Mount Misen rises about five hundred meters behind the shrine and has been revered for more than a thousand years. Pilgrims and hikers have climbed it for centuries, and today most visitors combine a ropeway ride with a walk of their own. The Miyajima Ropeway runs in two stages from Momijidani Station: first a circulating gondola up to Kayatani, then a larger car to Shishiiwa Station near the top. From Shishiiwa it is roughly another hour round trip on foot to the summit, passing the Reikado Hall with its eternal flame, which is said to have burned for over twelve hundred years, and ending at an open platform with views over the inland sea and the islands scattered across it. Wild deer and sometimes monkeys live on the mountain, so keep food packed away. In autumn the slopes of Momijidani turn red and gold, which is why the ropeway is especially busy in November.
You can ride up and walk down, or hike the whole mountain. Several trails climb from the town, including routes through Momijidani and Daisho-in Temple, and most fit-enough visitors take about two hours to ascend on foot. The ropeway saves energy, and many people use it one way and walk the other. The trails have steps and uneven sections, so wear proper shoes and carry water, and avoid starting late in the afternoon.
The ropeway runs during daytime hours, and the last descent is in the late afternoon, so build in a safety margin. It stops in strong wind or storms and has scheduled maintenance closures at certain times of year. Check the official page before you go, especially in poor weather. Fares are sold at the station, with a discount for round trips, and no advance booking is needed.
In November the ropeway queue can be long, so plan to arrive early and do the mountain before the shrine, or go late in the day if the tide suits. Combine the mountain with Itsukushima Shrine and the Omotesando shopping street, and you have a full day. The summit's view is wide, but haze can reduce it, so a clear day matters more than the hour. If you want a shorter outing, ride to Shishiiwa, enjoy the first lookout and the monkeys and deer, and descend again without the final climb.
What to expect
The experience
A two-stage ropeway from Momijidani to Shishiiwa, followed by an optional forest walk to the summit and Reikado Hall.
Best time
Morning on a clear day, and in November for the autumn leaves around Momijidani.
How long
Two hours for the ropeway and a short stroll, closer to four with the summit and a walk down.
Tips
Go early, watch the last-descent time, wear sturdy shoes and keep snacks away from the deer and monkeys.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travelers who want views and a break from the shrine crowds.
- Families
- Fun for children aboard the gondola; the summit walk has steps, so judge stamina.
- Couples
- Autumn colors at Momijidani and a summit view over the sea.
- Pair with
- Itsukushima Shrine, the Omotesando shopping street and a late ferry back.
- Time needed
- Half a day, including the ropeway queue.
Good questions
How does the Miyajima Ropeway work?+
It runs in two stages: a gondola from Momijidani to Kayatani and a larger funicular-style car to Shishiiwa. The ride takes around half an hour including the change.
Is the summit far from the top ropeway station?+
It is roughly another hour round trip on foot, on paths with steps. Many visitors stop at Shishiiwa if time or energy is short.
What hours does the ropeway run?+
It runs in daytime hours, with the last return in the late afternoon, and it stops in bad weather. Check the official page for the current schedule.
Do I need to book ropeway tickets in advance?+
No, tickets are sold at the station and there is no advance reservation. Expect queues in the autumn leaf season.
Are there wild animals?+
Deer roam the island and monkeys live on the mountain, so keep food out of sight. Do not feed them.
