Mt. Misen

The highest peak on Miyajima island at 535 meters, Mt. Misen is a sacred mountain whose primeval forest is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Three hiking routes wind through ancient cedars and mossy boulders, the Momijidani (maple valley), Daisho-in, and Omoto courses each take about 90 minutes to two hours up. Alternatively, a ropeway covers much of the ascent. Near the summit, the Reikado hall houses a flame said to have been burning continuously since Kobo Daishi lit it 1,200 years ago. The panoramic views from the observation deck stretch across the Seto Inland Sea and its scattered islands.