Itsukushima Shrine | Review by WANG

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Itsukushima Shrine

A Shrine Registered as a World Heritage Site as of 1996.

3 Sep 2026 See More

During my trip to Hiroshima, I finally got to see Itsukushima Shrine in person, a World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most iconic seaside views! As soon as I set foot on Miyajima and saw the enormous vermilion torii gate standing in the blue waters of the Seto Inland Sea from afar, the solemn yet dreamlike sight instantly left me speechless. Seeing it in person was far more breathtaking than seeing it countless times in photos.

At high tide, the entire magnificent shrine complex seems to float directly on the water. The vermilion corridors and main hall complement the green mountains behind them, creating a picturesque scene full of traditional Japanese charm. Best of all, you can plan around the tides. In the afternoon at low tide, I walked right beneath the great torii gate to look up close at the weathered details and massive scale of this centuries-old wooden structure. It was truly spectacular.

Besides the stunning shrine buildings over the water, adorable wild deer can be seen leisurely strolling all over the island. Together with the lively and fun Miyajima Omotesando Shopping Street, where you can also try delicious freshly grilled conger eel rice and momiji manju, the whole trip was both full and relaxing. I highly recommend adding Itsukushima Shrine to your must-visit list when traveling to Hiroshima. It's absolutely a world-class view that everyone should experience in person at least once in their lifetime!

Other Reviews by WANG

Abeno Harukas

Opened in 2014, the 300-meter-high skyscraper is a mix-use complex building. From the two basement floors to the 14th level you’ll find Kintetsu Department Store (Main Store Abeno Harukas) and the Abeno Harukas Dining restaurant floors.
- Tennoji, Shinsekai
- Observatories
5 Sep 2026 See More

If you want the most breathtaking panoramic night view in all of Japan, head straight to Abeno Harukas, the tallest building in the Kansai region! This 300-meter supertall skyscraper is impossible to miss—the moment you arrive at Tennoji Station, you can look up and see its majestic silhouette piercing the sky.

Take the high-speed elevator straight to the HARUKAS 300 observation deck at the top, and the moment you step out, the sweeping view will leave you stunned. With its massive floor-to-ceiling windows and three-sided sky corridor, you can see all of Osaka and even as far as Kyoto and Kobe spread out below you.

The best part is that whether you're admiring the endless cityscape during the day or the magical golden glow at sunset, the view is so beautiful it leaves you speechless. At night, the scenery outside transforms into a dazzling, three-dimensional cityscape filled with millions of lights, and the romance level is off the charts. The observation deck also has a comfortable sky garden atrium and a cafe with a view, where you can order a drink, sit by the window, and leisurely enjoy the luxurious feeling of being high above the city.

I highly recommend adding Abeno Harukas to your Osaka itinerary from dusk into the evening. Whether you're on a date or simply want to take in a grand view, this is definitely the most breathtaking scenic spot in all of Osaka!
Ikukunitama Shrine (Ikutama-san)

Believed to be the oldest shrine in Osaka, its origins date back to the 660s BC, when Emperor Jimmu, Japan’s first emperor, enshrined Ikushima-no-Kami and Tarushima-no-Kami at Ishiyamazaki, near present-day Osaka Castle, during his eastern expedition. The two main deities are revered for their divine blessings of creation and growth, and have long attracted deep worship as great gods embodying the very land of Japan itself.
- Tennoji, Shinsekai
- Shrines & Temples
5 Sep 2026 See More

Affectionately known by locals as “Ikutama-san,” this shrine has a history of more than 2,500 years and is one of Osaka's oldest shrines. As soon as you enter the grounds, the towering trees and stately, timeworn shrine buildings shut out the noise of the surrounding city, and the air feels peaceful and sacred. The shrine primarily enshrines deities of the land of Japan and is believed to be especially effective for prayers for national peace, matchmaking, protection from misfortune, and a safe and smooth life.

In addition to the solemn main sanctuary, the grounds also include the distinctive Jingokuji Temple and several subsidiary shrines. Most notably, this is also known as one of the birthplaces of the traditional performing art of Kamigata rakugo, so there is a related monument on the grounds, giving the shrine a strong sense of culture and the arts. If you visit in summer, this is also an important venue for traditional festivals, whose lively atmosphere showcases the authentic energy of Osaka's ordinary people.

I highly recommend including Ikukunitama Shrine in your walking itinerary if you want to slow down and unwind during an independent trip to Osaka. Here, you can not only experience the peaceful solemnity of an ancient shrine with thousands of years of history, but also get a feel for the local culture that sets it apart from typical commercial attractions!
Tower of Osaka Castle

Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who unified the country during the Azuchi-Momoyama period (1568-1600), began construction of the tower of Osaka Castle in 1583 and completed it in 1585. The castle was later destroyed during the Osaka Natsu no Jin（summer campaign of Osaka） in 1615, but was rebuilt by the Tokugawa Shogunate in 1626. However, the castle keep was destroyed by lightning in 1665. In 1931, the castle tower of the Toyotomi period was reconstructed with donations from Osaka citizens.
- Osaka Castle, Kyobashi
- Tourist Attractions
5 Sep 2026 See More

Whenever you visit Osaka, if you want to soak up the rich historical atmosphere and enjoy beautiful views over the city, the historic landmark Osaka Castle is an absolute must-see! As soon as you enter the expansive park, the first things that catch your eye are the imposing moat and towering stone walls built from enormous rocks. Just strolling through the lush green grounds is very relaxing and pleasant.

At the center stands the main castle tower, with white walls, green roof tiles, and dazzling gold decorations that give it a grand and magnificent appearance. Inside, the castle tower has been converted into a modern history museum featuring a rich collection of Edo-period artifacts, samurai armor, and models depicting battles at Osaka Castle. The vivid exhibits offer a glimpse into the struggle for power between Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu.

After making the tiring climb to the observation deck on the top floor, you're rewarded with sweeping views of Osaka Castle's green park and the modern cityscape filled with high-rises. The view is incredibly expansive. The surrounding scenery is even more beautiful during cherry blossom season in spring or when the leaves change color in fall.

I highly recommend adding Osaka Castle to your sightseeing and walking itinerary when visiting Osaka. Whether you want to take beautiful photos, enjoy the fresh forest air, or experience the appeal of Japan's Sengoku-period history, this is a timeless attraction that never disappoints!