Time to say goodbye to Hiroshima and hello to Miyajima. Well not already actually. I didn’t wanted to go straight away to Miyajima as I had already some time planned there. Miyajima is a very popular destination in Japan so expect to see a lot of tourists. Therefore I skipped it for the first half of the day and went to the nearby Iwakuni town instead.
Add 20 min train from Miyajima station to reach Iwakuni. The proximity makes it a good day trip from Hiroshima (about 50 min train journey). But what to see there actually?
Kintaikyo brige. One of the most scenic bridge in Japan.
This is the main attraction of Iwakuni but there is more to it. To reach the bridge you have to go to the historic area of town. This takes about 10 min by local bus.
Walking on that scenic bridge was fun.
The view from the other end.
If you have some spare time it’s a nice place to visit. Also this is not so touristic which feels quiet. Most of the tourists here were Japanese.
Once you’ll pass that bridge you’ll enter the old part of the town. I really enjoyed the slow pace here. People were just chilling and eating ice creams. Nice vibe.
Strolling around the streets. The autumn colors were stunning.
Just breath out.
The old part of Iwakuni feels like a breath of fresh air. This is close to nature and there is nice temples and shrine to visit. This is exactly what I needed today.
Iwakuni is aslo famous for “Renkon” or Lotus root. Therefore you’ll find different uses of that vegetable.
Lotus root noodle. Mmmh that it’s interesting.
I gave them a try for lunch and this was good. It didn’t really felt a big difference from normal noodles thought. Lotus root isn’t famous for having a strong taste anyway. But it’s always good to try the local specialities.
Japanese people love their country and therefore travel a lot across it. I like how each town have is own food specialities. You’ll find “souvenir shops” everywhere in Japan. I think the notion of sharing with others is particulary important here. Therefore these shops serve a good purpose. They allow fellow family members or friends to travel a bitwith them by tasting the local food. Just to give you an idea on that subject , there is even unique KitKat flavors in each different region of Japan.
Let’s explore further. I heard about a hiking trail that goes up to a castle.
Cemetery alleyway.
Some tombs. Interesting design.
I have found a trail but I wasn’t sure where it was leading to. But hey it doesnt matter. It’s good to forget about the plan sometimes.
Mystical entrance of what seems to be an old tomb.
I love discovering places like that. There were a strong yet peaceful energy that I really enjoyed. I ended up getting lost and didn’t find the actual trail so I didnt went up at the end. You can also use the cablecar to go there. The view might be nice.
Iwakuni was a nice little day trip away from the crowd. You can spend 2-4 hours there and enjoy a relaxing place with a stunning bridge. If you are in Hiroshima It’s a good place to hang out (also very cloose to Miyajima).
Okay now i’m ready for my next destination. But first we have to take a boat for a short ride.
The boat was full of young students. Buzzing energy on board !
Miyajima , i’m on my way.
See you soon in this highly spiritual island.
free.cloud 
Leave a comment