Escape to myself

I intended to visit the island tomorrow but rain was forecast so I decided to make an early start today instead. A dull start turned into a fine, warm day. The trip was well worth it; a 45 minute journey from Hiroshima Peace Park. Today being Sunday is was quite busy by the harbour with both tourists and locals. It’s obviously a family outing and many people were painting the architecture and landscapes. An island of hiking, temples and shrines and deer everywhere, like Nara but a little bit special.

Itsukushima Jinja

A short walk from the ferry pier you find this beautiful Shinto Shrine. It’s very much a place of daily observance. Services and monks are much in evidence. This famous UNESCO site was established in the sixth century although the current architecture is mainly seventeenth. Its a beautiful place built over the sea and at high tide appears weightless on the water.

Daisho-in Temple

This was set high on the mountainside overlooking the bay. Dedicated to the Shingun Buddhist sect its name means great holy temple. Founded 1200 years ago the magnificent setting and the complex of many buildings is a wonderful place … a celebration of peace and the natural world.

Walking sacred Mount Misen

This tough trail took me 3000 feet up the mountain. It’s a spectacular place and on my way I stopped at a little open air restaurant for Japanese ginger beer and Oysters and noodles. I’m mastering chop sticks!