Nestled in the heart of Miyajima’s sacred island, just off the coast of Hiroshima, Mount Misen (弥山, "Misen") rises to 535 meters above sea level. This destination isn’t just for hiking, it’s deeply infused with spirituality, legends, and mystery. Ranked among Japan’s most sacred natural sites, Mount Misen draws visitors seeking natural beauty, Buddhist history, and breathtaking views.
Why is mount misen sacred?
Mount Misen has been considered sacred for over 1,200 years, largely thanks to the great monk Kōbō Daishi (弘法大師), also known as Kūkai, the founder of the Shingon school of Buddhism.
Kōbō Daishi’s spiritual retreat
In 806, Kōbō Daishi is said to have practiced ascetic meditation here for 100 days. During that time, he reportedly had a divine vision, declaring Miyajima a sacred land. He also lit a ritual fire (the eternal flame) which still burns today and can be seen at Reikadō Hall. This same flame was used to ignite the Peace Flame at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, deepening the spiritual and historical connection between the two sites.
What are the 7 wonders of mount misen?
Surrounding Kōbō Daishi are mysterious legends known as the “Seven Wonders of Mount Misen” (弥山の七不思議, Misen no Shichi Fushigi). These spiritual and natural phenomena have become major points of interest.
Kiezu no Hi : the eternal flame
Lit by Kōbō Daishi over 1,200 years ago, this fire has never gone out and still burns inside Reikadō Hall. It's said to have healing powers and represents the ongoing bond between the human and divine.
Shakujo no Ume : the prayer staff plum tree
This plum tree is said to have sprouted from the ritual staff (shakujo) Kōbō Daishi planted in the ground. It still grows near the eternal flame.
Kanman-iwa : the tidal rock
A 10 cm hole at the center of this rock mysteriously fills and empties with the tide, despite being high above sea level. It’s an unexplained phenomenon that intrigues both geologists and mystics.
Mandara-iwa : the mandara rock
This rock is said to have been inscribed with Sanskrit by Kōbō Daishi. It’s now preserved in a separate building not open to the public.
Shigure-zakura : the dewy cherry tree
This now-vanished tree was said to always be covered in droplets, even in the height of summer. Edo-period records describe its mysterious presence.
Ryuto no Sugi : the sea fire cedar
This giant cedar once emitted strange marine lights visible from the coast during the year’s first full moon. Only its stump remains today.
Hyoshigi no Oto : the sound of wooden clappers
If you hear the sound of wooden clappers echoing through the forest, be cautious. According to legend, it’s the doing of a tengū, a mischievous and dangerous spirit from Japanese folklore.
The 7 wonders gift box
The legend of the 7 wonders supports local businesses. Shops sell Momiji Manju, maple-leaf-shaped cakes usually filled with sweet red bean paste (azuki). You can also find a special "7 wonders" gift box, where each cake flavor corresponds to one of the seven wonders: cherry, plum, spice, and more.
What hiking trails lead to the top of mount misen?
There are three main hiking trails, each with its own character — difficulty, scenery, and spiritual significance. All take between 1.5 and 2.5 hours to reach the summit.
You can download our map to see detailed routes. Also, the website of Japan’s Ministry of the Environment offers English-language maps tailored to your interests (nature, wildlife, geology or history).
The ōmoto trail : the toughest and most scenic
- Duration: about 2h
- Length: 3 km
- Elevation gain: 530 m
- Start: Ōmoto Park, near Miyajima Aquarium
This trail begins in a sea of boulders called Ōmotogankai. You’ll see a massive 200-year-old pine tree (3.25 m in circumference). The path also passes the Iwayataishi cave, where Kōbō Daishi is said to have meditated to improve his memory. Near the top, the Kujira-iwa (whale-shaped rock) marks the final ascent.
About three-quarters along the trail, you'll reach the Iwayataishi cave beneath a towering cliff. According to legend, Kōbō Daishi performed a mandala yoga ritual here to enhance his memory.
At the end of the trail, you’ll arrive at Mount Misen’s summit, passing the Kujira-iwa rock, which resembles a whale’s blowhole. The viewpoint offers stunning vistas over the Seto Inland Sea and the town of Ōtake.
The daishōin trail : the spiritual path
- Duration: 1h40
- Length: 2.3 km
- Elevation gain: 515 m
- Start: Daishōin Temple
This is the main pilgrimage route, featuring around 2,000 stone steps! Along the way, you’ll be accompanied by countless small Buddha statues.
The trail starts at the beautiful Daishōin Temple, founded by Kōbō Daishi in 806. It follows the Shirato River and ravine — watch for potential landslides in bad weather! You’ll also pass the 14-meter Shirato Falls.
Midway, you’ll encounter a small protective statue for children at the base of a huge rock. The place is known as "Sai No Kawara," a reference to limbo — where the souls of children who died young are said to linger.
Shortly after, you’ll come to the 30-meter-tall, 150-meter-wide Maku-iwa rock. “Maku-iwa” means “curtain rock,” for its resemblance to a theater curtain.
Toward the end of the trail, you'll walk on the stone-paved “Yūjo Ishidatami.” Built during the Edo period (1603–1868), it made access to the summit easier for pilgrims. It was funded by donations from prostitutes, hence the name “courtesan path.”
The momijidani trail : perfect in autumn
- Duration: 1h40
- Length: 2.5 km
- Elevation gain: 490 m
- Start: Momijidani Park
This is the easiest route, though less rich in spiritual sites. It’s especially beautiful in fall during kōyō (紅葉), when the maple leaves turn vibrant shades of red.
Taking the ropeway
The Miyajima Ropeway lets you reach near the summit without the hike. All information is available in English on the ropeway’s official website.
- Ascent: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Descent: 9:20 AM to 4:30 PM
- Round-trip: 2,000 yen (~12.50 €) adults / 1,000 yen (~6.25 €) children
- One-way: 1,100 yen (~7 €) adults / 550 yen (~3.50 €) children
What to see at the summit of mount misen?
No matter which trail or transport you choose, they all lead to the summit of Mount Misen — a place filled with sacred temples, fascinating rock formations, and spectacular views.
You can download our summit map to explore all the highlights described below.
Temples and spiritual sites
- Misen Hondō: The main temple where Kōbō Daishi is said to have performed the Gumonji ritual.
- Reikadō: Home of the eternal flame, one of the seven wonders.
- Sankidō: A rare shrine honoring three benevolent demons (prosperity, wisdom, exorcism).
- Kannondō and Monjudō: Temples for safe childbirth and academic success.
- Dainichidō: Dedicated to Dainichi Nyorai, deity of the sun and fire.
- Miyama-jinja: A shrine linked to Itsukushima Shrine, honoring the same deities.
Other notable sites
- Mizukake-jizō: A sacred spring guarded by Jizō statues.
- Akaidō: A well used by Kōbō Daishi.
- Chikai no Hi: A “vow flame” for lovers.
- Shakujo no Ume: The plum tree said to have grown from Kōbō Daishi’s prayer staff.
Rock formations
Miyajima’s unique geology has produced evocative rock shapes tied to local legends.
- Kujira-iwa: Whale-shaped rock with a great viewpoint.
- Kaisen-iwa: The “scab rock”, said to heal or punish depending on your purity of heart.
- Funa-iwa: Boat-shaped rock.
- Kanman-iwa: The tidal rock with a mysterious filling hole.
- Kuguri-iwa: A narrowing rock tunnel symbolizing seismic shifts.
- Fudō-iwa: A dramatic, pillar-shaped rock.
Viewpoints
At 535 meters above sea level, enjoy 360° panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea, Miyajima Island, and — on clear days — even Hiroshima.
The three main observation points:
- From Kujira-iwa (Whale Rock)
- The official summit of Mount Misen
- The ropeway observatory, easily accessible
