Mount Misen

Overview

Mount Misen is the sacred 535-meter peak of Miyajima island, crowned with primeval forest designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its summit offers breathtaking 360-degree views across the Seto Inland Sea and its countless islands.

Highlights

• Eternal Flame: A fire lit by Kobo Daishi 1,200 years ago still burns in the Reika-do Hall near the summit — it reportedly inspired the Peace Flame in Hiroshima.
• Primeval Forest: The mountain's virgin forest contains species found nowhere else, including ancient camphor and pine trees.
• Summit Boulders: Massive granite boulders at the peak create natural observation platforms with panoramic views.

History

Kobo Daishi (Kukai), founder of Shingon Buddhism, performed 100 days of ascetic practice here in 806 AD. The mountain has been sacred ever since, and its forests have been protected from logging for over a millennium.

Visitor Tips

• Ropeway + Hike: Take the ropeway to Shishi-iwa Station, then hike 30 minutes to the summit — the best balance of effort and reward.
• Full Hike: The Momijidani trail from sea level takes about 90 minutes but rewards with forest immersion.
• Duration: 2–3 hours (ropeway + summit).