17 Jun 2023

Miyajima's Monumental Itsukushima Shrine

The day began with a warmer temperature of 30°C as Heritage Adventurer arrived at Hiroshima and we set out to pay our respects at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Inside the museum we were confronted with personal belongings left by the victims, and exhibits detailing the horrors and devastation caused by the atomic bombing in 1945. The National Peace Memorial hall further deepened our understanding through photographs, memoirs, and stories of the victims, and provided a solemn space for reflection and mourning. After exploring the extensive gardens, we stopped at the cenotaph for the victims, leaving our origami cranes at the Children's Peace Monument. The heartfelt inscription on the cenotaph resonated with us as we departed, carrying the message of pursuing harmony, prosperity, and genuine world peace.

During lunch, we relocated to anchor in Miyajima and embarked on our first Zodiac departure. Armed with helpful information about not feeding the resident deer and tips on finding the best ice cream and hiking trails, we eagerly made our way to the World Heritage Site, Itsukushima Shrine. This magnificent shrine and its torii gate stood above water, giving the illusion of floating during high tide. The interconnected buildings, including a prayer hall, main hall, and Noh theatre stage were supported by pillars standing in the sea. Dedicated to the three Munakata goddesses, the shrine represented worship of the sea, traffic safety, fortune, and accomplishment. Miyajima Island held a profound historical significance as a sacred site of Shinto worship, dating back to the 6th century. The vibrant vermillion colour of the shrine and torii gate was believed to ward off evil spirits.

Image (c) F.Wardle