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Miyajima Aquarium

Miyajima Aquarium 〜 Welcome to the Fascinating World of the Sea 〜

Miyajima Aquarium, located on the famous tourist destination of Miyajima in Hiroshima Prefecture, showcases the beautiful marine life of the Seto Inland Sea. It is situated near the historic Itsukushima Shrine, offering a blend of sightseeing and nature. In this article, we will introduce the access methods from Narita, Haneda, and Kansai International Airports, highlight nearby tourist attractions, and recommend local food and restaurants.

Access from Narita, Haneda, and Kansai International Airports

Access from Narita Airport

To reach Miyajima Aquarium from Narita Airport, the most convenient way is by plane and Shinkansen. First, take a domestic flight from Narita Airport to Hiroshima Airport, then take a bus to Hiroshima Station. From Hiroshima Station, take the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station and then a ferry to Miyajima. Upon arrival on Miyajima, you can either walk or take a shuttle bus to the aquarium. The total travel time is approximately 4.5 hours.

Access from Haneda Airport

From Haneda Airport, you can also fly to Hiroshima Airport and follow the same route using the bus, train, and ferry to reach Miyajima Aquarium. Alternatively, you can take the Nozomi Shinkansen from Tokyo Station directly to Hiroshima Station, which takes about 4 hours. The access from Hiroshima Station is the same as described above.

Access from Kansai International Airport

From Kansai International Airport, take the Kansai Airport Rapid Service to Shin-Osaka Station, then transfer to the Shinkansen to Hiroshima Station. From Hiroshima Station, take the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station and then a ferry to Miyajima. The total travel time is approximately 3.5 hours.

Highlights of Miyajima Aquarium

Marine Life of the Seto Inland Sea

Miyajima Aquarium features the rich marine life of the Seto Inland Sea. Visitors can observe a variety of unique fish, jellyfish, and marine mammals, and learn about their ecosystems. One of the highlights is the sea turtle exhibit, where visitors can get an up-close view of these fascinating creatures.

Penguin Parade

The daily penguin parade is a popular event that brings smiles to visitors’ faces. Watching the adorable penguins waddle along is a delightful experience for all ages.

Touch Pool

In the touch pool area, visitors can safely interact with sharks and rays under the guidance of knowledgeable staff. It’s a hands-on experience that is both educational and fun.

Nearby Tourist Attractions

Itsukushima Shrine

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Itsukushima Shrine is a must-see destination on Miyajima. The iconic red torii gate and the shrine itself appear to float on the sea, creating a breathtaking view.

Mount Misen offers a variety of hiking trails that allow visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of Miyajima. The panoramic views from the summit of the Seto Inland Sea are truly spectacular.

Recommended Foods

Oysters

Miyajima is famous for its oysters, especially during the winter season. Fresh oysters can be enjoyed in various styles, such as grilled, fried, or in hot pots.

Anago-meshi (Conger Eel Rice)

Another local specialty is anago-meshi, a dish featuring conger eel served on a bed of rice with a sweet and savory sauce. It’s a dish not to be missed when visiting Miyajima.

Popular Restaurants and Shops

Kakiya (Oyster House)

“Kakiya” is a popular restaurant known for its fresh oyster dishes. From grilled oysters to oyster gratin, the diverse menu offers something for every oyster lover.

Miyajima Shokudo

Miyajima Shokudo is renowned for its delicious anago-meshi. This dish, featuring tender conger eel over rice, is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

 

When visiting Miyajima Aquarium, take the opportunity to explore these attractions and enjoy the local cuisine. It’s an ideal destination for families and friends to experience the natural and historical beauty of Miyajima. Enjoy making wonderful memories on your trip!