Miyajima - Day 3

On the third day of our trip to Japan, we went to Miyajima (which means "shrine island" in Japanese).  Miyajima is located off the coast of Hiroshima. There were breathtaking views all over the place!  We were able to visit the famous shrine which is in front of the floating torii gate.  On the day we went, it was low tide so we were able to walk out to the gate while normally during high tide, this gate would seem like it was floating on the water.  Overnight we stayed in a traditional style ryokan called the Iwaso.  It was superb!  We especially loved the food and the onsen (japanese hot spring bath).  Right before our departure, we were able to ride the ropeway (gondola) which took us to the top of the mountain for some of the most amazing views we have ever seen.  I will never forget this!

Taking the ferry to Miyajima

Waiting for our room at the Iwaso Ryokan

there was deer everyone!

Front Entrance to the Iwaso Ryokan

cute statue

lots of people digging for clams and oysters

during our visit, we saw this wedding ceremony at the shrine

reading our fortune we received at the shrine

hello koi fish

having a blast on the gondola