Miyajima Grand Hotel Arimoto sits at 364 Minamimachi, on the island's coast and inside the national park, only about three minutes on foot from Itsukushima Shrine and the five-story pagoda. That position lets you see the shrine early or late, after the day-trippers leave, which is the main reason to stay overnight. The hotel mixes traditional and western styles across fourteen room types. There are Sukiya-style Japanese rooms with mountain or garden views, western and Japanese combination rooms and junior suites and suites with open-air baths looking over the water, topped by a very large ocean-view suite with a sauna. Public indoor and outdoor baths are provided for men and women. There are two restaurants, with dining centered on Seto Inland Sea seafood and kaiseki service. Guests can also use a Japanese garden, an outdoor deck and a premium lounge with drinks and snacks. A free shuttle runs from the ferry terminal, which helps with luggage, and parking is free if you arrive with a car on the island.
Location and getting around
Daisho-in is about seven minutes away and the aquarium eight, so most of the island is within a short walk. The ferry from Miyajimaguchi takes around ten minutes, and the hotel shuttle meets the terminal, which saves a walk with bags. After the last ferries leave, the island becomes quiet, the deer wander the lanes and the shrine area feels much calmer than in the day. Check the tide table when planning, since the torii looks very different at high and low water.
Rooms and who it suits
This is a comfortable choice for couples, families and anyone who wants a traditional island stay without the cost and formality of the most exclusive ryokan. Rates that include half board offer dinner, and guests need to arrive by seven in the evening to receive it, so plan your ferry accordingly. Contact the hotel in advance about dietary needs. The public baths are not available to guests with tattoos, so check the policy if that applies to you, and consider a suite with a private bath instead.
Good to know
Autumn leaf season in November is the busiest period, and rooms sell out early, so book well ahead. The hotel also has a karaoke box, massage treatments, a gift shop and a manager reception, which gives it a classic resort feel. Compare room types before booking, since the view and bath options vary a lot. If you want a simpler or cheaper island stay, consider a smaller inn, and if you want to stay on the mainland, the downtown hotels are easy to reach.
Why stay here
- ✓About 3 minutes on foot to Itsukushima Shrine
- ✓Free ferry terminal shuttle
- ✓Public indoor and outdoor baths
- ✓Suites with open-air baths
- ✓Two restaurants with kaiseki dining
- ✓Japanese garden and outdoor deck
- ✓Premium lounge with drinks and snacks
- ✓Free self-parking
Good questions
How far is it from Itsukushima Shrine?+
About three minutes on foot. The five-story pagoda is also about three minutes away.
Is there a ferry shuttle?+
Yes, a free shuttle runs from the ferry terminal. Confirm the schedule with the hotel.
Can guests with tattoos use the baths?+
The public baths are not available to guests with tattoos. Some suites have private baths, so ask about those.
