At a glance
Momijidani Park is a natural park on Miyajima Island featuring approximately 700 maple trees, including Japanese maples and large-leaved varieties. Located at the base of Mount Misen near Itsukushima Shrine, the park serves as a trailhead for mountain hiking and provides access to the Miyajima Ropeway station. Visitors encounter free-roaming deer throughout the grounds while walking along streams crossed by the iconic vermilion Momiji Bridge, with the park offering year-round access and seasonal displays from fresh spring greenery to spectacular autumn colors.
Photographs
Momijidani Park
Nestled at the base of Mount Misen on Miyajima Island, Momijidani Park serves as both a tranquil nature retreat and the starting point for exploring the island’s mountainous interior. The park’s Japanese name translates to “Maple Valley Park,” reflecting its collection of approximately 700 maple trees, including Japanese maples, large-leaved maples, and striped maples that create a living canopy throughout the valley. Walking paths wind alongside the Momijidani River, where the sound of flowing water accompanies visitors on their journey toward the Miyajima Ropeway area.
The park functions as a natural corridor between Itsukushima Shrine and Mount Misen, located roughly ten minutes on foot from the shrine grounds. Friendly Miyajima deer roam freely throughout the grounds, often approaching visitors near the vermilion Momiji Bridge that marks the park entrance. The landscape transitions from manicured garden areas near the entrance to wilder forest paths deeper into the valley, offering multiple hiking trail options for those continuing to Mount Misen’s summit.
Practical amenities include clean public restrooms, picnic tables, and a traditional inn dating to the Edo period. A complimentary shuttle bus operates between the Momijidani Park entrance and the Miyajima Ropeway station approximately every 15 to 20 minutes, though many visitors prefer the scenic 20-minute walk. The park welcomes dogs on leash and provides family-friendly walking and hiking routes, making it accessible for visitors exploring Miyajima’s natural landscape.
Seasonal and event highlights
- Spring: Fresh green maple leaves and a small number of cherry blossoms create a peaceful atmosphere with fewer crowds.
- Autumn: Peak foliage from mid to late November transforms the valley into one of Japan’s most celebrated maple viewing spots.
- Event: During the peak autumn foliage season, evening illuminations (light-up events) showcase the colorful maple trees after sunset.
Before you go
Admission is free and the park is open year-round. Well-maintained walking paths, public toilets, benches, and picnic areas are available, though some paths include gentle slopes and steps. The park is suitable for most visitors, including families, and leashed dogs are permitted. A free shuttle connects the Momijidani Park entrance with the Miyajima Ropeway station during ropeway operating hours. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if continuing to Mount Misen. Tripods are generally acceptable for personal photography if they do not obstruct pathways or other visitors, but should be avoided during busy autumn periods.
Open daily, year-round. The park does not close on national holidays. The free shuttle bus and Miyajima Ropeway operate on their own schedules and may be suspended during severe weather or maintenance.
When to go
Autumn reigns supreme at Momijidani Park, with approximately 700 maple trees creating a spectacular display of crimson and gold from mid to late November. Spring through summer offers refreshing fresh green foliage and the soothing sound of the Momijidani River, while the park remains accessible year-round for peaceful nature walks. Early morning visits before 9 AM provide the most tranquil experience with ideal natural lighting for photography, particularly when capturing the famous vermilion Momiji Bridge. Weekday mornings from Monday through Thursday offer significantly fewer crowds compared to weekends, allowing for more intimate encounters with the resident deer population.
Average crowd levels throughout the day, based on historical data.
Public review summary
Visitors consistently praise the stunning autumn foliage display with hundreds of vibrant maple trees creating spectacular photo opportunities against blue skies. The peaceful atmosphere and friendly deer wandering throughout enhance the natural experience. Many appreciate the clean facilities and easy access to the ropeway. Some note limited food options within the park and occasional crowds during peak foliage season requiring early arrival for optimal viewing.
What you'll find here
Location & access
- DirectionsAddress
Miyajimacho, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima 739-0588, Japan
- How to get there
By Public Transportation:
Take the JR Sanyo Line or Hiroshima Electric Railway to Miyajimaguchi, then board the JR or Matsudai Ferry to Miyajima. From Miyajima Ferry Terminal, walk approximately 20 minutes through the town and past Itsukushima Shrine to reach Momijidani Park.
By Car:
Drive to Miyajimaguchi and use one of the public parking lots, as private vehicles are not permitted on Miyajima Island. Continue to the island by ferry and walk to the park. If heading to the ropeway, a complimentary shuttle bus is available from the park entrance.
Common questions
What is Momijidani Park best known for?
Momijidani Park is most famous for its spectacular autumn foliage featuring approximately 700 maple trees, including Japanese maples and large-leaved maples. The park transforms into a breathtaking display of red and orange colors from mid-to-late November, making it one of Hiroshima Prefecture's premier autumn viewing spots.
Is there an entrance fee to visit Momijidani Park?
No, Momijidani Park is free to enter and open 24 hours daily. However, if you wish to take the nearby ropeway to Mount Misen, that requires a separate ticket costing 1,800 yen round trip or 1,000 yen one way. The shrine within the park area may also have its own entrance fee.
Can I see deer at Momijidani Park?
Yes, wild deer freely roam throughout Momijidani Park and are a common sight for visitors. The deer are accustomed to humans and create charming photo opportunities, though visitors should be mindful not to feed them as they may approach looking for food.
What facilities are available at Momijidani Park?
Momijidani Park offers public restrooms, picnic tables, and walking paths throughout the grounds. The park is dog-friendly and kid-friendly with hiking trails. A free shuttle bus runs every 20 minutes from the park entrance to the ropeway station, though it's also walkable in 10-15 minutes.
How do I get to Momijidani Park from Itsukushima Shrine?
Momijidani Park is located about a 10-20 minute walk from Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island. Simply follow the walking path southeast along the Momijidani River. The park serves as the gateway to the Mount Misen ropeway and is easily accessible from the ferry terminal area.
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