Outside Hiroshima is the island of Miyajima, one of the most scenic spots in Japan. I had a special interest in visiting because, just like in Nara, there are free roaming wild deer on the island that walk in the streets. The island is also famous for oysters, so I had to try one of those. But what they are the most famous for is Itsukushima shrine with its “floating” port. You may have seen images of this vermilion gate in the water giving the impression that it is floating at high tide. Unfortunately, we got there at low tide so the illusion was gone. On the other hand, people could walk on the seabed right up to the gate.

We hiked up to Mount Misen, 500 m above sea level and watched the fantastic views. I was lucky to find a ticket to the gondola and we rode it “half price” down the mountain.

I had the chance to say hello to a few more deer before taking the ferry back.