Things to do in Kintaikyo Onsen

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo by LTorr
Photo by LTorr
Photo by Florida Traveler
Photo by Florida Traveler
Photo "Kintaikyo Onsen" by yuu.dash.ri3 (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by yuu.dash.ri3 (CC BY-SA)
Photo "Kintaikyo Onsen" by yuu.dash.ri3 (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by yuu.dash.ri3 (CC BY-SA)
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Top places to visit

1. Itsukushima Shrine

Itsukushima Shrine is the crowning monument and namesake of Itsukushima Island (or, as it is popularly known, Miyajima, “shrine island”). A UNESCO world heritage listed site and a national treasure, the Itsukushima Shrine holds great cultural significance for the Shinto religion. Explore the shrine’s sacred buildings and stroll along connecting boardwalks. Enjoy views of the magnificent shrine complex and be awed by the way it appears to float above the waters of the Onoseto Strait.
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Itsukushima Shrine featuring heritage elements and a lake or waterhole

2. Miyajima Ferry Terminal

Miyajima Ferry Terminal is the gateway to Miyajima Island, also known as Itsukushima Island, home to one of Japan’s most famous shrines. Located in the Seto Inland Sea, this sacred island is accessible only by boat. Watch for the breathtaking view of the shrine and its striking red torii gate as you approach on the water.
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Miyajima Ferry Terminal featuring general coastal views and boating as well as an individual male

3. Miyajima Aquarium

Miyajima Public Aquarium (Miyajima Suizokukan) is a modern showcase of the diverse sea life that resides in the Onoseto Strait, the Seto Inland Sea and the wider oceans of Japan. Discover an underwater world filled with marine animals and vegetation and learn about the intricate ecology of Miyajima’s coast and freshwater systems. Check out beautiful displays of shimmering fish and see the sunameri, or finless porpoise, which is the symbol of the aquarium.
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Miyajima Aquarium showing signage

4. Daisho-in

Daisho-in (Daishōin) is a significant Shingon Buddhist temple on Miyajima (Itsukushima) Island. Admire the temple’s elegant buildings, statues and sacred spaces, set within a serene forest of Japanese maple, cypress and pine trees. Watch locals and visitors participating in Buddhist rituals and find a little good fortune of your own.
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Daisho-in featuring a temple or place of worship and a garden

5. Five-Story Pagoda

The Five-Story Pagoda on Miyajima (Itsukushima) Island is an ancient architectural masterpiece and sacred site. Constructed in 1407, the impressive red tower incorporates elements of traditional Zen Buddhist designs, elegantly mixed with Japanese flourishes. Admire this stunning piece of sacred architecture from several different viewpoints on Miyajima and approach the structure to see its beautiful vermilion beams, white panels and gold detailing.
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Five-Story Pagoda featuring a temple or place of worship

6. Momijidani Park

Momijidani Park (Maple Leaf Park) is a remarkable garden of beautifully maintained Japanese maple trees in the foothills of Mount Misen, directly behind the famous Itsukushima Shrine. Wander through the elegantly designed park to enjoy overlooks of Momijidani River escarpments, traditional bridges and the mesmerizing foliage of hundreds of maple trees.
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Momijidani Park

What to do in Kintaikyo Onsen

Popular places to visit

Kintaikyo Bridge

Kintaikyo Bridge

4.5/5(3 reviews)

You can learn about the history of Iwakuni with a visit to Kintaikyo Bridge. Stroll along the seaside or visit the temples in this culturally rich area.

Kintaikyo Bridge

Iwakuni Shirohebi Shrine

After visiting Iwakuni Shirohebi Shrine, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Imazu. Visit the temples in this culturally rich area or simply enjoy its seafood restaurants.

Iwakuni Shirohebi Shrine

Iwakuni Park

Explore the great outdoors at Iwakuni Park, a lovely green space in Iwakuni. Discover the area's festivals and temples.

Iwakuni Park

Iwakuni Castle

Find out about the history of Iwakuni when you spend time at Iwakuni Castle. Stroll along the seaside or visit the temples in this culturally rich area.

Iwakuni Castle

Ukai

Learn about the local history of Iwakuni when you spend time at Ukai. Take some time to visit the temples in this culturally rich area.

Ukai

Mikawa Mu Valley

Enjoy an outing to Mikawa Mu Valley during your stay in Iwakuni. Amble around the area's gardens or experience its festivals.

Mikawa Mu Valley

Kikko Park

Explore the great outdoors at Kikko Park, a lovely green space in Iwakuni. Stroll along the seaside or visit the temples in this culturally rich area.

Kikko Park

Imazu White Snakes Museum

You can spend time browsing the exhibits at Imazu White Snakes Museum in Imazu. Stroll along this culturally rich area's seaside or simply enjoy its seafood restaurants.

Imazu White Snakes Museum

Iwakuni Art Museum

You can study the exhibits at Iwakuni Art Museum, a museum with a storied past, during your travels to Iwakuni. Stroll along the seaside or visit the temples in this culturally rich area.

Iwakuni Art Museum
Photo by LTorr

Imazu

Frequently asked questions

Is Kintaikyo Onsen worth visiting?
Whether you're coming to experience the cultural attractions and local charm or try unique foods and venture into nature, there's no shortage of things to do in Kintaikyo Onsen.
How do I spend a day in Kintaikyo Onsen?
Iwakuni Castle and Iwakuni Art Museum are two excellent places to kick-start your adventures. Be sure to explore the dining and retail options in Kintaikyo Onsen while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Kintaikyo Onsen?
The top tourist attraction in Kintaikyo Onsen is Iwakuni Castle, so make sure to add it to your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Kintaikyo Onsen?
Three days in Kintaikyo Onsen is more than enough to enjoy the city's major highlights. Many guests spend four days on average. Iwakuni Castle, Iwakuni Art Museum and Kintaikyo Bridge are highly rated sights. Want to experience more? Hang around a bit longer to explore nearby hotspots like Hiroshima.
What are some activities to do in Kintaikyo Onsen with kids?
Planning what to do in Kintaikyo Onsen with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're travelling with toddlers or teenagers, there are many family-friendly sights to keep everyone entertained here.

What to do in Kintaikyo Onsen for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Kintaikyo Onsen, with activities for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Imazu White Snakes Museum.
Are there free things to do in Kintaikyo Onsen?
From visiting parks to strolling around exciting neighbourhoods, it's easy to find free things to do in Kintaikyo Onsen. If you need new ideas, ask a local tour guide for recommendations. Iwakuni Art Museum is a must for anyone planning to save on their sightseeing adventures.