Shukkeien 縮景園: A Miniature Seto Inland Sea

Scenic Vista: Kokokyo Bridge and Turtle-Shaped Islet

For over 400 years, Shukkeien 縮景園 ⭐has offered a tranquil escape in the heart of Hiroshima. Originally built as a feudal lord's garden in 1620, it has survived fires, wars, and the atomic bomb, being lovingly restored each time. The garden's design has evolved over centuries, but its purpose remains the same: to provide a place of peace and beauty.

Visitors can stroll along paths that wind through a landscape filled with seasonal flowers. In spring, cherry blossoms and plum trees burst into color. Summer brings lush greenery, while autumn blankets the garden in vibrant leaves. Even in winter, plum blossoms and camellias provide a splash of color. During the Cherry Blossom Festival (3/28/2025 - 4/6/2025), the garden is even illuminated at night, offering a truly magical experience.

Shukkeien is more than a garden; it's a living piece of history that continues to charm both locals and tourists alike, inviting everyone to slow down and enjoy its timeless beauty.

A Painter's View: Turtle Island and Rainbow Bridge (YouTube link)

Shukkeien 縮景園: A Miniature Seto Inland Sea 瀬戸内海 (YouTube link)

Photo Gallery

Takueichi Pond's Koi, Crane, and Turtle Islets

The Symmetrical Beauty of Kokokyo Bridge

Real Turtles Sunbathe on the Turtle-Shaped Islet

Kosanji Temple's Underground World: The Cave of 1,000 Buddhas and Jigoku Gorge

Mount Fuji Lava Crafts the Walls of Kosanji’s Senbutsu Cave

Beneath the vibrant temple grounds of Kosanji lies a remarkable and profound journey: the 千佛洞地獄峡 ⭐, often referred to as the Cave of 1,000 Buddhas. This ambitious underground project, nine years in the making, began in 1955 and was finally completed in 1964.

The entrance to this subterranean world is subtly placed next to the elegant Shishinden Hall 至心殿, on the west side of the main temple building. From there, visitors descend about 15 meters underground into a winding tunnel, stretching an impressive 350 meters. The very walls of this unique cave are a testament to human ingenuity and artistic vision: they were meticulously formed using hardened lava from Japan's iconic Mount Fuji and burnt stones from Mount Asama, all reinforced with concrete to create naturalistic rock formations.

Beyond the serene Buddhas, vivid plaques line the cave walls, portraying scenes of Buddhist hell and paradise. These powerful images bring teachings of karma, consequence, and rebirth to life, inviting quiet reflection on the journey of the soul.

Underground World: The Cave of 1,000 Buddhas and Jigoku Gorge (YouTube link)

Photo Gallery

As you navigate the cool, dim passages, you'll discover three vast caverns, each roughly 10 meters high and spanning several tens of square meters. These expansive spaces are not merely structural; they serve as a canvas for the cave's spiritual purpose. Inside, a thousand serene stone Buddha statues stand enshrined, their presence adding to the sacred atmosphere. There's even a subterranean waterfall, its gentle rush echoing through the depths. 

The photographs taken on December 3, 2024, beautifully capture this essence, serving as a visual testament to the cave's religious allure.

Shishinden Hall 至心殿: Gateway to Kosanji’s Subterranean Senbutsu Cave 千佛洞

Eight Hells: Vivid Plaques Depict Buddhist Hell on Kosanji’s Cave Walls

Fiery Hell-Bound Car Carries Sinners in Kosanji’s Cave Depictions

Subterranean Waterfall: Its Gentle Rush Echoes in Kosanji’s Cave Depths

Kosanji’s Cave Exit Lies Beside the Great Savior Kannon Statue

Kosanji Temple’s Vibrant Autumn Hues Contrast Paradise and Cave’s Depicted Hells

Map of Kosanji Temple Grounds (in Japanese)

The Hill Of Hope: A Marble Oasis of Art and Eternity

Framing the Future: "The Tower of Hope" from a Marble Vantage

The Hill Of Hope ⭐(Miraishin-no-Oka  / 未来心の丘) is perhaps the most striking and unusual attraction. Atop the Kousanji Temple's grounds, a breathtaking sight unfolds: the Hill of the Future Spirit (Miraishin-no-Oka). This sprawling 5,000-square-meter garden, crafted in pristine white marble, was brought to life by renowned sculptor Itto Kuetani.

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Itto, whose studio is located in Carrara, Italy, personally sourced the luminous marble from that region. With great respect for the material and its natural surroundings, he meticulously shaped each monument and pathway. Every curve and angle reflects a dialogue between the artist, the stone, and the landscape, carefully considering the whisper of the wind, the play of light, and the sweeping scenery. The result is an immersive space that invites visitors not only to observe but also to engage with their surroundings, sparking imagination and fostering a playful harmony with nature.

White Marble Wonder: The Hill of Hope (YouTube link)

Photo Gallery

Located at the Kousanji Temple's summit, this expansive artistic space is made entirely of white Italian marble. It features abstract sculptures, including the Tower of Light, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. There's even a Cafe Cuore also made of marble. This area is distinctly different from the traditional temple grounds and offers a contrasting artistic experience.  

The photographs taken on December 3, 2024, beautifully capture this essence, serving as a visual testament to the park's natural allure.

Where White Marble Meets Warm Hues: Kousanji Temple in Autumn

Experiencing Itsukushima: More Than Just the Floating Torii

Japan’s Island of the Gods: 48 Hours in Miyajima (YouTube link)

Itsukushima is a small island in Hiroshima Bay, famous for its UNESCO World Heritage site, the Itsukushima Shrine 嚴島神社, with its iconic "floating" torii gate that appears to hover over the water at high tide. 

Itsukushima is a must-see for any visitor to Japan. Its unique beauty and cultural significance make it an unforgettable experience.

Here's why:

Travelers often praise:

• The serene atmosphere
• The opportunity to experience something truly unique

Itsukushima Shrine:

• Origins trace back to the 6th century
• Current structure from the 12th century
• A masterpiece of Heian-period architecture

Additional attractions:

• Mount Misen for hiking with panoramic views
• A laid-back vibe, contrasting with busy cities like Hiroshima (a short ferry ride away)

Considerations:

• Crowds can swell during peak seasons:
• Cherry blossom time (late March to early April)
• Autumn foliage (November)
• Tide impacts the torii gate’s “floating” effect:
• Low tide leaves it grounded in mud
• Timing is key for the full experience

Ideal for photography or history buffs:

• Plan visits around high tide schedules

Compact destination:

• Most highlights doable in a day
• Overnight stays offer a quieter, after-hours charm

The World-Famous Floating Torii Gate

One-Day Miyajima Trip via the JR West Miyajima Ferry

Here is a one-day itinerary, created with the help of Grok 3, starting from the JR West Miyajima Ferry at Miyajimaguchi.

This Sunday, March 23, 2025, plan starts and ends with the JR West Miyajima Ferry, delivering a full day with that nighttime torii highlight. The early spring setting adds a subtle blossom bonus.

Morning: Ferry to Miyajima and Shrine

9:00 AM - Board JR West Miyajima Ferry at Miyajimaguchi

• Start at the Miyajimaguchi ferry terminal. The JR West Miyajima Ferry runs frequently (every 15-30 minutes during peak hours), with service from 6:25 AM. Take the 9:00 AM or 9:15 AM ferry—10 minutes across Hiroshima Bay. If you’ve got a JR Pass, it’s free; otherwise, ¥200 one way. Sit on the right side facing forward for a prime torii gate preview.

9:15 AM - Arrive at Miyajima Pier

• You’re on the island! Deer will eye your bags—keep food tucked away. It’s a 10-minute walk to Itsukushima Shrine, so head straight there.

9:30 AM - Itsukushima Shrine at Low Tide

• Morning often aligns with low tide (check tide tables). On March 23, 2024, low tide likely hit around 8-10 AM (based on Hiroshima Bay cycles). 
• Entry: ¥300. Walk the seabed to the “floating” torii gate—barnacles and mud make it raw and real (no coin-tossing; it’s discouraged). The shrine’s 12th-century planks and halls feel timeless—UNESCO earned.

10:45 AM - Omotesando Shopping Street

• Hit this lively street near the pier. Grab a grilled oyster (¥300-500) or momiji manju (¥100-150)—the maple pastries might have a spring twist. Shops buzz more on a Sunday; snag a wooden rice scoop as a keepsake.

Midday: Mount Misen Adventure

11:15 AM - Miyajima Ropeway to Mount Misen

• Walk 15 minutes to Momijidani Station (signs guide you past the shrine). Ride the ropeway (¥1,100 one-way, ¥2,000 round-trip). The 20-minute ascent ends at Shishi-iwa Observatory—great views already. Hike 30 minutes to the 535-meter summit—steep but rewarding, with early cherry blossoms possibly dotting the lower trails. Wear decent shoes.

1:00 PM - Lunch with a View

• Pack a bento from Miyajimaguchi (or buy one on Omotesando) and eat at the summit—Seto Inland Sea panoramas pair perfectly with spring air. If you’d rather dine below, descend by 12:45 PM and visit Fujitaya for anago-meshi (eel rice, ¥2,000-3,000)—Sunday might need a reservation.

Afternoon: Temples and Tide Shift

2:15 PM - Daisho-in Temple

• Back on ground level, walk 10 minutes to this peaceful Buddhist temple at Misen’s base. Founded in 806, it’s less crowded—spin the prayer wheels and admire the 500 unique Buddha statues, some with knitted hats. Early spring greenery adds a fresh touch.

3:15 PM - Senjokaku Pavilion and Pagoda

• Five minutes from the shrine, explore this open hall (free) and the 1407 Five-Story Pagoda—its red contrasts nicely with budding trees. A quick, scenic stop.

3:45 PM - High Tide Torii Check

• By late afternoon, the tide’s rising (high tide likely ~3-5 PM—verify for March 23, 2025). Revisit the torii from the shore—it’s starting to “float.” The water’s creep transforms the morning’s mudflat into a reflective scene.

Evening: Nighttime Viewing

5:00 PM - Sunset and Dinner

• Sunset’s around 6:20 PM on March 23, 2025—watch it near the shrine, framing the torii. Then, dine at Miyajima Grand Hotel Arimoto (3-minute walk) for a kaiseki meal with local seafood (¥5,000-10,000, book ahead for Sunday).

6:30 PM - Illuminated Torii Viewing

• After sunset, the torii and shrine glow until ~11:00 PM. With high tide (hopefully) peaking, it “floats” under the lights—stunning and serene, especially as Sunday crowds thin out. Shoreline or pier gives the best angles; bring a camera with low-light prowess.

8:00 PM - Final Stroll and Ferry Back

• Wander Omotesando one last time—Sunday evening keeps some shops open, and the island quiets down. Head to the pier for your return. The JR West Miyajima Ferry runs until 10:00 PM from Miyajima—catch the 8:15 PM or 8:45 PM (frequency drops after 7:00 PM).

8:15 PM - Ferry to Miyajimaguchi

• Ten minutes back, with the illuminated coast as your farewell.

8:30 PM - Arrive at Miyajimaguchi

• Back at the terminal—ready for your next step.

Logistics and Tips

• Ferry Time: ~20 minutes round-trip. ¥400 total without JR Pass.
• Cost: Ferry (¥400), shrine (¥300), ropeway (¥2,000), food/souvenirs (~¥3,000-7,000)—¥5,700-10,000 total.
• Tide Timing: Low AM, high PM (estimated; check 2025 Hiroshima tide charts). Night viewing’s best at high tide.
• Ferry Schedule: 6:25 AM first from Miyajimaguchi, 10:00 PM last from Miyajima. Confirm at jr-miyajimaferry.co.jp closer to 2025.
• Sunday Spring Vibe: Early cherry blossoms (pre-peak), mild weather, moderate crowds (less intense than Saturday).
• Gear: Light jacket, comfy shoes, camera, cash (cards not always accepted)

This plan starts and ends with the JR West Miyajima Ferry, giving you a full day capped by that stunning nighttime torii. 

References

1. Itsukushima Shrine
2. Tide and Current Predictor