Raft Style Boat Tour with Lunch from Miyajima

Imagine gliding across the calm waters of the Seto Inland Sea on a boat that resembles a floating raft, while enjoying a tasty meal with views of one of Japan’s most iconic sights. That’s essentially what you get with the Raft Style Boat Tour with Lunch from Miyajima, a unique experience that combines scenery, culture, and cuisine for about two hours. This tour is offered by Attractive JAPAN and is perfect for travelers looking for a relaxed, intimate way to explore Miyajima’s famous sights.

One thing that immediately catches your eye is the HANAIKADA, Japan’s only raft-style lounge ship launched in 2020. Its design, mimicking a traditional raft with a modern glass-encased interior and cozy terrace, offers a distinctive experience. Plus, with only 12 passengers, the atmosphere is intimate and unhurried. We love that this experience provides not just sightseeing but also the chance to enjoy a leisurely meal at sea, creating a memorable moment away from busy crowds.

The main consideration? The tour’s timing and weather conditions can influence the experience. If the sea is rough or weather is unfavorable, the cruise might be delayed or canceled, so it’s wise to plan flexibly. This cruise suits those who appreciate a combination of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and a touch of luxury during their Miyajima visit.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and slightly unconventional way to experience Miyajima’s spiritual atmosphere and stunning views, this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Unique vessel design: The raft-like HANAIKADA offers a distinctive and intimate sea experience.
• Cultural proximity: The cruise provides close-up views of Miyajima’s sacred sites, like Itsukushima Shrine.
• Tasty onboard meal: Enjoy a well-rounded menu with hamburger steak, pasta, salad, baguette, and dessert, plus coffee or tea.
• Short but immersive: Around 1 hour 40 minutes at sea, perfect for a relaxed break.
• Limited group size: Only 12 passengers, ensuring personalized service.
• Weather dependent: Experience may vary or be canceled in poor weather conditions.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Meeting at Miyajimaguchi and Departure

The tour begins at etto1-chme-11-8 Miyajimaguchi, conveniently located near public transportation. From there, a quick 10-minute ride takes you to the Miyajimaguchi Matsudai Ferry Terminal. The short commute is a good start, ensuring you’re not wasting precious sightseeing time. The meeting time is 10:50 am, giving you plenty of time to settle in and get ready for the adventure ahead.

Arrival at HANAIKADA and the Cruise Start

Arriving at HANAIKADA, you’re greeted by the sight of this innovative vessel, floating just off Miyajima’s coast. The boat’s transparent glass structure and terrace area make it a perfect spot for photos. The cruise kicks off at 11:10 am, immediately immersing you in tranquil scenery and the gentle sounds of the sea.

The Lunch Cruise Experience

The highlight? The roughly 90-minute cruise at sea, where you’ll enjoy a hearty lunch while drifting past some of Miyajima’s renowned sights. The menu is quite appealing, featuring classic dishes like hamburger steak and pasta, complemented by fresh salad, baguette, and a sweet dessert. Coffee or tea rounds out the meal, and many reviews note that the food is satisfying and well-prepared, making it a nice change from typical tourist eats.

Travelers have described the experience as “a peaceful way to appreciate Miyajima’s beauty,” with the boat’s close-to-sea design allowing for excellent views. One reviewer mentioned how “the glass enclosure made us feel like we were part of the sea,” adding to the immersive feel.

Visiting Itsukushima Shrine Torii

At 12:40 pm, the cruise concludes, and you disembark at Miyajima Pier No. 3. From here, you can easily continue exploring Miyajima or head back to the mainland. The short disembarkation time of 10 minutes keeps the flow relaxed and efficient.

Cultural and Scenic Highlights

Throughout the cruise, you’ll see the majestic red torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, which appears to float at high tide. This iconic symbol of Miyajima is a UNESCO World Heritage site that travelers often describe as breathtaking. The proximity from the boat offers a different perspective compared to land-based views, allowing you to appreciate the scale and beauty of this sacred structure.

Additional commentary from reviews highlights the importance of respecting the island’s spiritual atmosphere. Many mention the deep sense of respect visitors feel when viewing Miyajima’s shrines and natural surroundings—reminding us why the island is considered a place where gods reside.

Practical Details and Tips

Price and Value

At $83.88 per person, the tour offers a balanced mix of scenery, cultural insight, and a hearty meal. When you consider the exclusivity of the raft-like vessel, the personalized service with just 12 passengers, and the included transportation from Onoura Station, the value is quite reasonable. The experience not only offers a unique way to see Miyajima but also provides an intimate setting for photos and relaxation.

Transportation and Accessibility

The tour begins at a convenient location near public transportation, making it easy for travelers to reach without hassle. The included transfer from Onoura Station helps streamline your start, especially if you’re coming from Hiroshima or other nearby areas.

What to Bring and Wear

Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and standing—high heels are discouraged. Since you’ll be on a boat, waterproof gear or a raincoat might be helpful, especially if the weather is unpredictable. Some reviewers advise bringing a waterproof case for your smartphone, as you’ll want to capture those stunning views without worry.

Weather and Cancellations

The cruise’s schedule is weather-dependent. If conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled, and you will be notified by 3 pm the day before for a full refund. It’s wise to have a flexible plan and check the weather forecast ahead of time.

Additional Costs

While the cruise and meal are included, alcoholic beverages are extra, ranging from 770 JPY to 880 JPY. Be sure to have cash for the Miyajima visitor tax of ¥100 per person, payable before disembarkation, and small change is recommended for convenience.

Authentic Traveler Insights

From reviews, we gather that travelers appreciate the quiet, intimate atmosphere onboard the HANAIKADA, which feels more like a private tour than a group cruise. Many mention the excellent views of Miyajima’s shrine and surrounding islands, with some noting that the glass-encased structure makes the whole experience feel like floating in the sea.

The food quality receives positive remarks; guests were pleased with the variety and freshness, especially the dessert and beverages. One review highlighted how “the peaceful cruise gave us time to relax and enjoy the scenery without the noise of crowds,” which is a significant advantage in busy tourist spots.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for those who value tranquility, scenic beauty, and cultural authenticity, especially if you want something more than just a quick photo of Miyajima’s famous gate. It suits couples, small groups, or even solo travelers seeking a quiet moment at sea. It’s also perfect if you’re interested in a culinary experience combined with sightseeing, rather than just rushing from spot to spot.

However, if you prefer a fast-paced, high-energy tour or are traveling with very young children (beside the age consideration for free entry), this might not be the best fit. Also, it’s not suitable for travelers who are uncomfortable with weather-dependent activities.

The Sum Up

In essence, this raft-style boat tour with lunch offers a unique, intimate way to see Miyajima from the water. The vessel’s innovative design, combined with a delicious meal and stunning views of the sacred island, makes it a memorable experience. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace, cultural appreciation, and beautiful scenery without the crowds.

At just under $84, the experience balances cost and value, providing a rare perspective of Miyajima that you won’t find in typical land-based tours. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a peaceful moment on the sea, this cruise is a charming addition to your Hiroshima itinerary.

FAQ

What is the departure point for this tour?
The tour begins at etto1-chme-11-8 Miyajimaguchi, near public transportation options, with transportation from Onoura Station included.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, including boarding and disembarkation.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers lunch on the HANAIKADA, including coffee or tea afterward, the cruise itself, transportation from Onoura Station to the meeting point, and a tour guide.

Are drinks included?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included but are available on board at an additional cost ranging from 770 to 880 JPY.

Is there a minimum age for participation?
Children aged 5 and younger can participate for free, but supervision by a guardian is necessary.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The cruise might be canceled due to weather conditions, and you will be notified by 3 pm the day before for a full refund.

How many people can join the tour?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, ensuring a cozy, personalized experience.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring waterproof gear for your electronics, comfortable shoes, and perhaps some small change for the Miyajima visitor tax and on-board purchases.

What should I wear?
Opt for comfortable, walking-friendly shoes and clothes suitable for the weather. Avoid high heels for ease of movement aboard.

Can I customize the experience?
This is a shared tour, so individual customization isn’t available, but the intimate group size means you can enjoy personal attention from the guide.

This raft-style boat tour with lunch is a wonderful way to enjoy Miyajima’s sacred atmosphere while relaxing on a uniquely designed vessel. It’s a perfect choice for travelers craving a peaceful, scenic, and culturally rich experience without the rush—truly a memorable slice of Japan’s coastal charm.