Dinner Cruise on HANAIKADA (Raft-Type Boat) with Scenic View of Miyajima

Imagine drifting serenely across the Ono Seto Sea on a small, raft-style vessel called HANAIKADA, with the legendary Itsukushima shrine and its iconic torii gate as your backdrop. This dinner cruise offers a rare chance to see Miyajima — or “God’s Island” — from a peaceful, water-level perspective. It’s a luxurious, intimate experience with only a handful of guests onboard, making it feel more like a private gathering than a typical tour. From the moment you step onto the raft, you’re treated to a blend of exquisite scenery, delicious seasonal cuisine, and the soothing sounds of calm waters.

What we love most about this experience is how personalized and relaxed it feels; with just four tables on the boat, you’ll get plenty of room to soak in the views without the crowds or hustle of larger tours. Plus, the journey offers a unique vantage point — floating amid oyster rafts and close enough to see the details of Miyajima’s lush coastline. One potential consideration is the weather — as the tour depends on calm seas and good weather, it may be canceled if conditions turn rough. This cruise is best suited for travelers who appreciate intimate, scenic experiences, good food, and the chance to see Miyajima from a different angle.

Key Points

• Exclusive atmosphere: Small boat with only four tables creates an intimate setting.
• Stunning views: Close-up sights of Miyajima, oyster farms, and the iconic torii gate.
• Gourmet seasonal cuisine: A delicious menu featuring sashimi, grilled beef, oyster rice, and desserts.
• Relaxing experience: Floating at water level on a raft-style vessel offers a peaceful, unhurried perspective.
• Excellent value: At just over $100, the combination of scenery, food, and exclusivity makes it worthwhile.
• Weather-dependent: Cancellations can occur due to adverse weather, so flexibility is key.

An In-Depth Look at the Miyajima Dinner Cruise

Starting Point and Transport

The adventure begins at Ono-Ura Station, conveniently located near public transportation, which is a huge plus for travelers not renting a car. The tour kicks off in the early evening, with shuttle transport departing around 17:00-17:30 depending on the season. The shuttle is a beige van marked “HANAIKADA,” and it takes just about 10 minutes to reach the port area. This short transfer is a thoughtful touch, making the start of your experience smooth and stress-free. If you’re arriving late or miss the shuttle, you’ll need to plan for a taxi or find your own way, as the tour is non-refundable once booked.

The Board: HANAIKADA

Once you arrive, you’ll board Japan’s first raft-type vessel, HANAIKADA. It’s designed for comfort and closeness to the water, with a low profile that makes you feel like you’re floating right on Ono Seto Sea. The vessel features a spacious deck, allowing guests to enjoy the scenic surroundings while dining or simply relaxing.

The Cruise Experience

The cruise begins as the boat gently floats off the coast of Miyajima, with the stunning Itsukushima shrine and floating torii gate always within sight. As you cruise, the natural scenery transforms with the seasons — whether you see the lush greenery of summer or the fiery hues of autumn leaves, the views are ever-changing and captivating.

The reviews mention the quiet serenity of the sea, with many guests appreciating the sense of being alone with nature, away from the crowds. One guest shared that on a December evening, they had the boat entirely to themselves, making the experience feel like a private dinner with a spectacular view. The boat’s low elevation and clear glass or open deck allow you to feel as if you’re floating directly on the sea, enhancing the sense of tranquility.

Culinary Delights

The highlight for many is the meal. Made with seasonal ingredients, the dinner menu includes assorted sashimi, grilled beef on a ceramic plate, boiled oyster rice, and red miso soup, followed by dessert and coffee or tea. Several reviews emphasize the quality and quantity of the food, with one guest mentioning that the staff ensures everyone is “super well fed.” The meal is thoughtfully arranged, with some reviewers noting that the dishes arrive hot and beautifully presented, making the dining experience both delicious and visually appealing.

The tour also offers a variety of drinks, including local sake, beer, highballs, and wine, which can be ordered à la carte or in all-you-can-drink style. Water, tea, and coffee are complimentary, allowing guests to sip and relax as they take in the scenery.

The Route and Sights

As the boat cruises around Ono Seto Sea, you’ll see oyster farms, which provide a fascinating glimpse into the local industry. Several reviewers enjoyed this aspect, with one describing the cruise as a “good tour of nearby oyster farms” and appreciating the opportunity to see how oysters are cultivated right from the boat.

The highlight remains the view of Miyajima’s famous Torii gate, which appears to float dramatically at high tide and offers breathtaking photo opportunities. Many guests noted that they could see the gate clearly from their dinner tables throughout the cruise, adding a romantic and memorable touch.

Return and Disembarkation

After about 2 hours and 10 minutes on the water, the boat returns to Ono-Ura port, with arrivals estimated around 19:40-20:10. The shuttle service then takes you back to Onoura Station, completing a seamless experience. The reviews show that guests often feel relaxed and recharged, having experienced something truly unique.

The Value of the Experience

At a price of roughly $103.89 per person, this dinner cruise offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty, gourmet food, and exclusivity. The reviews consistently highlight how special it feels to dine in such an intimate setting, with some guests remarking that they had the boat entirely to themselves, making it a standout experience on their Japan trip.

Compared to larger, more crowded tours, this small-scale cruise provides a personalized, high-quality experience. The fact that many book it in advance—averaging 61 days ahead—shows its popularity as a must-do activity in Hiroshima and Miyajima.

While the cost might seem high for some, the combination of spectacular views, delicious regional cuisine, and the intimacy of the setting justifies the price for travelers seeking a memorable and authentic experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for romantic couples looking for a special dinner with a view, small groups wanting a personalized experience, or anyone keen to see Miyajima from a different perspective. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate gourmet seafood and seasonal ingredients and want to relax at water level amid tranquil surroundings. If weather conditions are favorable, this tour truly offers a magical way to end a day exploring Miyajima.

However, travelers who prefer larger group tours or are on a strict budget might find other options more suitable. Plus, if you’re traveling during the peak of winter or in rough weather, it’s worth considering the possibility of cancellation due to safety.

Final Thoughts: Why This Experience Stands Out

This dinner cruise on HANAIKADA delivers a rare combination of scenic beauty, intimate dining, and cultural charm that few other tours can match. The small size of the vessel means you’ll enjoy closer, quieter views of Miyajima’s iconic landmarks, oyster farms, and natural surroundings. The quality of the food — made with seasonal ingredients — adds a layer of culinary delight that elevates this from a simple cruise to a memorable dinner experience.

You’ll love how the calm waters and stunning vistas create a sense of peace and exclusivity. Reviewers frequently mention feeling like VIPs, with some enjoying the boat entirely for themselves. The knowledgeable guides and helpful staff ensure that every aspect of the experience feels thoughtfully curated.

For those seeking a special, authentic way to enjoy Miyajima, this cruise offers a unique perspective that’s worth the price. It’s a perfect choice if you value personalized service, scenic tranquility, and regional cuisine all in one package.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 5 and younger can participate free of charge, but it’s recommended to bring a tea set, as it’s not arranged by the tour.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes suitable for walking are recommended. Shoes with high or thin heels should be avoided for safety and comfort.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, starting around 17:30 and ending around 20:10, depending on the season.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are ordered separately, with options including local sake, beer, highball, wine, and more. Water, tea, and coffee are complimentary.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. In case of adverse weather, the experience may be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this experience private?
While the boat typically hosts up to 8 travelers, many reviews mention booking privately or having only a few guests, making it highly customizable and personal.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 61 days ahead, reflecting its popularity and limited capacity.

In essence, this dinner cruise on HANAIKADA offers a beautifully understated way to enjoy Miyajima — combining scenic beauty, regional cuisine, and an intimate boat experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a unique perspective of this sacred island, it’s an adventure worth considering.