Shishiiwa Observatory

Perched at the upper terminus of the Miyajima Ropeway, Shishiiwa Observatory offers one of the most sweeping panoramas in western Japan. From its deck, the Seto Inland Sea stretches away in a mosaic of islands and shimmering water, with the rooftops of Itsukushima Shrine's precinct visible far below. The observatory also marks the start of the final approach to Mount Misen's 535-metre summit: a roughly 30-minute walk that passes the Misen Hondo hall and the Reikado, home to a sacred flame said to have burned for centuries.

When to go

The observatory is open around the clock, so early risers can catch the deck in near-solitude before the ropeway's first cars bring the day's visitors. Autumn's maple colours and spring's haze of cherry blossom both add drama to the seascape; clear winter mornings tend to offer the sharpest visibility across the islands.

“Come early or be ready to wait or hike yourself. I'd do the hike and skip the ropeway if the line is too long. Feels like you are on the highest point for hundreds of miles around. Great views and great history”— Brett R. Brown, Google review