Miyajima Island

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It was suggested to me that I might like visiting Miyajima island, so after fully exploring the A-Bomb Dome and Peace Park in Hiroshima, decided to take the ferry over and see the island. I was not disappointed. Loved the shrines there, the inquisitive yet apathetic deer, the calorie burning rather steep hike up to Mt. Misen, then of course the views from Mt. Misen. I took the ferry from the Peace Park area which was about a 40 minute boat ride at a cost of ¥ 2000. Upon leaving the island, I took the free JR ferry (it was free since my Japan Rail Pass was still valid at that time) from the island to its Miyajimaguchi terminal and then the JR line back to Hiroshima station. Was both very interesting and had many moments of Zen.

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Photos

Now on Miyajima Island

Deer
I didn't realize until I saw this one that deer were on the island, and those in the heavily trafficked tourist areas were pretty apathetic to humans. Those away from the heavily trafficked tourist areas were quite weary of humans. That was interesting.

Don't Eat That!
This deer basically layed down right in front of me. When it took at interest in that purple food wrapper, I calmly reached over and grabbed the wrapper. The deer just observed that and didn't move from its spot, nor show any concern. They were wild, but fun to get to observe from so close.

Miyajimaguchi
In the distance

JR Ferry
To/from Miyajimaguchi

Even the deer have a desire to worship here

The Great Otorii Gate
Part of the Itsukushima Shrine : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Itsukushima_Shrine

Note the water level

Itsukushima Shrine
This was just one of the buildings of the quite large shrine.

Apathetic Deer
Even when surrounded by these school children, that deer was entirely unfazed, entirely comfortable to just relax right where it was