Itsukushima Shrine
Itsukushima Shrine stands on the island of Itsukushima, which is also known as the island of gods. It is said that the shrine was founded in 593 by Saeki no Kuramoto, and the 3 goddess “Ichikishimahime-no-Mikoto,” “Tagorihime-no-Mikoto,” and “Tagitsuhime-no-Mikoto” are enshrined there. Famous for granting a wide list of benefits, these three goddesses as are worshipped as the goddesses of the sea, transportation, fortune, and art.
A day of slowly wandering over to Itsukushima Shrine as a solo female traveler. There were definitely a lot of tourists, and it did feel a little noisy at times, but I could still sense a warm, laid-back atmosphere. After visiting the shrine itself, I sat by the shore drinking lemon soda, waiting for the sunset and battling the deer passing by. After dark, the torii gate was illuminated, making its red color feel even more solemn and striking. If you're not in a hurry, I definitely recommend relaxing by the shore until evening!
