MIYAJIMA

On our second (and last) day in Hiroshima, we visited to the island of Miyajima to to see the Itsukushima Jinja shrine and eat oysters. We arrived by boat, and the landscape was immediately breathtaking. The bright orange shrine located off the coast of the island stood out vibrantly against the lush, green mountains that flowed right into the clear turquoise water.

Itsukushima Jinja Shrine

This Shinto shrine is famous for its “floating” torii gate that appears to be floating in the water at high tide. The actual shrine is also built on top of the water, on a dock, which made the experience and shrine itself such a serene place. We enjoyed amazing views of Hiroshima and mainland Japan from the shrine.

oysters!

One thing that Hiroshima is known for is oysters. Because this city is located right on the water, there are many oyster farms. We went to Yakigaki No Hayashi, a restaurant located at the end of a small alleyway lined with little stores and restaurants selling sweets, lemon tea, oysters (obviously!), and souvenirs.

When we arrived at the restaurant, we had to wait in line for 15 minutes. While we were waiting, we watched the chef grill the oysters outside. We knew this place would be good! Here, for the first time ever, I tried a raw oyster. It was a good place to try it because it was delectable! I dipped it in a mild sauce and then topped it with shallots and ginger. Yum!! I also had some delicious soba noodles which are now my favorite type of noodles!! And Reese finally tried — and liked — tempura!

Miyajima was super fun to visit, and is highly recommended by me!!