3 Hour Nanaura Tour around Miyajima with Lunch Box

Introduction

This 3-hour Nanaura Tour around Miyajima promises a blend of scenic cruising, cultural exploration, and a delicious local lunch. It’s a compact way to see the island’s iconic shrines from the water, with the added bonus of a traditional anago bento—conger eel that’s a local delicacy. What really stands out is the opportunity to visit seven shrines along the coast, giving you a more intimate and less crowded experience than simply touring on land.

One of the things we love about this tour is how it combines culture with scenic beauty in a manageable timeframe. The cruise is personalized, with a small group size—just up to 8 travelers—which makes it feel more like a shared adventure than a commercial run. A possible drawback, however, is that it’s weather-dependent, so if rain or rough seas hit, the experience might be affected. Still, it’s ideal for travelers looking to explore Miyajima from a different perspective—on the water, with some history, and a good meal to top it off.

If you’re after an authentic, relaxed way to explore Miyajima’s coastline, this tour should definitely be on your radar. It suits those who appreciate cultural sights, scenic boat rides, and a touch of local cuisine—all within a few hours.

Key Points

• Short but immersive: Perfect for those with limited time but wanting a meaningful experience.
• Small group advantage: Up to 8 travelers ensures a personal vibe and flexible interaction.
• Cultural focus: Highlights the Nanaura Shrines and the sacred tradition of the Nanaura Pilgrimage.
• Scenic views: See Miyajima’s peaks and coastline from the water, including the iconic floating torii gate.
• Authentic food: Enjoy a locally-sourced conger eel bento, often praised for its flavor and quality.
• Weather dependency: The tour is weather-sensitive, so check the forecast or be prepared for possible rescheduling.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

This tour begins at Okushin Pier, conveniently located near Miyahama Onsen, which many visitors find accessible after a relaxing soak or on their way to sightseeing. The captain, Okushin-san, is not just a tour guide but also a seasoned mariner with deep local knowledge, often sharing stories about the waters and fishing traditions in the area. Several reviews note that his stories add a personal touch to the cruise, making the experience more engaging.

Stop 1: Departure from Okushin Pier

After donning life jackets, you’ll board a small vessel that promises an intimate and relaxed atmosphere. The 10-minute cruise to the first major stop sets the tone for the journey—expect calm waters and scenic views, with potential stories about the local fishing history.

Stop 2: Cruising the Coast and Visiting Shrines

The cruise then takes you clockwise around Miyajima, offering a different perspective of the island’s famous Itsukushima-jinja Shrine and the seven Nanaura Shrines along the coastline. These shrines, scattered across inlets, are part of the revered Nanaura Pilgrimage, a tradition that’s over 1,500 years old. As you pass by, you’ll get a good look at the towering torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, rising dramatically from the water—an image that’s often described as iconic and awe-inspiring.

The views from the water reveal the peaks resembling Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy—a detail cited in reviews that adds a spiritual dimension to the scenery. You might even spot local wildlife or a fisherman’s boat, grounding the experience in genuine local life.

Stop 3: Lunch at Aonoriura Shrine

Midway, the boat docks at Aonoriura-jinja Shrine for a beachside lunch featuring the famous conger eel bento from Anago Meshi Ueno. This restaurant, known for its long-standing popularity, provides a delicious and authentic taste of Miyajima’s seafood. Visitors often praise the freshness and flavor, describing it as a highlight of the trip.

The timing allows for a relaxed break—30 minutes to savor the meal and enjoy the seaside surroundings. If requested, alternative landing points can be arranged, adding flexibility for group needs.

Stop 4: Returning to the Sacred Water

After lunch, the cruise continues, revisiting key sights and reflecting on the tradition of the Nanaura Pilgrimage. The ritual was historically performed by notable figures like Oda Nobunaga, emphasizing its deep cultural significance. The boat then heads back towards Okushin Pier, completing the circuit with ample time to absorb the views and the tranquil atmosphere.

Final Disembarkation

After roughly 55 minutes of cruising since the last stop, you’ll disembark at the pier, feeling both spiritually and visually enriched by the journey.

The Experience in Detail

While the tour’s price of $273.20 per person might seem steep for a short cruise, the value lies in the combination of personalized service, cultural insight, and authentic food. The small group size means your experience is flexible—if weather is poor, the operator’s policy of notifying you the day before helps manage expectations.

The cruise itself is smooth and relaxing. Many reviews mention the boat’s comfortable seating and the clear explanations from the captain, making the trip informative as well as scenic. You’ll learn about the significance of Miyajima’s shrines and the legend tying the island to divine presence, adding depth to your sightseeing.

The anago bento is often highlighted as a memorable highlight—most reviewers describe it as delicious, with some noting it’s a perfect balance of flavors, and others appreciating the local, home-style quality. It’s served in a beachside setting, giving a laid-back vibe that complements the spiritual and natural scenery.

However, the tour is not without its considerations. Since it depends on weather conditions, a stormy day could lead to rescheduling or cancellation, with no fees involved if notified in advance. Also, the tour is suitable for travelers over 7 years old, making it family-friendly but not for very young children.

Practical Tips for Maximizing Your Tour

• Book early to secure your preferred start time, especially in peak seasons.
• Wear comfortable clothes suitable for the weather—long sleeves and hats in summer, outerwear and scarves in winter.
• Bring waterproofing for smartphones and personal items, especially if you plan to take photos.
• Use the restroom beforehand, as there are no facilities along the cruise route.
• If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions, as boat rides can sometimes be choppy.
• Keep an eye on the weather forecast; if rain or wind is forecasted, check the cancellation policy.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for cultural enthusiasts who want to see Miyajima beyond the usual land-based visits, especially those interested in religious traditions and shrine architecture. It’s also perfect for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides and local cuisine in a small-group setting. Families with children over 7, couples, or solo travelers seeking a tranquil, authentic experience will find it rewarding.

While it’s not suited for those with severe seasickness or limited mobility, most participants who enjoy gentle boat rides and cultural sites will find this a valuable addition to their Miyajima itinerary.

The Sum Up

The 3 Hour Nanaura Tour around Miyajima with Lunch offers a unique way to appreciate the island’s sacred coastline, with the added bonus of engaging stories from an experienced captain and a delicious local meal. It combines cultural tradition with scenic beauty, making it a thoughtful and relaxing choice for travelers wanting to explore Miyajima from a different angle.

The small-group format ensures intimacy and flexibility, while the focus on shrine visits and local cuisine provides a memorable, authentic snapshot of Miyajima’s spiritual and natural landscape. Though weather can be a variable, the thoughtful design and rich experience make it well worth considering if you’re seeking a peaceful, culturally rooted activity.

This tour suits those who value meaningful cultural encounters, scenic water views, and a taste of local flavor—all in just a few hours. It’s a peaceful, insightful escape that’s perfect for adding depth to your Miyajima adventure.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for children over 7 years old. It’s a gentle cruise, but younger children might find the boat ride less comfortable or longer than they prefer.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for the weather is recommended. In summer, long sleeves, a hat, and sunglasses are advised for sun protection. In winter, opt for outerwear, a knit hat, and a scarf for warmth.

Are there restroom facilities during the tour?
No, there are no restroom facilities along the route, so it’s best to go beforehand.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions are unsuitable, the operator will notify you by 3:00 PM the day before, and no cancellation fees will apply. Rescheduling or cancellation are possible depending on the forecast.

How many people will be on the tour?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, making for an intimate experience with personalized attention.

What is included in the price?
The cruise fee and the conger eel bento lunch are included. Drinks are not included, so consider bringing water or other beverages.

Can I request alternative landing spots?
Yes, alternative landing points are available upon request, providing some flexibility based on your preferences.

Is this experience accessible for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should inquire beforehand, as the tour involves boarding and disembarking at the pier.

Whether you’re a culture buff, a nature lover, or simply after a peaceful scenic cruise, this Miyajima tour offers a thoughtful balance of history, scenery, and local flavor.