima Water Fireworks Festival in August is spectacular from the island
- Long daylight hours for exploring shrines and hiking
- Vibrant green foliage on Mount Misen
- Hot and humid — hydrate well during hikes
- Summer holidays bring large tourist crowds during the day
Autumn (Sep–Nov)
- Spectacular autumn foliage throughout Miyajima, especially in Momijidani Park
- Comfortable temperatures for outdoor exploration
- Oyster season begins — Hiroshima oysters are Japan's finest
- Peak autumn foliage weekends are extremely popular
- Book months in advance for November stays
Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Oyster season at its peak — fresh Hiroshima oysters are a must-try
- Fewer tourists create a peaceful, serene island atmosphere
- Rooftop onsen bathing is most atmospheric in cool winter air
- Clear winter skies enhance views from the rooftop bath
- Cold temperatures — bring warm layers for island walks
- Some shops may have reduced winter hours
- Shorter daylight hours
Local Knowledge
Insider Tips
Hidden Gems
- The property traces back to 1867 as Higashiya Ryokan — one of Miyajima's oldest hospitality establishments
- Mountain-side rooms offer views of the historic townscape and sacred Mount Misen instead of the sea
The March 2024 renovation brought the property into a new era while preserving its heritage character
Complimentary breakfast service is offered in the lounge every morning from 6:30 AM
Must-Try Experiences
- Rooftop bath at sunset or dawn with the iconic torii gate and Seto Inland Sea spread before you
- A kappo dinner at MIYAJIMA YOHEI featuring the finest Hiroshima and Seto Inland Sea ingredients
Walking to Itsukushima Shrine at low tide when you can approach the base of the floating torii gate
Experience Tips
- Take the rooftop bath at sunset for the most spectacular views of the torii gate
- Stay up late or wake early — Miyajima after dark and at dawn, without the crowds, is unforgettable
Walk to Itsukushima Shrine at different tide levels to see how the landscape transforms
Try the momiji manju (maple leaf cakes) from the shops along Omotesando Avenue
Hike Mount Misen via the ropeway or trail for panoramic Seto Inland Sea views
Cultural Notes
- Itsukushima Shrine was built over water because the island itself was considered too sacred for structures
- Miyajima was historically a "pure" island where no births or deaths were permitted to avoid spiritual pollution
The shrine honors the Three Munakata Goddesses — Shinto deities of seas and storms
The floating torii gate's current form dates to 1875 and stands 16 meters tall
Deer roam freely on Miyajima and are considered sacred messengers of the gods
Ready to experience it yourself?
Check Availability & Book on AgodaPractical Information
Stay Details
Recommended Stay
1-2 nights
Getting There
- JR Ferry from Miyajimaguchi Pier (10 minutes, 200 yen one way — JR Pass valid)
- Matsudai Ferry from Miyajimaguchi Pier (10 minutes, 200 yen one way)
- Walk from Miyajimaguchi Station to ferry pier (short walk)
- Train from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station (approximately 30 minutes)
- Park at Mitsui Repark near Miyajimaguchi Pier (paid, 3-minute walk to ferry)
Before You Go
Dietary Options
At least 3 days in advance recommended
Booking Tips
- Book ocean-side rooms early for the best views of the torii gate and Seto Inland Sea
- Reserve dinner at MIYAJIMA YOHEI when booking — last order is 7:00 PM
- The JR Pass covers the JR Ferry to Miyajima, making it the most economical option
- Specify any dietary restrictions at least 3 days before arrival
- Consider staying on Miyajima overnight — the island is most magical after day-trippers leave
Preparation Tips
- Check the tide schedule — low tide allows you to walk to the base of the floating torii gate
- Park at Mitsui Repark near Miyajimaguchi Pier if driving (the island itself has no parking)
- Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring the island and hiking Mount Misen
- Pack lightly — yukata and bath amenities are provided
- Consider timing your arrival for the afternoon to settle in before dinner
Quick Facts
Nearest Station
Miyajimaguchi Station (JR Sanyo Main Line)
History
The property's predecessor, Higashiya Ryokan, was established in 1867 during the Meiji Restoration, and 155 years of history have been carried forward to the present day. Itsukushima Shrine, just steps away, was founded in 593 CE and expanded into its current magnificent form by Taira no Kiyomori in 1168. The shrine was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, recognized as a masterpiece that fuses architecture and nature. Miyajima itself was considered so sacred that commoners were historically forbidden from setting foot on the island to maintain its spiritual purity.
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